 A Real Time Location Systems or RTLS typically refers to a collection of sensors that work together to automatically identify and track the location of objects (including people) in real time. Industry analyst firm Frost and Sullivan predicts the RTLS market will grow by 30 percent annually for the next three years, reaching US $1.26 billion by 2011. It is hard to argue with the value. Enterprises achieve return of investment (ROI) from RTLS by: - improving asset utilization with real-time location of their assets;
- improving processes through more transparent real-time visibility;
- locating key personnel, like doctors, key technicians;
- improving staff safety by tracking people in hazardous work environments.
Real-time location systems have matured and commoditized considerably. Now, an enterprise can get started with plug-and-play real-time location for well under $25,000.
There are a number of technologies used to automatically collection location information: - Active RFID
- Infrared
- GPS (Global Positioning System)
- Passive RFID
- Ultrasound
- Wireless 802.11 based (Wi-Fi ID)
- and Ultra Wide Band (UWB).
It is not uncommon to use multiple methods of location for tracking different types of objects, even if the objects are nested (contained within each other). For example: a GPS system is used to determine the location of a cargo ship. An active RFID system may be used to track the shipping containers. An 802.11 based system may be used to track the position of the personnel and lift-trucks moving items around a ware house. An Ultra Wide Band Solution may be used to track hazardous materials in a refinery. Of course, these are just examples. We always recommend conducting a thorough analysis before deciding which solution best fits your requirements. This section is dedicated to bringing you in-depth information on Real Time Location Systems and connecting you with RTLS suppliers and community experts.
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