Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A smart card which transmits its stored data by means of light modulated by a spatial light modulating device. In one embodiment, the reader for the smart card includes apparatus for producing the beam of light and for directing it on the smart card and the card includes provision for directing the beam of light through the light modulator. For medical alert device use, and the like, the reader includes a slot for receiving the smart card directly therein. Optionally, reflectors or optic fibers can direct the light beam on the smart card. In one version, solar cell(s) carried by the smart card convert light incident thereon into power for the card. In a variation thereof, there is a light splitter for splitting the beam of light into a portion directed onto the solar cell(s) for producing power and a portion directed through the light modulator. In an active embodiment, the light modulator includes light producing apparatus for producing the beam of light as a modulated beam such as an infrared diode. Also disclosed is a smart card traffic enforcement system wherein a plurality of the smart cards are carried by the automobiles on the highway and contain information about the respective automobiles. The sensing apparatus adapted to be disposed adjacent the highway for reading the smart cards, for checking the legality of the associated automobile against preestablished legal conditions, and for causing a citation to be issued against automobiles operating in violation of legal conditions.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim