Distributed Intelligent RFID Systems

The major impetus for the use of RFID technology is tracking personnel and objects to monitor and control movement. Traditionally, this task is accomplished using a centralized systems architecture in which every event is transmitted to a host computer for validation. Distributed intelligent systems are based on two principles: distributed communications and distributed intelligence. Together, these functionalities enable the implementation of networks that are highly robust, scalable, flexible, and facilitate their integration with client/server systems. We describe how RFID can be implemented using distributed intelligent systems to automate data collection for service queues, track and control personnel and goods, monitor and control inventory, and use dynamic digital signage for information dissemination.