Hyper-Distributed RFID Antenna (HYDRA) System Webinar

Join us on March 5th for a webinar on a new multiplexing radio frequency identification (RFID) antenna system at NASA Johnson Space Center. The Hyper-Distributed RFID Antenna (HYDRA) System enhances distribution of the RFID reader signal, providing improved coverage for large areas as well as for small, fixed regions requiring a high density of reader antennas. This greater coverage translates into better RFID sensing capabilities, higher localization accuracy, and enhanced logistics awareness. 

The second technology is a low-mass, dual-mode RFID antenna that provides polarization diversity and employs dual resonances, but in a form factor that is much smaller than other RFID antennas that provide similar functionality. Although it was originally developed for the HYDRA system, it has vast applications. For example, it could provide a substantial improvement in handheld readers, and similarly with drone-based readers, for applications in which mass is almost always a primary factor.

During the webinar, you will learn about these new technologies as well as how NASA technologies are available to license through our Technology Transfer Program. Registration is free, and all interested parties are welcome to attend.

Dr. Patrick W. Fink has worked at NASA for 33 years, specializing in RFID, computational electromagnetics, and antenna engineering. He is the principal investigator of NASA’s REALM (RFID-Enabled Autonomous Logistics Management) experiments on the International Space Station and is currently evolving the system for NASA’s next generation of remote space habitats.  He received a BSEE and MS in Engineering from the University of Texas, Austin, and Ph.D. from the University of Houston.