New antennas, validated performance and expanded integration options for demanding ITS and intralogistics applications
The demands placed on modern transport and logistics infrastructures are constantly increasing. Operators must cope with growing traffic flows, accelerate processes and at the same time ensure clear, audit-proof identification. RFID-based systems play a central role in this, especially where vehicles or goods need to be recorded without stopping and without manual intervention. Kathrein Solutions is addressing this development with a range of new components and software enhancements that define new performance parameters in both intelligent transport systems (ITS) and intralogistics.
One focus is on antenna technologies for so-called multi-lane free-flow (MLFF) scenarios. Here, it is not only the pure reading range that determines the quality of a system, but above all the ability to clearly assign transponders to a lane and thus to a specific vehicle. With the WiRa series, Kathrein Solutions has been pursuing an approach for years that focuses on high directivity and precise field geometries. The current version, the WiRa 25° 35° PRO, was specifically developed for environments where selective detection is required even in dense traffic and at high speeds.
Selectivity and data fusion in MLFF operation
The horizontal beamwidth of 25 degrees in combination with 35 degrees in the vertical plane enables very targeted illumination of individual lanes. In practice, this means that even when several vehicles pass through in parallel, a clear separation of data records is achieved. This effect is supported by high antenna gain, which facilitates the reliable reading of transponders in different positions – for example, on the windscreen or in the headlight area.
This precision is particularly important where RFID information is combined with other sensor data. In MLFF systems, synchronisation with licence plate recognition (LNPR/ANPR), classification or axle counting systems is a central component of evidence gathering and billing. The more accurate the spatial assignment by the antenna, the more robust the downstream data fusion. This reduces the calibration and validation effort for integrators, while operators benefit from more stable processes.
The performance of the components is not just a question of laboratory conditions. In real traffic situations, vibrations, weather conditions, different installation heights and variable vehicle geometries affect the overall system. Resilient evidence under realistic conditions is therefore important.
External verification under realistic conditions
Against this background, readers, antennas and newly developed high-security transponders were tested in a comprehensive ITS scenario at Eberswalde Airport. In addition to established devices such as the RRU 7700 and RRU 7800, the focus was particularly on new antenna configurations based on WiRa technology. The aim was to evaluate functionality in typical MLFF applications – for example, in open toll systems – at very high speeds.
The test series included lane separation, multiple passages, different mounting angles and varying vehicle types. Particular attention was paid to the question of whether stable and repeatable identification is possible even at speeds of up to 200 km/h. Subsequent certification by an independent testing institute confirms the suitability of the tested configurations for use in safety- and billing-relevant environments.
Such tests are becoming increasingly important in the market. Clients demand verifiable performance records before systems are put into live operation. Externally validated results facilitate tenders, accelerate approval processes and increase investment security.
Further development for industrial identification processes
In parallel with the ITS environment, Kathrein Solutions is pushing ahead with the optimisation of its solutions for intralogistics. Here, the focus is less on high travel speeds and more on process dynamics, material availability and transparency. The Gen4 reader generation forms a technological basis for this, designed for high reading stability, flexible interfaces and easy integration.
The EDGE Line SMSH antennas are a new component that has been designed specifically for rapidly changing reading zones. The revised KRAI 2.0 interface significantly speeds up switching processes, which is advantageous in Kanban applications or in the control of automated material flows, for example. Shorter response times enable more precise bookings and reduce downtime.
For many users, it is crucial that hardware advances are accompanied by suitable software tools. Large installations can only be operated economically if configuration, monitoring and update processes are designed efficiently.
Software ecosystem and integration capability
With the latest firmware and software versions, the company is therefore continuously expanding the possibilities for system integrators. New releases for ReaderStart, Linux-based firmware, Profinet connections and programming interfaces facilitate integration into existing IT and OT structures. Improved documentation, history functions and sample implementations also support maintenance throughout the entire life cycle.
Especially in projects with long runtimes – as is common in transport infrastructure – the sustainable maintenance of the software base is a critical success factor. Operators expect planning reliability, updateability and compatibility with future enhancements.
Market trend: speed with increasing accountability
A consistent picture emerges across all fields of application. Systems must process ever-larger amounts of data in less time, while at the same time the requirements for transparency and traceability are increasing. Whether toll collection, access control or material control – without precise identification, neither automated processes nor reliable billing can be realised.
The latest developments from Kathrein Solutions illustrate that progress is not achieved solely through higher transmission power, but above all through controlled field characteristics, fast interfaces and validated overall concepts. For planners and operators, this opens up additional scope for designing powerful, future-proof architectures.
