RFID Tag Detection in 3-D Space

Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a system used to create an automated tracking solution of items in real time. A reader, a tag and an antenna make up the basics of an RFID system. It is a reader and a tag communicating through a medium at a certain frequency. This paper focuses on the readability of RFID tags at a certain attenuation and at certain positions with different linear distances in 3-D space. In this research both the linear distances and the tag displacements were varied to determine the effect on antenna footprints based on tag readability in 3-D space in real time. The data is analyzed to obtain the graphical representation of the coverage area into a 3D footprint. Introduction: Radio frequency identification (RFID) is the latest technology applied for identification and tracking of items. The RFID system allows information to be read remotely by the use of radio frequency waves without human intervention. Therefore automatic scanning and data logging is possible with this technology. RFID technology is considered to be advantageous because it does not require line of sight. Using this technology it is possible to read, write and update digital information. The RFID technology is very popular in Supply chain management system. The supply chain management system depend on the tracking of shipments, inventory and assets. Annual sale, Revenue, Seasonal sales, Manufacturing date, Expiration date needs to be tracked and documented from the suppliers to the end of line customer. These documentation used to be tracked by bar coding system, but nowadays it is being replaced by RFID Technology. A typical RFID system consists of an antenna, a transponder (tag) and a microprocessor chip with memory. The effectiveness of a tracking system depends on RFID tagging readability. A basic knowledge of the spatial dimensions of RFID tags read capability makes it feasible for the users to plan their tracking system. Tag readability depends on many variables, such as type of tag and antenna, distance from tag to antenna, tag orientation and tag placement. Also interferences with the surroundings due to other wireless devices might have some effects on tag readability. The major interest in this research is to obtain a foot print depending on the tag readability in 3-D space in real time.