Scalable RTLS: Design and implementation of the scalable real time locating system using active RFID

Abstract

Interest in Real Time Locating Systems (RTLS), which is an RFID application, has been increasing recently. RTLS is used to locate and track object using RFID tags. Typically these objects are containers, pallets, and other commercially viable items. This paper presents the design and the implementation of an RTLS system using 433MHz active RFID tags considering scalability. Our system is developed using an RFID platform that takes RTLS standards into account. Also, in this paper a routing protocol is proposed to deliver data to the server via each reader. In order to evaluate the system's performance, some outdoor experiments are performed and the resulting errors reported in meters are discussed. Furthermore, simulation of the routing protocol is also included. © 2008 Springer Berlin Heidelberg.