Localization of pallets in warehouses using wireless sensor networks

Abstract

The intra-logistics is constantly subject to technological developments and changes. In the field of warehousing in former times, articles were identified over bar code. Nowadays with the growing requirements for mobility and reliability increasingly radio technologies are employed to request information. Wireless Sensor Networks simplify the stock accounting through a decentralization of the data storage and establish a basis for localization. On the basis of this networks the position of pallets can be transmitted over radio with the benefit to expedite the work flow. This paper analysis the applications of a special sensor network (nanoLOC System) for operations within the warehouse management. This radio positioning systems affords the determination of position based on measuring the signal propagation delay between two devices. Referring to the localization of goods with the method of the Extended Kalman Filter, measurements are realized and are presented as well as evaluated below. © 2008 IEEE.