RFID Applications Development
Since 2007, SAIT Polytechnic has been helping local and regional enterprises from all sectors investigate, experiment and pilot Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) applications to improve productivity and profitability.  | On March 25, 2011 the Government of Canada announced that SAIT was successful in its application for funding through the College and Community Innovation (CCI) program, which allows it to expand the depth and breadth of RFID research being undertaken. What is RFID?
Projects Facilities
Services
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What is RFID? Radio Frequency Identification is a technology that uses radio waves to automatically identify bulk or individual items.  | RFID systems consist of three components: a tag that can be embedded into almost anything, a reader that decodes the information stored on the tag and necessary supporting infrastructure. The RFID reader communicates with the RFID tag via radio waves, essentially transforming an inert item into an object that is capable of communicating. | Since RFID technology uses radio waves instead of light, the readers can be located remotely and because the tags are read automatically, human intervention is unnecessary. Projects
The potential for RFID use is immense. Some of our projects include:  | • Agriculture Alberta - Cattle Tags – Working with industry partners and SAIT student groups, ARIS is developing prototypes of superior tag designs and application methods to improve tracking of cattle. This project received coverage in a 2011 issue of the Western Producer. Top of Page |  | • J-5 Robot – Manufacturing and Automation students are developing a robot outfitted with an RFID navigation system for use in a manufacturing or warehouse setting. This “building block” project will be completed over a number of semesters with different student groups, presenting each group with unique challenges to overcome. The project integrates classroom learning in robotics with RFID technology, giving students added dimension in their education. Top of Page |  | • RCMP Asset Tracking – This student-led initiative identified RFID as a viable solution to track and trace assets within a pilot detachment, and progressed through the application testing phase. The project is now moving into the implementation and deployment stage and may be adopted provincially. Top of Page | | • Inventory Application – Based on its own complex inventory needs, SAIT has developed an RFID-based inventory management system. It promises to be faster, more efficient and accurate than current systems and could be implemented by almost any industry. Top of Page |  | • RFID Asset Management in Healthcare – SAIT is providing a demonstration of RFID technology in a health care setting to show how assets can be better tracked and traced, saving time and money. Various assets in SAIT’s Human Patient Sim-Lab, such as gurneys, robotic mannequins and test equipment have been tagged with active RFID, helping students understand the technology and giving provincial health service providers an opportunity to see it in action. | Facilities:  | - The RFID Applications Development Lab - or RADLab - is a secure, vendor neutral, 950 square foot lab area with readers, tags and antennas from all major global vendors.
- Additional classroom area with seating for about 25 people complete with projector, podium and internet access.
- Mobile lab that allows us to bring the technology to your site.
Top of Page | Services: -
Investigation and Discovery
An interactive process to help determine whether your firm is ready to incorporate RFID technology and if that technology currently exists. Helps evaluate and enhance your return on investment. -
Process Evaluation
Determine which stage of readiness you are in to implement RFID Technology. Defines hurdles or challenges to overcome and recommend the best system design for your needs. -
Application Testing
Actually test out the RFID solution and ensure its reliability for your needs. Once the system is piloted, any issues can be worked out. -
Implementation and Deployment
In this stage, the RFID data are interfaced with your pre-existing data management systems (technology transfer activities). -
Education and Industry Uptake
Any projects undertaken at SAIT include an educational component for its students and faculty, either through hands-on involvement or an information session. This helps them understand new technologies and enter the workforce with confidence. Contact:
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