Mobile ZigBee Network in a High RF Interference Environment

Recently., computer technologies have begun to be used for automation of container port terminals. The integration of these technologies aims to make more efficient the use of port logistics and an accurately scheduling of the loading / unloading of the container operations. These ports use Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) to transport containers within the port terminal. At this point they are coordinated by a central server throughout the Wi-Fi network., and they do not directly exchange data between them. Furthermore., wireless communication with these AGVs can be influenced by the RF interference generated by the massive metallic structures from a port terminal. This paper discusses the possibility to use a ZigBee network to enable communication between AGVs. It is analyzed the operation of ZigBee communication in an environment with many RF interferences such as a container port where there are massive metallic structures such as cranes, containers and other specific RF interferences.