RFID Chemical Sensors Research at GE

GE Researchers will explore the use of RFID technology integrated with sensors to monitor exposure to toxic volatile chemicals. The solution will be wearable. RFID readers will interrogate the worn sensors and integrate readings to the monitoring system / software where exposures can be understood and actions and alerts can be generated. ...

... "A prototype of wearable wireless sensor system will be developed and demonstrated that will contain replaceable passive RFID sensors. Developed sensors will be interrogated by a small-sized, wearable sensor reader that will relate the findings to a local base station. " ...

Via GE Global Research: Wearable RFID Sensors Detect Chemicals

RFID Sensing Platform

GE Research develops a battery-free sensing platform that exhibits a response to multiple chemicals under various conditions. ...

... "General Electric Company announced a battery-free, multi-detection radio-frequency identification (RFID) sensing platform that could enable a wide range of low cost wireless sensing products in healthcare, security, food packaging, water treatment and pollution prevention. GE's unique RFID sensors are built on traditional RFID tags. " ...

Via MarketWatch: Battery-free, Multi-Detection Wireless Sensors

Chemical Industry RFID Use

Chemical Industry Data Exchange (CIDX) explores RFID use in its white paper, Chemical eStandards Initiative on Radio Frequency ID. ...

... "An outline of how CIDX will collaborate with EPCGlobal, an RFID industry trade group focused on RFID technologies and standards; A Business Value Model for determining return on investment (ROI) based on common chemical business scenarios; A method for providing input and exchanging critical information that will affect ongoing RFID standards development. " ...

Via CIDX: RFID Use in Chemical Industry

RFID Hammer Tracking System Integrates GIS and Sensors

Army RFID research looks to improve the understanding of rapidly changing conditions in real-time using RFID, geographic information, and multiple sensor perspectives. ...

... "The HAMMERTM is modular in design. The technology may be configurable to accommodate a variety of plug and play components, wireless sensors (e.g., seismic, thermal, acoustic, temperature, chemical), and other peripherals via conventional connections (e.g., USB 2.0, LEMOTM). The core unit includes a computer running a WindowsTM XP operating system, which allows secure and encrypted robust computing and 80 GB of data storage capacity. An embedded ArcGISTM software platform allows for integrated complex geographical information system (GIS) analysis. Base unit features include: position acquisition as well as stand-off positioning; distance, pitch, and roll measurements; and still and video processing. Users can collect data instantly via the a rapid event-capture trigger. Additional functions may include night vision, image stabilization and video pattern registration, voice recognition software, and biometrics for secure operations. Voice annotations, as well as audio communications, may be achieved through a wireless, hands-free, headset. A marking/tracking system may be used to mark and monitor dynamic situations and events across diverse landscapes, via active and/or passive Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags and hybrid bar code/RFID labels. " ...

Via US Army ERDC: HAMMER (Hand-held Apparatus for Mobile Mapping and Expedited Reporting)

RFID Telematics: RailCars

Dow Chemical is piloting RFID technology in its logistics processes to sense material conditions and enable supply chain security. ...

... "Last year, Dow Chemical decided to integrate radio frequency identification (RFID) and GPS tracking technology on trucks and rail cars. " ...

Via CIO Today: Tracking Trucks the Telematics Way

RFID Framing Chemical Industry ...

CIDX releases position paper on the use of RFID in the chemical industry. ...

... "The Chemical Industry Data Exchange (CIDX), a 20-year-old trade association that serves as the chemical industry's forum for emerging eCommerce technologies, announced the availability of the RFID Framing White Paper, a 46-page document detailing the impact of Radio Frequency ID (RFID) technology on the chemical industry. Written by a CIDX team of technology experts, including representatives from chemical producers and technology solution providers, the White Paper is the industry's first holistic look at the technology that is taking the consumer products and retail sectors by storm. " ...

RFID Framing Chemical Industry: Via CIDX: CIDX(R) Publishes White Paper on Potential Impact of RFID Technology in the Chemical Industry

Rugged RFID Tag: Reuse ...

Intermec launches RFID tag that is reusable and performs well in extreme, rugged environments. ...

... "Because the Intermec RFID LR Tag is reusable, each use of the tag costs only fractions of a cent. The tag can be rewritten thousands of times, providing lower cost per use on reusable assets than even disposable labels. And because of its ability to function in demanding industrial environments and to provide reliable performance on multiple materials, enterprises can use a single tag to identify and track items such as subassemblies, work-in-process components, finished goods, material handling equipment and logistics containers through production, supply chain and asset management operations. The Intermec RFID LR Tag measures 3.2 cm x 14.27 cm (1.26 in x 6.1 in). Its rugged impact-resistant plastic packaging survives hazardous chemical exposure and withstands temperatures from -40 to 250F, -40 to 121C. The tag is compatible and interoperable with RFID readers that support EPC Gen 2 or ISO 18000-6B standards. Organizations that already have EPC- or ISO 18000-6B-based standard systems in place can conveniently and cost effectively introduce the Intermec LR tag for a variety of industrial, material handling and asset management applications. " ...

Rugged RFID Tag: Reuse: Via Intermec: New Rugged, Reusable Intermec RFID Tag Withstands Temperature Extremes and Hazardous Exposures for True Global Industrial and Logistics Tracking ...

Korean RFID Certification: Savi Active Tags ...

Korean government certifies Savi active RFID tags and readers. ...

Korean RFID Certification: Savi Active Tags: Via Savi Technology: SOUTH KOREAN GOVERNMENT CERTIFIES SAVI TECHNOLOGY’S ACTIVE RFID SUPPLY CHAIN PRODUCTS OPERATING AT 433.92 MHz: Certification of Active RFID Tags and Readers Allows Commercial Deployment of Savi’s Real-Time Supply Chain Solutions in Asian Transportation Region ...

... "Savi Technology, a leading provider of RFID-based supply chain solutions, has become certified by the South Korean Government to use the 433.92 MHz radio frequency band for active RFID tags and readers. The decision by the Ministry of Information and Communication (MIC) supports the ISO 18000-7 (International Standardization Organization) standard operating at the 433.92 MHz frequency, and enables deployment of Savi's RFID-based solutions in this regionally and strategically important supply chain region. South Korea, one of Asia's largest trading partners with the United States, ships about 900,000 TEUs (20-foot long container equivalents) between the countries annually. Specifically, MIC granted certification for the Savi Tag ST-654, a high performance, data-rich active RFID tag with transmission ranges up to 300 feet suited for various applications including tracking shipping containers, vehicles and other large assets; and, the Savi Fixed Reader SR-650, a highly reliable data collection system for real-time, end-to-end visibility of goods and critical assets moving through the supply chain. These products are based on proven technology Savi has deployed globally for more than a decade, and can be seamlessly integrated with Savi's SmartChain Enterprise platform and Savi's software applications for a number of supply chain solutions, including Asset Management, Transportation Security, Consignment Management and Chemical Chain of Custody. " ...

RFID BioSensors Applications ...

