RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) Applications in Utilities for Underground and other Fixed Asset Detection and Management

It is important for water, wastewater, gas and other utility companies to know the locations, status and maintenance history of their underground and other fixed assets so they can be protected and managed efficiently. Such assets include underground and concealed utility lines and pipes, water creeks, canals, reservoirs, storage tanks, pumps and more.This paper discusses how RFID and wireless technologies can be used to track, monitor and manage these assets in real-time resulting in reduced cost and increased operational efficiency. The solution for managing assets extends existing technologies like GPS that utilities are using today by adding precision and repeatability and, by eliminating the need for continuous line of sight with satellites.The RFID system (patent pending) outlined in this paper has been developed by Wysetree Corporation and is currently been implemented at the Santa Clara Water District. The solution uses RFID tags as unique identifiers, RFID Readers, wireless handheld devices and a server or host computer with a location database to provide utilities with accurate information in real-time.