Project Title:

A Multiple-Read SAW Tag Inventory System Development

12.06-9200
A Multiple-Read SAW Tag Inventory System Development
Digital Signal Corporation
8003 Forbes Place
Springfield
VA
22151
John P.
Cater
(703-321-9200)
JSC

Abstract:

Tracking of on-board space station and shuttle materials such as tools, food, clothes,
pharmaceuticals and other expendables must be improved beyond bar code identification
methods. This project proposes to create a Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW), passive-transponder,
inventory tracking system with unique capability of simultaneous, multiple-tag read
capability for reading up to 50 to 100 co-located tags. The small, lightweight and
battery-less SAW transponder tags are ideally suited for automated inventory and
tracking systems, but until now they have been limited to single tag-at-a-time read
constraints. Phase I will investigate the feasibility of creating multiple-read tag
systems so that items such as food containers can be accurately tracked in parallel
or simultaneous fashion. The result of the project will be a feasibility, or proof-of-concept,
working model of a multiple-read, SAW-tag automated inventory and tracking system.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications:  This technology could replace bar code inventory
systems, making inventory and tracking systems automated and hands-free. Instantaneous
grocery market checkout counters could be an early commercial market.