RFID-localisation with a 3D-simulation in consideration of portable objects in the radio field

The most precise determination of a location of objects in indoor spaces is a challenge in research and development that the RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) can solve particularly affordable compared to other radio technologies. Due to the increasing use of RFID-systems a demand for tracking solutions in almost all industrial sectors is emerging.

The project ROSI-3D has the objective to significantly improve the localisation of objects in dynamic environments from a technical and economic perspective by combining new approaches from RF technology and computer science, as well as supplementary business management considerations. Previous approaches for localisation have focused generally on RFID-systems with active transponders where each transponder needs its own energy supply. In static surroundings and without the general consideration of mobile objects in the radio field, accuracies of less than one meter have been achieved. These approaches do not take significant marginal conditions of industrial and public indoor spaces into account: Many objects (people, vehicles, tools, material) are usually in motion and constantly influence the radio field. As a result, no satisfactory solutions for radiolocation have been developed in practice that can be operated economically yet.

The research project ROSI-3D uses two essential approaches to improve tracking solutions: (1) Based on the recording of real conditions, a basis of a 3D-model that is generalizable for different application scenarios, is supposed to be created. In doing so, the different areas of radio propagation and the presence of portable objects in the radio field need to be considered. The pursued approach corresponds to the prognosis for dispersion models of mobile communications. (2) With the use of time-dynamic 3D simulations, interfering objects are expected to be taken into account in future localisation, the technical structure shall be optimized and supported by augmented reality. This approach, based on multi-antenna systems with multiple objects in the room, should also allow a less expensive implementation because no power supply is required for a variety of transponders or radio terminal equipment. The amount and the optimal location of necessary reading devices will be determined by virtual load tests of variable objects in the simulation. The 3D-simulation goes far beyond the used sites surveys of other radio technologies which are complementary to static surroundings. The evaluation of the models and the simulation systems will take place in different field trials with practice partners in different surroundings and frequency bans within the framework of the project. Scenarios in assembly halls, in mining industry or in event/ exhibition areas are planned for the practical use of the localisation.

###Composite Partners: Magdeburg-Stendal University of Applied Sciences
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Olaf Friedewald, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Michael A. Herzog

Centiveo GmbH Magdeburg
Kristian Tolk

metraTec GmbH Magdeburg
F. Steyer

ifak - Institute for Automation and Communication Magdeburg
Dr. Lutz Rauchhaupt

Otto von Guericke University, Faculty of Computer Science (FIN)
Prof. Dr. Myra Spiliopoulou