Abstract
Modern organizations manage numerous assets daily, requiring efficient tracking and ownership transfer processes. Traditional methods—often paper-based with wet signatures—lead to administrative bottlenecks, delays, and security vulnerabilities. This paper presents a proof-of-concept system leveraging UHF RFID technology for asset identification and Ethereum blockchain-based NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) to streamline ownership transfers.
Key features:
- RFID UHF Tags: Enable rapid, contactless identification of multiple assets simultaneously, even when embedded or hidden.
- Smart Contracts: Automate ownership transfers with tamper-proof records on a private Ethereum blockchain.
- Decentralized Application (DAPP): Provides an intuitive interface for users to manage assets securely.
👉 Learn how blockchain enhances asset management
1. Introduction
Asset management is critical for large organizations, but traditional centralized systems face challenges:
- Manual Processes: Paperwork and wet signatures slow transfers.
- Security Risks: Single points of failure in databases.
- Auditability Gaps: Difficulty tracking historical ownership.
Our solution combines:
- RFID UHF: Far-field identification (up to 16m for passive tags).
- Blockchain NFTs: Immutable ownership records via ERC-721 tokens.
2. Approach
2.1. Scenario
Problem: Transferring a printer from Employee A to Employee B involves:
- Paper forms signed by both parties.
- Manager approval.
- Database administrator updates.
Solution:
- DAPP Initiation: Employee A requests transfer via the interface.
- Smart Contract Execution: Ownership NFT is reassigned after Employee B accepts.
- RFID Verification: Physical tag data validated via blockchain.
2.2. System Architecture
- Ethereum Blockchain: Private network for smart contracts.
- DAPP Frontend: Built with React.js and MetaMask integration.
- RFID Readers: Chainway C72 handheld devices for tag scanning.
👉 Explore RFID-blockchain integration
3. Results
- Speed: Transfers completed in minutes vs. days.
- Security: Tamper-proof records via NFTs.
- Cost: ~0.0003 ETH per transaction (testnet).
Case Study:
Deployed at University of Cauca, Colombia:
- Assets Registered: 500+ (computers, printers).
- Ownership Transfers: 120+ with zero discrepancies.
4. Advantages
- Transparency: All stakeholders audit transfers.
- Efficiency: Batch RFID scans for inventory audits.
- Compliance: Aligns with ISO 55000 asset management standards.
5. FAQ
Q1: How secure are RFID tags from cloning?
A: Tags use encrypted EPC+TID pairs; any tampering invalidates the NFT link.
Q2: Can this work on public blockchains?
A: Yes, but private chains reduce costs for organizations.
Q3: What’s the role of supervisors?
A: Optional approval workflows for high-value assets via smart contracts.
Q4: How scalable is this system?
A: Tested with 1,000+ assets; cloud miners can expand capacity.
6. Future Work
- IPv6 Integration: Enhance RFID tag addressing.
- Consortium Blockchains: Collaborate with NRENs for sector-wide adoption.