Research center is investigating the convergence of RFID and sensors to enable increased food safety. Biosensors are defined as a type of biomolecular probe that measures the presence or concentration of biological molecules, biological structures, etc., by translating a biochemical interaction at the probe surface into a quantifiable physical signal such as light or electric pulse.

RFID BioSensors Applications: Via AUDFS: Radio Frequency Identification Sensors ...

... "Auburn University Detection and Food Safety (AUDFS) project to use RFID technology combined with sensors for detection of pathogens in food. AUDFS aims to integrate the breakthroughs in the detection of food borne illnesses with advances in wireless and biosensor technologies. " ...

References on RFID and Biosensors applications:

... "Via Wired: RFID Gussied Up With Biosensors: But many companies are now combining the tags with sensors that can detect the presence of biological and chemical agents, or signal that a perishable item has expired. " ...

... "Via Washington Technology: Growin’ on empty: RFID’s many uses outpace available funds: EDS is focusing on bundling together RFID and biosensor technologies for supply-chain management and homeland security purposes, Schick said. We’re looking at how to mesh the two technologies together, he said. " ...

... "RFID no use against CBRN terrorism and criminal contamination: Before anybody lets Biosensor RFID tags loose in the food supply chain, it should be established what is the acceptable level of false alert for such systems. If the system only falsly reported the presence of a pathogen once in a million times, then we would have a Bioterror alert every single day of the year, rendering the emergency services useless. " ...

RFID Chemical ChainofCustody: DowChemical ...

RFID Chemical ChainofCustody: DowChemical: Savi Technology: SAVI TECHNOLOGY’S CHEMICAL CHAIN OF CUSTODY SOLUTION SELECTED TO TRACK AND ACCOUNT FOR PRODUCT SHIPMENTS: Savi’s Enterprise-Wide Solution Platform designated as Most Effective Technology by Dow Chemical to Manage Mobile Assets Such as Totes, Cylinders, Trucks and Rail Cars ...

... "This contract with Savi followed an extensive selection process based on Six Sigma measurement standards. The Savi Chemical Chain of Custody Solution is now live at Dow AgroSciences, tracking selected products and containers from origin to customer and back. The Dow Chemical Company, which serves customers in 175 countries in a wide range of markets, chose the Savi Chemical Chain of Custody Solution to further enhance Dow's product stewardship. The solution also reduces risk associated with theft, diversion, product contamination and tampering, spilling and other dangers, in keeping with compliance of all government requirements. " ...

At heart of Chemical Custody Supply Chain Solution is the SmartChain Asset Management System (AMS), a full-featured web-based application with continuous on-line tracking, security monitoring and management of hazardous material containers and their contents from point of origin to destination. The solution leverages the Savi SmartChain® Enterprise Platform, which aggregates and consolidates data from different nodes and integrates with current enterprise and supply chain systems, and offers unique flexibility to support all types of AIDC technologies to track all types of containers. SmartChain also can match the physical location of a container and its hazardous contents with shipment documents, inventory records, expected routes and destinations, and other pertinent information. Using alerts, SmartChain detects when a product has not arrived at a specific location where it is expected, if it is in the wrong location or if it was handled by someone without the right authority.

Dow is a leader in science and technology, providing innovative chemical, plastic and agricultural products and services to many essential consumer markets. With annual sales of $40 billion, Dow serves customers in 175 countries and a wide range of markets that are vital to human progress: food, transportation, health and medicine, personal and home care, and building and construction, among others. Committed to the principles of sustainable development, Dow and its 43,000 employees seek to balance economic, environmental and social responsibilities.

RFID Chemical Waste Management ...

RFID Chemical Waste Management: Via Oracle: Oracle PartnerNetwork Announces Oracle North America Titan Awards Honoring Partners of the Year and Solutions of the Year ...

... "Solution of the Year 2005, Public Sector - EnvironMax Inc.: Project Chemsure is EnvironMax's project to use the power of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags to extend the company's chemical and waste management software suite beyond barcodes. The project is helping EnvironMax's customer meet rigorous new Homeland Security challenges in the management and control of hazardous materials. " ...

DHS DCRSC RFID Rail Security Project ...

DHS DCRSC RFID Rail Security Project: Epsilon Systems Solutions, Inc. Awarded Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Washington D.C. Rail Security Corridor (DCRSC) Contract: Epsilon Systems Solutions, Inc.

... "The DCRSC contract awarded by DHS has a value of $9.8 million and includes integration of several surveillance technologies, including intelligent video and radio frequency identification (RFID). Epsilon's Marine, Industrial and Security Technology Sector has supported DHS since early 2004 with installation of buffer zone surveillance systems at chemical plants throughout the country. The Epsilon team for the DCRSC Project includes Duos Technologies, Inc. (Duos), headquartered in Jacksonville, FL. " ...

Epsilon is a diversified contracting services firm providing innovative technical and operational solutions to its government, commercial and non-profit clients. The company has a national presence, supporting the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, Department of the Interior and prime contractors nationwide. Epsilon’s Nuclear Operations and Environmental Services Division, headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico provides services to customers in California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Texas, and Washington. Epsilon offers Marine & Security Services in Portsmouth, VA, San Diego, CA and Pearl Harbor, HI. Its offices in the field of Information Technology and Communications include San Diego, CA and Arlington, VA.

Since 1990, Duos Technologies, Inc. has provided quality intelligent video, automation, information technology, and engineering services to a broad range of clientele. Duos specializes in providing automated systems with an emphasis on process controls, homeland security solutions, including intelligent digital video, instrumentation, and information technology services.

RFID Antennae Conductive Inks ...

RFID Antennae Conductive Inks: New Generation of Highly Conductive Inks Making RFID Tags Better, Smaller: Creative Materials promotes its Product #112-15 for printing RFID antennae: Creative Materials - Highly Conductive Inks for RFID Antennae

... "The application team at Creative Materials Inc. a worldwide leader in inks, coatings and adhesives, has developed a highly conductive ink for printing RFID antennae. Passive RFID tags have antennae that can absorb radio waves from an interrogator device. The tags use the received radio energy to power an electrical circuit that generates a unique identifier, and sends a reply. The interrogator receives the reply, allowing it to know the unique identification of the RFID tag. One of the challenges in designing RFID tags is the need to print antennae and circuits that are small, durable, and not too expensive. " ...

Creative Materials, Inc. develops and markets specialty chemical products to customers world-wide. Founded in 1986, Creative Materials has its headquarters and production facilities in Tyngsboro, Massachusetts. Products from Creative Materials are used to manufacture electronic components for automobiles, computers, keyboards, and cell phones; medical electrodes and medical instruments; heating equipment; and aerospace devices. Creative Materials offers more than 1000 product formulations, and is ISO 9001 certified.

RFID Sensor-Based System: Real Time HazMat Management ...

