An RFID-enabled library management system using low-SAR smart bookshelves

An intelligent Library Management System (LMS) based on the emerging UHF passive RFID technology is currently being designed in order to replace a traditional barcode system at the university's library. Primary objectives of the design include maximization of tag readability, localization of tagged items in the smart bookshelf, reduced spill-over energy to nearby shelves, and minimization of the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) to nearby library users. Different types of shelf antennas were used and tested including evanescent-type antennas as well as far-field antennas. The antennas were designed, simulated, built, and tested in a realistic environment. HFSS and SEMCAD-X were used to evaluate radiation parameters and illustrate the radiation effects of near- and far-field antennas in the presence of the cabinet and library users.