OPTIMIZED OPERATION OF A DENSE READER SYSTEM WITH IMPROVED LISTEN BEFORE TALK COMMUNICATIONS

摘要

Methods, systems and apparatuses for RFID readers forming a reader network are described. In an aspect of the present invention, a plurality of RFID readers are configured to interrogate tags. Furthermore, the readers are configured to communicate with one another. Each reader includes a network interface module and an optimization module to receive and process statistical data obtained from other readers in the network. A set of operational rules for the environment is indicated, and tag interrogations are optimized according to the rules. Readers may communicate according to a "Listen Before Talk" (LBT) protocol to avoid undesirable interference. Individual readers are capable of dynamically establishing and joining a network, and leaving the network in a self-configured and semi-autonomous or autonomous manner.