RFID logistics

Introduction.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is an automatic data capture technology that enables the automatic tracking and identification of an item. As such it is an enormous aid in logistical support providing a strategic wireless solution to locating items in during a production or distribution process. Anything can be tagged with the small data carrying tokens that can be read by fixed or mobile scanners and readers, using low powered radio frequencies. The data captured by the scanner can, of course, be sent to a centre that can have an overview of the items in transit and convey the location or identification information on to others. RFID works in tandem with the Electronic Product Code (EPC), which is a unique identifier for an item whether it is a single book or a box of mixed books. Of course for RFID to work to maximum effect every stage of the transit or supply route needs to be equipped with RFID technology, requiring an integrated approach to the logistical process. RFID tags can be split into two main groups; Passive – which are typically barcodes, or Active – which will have their own power supply, can be used in more extreme conditions, can be read whilst the item is moving and at a distance. ie. They can be used to track anything from a library book to a car on a toll road.

RFID and process control.

The term process control is associated with manufacturing and production systems. RFID can be applied to a process control situation to accurately capture real-time data. An item on a production line can have its model, serial number and other data written on to an active read/write RFID tag. As it passes down the production line tag readers at operator’s workstations can display instructions as to what the next process to be carried out is, as well as recording and sending real-time assembly operations. Apart from simply being able to track the location of an item, here the use of RFID here helps to reduce assembly operator error as well as allowing an extraordinary degree of control and monitoring over the assembly process. Ultimately the RFID data can be analysed to track any problems in quality control as the item passes through the assembly process, meaning that capturing real-time data helps the manufacturer to improve customer satisfaction.

RFID and control systems.

A basic RFID control system would be one operating a door lock to control access to premises by the use of secure transponder cards. Such systems are the type that as you approach a door or barrier you wave a transponder device, which can be credit card sized or in the form of a key or fob, at a sensor. Physical contact with the reader is not required for the card to be scanned. Once read and accepted a relay will release the lock on the door or barrier. RFID control systems are typically used in: security systems, car parking and automated garage doors. They can also be applied to asset management and stock control.

RFID and control software.

Having the right software to control a RFID system is essential to maintaining its integrity and functionality. As new hardware becomes available so to will new software be required to drive it. The situation with RFID control software is complicated by their currently being no one standard to comply with. The very nature of RFID devices can raise privacy issues when RFID tags are used in some applications. With the exception of the basic barcode system, the USA uses different protocols to Europe, as well as there being another system in use in Japan. The high price of active RFID tags and systems has prevented some companies from adopting RFID for logistical support. The RFID software sector is starting to work on rollups, acquisitions and consolidation to help make the market for RFID more competitive.

RFID and system integration.

As new developments and implementations of RFID are rolled out it is inevitable that, over time companies will find themselves employing a variety of RFID scanners, readers and tags creating a heterogeneous system. Rather than having to physically manage all the protocols, standards and proprietary hardware interfaces you can deploy system integration that will transform all the data into a common format simplifying RFID management tasks and reducing the need to indulge in any special coding. RFID systems integration will prevent a logistics system from becoming ‘boxed in’ whilst ensuring that the best technology and standards are used by each application.