An RFID-based library management system using smart cabinets: A pilot project

An intelligent Library Management System (LMS) based on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) was built as a pilot project for the university library. A Graphical User Interface (GUI) was carefully designed to support all necessary library functionalities and user needs. Different types of shelf antennas were designed and fabricated aiming at 100% tag readability in a low-SAR environment for the library users. Prototype smart cabinets were built and tested using different types of near-field shelf antennas ensuring confined coverage in the vicinity of the shelf, thus avoiding unwanted identification of books residing at nearby shelves. SAR simulations were performed in the presence of human phantom models positioned at a close distance to the cabinet. The shelf antennas were optimized in such a way as to maximize tag readability and minimize electromagnetic pollution in the vicinity of the cabinet.