Embedded RFID device for tracking a reusable material handling device

A pallet structure comprising:

• a multi-layer laminate structure including at least a top layer and a bottom layer having respective exposed surfaces, and having no adhesive layer on the exposed surface of either of said top and bottom layers;
• an RFID device embedded in the multi-layer laminate structure between adjacent layers thereof and including an integrated circuit coupled to an antenna;
• and
• a pallet including a top member and a bottom member forming an interior cavity as an integral portion of said pallet for receiving said multi-layer laminate structure therein;
• and
• said multi-layer laminate structure being non-removably sealed within said cavity.

A method of embedding an RFID device in a reusable object including the steps of:

• embedding an RFID device in a multi-layer structure between two adjacent layers thereof, the multi-layer structure including at least top and bottom layers having respective exposed surfaces and having no adhesive layer on the exposed surface of either of said top and bottom layers;
• providing a reusable object having a cavity extending into an interior of the reusable object;
• inserting the multi-layer structure having said RFID device embedded therein into a cavity of an interior of reusable object having a support base and a top surface forming said cavity;
• and
• non-removably securing said top surface to said support base to embed the multi-layer structure within the reusable object cavity.

A reusable pallet, comprising:

• a multi-layer laminate structure including at least a top layer and a bottom layer having respective exposed surfaces and having no adhesive layer on the exposed surface of either of said top and bottom layers;
• an RFID device embedded in the multi-layer laminate structure between adjacent layers thereof and including an integrated circuit coupled to an antenna;
• and
• said reusable pallet including a top member and a bottom member forming an interior cavity as an integral portion of said reusable pallet for receiving said multi-layer laminate structure therein;
• and
• said multi-layer laminate structure being non-removably sealed with said cavity.