Most of us use RFID technology almost every day without even realising it. This impactful technology has revolutionised the way we track and identify objects, making our lives easier and more efficient. But have you ever wondered when was RFID invented? Who came up with this groundbreaking technology that is now widely used in various industries?
Let’s take a step back in time and explore the interesting history of RFID.
The Invention, Development & Evolution of RFID
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology traces its origins back to World War II. During this time, RFID-like technology was employed to identify aircraft as friend or foe (IFF system), aiding in battle strategies. This system is operated by attaching a transmitter to each plane. When this transmitter received signals from ground radar stations, it sent back a signal to mark the aircraft as friendly.
In 1973, Mario Cardullo received a patent for an active RFID tag with memory, marking a significant milestone in the development of this technology. The same year, Charles Walton received a patent for a passive transponder that could be used to unlock a door without a key, paving the way for future applications of RFID.
The US Government also played a significant role in the invention of RFID. In 1970, they developed a passive RFID tag to track cows and a system for tracking nuclear materials transported by trucks.
Modern Applications
Today, RFID technology is more pervasive than ever, embedded in everyday objects from credit cards and libraries to pet microchips and event ticketing.
The advancements in RFID have made the technology more accessible, cost-effective, and multifaceted, inducing its integration into the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem and further expanding its applications.
RFID has seen substantial growth in retail, manufacturing, and logistics due to its ability to streamline processes, reduce errors, and improve efficiency, thus saving time and reducing costs. It is also being used for supply chain management, inventory management, and anti-shoplifting security purposes.
As we look toward the future, the evolution of RFID will likely continue, pushing the boundaries of how we interact with and manage the physical world. Advances in materials science, energy harvesting, and integration with other emerging technologies like blockchain and artificial intelligence are poised to bring about new innovations, further embedding RFID into the fabric of modern life.
Bottom Line
The history of RFID and its advancements to this day showcase the integral role this technology plays in our modern society. From its early applications in World War II to today’s widespread use, RFID has continually evolved and improved to meet the needs of various industries and individuals.
If you feel that RFID can change your business—whether retail, transportation, or manufacturing—then the time to adopt it is now.
Contact us today.
At Milestone, we have years of experience implementing RFID solutions for businesses of all sizes. Our team of experts can help you understand how RFID can benefit your specific operations and tailor a solution to meet your needs.
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