NASA - NASA Dryden Deploys ChemSecure Hazmat Management System

... "The ChemSecure pilot program integrates Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and sensor-based technology with the Department of Defense's existing web-based Hazardous Materials Management System (HMMS) database to automate the real-time management of hazardous materials including usage, shipment, tracking and storage. The first project of its kind, NASA Dryden developed ChemSecure in close partnership with the Department of Defense and leading private sector companies, including Oracle Corp., Redwood Shores, Calif.; Intermec Technologies Corporation, headquartered in Everett, Wash.; EnvironMax, Inc., Salt Lake City, Utah; and Patlite (USA) Corporation of Torrance, Calif. ... ChemSecure utilizes data captured by Intermec 750 mobile computers, IP3 RFID mobile readers and fixed RFID readers, temperature sensors, and Patlite visual response devices to ensure that managers always have access to critical chemical information. For example, security professionals are notified if unauthorized access attempts are made to obtain highly hazardous materials, and environmental professionals are alerted when the storage limit of a hazardous chemical locker is close to exceeding capacity. " ...

RFID Sensor Integration: Capability to Monitor Status ...

The Combat Feeding Directorate Global Asset Visibility (GAV) Program is exploring the use of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology ...

... "The Electronic Product Code (EPC) is a unique number that identifies a specific item in the supply chain. Passive RFID tags are made up of a microchip holding an EPC and an antenna that receives an RF signal. Powdered by a reader, passive tags emit a radio signal that transmits the EPC and other information back to the reader. Sensor integration on tags provides the capability to monitor the status of an item, pallet or container by detecting temperature, vibration, rough handling, chemical/ biological contamination (stretch goal), etc." ...

RFID Clothing Commerce ...

C&T Contracting Page

... "Radio Frequency Identification (RFID): Although official scheduled implementation of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is January 1, 2005, compliance is voluntary pending issuance of contractual language and implementation guidance by DLA. Generally, it is anticipated that passive RFID will apply to Clothing and Textile (C&T) acquisitions and that C&T will have little to no involvement with active RFID. Please Note: At this point in time, until contractual language addressing RFID is incorporated in a specific solicitation or contract (via modification), contractor compliance with this requirement is not mandatory. " ...

When U.S. warfighters go to war and operations other than war, products from DSCP's Clothing and Textiles Directorate (www.warfighter.net) always go with them. This business unit supplies more than 8,000 different items ranging from uniforms and body armor to tents and canteens. Many Clothing and Textiles products such as BDUs are unique to the military, and the Directorate teams with Military Service customers and private vendors to design and test them. Clothing and Textiles also identifies, tests, and approves commercial items for military use, such as sweatshirts, gloves, and blankets. It supplies special purpose clothing, wet weather clothing, chemical suits, and field packs. In addition to products, the Clothing and Textiles Directorate provides extended supply chain management right up to the "point of sale," when individual warfighters or military units receive the products they need. Through the Directorate, DSCP plays an active role in maintaining a domestic manufacturing base for military clothing and textile products, especially through small and disadvantaged businesses.

RFID Chemical Monitoring: Smart Cabinet ...

ORNL > Newsroom > Story Tips

... "The smart cabinet will track the placement of laboratory chemicals used in a typical research environment inside a small enclosed storage area. The cabinet uses special shelves that have radio frequency reader capability for constant monitoring of placement and removal of chemicals. Changes are recorded in a computer database, and discrepancies are reported to designated personnel through electronic mail or pager. This eliminates the need for physical inventories. [Contact: Fred Strohl; 865.574.4165; strohlhf@ornl.gov] " ...

Microsoft Manufacturing Enables RFID ...

Microsoft Manufacturing Enables RFID: Microsoft Accelerates Insight and Innovation for Manufacturers by ...

Microsoft affirms committment to manufacturing software solutions, such as RFID ...

From PR Newswire (press release) ... standards and Web services, as well as several manufacturing-specific standards such as OPC, S-99, S-95, radio frequency identification (RFID), OAGIS and ...

... Today at National Manufacturing Week 2005, Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT) announced its Peak Performance Initiative designed to help manufacturers accelerate insight through advanced analysis services, drive innovation through collaboration, and improve performance via increased visibility into operations across the manufacturing value chain. Microsoft and its partners are delivering mission-critical solutions focused on four areas: new product development performance, plant floor operations performance, global value chain performance, and sales and customer performance. ...

Microsoft, in conjunction with industry-leading partners, delivers enterprise solutions to a range of manufacturers including those in vertical industries such as automotive, chemical, consumer packaged goods, high technology, and oil and gas. These industry-specific solutions provide a flexible, scalable and reliable platform that enables businesses to be more agile and connected. As a result, manufacturers are empowered to shorten product development cycles, integrate operations with partners and suppliers, acquire and share intelligence in real time, and more easily communicate with customers. Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

Sensor network targets terror threats

Planned U.S. sensor network targets terror threats

... "Against the backdrop of the war on terrorism, an expanding group of government researchers is at work on a nationwide sensor network that someday could provide a real-time early-warning system for a wide array of chemical, biological and nuclear threats across the United States. Drafts of the objectives and milestones for the sensor network project are already circulating among key scientists at national labs and within an emerging technology branch inside the newly formed Department of Homeland Security that is coordinating the effort. " ...

Wireless Ad Hoc Networks Use Smart Sensor ...

Wireless Ad Hoc Networks: Smart Sensor Networks

... "A wireless ad hoc sensor network consists of a number of sensors spread across a geographical area. Each sensor has wireless communication capability and some level of intelligence for signal processing and networking of the data. Some examples of wireless ad hoc sensor networks are the following: Military sensor networks to detect and gain as much information as possible about enemy movements, explosions, and other phenomena of interest. Sensor networks to detect and characterize Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) attacks and material. " ...

RF Tags: Scaleable Information Infrastructure ...

Scaleable Information Infrastructure Awards

... "The objective of the WIISARD project is the development of an integrated software-hardware system designed to enhance the delivery of medical care at the sites of terrorist attacks and other disasters. WIISARD is designed for use by a Metropolitan Medical Strike Team (MMST) in response to a nuclear, biological or chemical (NBC) event. The project proposes to integrate several existing hardware and software components to create a comprehensive management system for rapid deployment at a mass casualty site. WIISARD technologies will include self-optimizing wireless end-to-end networks, GPS, RF tags, GIS, and handheld and wearable computers. Using these technologies, WIISARD will monitor the positions of victims, MMST personnel, treatment assets and NBC weapons plumes. It will also be able to alert first responders of nearby hazards and changes in victims' vital signs and provide an auxiliary channel for communications with the incident command center." ...

RF Tagging of Insects - Honeybees for Land Mine Detection

Computing and Information Sciences - RF Tagging of Insects--Honeybees for Land Mine Detection

... "Currently, our RF tags are helping to determine if bees can be used as living chemical detectors in the mission to find millions of explosives or hazardous materials scattered worldwide. Many animals (insects in particular) show promise as living chemical detectors. Recently the IDL supported a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) funded project headed by Jerry Bromenshenk of the University of Montana and Ron Gilbert of PNNL's Electronic Systems Group to use passive RF tags to monitor the behavior of bees." ...

