Motorola RFID deployed to manage cold chain logistics application

Motorola and Franwell collaborate to deliver radio frequency identification (RFID) solution to improve H&M Bay’s distribution center processes in Federalsburg, Maryland. ...

... "Time is of the essence in a temperature controlled environment. Such is the case for H&M Bay, a premier freight mover in the less-than-truckload (LTL) frozen and refrigerated commodities market. In this industry, cold storage freight transfers must be stored and shipped in environments that meet stringent industry guidelines and government mandates. In an effort to improve the company’s operational efficiencies and guarantee consistent temperature controls, H&M Bay turned to Motorola and Franwell, Inc. for an RFID hardware and software solution that would locate and record pallet information in real time – giving operators an instantaneous read of inventory as it enters, moves through and leaves the distribution facility. " ...

Via Motorola: Cold Storage Freight Transfer

RFID Warehouse Logistics

Alien RFID Applied to Fish Crates for Traceability

Alien Tech supports RFID traceability application for Pack and Sea A/S, the Danish fish crate tracking consortium. ...

... "Pack and Sea is the largest consortium of commercial fishermen in Denmark. They required very durable RFID tags on hundreds of thousands of plastic crates to withstand routine supply chain logistics processes including high temperature cleanings and the continuous exposure of the reusable assets within a highly saline environment. Seawater is a very aggressive corrosive substance so it was critical to provide an extremely rugged and proven tag design solution. After subjecting all UHF Gen 2 inlays available in the marketplace to rigorous tests, we selected Alien’s Higgs-3 Squiggle inlay which provided the most consistent and long read range, so it was an obvious choice to make. " ...

Via Alien Technology: Fish crate tracking application

RFID Goods Receipt Process at Warehouse

RFID Germany Distribution Center

Mojix completes RFID pilot with the REWE Group to enable line of sight to returnable transport items at the comapny's Buttenheim, Germany distribution center. ...

... "This pioneering program at REWE utilizes passive RFID to fully equip the 40,000 square meter distribution center. REWE Group, the third largest food retailer in Europe, and the second largest in Germany, operates in 15 countries with 15,000 retail outlets, 29 distribution centers in Germany. The company’s supply chain operations in Germany commission about 36 million pallets and roll containers annually. " ...

Via Mojix: RFID Initiative to Fully Equip Large Scale Distribution Center Operation


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Penske Logistics RFID Manages Fleet Yard

Fluensee will support Penske Logistics with its Yard solution to enable asset visibility and manage trailers in the yard. ...

... "Initially, Penske will implement the Fluensee Yard solution with a combination of passive Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) technologies at its Garland, Texas facility. The combination of RFID and GPS will provide Penske with real-time updates about the location, status and condition of company trucks and trailers. With Fluensee’s Yard solution, Penske will have all of this real-time capability, and will also be able to dynamically assign trailers to dock doors, quickly assign yard employees new tasks based upon changing conditions, and provide robust event management and alerting capabilities, all which will help drive efficiencies in a distribution or shipping environment. " ...

Via Fluensee: Penske Logistics Yard Management

European Healthcare RFID Pilot to Establish Improvement

RFID Senses Logistics Bottlenecks for Ringnes

Ringnes, a Norwegian brewery, collaborates with IBM to implement sensor technology in its logistics operations where better visibility will improve its shipping performance and customer satisfaction. ...

... "Now, Ringnes is using RFID tags to track each shipping container. These smart sensors capture all data linked to the plant's 40 loading gates. The IBM system is helping Ringnes to reduce costs and make more timely deliveries. Employees in the Ringnes Oslo facility are now able to access a complete view of the trucks and containers inside the shipping and receiving terminal, as well as their load status. Ringnes can quickly determine whether a trailer or container is on or off site, how long it was parked at the facility, and when it was loaded, unloaded, and driven away. In addition, the brewery can quickly spot and resolve bottlenecks in its logistics operations and address them in order to speed deliveries. " ...

