An object tracking system is provided for tracking the removal of objects
from a location and the replacement of the objects at the location. The
system includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag attached to
each of the objects to be tracked and each tag has an antenna. When
activated, the RFID tag of an object transmits a unique code identifying
the object. A storage unit is provided at the location and the storage
unit has a plurality of receptacles configured to receive objects
replaced at the location. Each receptacle has an associated antenna for
activating the RFID tag of an object in the receptacle and receiving the
radio frequency transmitted code of the object. The antennae of the
system can be capacitive plates for conveying the radio frequency
transmissions through capacitive coupling or inductive loops for
conveying the transmissions through inductive coupling. A computer-based
controller is coupled to the antenna of the receptacles for receiving
transmitted codes and determining based thereon the absence or presence
and location of objects within the storage unit.