Innovative RFID Localization System

Bassel Tawfik

Object Localization: Overview

• Objects (whether humans or otherwise) need to be localized for a number of reasons such as security, safety, work pattern analysis, and supply chain management.

• Out-door localization is relatively easy using triangulation techniques as in GPS, etc.

• In-doors localization is more challenging; which is what we undertook to do.

In-door localization: Overview (1)

• In the past decade, several companies have come up with “solutions” to localize objects indoors using one - or a combination - of the following technologies: Infrared (IR), Wi-Fi, RFID, and Ultrasound.

• Solutions usually involve tagging (i.e. tags are attached to objects/subjects). Less known is tag-less localization (whereby no tags are affixed to the subject to be localized).

In-door localization: Overview (2)

• Tagging allows for the identification of the subject’s identity (in addition to his/her location).

• Tag-less identification allows for the identification of only the location of the subject/object without details about his/her identity.

• Each type has its applications. For instance, tag-less identification can be important to detect unauthorized entry into a certain room.

Our Innovation (1)

• We have managed to come up with two new methods for locating objects in-doors; one tagged and one tag-less.

• In the tagged system, we have minimized the number of readers (the expensive component in the system) to just 2 for an area of around 100 squared meters with an accuracy of +/- 30 cm.

• We have come up with a tag-less solution which is totally new based on algorithms used in medical image processing.

Our Innovation (2)

• Our tagged localization system uses passive tags which are very cheap. By minimizing the number of readers, our solution is really affordable.

• Our tag-less system uses active tags affixed at the walls/ceiling of the room. It uses also 2 readers, but is more expensive.

Why is our innovation promising?

• Because we now have independent means for localizing objects, which can be coupled with existing methods to give formidable accuracy.

• Because our tagged solution is inexpensive.• Because our tag-less solution, although relatively

more expensive, can be coupled to a camera to follow subjects’ entry into a secure place. In ordinary surveillance systems, the camera does not follow the subject, so there must be several cameras which is quite expensive.