realtime location system (802.15) (RTLS)
Real-time locationsystems, RTLS, are systems that transmit position data based on short-range radio links. These systems, which operate in accordance with IEEE 802.15. 4 in the 2.4 GHz range at a low data rate, are used to find, locate and track people, products, objects and devices.
RTLS works with active RFID tags that are attached to items and emit radio signals. To locate the tag, three radio receiver devices are required, which evaluate the received radio signals in their propagation times and use them to calculate the position of the RFID tag. RTLS technology is equally used in ports, in automotive logistics terminals to locate parked motor vehicles, or in hospitals to locate medical equipment or personnel.
Real-time localization systems record the movement history of objects and document when, which object was at which location. From this, conclusions can be drawn about utilization, cost allocation and stocking. In addition to the advantages of logistics optimization, the theft protection of equipment and objects should also be mentioned as a significant factor of RTLS systems. The locating distance depends on the structural and topological conditions and may well be 500 m or more.