Defining RTLS (Real Time Location System)
Real time location system (RTLS) is a technology that uses tags to track the real-time location of assets or people. Unlike GPS, which requires a clear line of sight to satellites, RTLS can work indoors and does not require a direct line of sight. Instead, it uses a network of anchors to triangulate the position of each tag. This information is then transmitted to a central database, where it can be used to track the location of assets or people in real-time. In many cases, RTLS systems are used in conjunction with other technologies, such as RFID or barcodes, to create a complete asset tracking solution. However, RTLS can also be used on its own to provide real-time visibility into the location of assets or people.
How does a real time location system work?
An RTLS system typically consists of three components: tags, anchors, and a central database. Tags are attached to assets or people and emit periodic signals that anchors receive. Anchors are typically placed around the perimeter of an area to be monitored and use these signals to triangulate the position of each tag. The central database is used to store and manage the data collected by the anchors. This data can then be accessed in real-time to track the location of assets or people.
What are the benefits of an RTLS solution?
RTLS systems offer many benefits over other tracking technologies, such as GPS. RTLS does not require a clear line of sight, making it well suited for tracking assets or people indoors. In addition, RTLS systems can provide more accurate location data than GPS, making them ideal for applications where precise asset tracking is critical. Finally, RTLS systems are typically much easier to deploy and manage than GPS systems, making them a more cost-effective solution for many organizations.
Types of RTLS solutions
As mentioned, real time location system solutions use a combination of tags, sensors, and software to track the real-time location of people or assets. The most common types of RTLS solutions are passive RFID and active Wi-Fi. Passive RFID uses tags that emit a signal that is picked up by sensors. Active Wi-Fi uses tags that transmit a signal that is picked up by sensors. RTLS solutions can be used for a variety of applications, including asset tracking, people tracking, and security. For example, RTLS solutions can be used to track people in a hospital or warehouse. Real time location system solutions can also be used to track assets in a manufacturing plant or distribution center. In addition, RTLS solutions can be used for security applications such as access control and intruder detection.
The most common RTLS solution
RFID is the most common type of RTLS solution. RFID tags are passive devices that do not require a power source. Instead, they rely on the energy emitted by an RFID reader to power their electronics. RFID tags can be either active or passive. Active RFID tags contain a battery and transmit a signal that an RFID reader can pick up. Passive RFID tags do not have a battery and must be energized by an RFID reader to transmit a signal.
RFID tags are typically made of plastic, metal, or glass. They can be either read-only or read/write. Read-only RFID tags can only be read by an RFID reader. Read/write RFID tags can be both read and written to by an RFID reader. RFID tags typically store between 96 bits and 2,048 bits of data. This data can include the tag’s ID number, manufacturing data, and user-defined data.
How does an RTLS solution work in practice?
An RTLS solution uses a combination of tracking devices and software to provide real-time visibility into the location of assets, people, and inventory. The devices emit regular signals picked up by sensors placed around the facility. The software then uses these signals to calculate the location of the tracked item in real-time. An RTLS solution can be used for a variety of applications, including warehouse management, package tracking, and personnel tracking. RTLS solutions offer many benefits over traditional asset tracking methods, including improved accuracy and real-time visibility. Real time location system solutions are an essential tool for any business that needs to track assets in a complex environment.
Implementation of a RTLS solution
RTLS, or Real Time Location System, tracks the real-time location of objects or people. The first step in implementing an RTLS solution is to identify the specific business needs that RTLS will address. Once these needs have been identified, the next step is to select the appropriate RTLS technology. There are a variety of RTLS technologies available on the market, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. After selecting the RTLS technology, the next step is to deploy the hardware and software components of the system. This includes installing tags on assets, deploying anchors around the perimeter of the area to be monitored, and configuring the central database. Finally, the RTLS system must be tested to ensure that it is working properly.
The future of real time location systems (RTLS)
RTLS solutions are becoming increasingly commonplace, as the technology that underpins them continues to develop at a rapid pace. RTLS systems use a variety of sensors to track the location of assets in real-time, and this information can be used to improve a wide range of operations. In the future, RTLS solutions are likely to become even more sophisticated, with a greater focus on AI and machine learning. This will allow RTLS solutions to provide even more accurate and up-to-date information, which can be used to optimize everything from supply chain management to healthcare. In addition, the increasing use of 5G technology is likely to further boost the capabilities of RTLS solutions. As a result, the future of RTLS looks very bright indeed.
Learn more about Radiant’s asset tracking solutions
RTLS is an extremely valuable tool for businesses that need to track their assets in real-time. If you are interested in learning more about RTLS and how asset tracking technology can help your business, please contact Radiant today. We would be happy to answer any of your questions and provide you with a demo.
Last Updated on January 26, 2023 by Radiant