Via IBM: Ringnes Norway Brewer Reduces Bottlenecks in Logistics Operations with RFID

RFID Time Temperature Measurement for the Cold Chain

ZMD AG inroduces the ZMD41211, an RFID chip that functions as a temperature logger and smart label. ...

... "The ZMD41211 enables logistics customers to precisely monitor and record temperature and humidity throughout the shipping process. Many materials can tolerate temperature fluctuations, but only for a limited amount of time. ZMD's new RFID IC records time as well as temperature, so shippers can determine the total exposure. This avoids the necessity of discarding products that may only have been briefly exposed to temperatures outside the permitted range. " ...

Via ZMD: RFID time and temperature recording chip

RFID Cylinder Tracking through Supply Chain

IBM will implement Radio Frequency Identification solution for Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, a Fortune 500 petroleum company in India. The solution will use RFID to track LPG products from the point of production through the supply chain to the customers. ...

... "HPCL will leverage IBM's technology expertise to deploy an end-to-end tracking solution based on RFID technology at HPCL's Nashik plant. Signed in March 2008, this US$2.2 million deal is one of the single largest implementations in India for RFID-based tracking solutions and involves infrastructure services. ... Under this agreement, IBM will design, deploy and integrate the RFID solution for tracking LPG cylinders from plant to the end-consumer. The solution will streamline the process of identification of LPG cylinders during bottling, distribution and supply chain, and is expected to cover 500,000 cylinders in the initial phase. HPCL intends to evaluate the technology and deploy the same in a phased manner to cover the entire supply chain from bottling plant, logistics, and distributors to the end-consumers. " ...

Via IBM: Path-Breaking RFID Solution

RFID, The Boxes Know ...

IBM vid on RFID inventory tracking ...

RFID Reusable Container Tracking

Rush Tracking Systems sees RFID technology as a best-in-class enabler of reusable container tracking, increasing the probability that they make it back to their source for reuse. ...

... "Fortunately, there is a straightforward solution: Tracking with RFID. Reusable container tracking is a logical response to your investment and the daily effort to determine where reusable containers are when you need them. Many companies understand the value of container tracking and have been tracking them for years. The problem is that in the U.S. containers are almost tracked by barcode scans. This human-dependent process is tedious and expensive because of the labor required to scan each empty or full container. Those who do it often subcontract the tracking to Third Party Logistics (3PL) firms, and even that is problematic.

The value proposition is quite simple; equip lift trucks in your supply chain with RFID readers. As RFID-tagged reusable containers transition from one area to another, the movement is automatically read (while performing regular material movements) and recorded in a database. RFID tracking can define the facility or even more discrete locations within a building. Additionally, operators can be directed by the system what and where to pick, pack and ship loads. This is similar to pick-to-light but with a twist: The RFID system does all the validation automatically without any human intervention." ...

Via Rush Tracking Systems: Reusable Containers

RFID Retail Solution Named Enterprise Best

Portuguese fashion retailer, Throttleman, is recognized by the EHI Retail Institute, a global retail trade association, as the Best Enterprise Solution for its use of RFID technology to drive efficiencies in its supply chain logistics. ...

... "Integrating an RFID infrastructure has enabled Throttleman to increase the efficiency of its distribution center by 60% and ensures that stock is quickly and accurately routed to the appropriate stores. Affixed with Avery Dennison RFID labels, items are shipped from Throttleman's manufacturing plant in India to their distribution center in Portugal. Upon arrival, TAGSYS' UHF RFID tunnel identifies and counts the content of each box with scan rates of up to 18,000 articles per hour. Comparing the list of scanned items to the packing slip, TAGSYS' UHF RFID tunnel automatically identifies discrepancies and generates an alert to check content. This reduces the amount of time items remain in Throttleman’s distribution center from 4.9 days to less than 24 hours, thereby quickly and accurately replenishing a store's inventory. Systems integrator, Creative Systems, was chosen by Throttleman to define and install an RFID system to improve efficiencies throughout their supply chain. Creative Systems selected TAGSYS for its expertise in item-level RFID infrastructure systems, and Avery Dennison to supply the RFID labels. " ...

