RFID VIATAG (image via motionID)
The Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IML in Dortmund, Germany, has developed an RFID solution to paying parking fees. A RFID chip laden sticker, 1.5 x 10 centimeters, is placed on the windshield. The communication band uses the ultra-high frequency (UHF) range with a maximum distance of 8 meters. As the vehicle passes through a gate, or toll, the ID is read off the tag. The 12 digit code is referenced from a database, and the fees are deducted from some online account. "Waiting at the parking machine, searching for change, losing your ticket – all that is a thing of the past. The car driver saves time and enjoys a more convenient service," explains IML project manager Arnd Ciprina.
The near field communication (NFC), RFID, system is dubbed VIATAG. The system was originally designed for the Munich based company motionID. After passing initial testing, it has been put to use at some public parks in Essen, Munich, and Duisburg in Germany. As an added measure of security, motionID also designed the sticker to separate and destroy the functionality. The joint research teams from IML and motionID plan to expand the system to toll roads, gas stations, and for security purposes.
The use of RFID for vehicles is nothing new. The E-Zpass and iPass systems have been used since 1991. What I like about motionID's cashless toll system is the size of the device. The sticker is quite favorable to the iPass box. The use of RFID in a parking toll system is not that new either. GAO RFID inc has been in the field for 15 years. For the record, GAO RFID has a shorter UHF read distance.
Hopefully one day, all our fees will be paid automatically. No more running to the meter to add more time. Imagine just walking up to a vending machine, picking what you want and walking away like you own it. Think about bagging all your groceries as you pick them and just walking out. An easy going worl awaits us, and motionID is helping get us there.
Eavesdropper
