Business from technology

RFID and wireless sensing

Competence

VTT has taken a wide R&D approach to RFID and wireless sensing, which is supported by extensive interdisciplinary know-how and in-house technology platforms. Our activities cover RFID and wireless systems from low frequency to mm-waves. VTT develops novel solutions to improve the performance level of RFID systems. Modern equipment and excellent facilities, like micro- and nanofabrication services and anechoic chambers, provide exceptional opportunities for the fabrication and characterization of components. VTT is collaborating with many of the key European players in the field of RFID. 

Challenges

Dynamic economic growth and the future viability of companies in global competition will boost the deployment and implementation of RFID technology in many branches of business. RFID has been identified as one of the cornerstones of the upcoming “Internet of Things,” and the focus is slowly shifting from conventional RFID towards next-generation pervasive networked and interconnected systems. Smart RFID devices are seen as an important part of this development. The overall performance level and functionality of today's RFID technology cannot meet these requirements, and new solutions must thus be developed. . 

Solutions

• Cost-efficient generic and application-specific high-performance tags (all-platform tags, tags for harsh environments, adaptive tags, biodegradable tags etc.)
  
• New low-energy adaptive RF solutions for RFID readers, including compact reader modules for handheld devices
  
• Pioneering multi-protocol, multi-standard RFID tag IC development
  
• RFID-based wireless sensors from passive disposable sensors to semi-passive data loggers
  
• Novel smart RFID devices with enhanced capabilities like mass memory and faster protocols
  
• Printed solutions for fully printable RFID tags and components
  
• Embedded and integrated solutions combining RFID with products and other technologies
  
• Development of wireless sensors based on other standardized or proprietary protocols
  
• Development of compliant low-power sensors (MEMS and biosensors, printed sensors, etc.)
  

Benefits

• Improved and streamlined logistics in numerous applications
  
• New cost-efficient solutions for industrial monitoring
  
• Anti-counterfeiting solutions and compliance with certificates
  
• Solutions for lifecycle and recycling management
  
• Wireless sensor networks promote ambient intelligence, context-aware applications and new measurement paradigms
  

References and merits

• Several commercial follow-up products, including RFID tags, readers, antennas and ICs
  
• Tailored RFID solutions for companies
  
• Numerous patents, patent applications and scientific publications
  
• Central role in many EU projects (Indisputable Key, MINAmI, Adose, Asset, Mimosa, Apollo etc.)
  
• Strong involvement in the European RFID cluster and road mapping activities.