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.