RFID Port Security: VistaScape to Secure Port of New Haven; Automated Wide-Area ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA ... accurate 3-D display of all activity in a secured area based on combined analysis of video surveillance and other distributed sensors, such as RFID and radar. ...

... VistaScape Security Systems announced today that New Haven Terminal Inc., an operator at the Port of New Haven, Conn., and Logistec, the North American marine services company, have chosen VistaScape's SiteIQ(TM) to secure Logistec's terminal and shipping operations located within the Port of New Haven. SiteIQ is the industry's leading automated wide-area surveillance solution, used to protect critical infrastructure sites including ports, airports, chemical plants, and other at-risk facilities. SiteIQ gives users a single, highly accurate 3-D display of all activity in a secured area based on combined analysis of video surveillance and other distributed sensors, such as RFID and radar. ...

New Haven Terminal, Inc. is a privately owned, third party, "for-hire" bulk liquid storage terminal located directly on the east shore of New Haven Harbor. The company has been in business since 1941, and currently specializes in the storage and distribution of a variety of liquid petrochemicals and petroleum fuel products. It is a key player in the chain of energy distribution, with a total storage capacity in excess of 2,500,000 barrels (105,000,000 gallons). Its principal function is as follows: Liquid products are delivered to the terminal by ocean going tankers and harbor barges. From the terminal, these liquid products, such as diesel fuel, heating oil, kerosene, jet fuel and chemical raw materials, are distributed into the southern New England region by marine transportation, truck and pipeline."

VistaScape Security Systems develops industry-leading automated wide-area surveillance software solutions to protect commercial sites, government facilities, and other at-risk infrastructure. Its flagship product, SiteIQ(TM), is the only multi-sensor, single-view surveillance solution, allowing security professionals to visually define and centrally manage an automated security policy. SiteIQ delivers unparalleled situational awareness, enabling personnel to focus on prevention, not reaction. Founded in 1999, Atlanta-based VistaScape is recognized by Red Herring as one of the "Top 100 Private Firms Driving the Future of Technology" and among Fast Company's list of the 101 top ideas, trends and people that will change the way we work and live in 2005.

RFID in DOD Defense Logistics: Initial Implementation ...

From Army DLA, IPE Initial Implementation ...

... "The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and the Army G-4 are collaborating to assess the effectiveness of using Automatic Identification Technology (AIT) throughout the Individual Protective Equipment (IPE) logistics supply chain. The IPE Initial Implementation will evaluate the impact of using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and 2D Bar Codes on pallets and cases of Joint Service Lightweight Integrated Suite Technology (JSLIST) in distribution processes. This Initial Implementation will follow the directives set forth in the Department of Defense (DoD) RFID policy and strive to maximize the advantages of asset management efficiencies offered with early integration of RFID into the IPE logistics supply chain. Current DoD supply chain automated information systems (AISs) cannot provide the necessary management functions and the asset visibility to satisfactorily monitor the status of individual chemical protective equipment inventories. " ...

Zebra RFID: Zebra Technologies Responds to Rumor

From Yahoo News (press release) ... The company has sold more than three million printers, including RFID printer/encoders and wireless mobile solutions, and also offers software, connectivity ...

... Zebra Technologies Corporation (Nasdaq: ZBRA) today announced that there has been no change in the status of business with any significant customer. This announcement was made in response to a rumor circulating among investors that the company recently lost a contract with an important customer. ...

Zebra Technologies delivers innovative and reliable specialty printing solutions to businesses and governments the world over. Zebra is a leading global provider of on-demand thermal bar code label and receipt printers, plastic card printers, RFID smart label printer/encoders, and digital photo printers. The company also offers related supplies, label design/integration software, and the widest range of thermal printer connectivity and networking solutions. Companies use Zebra products to improve their business processes, deliver better customer service, improve productivity, and strengthen security. Zebra's customers include more than 90 percent of the Fortune 500 and Global 2000. Zebra products are used in a wide range of industries, including consumer goods, manufacturing, automotive, healthcare, electronics, transportation, telecommunications, chemical, textiles, shipping, warehousing and distribution, military and government, food packaging and distribution, aerospace, education, security, construction, entertainment, hospitality, and retail. With international headquarters in Vernon Hills, Ill., Zebra has sold nearly four million printers worldwide. To underscore its commitment to quality and reliability, all of Zebra’s design and manufacturing sites are certified to the ISO 9000 international standard for quality management.

RFID Sensors: Md. company pushes airport perimeter system

From FCW.com ... Surface Detection Equipment-3 (ASDE-3)with multiple sensors, such as chemical and biological, video cameras, radio frequency identification (RFID), and motion ...

... Officials at a Silver Spring, Md.-based technology company plan to develop an end-to-end, comprehensive perimeter security system using existing radar systems that provide ground surveillance at airports. ...

RFID Asset Tracking: Multispectral Solutions to Deliver UWB Precision Asset Location ...

From Business Wire (press release), CA  ... The company's PAL650 Precision Asset Location system is the world's first FCC-certified, UWB-based, active RFID and tracking system for personnel and high ...

... Multispectral Solutions, Inc. (MSSI) has received an order from Parco Merged Media Corporation, its healthcare licensee, for the delivery of its ultra wideband (UWB) PAL650(TM) Precision Asset Location system hardware for use in Washington Hospital Center's (WHC) ER1 project. The WHC ER1 Mass Casualty Response project is a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) initiative to prepare the U.S. for large-scale emergencies, including terrorist attacks. WHC received casualties from the Pentagon on September 11th. The "All Risks Ready" ER1 is a prototype crisis center being developed to deal with national emergencies including nuclear, biological and chemical attack. ...

Multispectral Solutions, Inc. (MSSI), established in 1989 in Germantown, MD, is a pioneer and established industry leader in the development of ultra wideband (UWB) systems for communications, radar and precision positioning applications. The company's PAL650 Precision Asset Location system is the world's first FCC-certified, UWB-based, active RFID and tracking system for personnel and high valued assets.

RFID Technology Advances: Magic ink that makes metal grow

From BBC News, UK ... It means antennas for tiny mobiles or radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, used for tracking goods, could be made cheaply and quickly. ...

