In the hospitality industry, the safety and tranquility of guests is the top priority. One of the most common challenges, especially at night, is to ensure that access to the property is permitted only to guests staying at the hotel. One of the most common requests from a hotel is emblematic: how can you ensure that no one enters unless they are a customer, especially at night?
The so-called “friend problem” or group problem is more widespread than you might think. A customer with a valid collar or card could attempt to let another unauthorized person in, “by slipping in” with them, or an entire group could try to log in with only one identification device.
To address this specific need, an advanced technological solution is developed that integrates two complementary technologies: UHF RFID identification and a dual-technology person counting system.
How the Solution Works
The approach is based on a simple but effective “Safety Rule”: the door unlocks ONLY if the number of RFID collars read matches the number of people detected.
The system consists of three key elements:
- UHF RFID Collars: Each guest receives a collar or bracelet equipped with a UHF RFID tag, readable at long distances (up to 8-10 meters). This device uniquely identifies the authorized customer. ZAutomation provides tailor-made RFID solutions and state-of-the-art readout technologies to ensure maximum reliability.
- People Counter Sensor: Installed above the front door, this sensor uses dual technology (such as 3D infrared sensors) to accurately count the number of people passing by, distinguishing between entrances and exits. Our person counting systems guarantee 99% reliability, avoiding false positives.
- Control unit and Management Software: It is the brain of the system. It processes data from the RFID reader and the people counter sensor. If the number of collars read matches the number of people detected, the door opens. Otherwise, the door remains closed and an alarm may go off. The software also manages security features such as Anti-passback (which prevents you from reusing the same collar to enter if an exit event has not been recorded first) and keeps a complete log of all events for facility security. This type of integration between RFID and sensors has already been successfully implemented by ZAutomation in the industrial and retail sectors for the access control of personnel and suppliers.
The Benefits for Your Structure
This solution, designed for the hotel and hospitality sector, offers numerous advantages:
- Security “Active”: The system not only reads a badge, but actively verifies that each person present has their own collar. The door locks if a person without a collar attempts to enter with a group.
- No Physical Barrier: The door remains clear, there are no turnstiles or barriers that could slow down entry or be uncomfortable for guests.
- Proven Technology and GDPR-compliant: The system uses mature technologies in access control and person counting. The people counter sensor does not detect biometric data, ensuring full respect for privacy.
- Maximum Reliability: The combination of 3D RFID readers and dual-technology counting sensors minimizes errors, ensuring that access is granted or denied correctly.
The Solution is Tailor-made
Each structure has its own specificities. For this reason, ZAutomation offers a personalized consulting and design service. The team of experts assesses entry characteristics, guest flow and operational needs to provide an integrated, tailored system.
If you also want to solve the problem of unauthorized access to your facility, contact us for a site inspection and a detailed quote.
ZAutomation – The division of INDEVO srl specializing in programming, RFID, and vision solutions for industry and the tertiary sector.
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Zautomation – Via Mameli, 14 – 21013 Gallarate (VA)
info@zautomation.it | +39 340.635.6406