The project consists of developing a toolbox with an RFID reader that registers when a tool is taken or returned. The system will be controlled by an ESP32 and will use passive RFID tags on each tool. The data of the tools being taken or returned will be sent to a receiving device to allow real-time tracking and inventory management of the toolbox.

Click on the image to switch between the two versions:

Sketch 1: System using three individual RFID readers.

The main goal of this project is to facilitate tool tracking within a toolbox, ensuring that users know exactly when a tool is taken or returned. This system will help manage the inventory of tools efficiently and prevent loss or misplacement.

The system will work autonomously, using an RFID reader to detect tools as they are removed or placed back. The collected data will be sent to a platform for real-time monitoring.

Additionally, an Excel file will be automatically generated to keep track of inventory, logging which tools have been taken, returned, and their timestamps. This will provide a detailed and accessible record of the toolbox status.

Furthermore, we plan to incorporate 3D scanning of tools to generate custom templates for precise placement within the toolbox (see section "Additional Functionality: 3D Scanning and Templates").

This project is designed for workshops, laboratories, and makerspaces that need an efficient tool tracking system. The toolbox with RFID technology ensures that every tool movement is recorded in real-time, allowing users and administrators to monitor tool usage and prevent losses. The system is particularly useful for shared workspaces where tools are frequently borrowed and returned.

The project considers two primary approaches for tool detection:

• Using multiple RFID readers: Each tool slot in the toolbox is equipped with an individual RFID reader, providing precise detection but increasing hardware costs and complexity.
• Using a single RFID antenna: A larger antenna scans the entire toolbox at once, simplifying the system but potentially reducing detection accuracy.

The choice between these two methods depends on the specific needs of the user, balancing accuracy, cost, and ease of implementation.

• Toolbox: Designed to house the RFID system and tools.
• RFID-RC522 readers (for Sketch 1) or a single RFID antenna (for Sketch 2).
• Passive RFID tags attached to tools.
• ESP32 to control the system.
• LCD screen (optional) for real-time status display.
• Buzzer/LED for tool detection alerts.
• SD card module (optional) to store historical logs.
• Wireless communication via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

The project will utilize wireless communication to send data to a receiving device for real-time tracking and inventory management. The following options are being considered:

• Wi-Fi: Allows for communication over a local network, potentially enabling remote monitoring and data access.
• Bluetooth: Provides a direct connection to a nearby device, suitable for close-range monitoring and data transfer.

The final choice will depend on factors such as range, data transfer rate, and power consumption requirements.

In the final design, we plan to implement a system to 3D scan each tool and generate a corresponding template. This template will be printed and used to create a specific position for each tool within the box. This will ensure that each tool has its designated place, making organization and inventory management even more efficient.

This process will be carried out by 3D scanning each tool, using a 3D scanner or even a mobile phone camera with a suitable application. Then, the 3D image will be processed to obtain a 2D template that can be printed. This template will show the shape of the tool and its exact position inside the box.