QinetiQ is Europe's largest science and technology organisation. Formerly an agency of the MOD, the company has a distinguished heritage as a leading provider of technology solutions and a supplier of impartial and trusted advice. QinetiQ's core business is providing scientific research, test and evaluation for military customers to give them leading edge competitive advantage. In many areas the problems posed by the defence environment require the creation of intellectual property well beyond the state of the art in commercial markets. QinetiQ's move into the private sector facilitates access to this treasure trove of technology by customers from fields as diverse as transport, health, energy and telecommunications. The commercial production of low-cost, high volume RFID security / tracking tags along with a host of other applications where a fine metal pattern is needed (labels, smart cards, antenna, frequency selective surfaces), moved a major step closer. QinetiQ announced that Sun Chemical Corporation, the world's largest manufacturer of printing inks and pigments used to produce credit cards and security documents, will manufacture base inks for its patented QinetiQ Metal Printing processes, through its Coates Screen business unit. The QinetiQ process is uniquely based on printing a desired pattern on either a flexible or rigid substrate using industry standard printing processes, and then 'growing' pure fully densified metal where required by immersion in chemical baths. With significantly fewer production stages than current techniques, the process produces negligible waste, is exceptionally cost effective as it requires substantially less metal, is much more flexible and has better 'green' credentials. QinetiQ originally developed this metal printing process because it needed large 'sheets' (up to 2m2) of Frequency Selective Surfaces (FSS) for use in radar applications and as part of its development of its MillimetreWave security screening device. FSSs allow only certain wavelengths to pass through them and are commonly found as the protective screening in microwave ovens or used in various radar applications. QinetiQ (pronounced ki' ne tik as in 'kinetic energy') is one of Europe's largest science and technology solutions companies that employs nearly 10,000 staff, including many of the UK's leading scientists and internationally acclaimed experts. Founded from the laboratories of the UK Government, today QinetiQ operates in markets as diverse as marine, energy, telecommunications, automotive, rail, electronics, defence, space, health, oil & gas, aerospace and information technology. QinetiQ's facilities include indoor and outdoor ranges, wind tunnels, marine testing facilities, automotive test tracks and climatic testing laboratories. QinetiQ's heritage covers the pioneering research and development of many household technologies such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs), carbon fibre, the technology for flat panel speakers, infra-red sensors and microwave radar, a life saving foetal heart monitoring system, plus other significant advancements in the areas of healthcare, passenger security and transport.

RFID Sensors: Top Ports Choose VistaScape to Automate Wide Area Surveillance

From TMCnet  ... component of the platform, VistaScape is unique in that the platform incorporates other important sensor technologies such as radar, GPS, RFID, chemical and ...

VistaScape's Security Data Management System (SDMS) integrates the monitoring and management of disparate and distinct security hardware and software products into a single user interface and relational database. SDMS provides a wide area view of specified areas of interest. Based in Atlanta, Georgia - VistaScape Security Systems is changing the perspective and expectations of security solution users by replacing traditional human detection and error with consistent computer intelligence and analysis.

The ports and harbors of America are critical infrastructure nodes and commerce hubs. As such, they are likely targets for terrorism, theft, and other destructive criminal activities. To reduce overall threat exposure, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA), requiring ports and harbors to comply with increased security regulations by July 1, 2004. VistaScape Security Systems, the leading provider of policy-based video surveillance solutions, experienced in port and harbor security deployments, understands your challenge of securing a large perimeter without physical barriers. VistaScape's software technology provides proactive, comprehensive video surveillance while reducing human error and oversight.

QinetiQ RFID: Growing Low-Cost RFID Antennas

From RFID Journal ... June 7, 2004—Worried about the cost of RFID tags? ... The base inks can also be formulated for use on different types of substrates used for the RFID tag. ...

Doing Business with QinetiQ: We aim to form partnerships and joint ventures with companies who share our views on the importance of technology. QinetiQ has the potential to become a globally recognised brand, and the world's leading technology-based solutions provider. As a public private partnership, QinetiQ will have greater freedom and access to capital, allowing it to exploit its technologies and capabilities in wider markets and to achieve a significantly higher return on capital. Subsequently, the aim is to position QinetiQ for an Initial Public Offering within the next two to four years. QinetiQ has the potential to become a globally recognised brand, and the world's leading technology-based solutions provider.

QinetiQ announced that Sun Chemical Corporation, the world's largest manufacturer of printing inks and pigments used to produce credit cards and security documents, will manufacture base inks for its patented QinetiQ Metal Printing processes, through its Coates Screen business unit. The QinetiQ process is uniquely based on printing a desired pattern on either a flexible or rigid substrate using industry standard printing processes, and then 'growing' pure fully densified metal where required by immersion in chemical baths. With significantly fewer production stages than current techniques, the process produces negligible waste, is exceptionally cost effective as it requires substantially less metal, is much more flexible and has better 'green' credentials.

QinetiQ (pronounced ki' ne tik as in 'kinetic energy') is one of Europe's largest science and technology solutions companies that employs nearly 10,000 staff, including many of the UK's leading scientists and internationally acclaimed experts. Founded from the laboratories of the UK Government, today QinetiQ operates in markets as diverse as marine, energy, telecommunications, automotive, rail, electronics, defence, space, health, oil & gas, aerospace and information technology. QinetiQ's facilities include indoor and outdoor ranges, wind tunnels, marine testing facilities, automotive test tracks and climatic testing laboratories. QinetiQ's heritage covers the pioneering research and development of many household technologies such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs), carbon fibre, the technology for flat panel speakers, infra-red sensors and microwave radar, a life saving foetal heart monitoring system, plus other significant advancements in the areas of healthcare, passenger security and transport.

RFID Software: Harte-Hanks Trillium Software(R) Broadens Focus to Ensure the ...

From Market Wire (press release) ... formats for efficient use in enterprise applications, data warehouse environments, supply chain and inventory management systems, or with RFID [radio frequency ...

Trillium Software™, a division of Harte-Hanks, provides businesses with a software solution that cleanses and standardizes global data in CRM, Data Warehouse, BI, ERP, and SCM applications. Recent sales of the Trillium Software System® to many of the world’s largest and most technically advanced companies have placed Trillium Software at the top of the data quality marketplace. The Trillium Software System is deployed globally in over a thousand mission-critical applications for customer identification. Trillium Software technology enables global organizations to gain a unified view of customers, distributors and partners through real-time connectivity with all of their data touch points.

Business Data Parser (BDP) is a component of the Trillium Software System. BDP allows information technology managers to identify data inconsistencies, standardize records, and correct data problems for a broad range of business data. For example, these data may include manufactured parts, chemical components, financial metrics, and inventory that need to be stored and manipulated in accurate and up-to-date formats for efficient use in enterprise applications, data warehouse environments, supply chain and inventory management systems, or with RFID radio frequency identification technologies.

Low-Cost RFID: Xerox hopes plastic ink leads to printed chips

From InfoWorld, CA ... has discovered a way to print plastic transistors using a semiconductive ink, paving the way for flexible displays and low-cost RFID (radio frequency ...

Xerox Research Results Bring Printed Plastic Transistors Closer to Commercial Reality

Complete plastic transistor circuit could be printed using new semiconductive ink

SAN FRANCISO, April 16, 2004 -- Semiconductive ink and new materials revealed today by Xerox Corporation (NYSE: XRX) may make flexible roll-up television screens and computer displays one step closer to reality.
According to Xerox, it has developed a high-performance, semiconductive ink that can be used to print the semiconductor channels of transistors at low temperatures and in open air - a requirement for low-cost manufacturing. Most materials developed by researchers from other organizations have required processing at high temperatures and under inert atmospheres.

