Research and Development in Material Handling Engineering and Systems

RFID Tunnel Gate at Contract Logistics Provider FIEGE

Bulk reading UHF RFID transponders lying next to one another, closely packed in a box, presents a challenge for scanning systems. The principle of electromagnetic reverberation patented by the Fraunhofer IFF in Magdeburg makes it possible to read every tag reliably, even when the density of transponders is high. The principle’s performance in productive use has been demonstrated with RFID Tunnel Gates integrated in GERRY WEBER’s global supply chain. The technology is being used for an international logistics provider in China and at contract logistics provider FIEGE’s consolidation center in Germany.

The Fraunhofer IFF’s RFID Tunnel Gate is based on the principle of an electromagnetic reverberation chamber (ERC). The contract logistics provider FIEGE is employing RFID Tunnel Gate technology for distribution to its shops. FIEGE thus assures that read performance is optimal when inspecting incoming and outgoing shipments.

The Fraunhofer IFF has been using its principle of electromagnetic reverberation patented for UHF RFID applications for UHF RFID scanning processes since 2008. Power density, homogeneity of field strength distribution and polarity of electromagnetic waves are parameters that play a crucial role in complete bulk reading of UHF RFID transponders. Applied in the RFID Tunnel Gate in the frequency of 868 MHz, this principle produces identical field strengths in any conceivable polarization in read zones anywhere. Homogeneous distribution of field strength with minimal reader output makes the read performance of one or more transponders in the electromagnetic reverberation chamber, regardless of their location, superior to conventional UHF RFID gates. Readability is completely independent of the transponders’ spatial orientation. The principle eliminates false positive readings and interference by other RFID systems in the area.