Integrating a sensor into a passive RFID tag makes it possible to do away with batteries and wiring, says Osiris Technical Systems.

novel idea of integrating a sensor into a passive RFID (radio frequency identification) tag made it possible to do away with batteries and wiring. Using a handheld or fixed RFID reader, the tag identity and sensor measurement can be retrieved from a few metres away just by reading the tag.

Sensors, among others that have already been successfully integrated, are temperature, moisture, humidity, proximity, strain, ambient light and orientation. Sensors can be monitored continuously or read when required.

This opens up many possibilities for applications that were previously not feasible. Usually, new technology is too expensive to be implemented. In this case, the cost has actually come down due to the simplified installation and because no maintenance is needed. Many limitations for placing sensors, like providing a power supply or replacing batteries, are eliminated, while wireless communication is retained, augmenting IOT (Internet of things) applications where more sensors mean better results.

more…

Source: Adding sensors to RFID tags enables new IOT applications | ITWeb