In addition to creating the semiconductive ink necessary to print the semiconductor component of a transistor circuit, Beng Ong, a Xerox fellow, reported today that his team at the Xerox Research Centre of Canada has also developed materials for printing the conductor and the dielectric components. Thus, all three elements necessary to make a plastic circuit - a semiconductor, a conductor and dielectric - may now be printed using inkjet techniques.

Companies worldwide have been competing to develop a low-cost alternative to silicon technology that could print flexible plastic transistors as easily as printing a newspaper. The technology could ultimately lead to inexpensive large-area devices like flat-panel and flexible displays and low-end microelectronics such as radio frequency identification tags.

The manufacturing dilemma
The Holy Grail for researchers who want to bring flexible plastic circuits to the masses is a low-cost manufacturing solution that has two key elements: one, materials that can be processed in ambient conditions, and two, compatible printing techniques. The research developments announced today could satisfy both these manufacturing requirements.

According to Ong, if progress continues on this research project as he expects, Xerox just may have found the missing elements that could enable commercialized applications of flexible printed transistors. Ong discussed these research findings in a presentation at the Materials Research Society spring conference here today.

"Having developed these three critical liquid-processable materials may make it possible to create low-cost, flexible plastic transistor circuits using common liquid-deposition techniques such as spin coating, screen or stencil printing, offset, or inkjet printing," Ong said. He believes that products based on these or similar materials will be available commercially in the near future.

Xerox's advances build on the unique polythiophene semiconductor previously designed by Ong's team at XRCC, as well as on the Palo Alto Research Center's method for creating a plastic semiconductor transistor array using inkjet printing, reported last fall. PARC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Xerox.

The open air issue
Being able to print in open air is significant because the electrical properties of most liquid-processable organic semiconductors degrade when exposed to atmospheric oxygen. This makes it difficult to build functional transistors in air. However, the Xerox polythiophene semiconductor not only possesses better air stability, but also exhibits excellent self assembly behavior.

Its unique molecular characteristics allow it to be readily processed into novel, structurally ordered semiconductor nanoparticles. These nanoparticles, when dispersed in a liquid, form environmentally stable nanoparticle ink. The ink provides consistent properties and enables inkjet printing of high-performing organic transistor channel layers under ambient conditions for the first time.

Under a National Institute of Standards and Technology's Advanced Technology Program grant, Xerox is working with Motorola Inc. and Dow Chemical Company in developing plastic integrated circuits for various electronic applications. Using XRCC's materials, PARC is inkjet printing active-matrix addressed arrays as backplane switching circuits for displays, while Motorola is fabricating plastic circuits for various applications using commercial printing technologies.

"Without the sharing of financial burden through the ATP grant, Xerox would not have been able to aggressively pursue this high-risk research endeavor," said Hervé Gallaire, president, Xerox Innovation Group, and the company's chief technology officer. "The ATP grant has dramatically accelerated the progress of this research, leading to our profound materials and process developments for this emerging technology."

Xerox Corporation operates research and technology centers in the United States, Canada and Europe that conduct work in color science, computing, digital imaging, work practices, electromechanical systems, novel materials and other disciplines connected to Xerox's expertise in printing and document management. The company consistently builds its inventions into business by embedding them in superior Xerox products and solutions, using them as the foundation of new businesses, or licensing or selling them to other entities. For more information, visit www.xerox.com/innovation.

Transforming RFID Chips into Smart Dust

From U.S. Department of Commerce ... Why Nanotechnology for Smart Dust? Sensors are: Small, Cheap, Low Power, and Highly distributed...

Nanosensors or Smart Dust functionalities can be incorporated into a size comparable to a grain of sand. These smart dust functions are: Filtration, Sample concentration, Chemical sensing, Biological sensing, Environmental stability, Internal referencing/drift correction, Remote identification, Remote interrogation (>100 m), Remotely triggered chemical processing, Targeted motion, and Collective behavior (swarming)...

... “The Smart Dust project is probing microfabrication technology's limitations to determine whether an autonomous sensing, computing, and communication system can be packed into a cubic millimeter mote (a small particle or speck) to form the basis of integrated, massively distributed sensor networks.” ...

Field trials with Smart Dust at SMER ... performed the first 19 field trials of porous Si “smart dust” and small wireless chip-based systems for detection of
environmental pollutants. The field trials were performed in the Santa
Margarita Ecological Reserve, over 24 hours, and involved two undergraduates, two high school students, a graduate student, and a
post-doc. A simulant (ethanol) was successfully detected from a distance of 25 meters. Santa Margarita Ecological Reserve (SMER) , San Diego county CA ...

Mobile RFID Asset Solutions: TrenStar and Matrics Announce Strategic Partnership to Deliver Standard Solutions to Select Industries

CLEVELAND – NA 2004 – March 29 – TrenStar Inc. and Matrics Inc. are partnering to deliver the first standard, UHF Radio Frequency Identification-enabled (RFID-enabled) mobile asset solutions to select industries.

TrenStar’s “pay-per-use” mobile asset management business model that combines RFID and asset tracking technologies with outsourced logistics services will now feature Matrics’ UHF Passive RFID technology in food, chemical and other selected industries where large numbers of assets are moving rapidly through global supply chains. Mobile assets are broadly used in many industries to transport raw materials, work-in-progress and finished goods.

The combined solution includes RFID tags, handheld and vehicle-mounted readers, and antennae arrays designed specifically to support the unique business processes of the targeted industries. David Adams, TrenStar corporate strategy senior vice president, said that clients can expect improved efficiency of mobile asset management, reduced losses of both assets and contents and reduced operating costs.

“We’ve created an industry standard solution for managing mobile assets,” said Adams. “Our joint solution combines the right mobile assets with the right RFID infrastructure with the right technology layer for specific industries, therefore we offer them dramatically improved supply chain performance.”

“Passive UHF RFID technology is reliable and economical, and it meets the demanding requirements of industries like chemical and food,” said Girish Rishi, Matrics senior vice president, marketing. “Now, TrenStar and Matrics are offering RFID capability with world-class mobile asset technology. Our joint customers will be delighted with the operational efficiencies they will gain from our industry-focused solutions.”

The partnership expands upon a prior relationship between Matrics and TrenStar’s Global Container Management L.L.C. (GCM) unit. GCM has delivered a complete mobile asset management solution – containers, services and technology – to Kraft Foods.

About TrenStar: TrenStar’s supply chain technology and services heritage has evolved into a pioneering RFID-enabled, “pay-per-use” model of mobile asset management designed to reduce transportation and operating costs for companies invested in containers that move raw materials, work-in-progress and finished goods through the supply chain. TrenStar’s three-part asset management, logistics services and supply chain technology solution, integrating RFID and container tracking software, is offered to qualified clients for no up front cost. This solution is intended to benefit multiple companies in an asset-intensive industry participating in TrenStar’s distinctive asset pooling operations.

