This article provides an in-depth look at our recent project, the RFID Demo Set, which integrates Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology with Arduino microcontrollers to manage an interactive LED display system. Our objective was to demonstrate the practical application of RFID in automated systems and interactive elements within our operations, enhancing both efficiency and user engagement.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) uses radio waves to transmit data between an RFID tag, an RFID reader, and an antenna.The RFID tag, equipped with an integrated circuit (IC) and antenna, absorbs radio frequency energy emitted by the reader's antenna. This energy powers the tag, enabling it to transmit data back to the reader, where it is converted into a more usable form of data before being relayed to a host computer system. This technology is employed in various applications ranging from inventory management to access control systems, offering a versatile solution for automatic data capture and identification of tagged objects.
Prioritizing reliability and simplicity, our system design adheres to the ASCII output format of the ID-12LA RFID reader, ensuring a robust and straightforward data flow. This format was chosen for its direct compatibility with the Arduino's serial input, simplifying our communication protocol and reducing the potential for data parsing errors.
Below is an excerpt from the datasheet showing the pin description and output data formats, particularly highlighting the use of ASCII:
The ASCII data output from the reader is connected to the Arduino's RX pin, enabling the microcontroller to receive data directly in a format it can readily process.
Below, we detail the complete code that drives the interaction within our system, followed by an explanation of key code segments that handle data processing and LED control.
This array and counter handle the storage and indexing of incoming RFID data until the end of transmission, ensuring complete and accurate data processing.
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This logic checks the received data against predefined tag codes, activating the appropriate LED based on the tag identified.
This loop function continuously monitors the serial port for data, initiating its process when data is detected. Upon recognizing the start of text (STX) signal, represented by the byte 0x02, the function resets the data position to zero and clears the buffer, preparing it to receive new information cleanly. Detection of the end of text (ETX) signal, denoted by the byte 0x03, prompts the function to terminate the current data string with a null character and immediately process the data through the processRFIDData() function.
Our team is committed to enhancing the capabilities of the RFID Demo Set. We plan to develop interactions between multiple device sets, aiming to create a complex network of systems that can communicate and respond synchronously. The scalability of this RFID Demo Set will facilitate more elaborate interactive environments and demonstrations, further pushing the boundaries of what is possible with RFID and Arduino integration.
If you are interested in learning more about this project, please do not hesitate to contact our Makers in Residence.