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Asset Tracking (Auto-ID inventory system based on RFID)

The purpose is to achieve an inventory of objects in a given space.
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The principle :

Each object that is part of the inventory (an asset) is identified by an intelligent tag. Those tags contain a text version of the code identifying the object and an electronic chip containing this same code. The chip can be read wirelessly using the proper reader device, the transmission of the information occurring by radio frequencies (RFID technology).
The reader transmits the information concerning the identified items to a computer application (embedded or wireless) of inventory management which warns the user in case of inconsistencies (missing or additional items).

 

System :

The system developed by the RFID Center consists in a portable RFID reader of UHF (Ultra High Frequency) type running an inventory and RFID tags of UHF type management application. The reader is connected through its station dock to a database containing the different elements that form the inventory. This database can be hosted on a server or simply a dedicated PC.
Depending on the size of the database and its architecture it is possible to do download it entirely or partially on the portable RFID reader which acts as a mini computer (Pocket PC) with a  stock capacity that can goes up to 200 Mo (depending on the models).

 

Usage scenario :

1) When he enters a room the operator in charge of the inventory first reads a tag that identifies the room. On the base of this information the inventory management application is able to download the list of items that should be in this room.

2) The operator walks through the room passing the antenna in front of the objects that are in it. The inventory management application compares in real time the tags that are read to the theoretical list and points the differences.

3) On the base of the information given by the application the operator can finely tune his search by focusing on a missing type of item for example. Once all items of the room have been identified the operator validates the room’s inventory and the observed differences are saved.

The reading of the items is done in an almost instantaneous way from a distance range of 1.5 – 2 meters which makes the task very fluid and continuous. The system can handle several simultaneous readings of items thanks to an anti-collision function. The whole process doesn’t require more than a few dozen of seconds for a room containing  approximately thirty items.