TrenStar and its affiliates focus on the brewing, food & beverage, chemical, air cargo, automotive, healthcare, retail and other asset-intensive industries. Scottish Courage Breweries, Carlsberg UK , Kraft, Goodyear, Burberry, and Prada Stores use TrenStar’s products and services. Clients of TrenStar’s affiliates include Ford, Toyota, ExxonMobil, DaimlerChrysler and Dow Chemical. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado and recognized as one of the top Denver-area software developers, TrenStar has offices in the United Kingdom, Australia and South Africa. TrenStar is privately held, and investors include the venture arm of The Carlyle Group.

About Matrics: Matrics is a global leader in the design and manufacture of EPC -compliant RFID systems. Matrics along with its partnership network provides RFID solutions to many of the Fortune 1000 companies, government, as well as international businesses. Current customers include International Paper and McCarran Airport . For more information, visit Matrics on the web at www.matrics.com

More RFID News...

Container RFID Standard: TrenStar and OTD Announce Partnership to Deliver First Standard...

From Business Wire (press release) ... are partnering to deliver the first standard, Radio Frequency Identification-ready (RFID-ready) reusable containers as part of TrenStar's complete mobile asset ...

About TrenStar: TrenStar's supply chain technology and services heritage has evolved into a pioneering RFID-enabled, "pay-per-use" model of mobile asset management designed to reduce transportation and operating costs for companies invested in containers that move raw materials, work-in-progress and finished goods through the supply chain. TrenStar's three-part asset management, logistics services and supply chain technology solution, integrating RFID and container tracking software, is offered to qualified clients for no up front cost. This solution is intended to benefit multiple companies in an asset-intensive industry participating in TrenStar's distinctive asset pooling operations.

TrenStar and its affiliates focus on the brewing, food & beverage, chemical, air cargo, automotive, healthcare, retail and other asset-intensive industries. Scottish Courage Breweries, Carlsberg UK, Kraft, Goodyear, Burberry, and Prada Stores use TrenStar's products and services. Clients of TrenStar's affiliates include Ford, Toyota, ExxonMobil, DaimlerChrysler and Dow Chemical. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado and recognized as one of the top Denver-area software developers, TrenStar has offices in the United Kingdom, Australia and South Africa. TrenStar is privately held, and investors include the venture arm of The Carlyle Group. On the Net: www.trenstar.com.

About O-T-D: O-T-D Corp. manufactures and services custom-built aluminum containers, pallets and other handling equipment recognized in the industry as best in class. O-T-D has evolved from a niche manufacturer serving the synthetic rubber industry to a service provider for food, pharmaceutical, automotive and nuclear power companies as well as designers and developers of automatic storage and retrieval systems. O-T-D specializes in special orders and offers financing and leasing programs to qualified customers. Customers include Goodyear, ExxonMobil, Bridgestone Firestone, Bayer, American Synthetic Rubber Company, DSM, Crompton, Michelin, ISP, Industrias Negromex, Honda of America, Merck, Dow, Novartis and Eli Lilly. O-T-D is headquartered in Mishawaka, Indiana. On the Net: www.otdcorp.com.

More RFID News...

RFID for Chemical Monitoring - Keeping labs safer

... Laboratory chemicals with dated shelf lives can become dangerous if not carefully monitored. Paul Ewing and other researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a special storage cabinet system to enhance inventory and tracking of such chemicals and other similar high-risk assets through an antenna-based passive radio-frequency identification tag technology. The "smart cabinet" will track the placement of laboratory chemicals used in a typical research environment inside a small enclosed storage area.

The cabinet uses special shelves that have radio frequency reader capability for constant monitoring of placement and removal of chemicals. Changes are recorded in a computer database, and discrepancies are reported to designated personnel through electronic mail or pager. This eliminates the need for physical inventories. [Contact: Fred Strohl; (865) 574-4165; strohlhf@ornl.gov]

Contest glorifies venture capitalism

Atlanta Journal Constitution, GA ... Teammates study the other companies, whose businesses range from music downloading and chemical detection to Internet security and RFID, an emerging technology ...

A Powerful Combination: RFID Products and Satellite Technology for Transportation

...TransCore, the largest global manufacturer of transportation-based RFID products deployed in applications such as electronic toll collection and SMART border crossings, announces the purchase of satellite tracking, monitoring and global positioning system (GPS) technology assets from Ottawa-based Vistar Telecommunications, a wholly owned subsidiary of NSI Global Inc. (TSE: NGL). The multimillion-dollar deal makes TransCore the only manufacturer to offer both major wireless monitoring technologies in a comprehensive suite of homeland security, fleet management and supply chain products. Vistar’s technical team will remain based in Ottawa and form the core of TransCore’s Satcomm Technology Center.

Since its inception in 1994 as a dedicated business unit within Bell Canada, the Vistar organization pioneered the development of wide-area wireless data products and services. The company launched the satellite-based GlobalWave® system that allows users to monitor, manage, track and communicate with remote and mobile assets from a Web site interface. With six ground control stations providing service to five continents, the GlobalWave network supports more than 20,000 users worldwide, such as the U.S. Department of Defense and Volvo Penta of the Americas.

"The addition of satellite communication technology is a vital element of our strategic vision to provide end-to-end visibility for commercial and government applications,” said John Worthington, TransCore's president and chief executive officer. “By integrating RFID and satellite technology we create a powerful market differentiator."

Combining RFID and GPS systems will allow TransCore to offer fleet, rail/intermodal and shipper customers a complete supply chain visibility capability, as well as bring an all-encompassing secure chain-of-custody solution to the homeland security market...

About Vistar Telecommunications: Based in Ottawa, Vistar Telecommunications is a global provider of satellite-based wireless systems and equipment that permit customers to remotely monitor and manage mobile assets, such as trucks, trailers, boats, intermodal containers, and fixed stationary assets such as oil and gas well head and pipeline facilities, chemical storage tanks and containers. For more information, visit www.vistar.ca.

About TransCore: TransCore is a privately held transportation services company with 1,800 employees and more than 80 locations globally. With installations in 39 countries, 80-plus patents and a world-class manufacturing facility, TransCore's expertise is unparalleled. TransCore’s 60-year heritage spans the development of radio frequency identification (RFID) at Los Alamos national labs to the United States first toll road and most recently the landmark TagTeller kiosk, an ATM-like machine for account management and dispensing RFID tags.

In 2003, Engineering News-Record (ENR) ranked TransCore No. 48 out of the Top 500 Design Firms and No. 10 for firms that specialize in transportation. TransCore was honored with the coveted 2003 Best of ITS award while four of its showcase projects were honored with Best in ITS nominations and three took the final honor. For more information about TransCore’s worldwide operations, visit www.transcore.com.

RFID Puts Intelligence into the Pipeline...

Colder Products Company has developed RFID into their Smart Coupling Technology, which enables an exchange of data across a flexible pipeline coupling at the time and location of connection. Data is stored using RFID technology on the package coupling or fluid delivery line and is transferred across the coupling at the point of connection. RFID data is transmitted to a computer control system as the coupling is connected. This creates a powerful capability to automatically identify fluid products and their characteristics and capture RFID data from point of origin through point of use.

A primary benefit of the RFID-enabled Smart Coupling Technology is ensuring a quality manufacturing process by identifying out-of-date or unapproved materials and preventing manual defects. Misconnection of fluid lines to the container or package can be halted by leveraging RFID information transmitted from the Smart Coupling. Prevention of misconnected fluid lines is essential in chemical or hazardous material filling applications. Additional benefit opportunities are available by leveraging RFID information on key product characteristics that are critical to maintaining product and process quality and also to help meet regulatory and compliance standards.

Low Cost RFID...

Low-cost RFID from Innovision R&T reduces risk of liquid-transfer errors
Release Date: 1 March 2004

Ultra-low-cost Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags designed by Innovision R&T plc, the RFID design services specialist, will allow Colder Products Company (CPC) to use RFID tagging across a large range of its Smart Couplings, radically improving product identification and, therefore, quality assurance and safety.

CPC is an innovator in the design and manufacture of fluid couplings connections and fittings that allow flexible tubing to be quickly and easily connected and disconnected. Innovision R&T's ability to reduce the cost of RFID tags to less than a fifth of the cost of previous tags will allow CPC to bring the benefits of smart identification to virtually all of its fluid coupling requirements. The implementation of RFID is an important strategic move for CPC and the company is planning to produce tens of millions of tagged couplings over the next 3 years.

In Smart Coupling, the main benefits of RFID are improved quality assurance, safety, and product identification in the transmission of liquids. The tags enable identification of individual couplings and matching pairs, helping to ensure that they are connected correctly and that the appropriate liquids are being delivered through them. A well-designed RFID system embedded within a fluid coupling can, therefore, ensure that non-authorised liquids do not enter containers in the filling plant or dispensing systems on the other end of the supply chain. The tags are read-write, do not require line-of-sight reading and can even be embedded within the couplings.

CPC's initial RFID-based coupling applications will be found in food and beverage dispensers and chemical cleaning devices, where effective quality assurance is essential to users' safety. In beverage dispensers, Smart Couplings can help ensure that correct amounts are dispensed, that sugared syrup is not used in drinks advertised as sugar-free, and that products can be monitored for freshness. In chemical handling, RFID tagging can ensure the correct type and sequencing of ingredients.

"Innovision R&T's RFID tags will provide us with new opportunities because of their low cost and reliability, giving us an even sharper competitive edge," said CPC Smart Technology Business Unit Manager Rick Garber. "Earlier options of stick-on labels containing tags were not entirely reliable across our range of platforms because labels can sometimes become detached, or worse, the die can be damaged in certain applications. However, Innovision R&T's tags can be embedded in our existing couplings, eliminating these potential risks and enhancing both quality assurance and reliability."

"Industry's understanding of the many benefits of RFID tags is growing rapidly, but adoption has often been inhibited by perceived cost," explained Rob Kitchen, Innovision R&T's Head of Consumer Sector Development. "As one of the world's leading RFID design centres, Innovision R&T has succeeded in reducing costs through its novel approaches to the design of both its tags and the wider RFID system. By developing a business model that gives clients access to our technology at very low cost, we are now enabling clients such as CPC to place themselves at the forefront of technology and take significant leads in their respective markets."

Kitchen continued: "Smart RFID tagging can also be used as a cost-effective brand protection device and for a range of other business challenges in the consumer, medical and transport sectors."

About Innovision Research & Technology plc

Founded in 1994, Innovision Research & Technology plc is an electronics solutions provider and a major player in the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) industry. Through the creation, development and licensing of technologies, Innovision R&T provides innovative solutions to a wide variety of enterprises, including some of the world's largest companies. With a growing team of thirty engineers and scientists, and commercial expertise honed in some of industry's most challenging sectors, Innovision R&T is able to support the entire RFID development process from conceptual design through to production engineering. Innovision R&T works in close partnership with its customers to drive commercial success and deliver competitive value.

Innovision R&T is listed on the Alternative Investment Market of the London Stock Exchange (Ticker Symbol: INN). Its head office is in Wokingham, Berkshire, UK.

For more information, see www.innovision-group.com

About Colder Products Company
Colder Products Company is the worldwide leader in the design and manufacture of controlled performance connections and fittings that allow flexible tubing to be quickly and easily connected and disconnected. These specially-engineered solutions lend flexibility, control, safety, and cost savings to a broad range of applications. Colder Products' connections and fittings make systems cleaner, easier to maintain and more efficient, while adding new value and functionality to smaller-scale applications.

Founded in St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1978, Colder Products have more than 25 years of experience in providing custom and standard solutions to industrial, medical, chemical handling, packaging and food-dispensing markets. Colder Products' commitments to developing specialized, high-performance product designs has led it to become the largest supplier of quick couplings in the world with direct sales and distributor representation in North America, Europe, Latin America, Australia and Asia.

For more information see www.colder.com

Media Enquiries
Stephen Fleming or Martin Stabe at Palam Communications
Tel +44 (0) 1635 299116
Fax +44 (0) 1635 299115
Email sfleming@palam.co.uk
mstabe@palam.co.uk

General Enquiries
Ian Lavigne,
Innovision Research & Technology plc
Ash Court, 23 Rose Street, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 1XS
Tel +44 (0) 118 936 6362
Fax +44 (0) 118 979 1500
Email ianl@innovision-group.com

RFID for Safety...

RFID and Safety: The Safe Handling of Materials through RFID tags and RFID Biosensors

RFID technology can be applied in industries, where material safety is paramount. Proper handling of materials must be ensured in regulated industries. Keeping track of materials is a problem for many organizations. An extensive amount of documentation must be kept for tracking purposes and many documents are not readily available when needed.

Missing materials, especially hazardous materials, can cause serious consequences if they are not tracked properly, lost, or are unable to be recalled. The cost of tracking management and the cost of poor quality tracking processes is significant. The implementation of RFID solutions in these material tracking situations can elevate the safety level of the environment and ultimately increase the operational efficiency of the organization. The process characteristics for RFID hazardous material tracking are: Must track an unlimited amount of material types, categorize materials based on its hazard class, keep an audit trail of material movements, and provide analytics for tracking. Analytics capability must provide real-time aggregation and access to the supporting details. The RFID tracking of hazardous materials must be at a container or package level.

RFID technology can play a critical role in the safety of the nation's food supply. Retailers and CPG companies are implementing radio-frequency identification technology in products and store shelves. The RFID tags enable these companies to precisely track the quantity and location of their inventory along with consumer purchasing preferences.

RFID tags can also be combined with sensors at a technology level, that can detect the presence of biological and chemical agents, or signal that a perishable item has expired. This RFID technology can become a critical terrorism-fighting tool. Multifunction RFID tags will track the food supply chain over its life cycle. With biosensors attached to them, RFID tags can instantly alert suppliers and retailers to poisons in their products, detect releases of hazardous materials, and make problem resolution more effective and efficient...

More...