Via TAGSYS RFID: BEST ENTERPRISE SOLUTION

RFID Trailer Tracking Simulation

Trailer tracking using RFID technology is simulated in this video. ...

RFID Logistics in Flower Distribution

Demonstration of RFID-enabled logistics processes ...

RFID Medical Transportation Implementation Based on Microsoft Sharepoint Server

B.O.S. Better Online Solutions Ltd will implement solution of strategic customer involved in medical transportation industry. ...

... "The system is based on BOS PointAct infrastructure enhancements to Windows SharePoint Services (WSS) and Microsoft Office SharePoint Server (MOSS). The first phase of the implementation will enable the customer, on a daily basis, to monitor, analyze, audit, manage and control its services, costs, pricing lists and other business aspects. In subsequent phases, new features for monitoring the customer's vehicles and equipment will be introduced, using BOS RFID and AVL technologies. Following the completion of this project, the Company and the customer intend to establish a Joint Venture that will offer the system to potential new customers. " ...

Via BOS: RFID SharePoint based logistics project

Haisan RFID Low Temp Implementation

Haisan uses RFID technology to manage its cold chain in China as it expands service in the region. The company achieved its goals through a phased implementation leading to unit-level tracking of materials in the supply chain. ...

... "Haisan via its wholly owned subsidiary, IGLO (M) Sdn Bhd, implemented a radio frequency identification (RFID) system to track goods stored in the warehouse here with the lowest temperature of up to –28°. " ...

The Edge Malaysia: Haisan China

Intel RFID Technology

Fools take on Intel and RFID technology in the blood supply chain. ...

... "RFID technology could also reduce waiting time, errors, and blood-type mismatches by strengthening quality control and logistics systems. " ...

Via The Motley Fool: Intel Has RFID Technology in Its Blood

RFID Business Intelligence Implementation by US Army

US Army's Product Manager, Joint - Automatic Identification Technology (PM J-AIT) implements MicroStrategy Business Intelligence Platform to provide analytics for logistics data from radio frequency identification (RFID) solution created by Unisys Corp. ...

... "The Radio Frequency In-Transit Visibility (RF-ITV) program provides government and contractor personnel across four continents with instant access to critical information on military cargo, equipment, and supplies. MicroStrategy software was selected to improve the ability to access and analyze data, and provide better decisions to enhance the Department of Defense's worldwide logistics tracking system. Timely access to mission-critical information will enable decision makers throughout the logistics pipeline to plan, prioritize, and redirect logistics operations to improve warfighter readiness. " ...

Via MicroStrategy: US Army's PM J-AIT Implements MicroStrategy Software

Logistics RFID Cold Chain Requirements

Accellos completes RFID consortium initiative to address emerging RFID requirements of the third-party logistics (3PL) market in the freezer, cooler and dry warehousing environments. ...

... "The purpose of the project was to develop RFID Slap and Ship capability that meets the compliance requirements of specific retailers. The RFID consortium, a best of breed group comprised of manufacturers, operators and system integrators was a unique approach to enhancing the Accellos Enterprise 3PL product, with each member of the RFID consortium having an equal vote in all project related decisions. " ...

Via Accellos: Successful Development of RFID Capabilities within Accellos Enterprise 3PL

NATO RFID Consignment System

The NATO Maintenance and Supply Agency (NAMSA) contracts with Savi Technology to implement Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-based solutions for consignment tracking and management solutions through pre-authorized sourcing. ...

... "The contract, announced today at the opening of the 2007 Paris Air Show, simplifies and centralizes the process for NATO nations to place orders for Savi Technology's networked solutions through the NAMSA procurement process. There are no limits to the size or amount of orders that can be placed through NAMSA. The Savi SmartChain Consignment Management Solution (CMS) is compliant with NATO Standardization Agreements (STANAGS) for consignment management, and already is used by NATO, several member nations and other coalition defense forces worldwide. NATO Force Goal 4052 also recognizes the importance of member nations to have supply chain visibility and interoperability through STANAG-based consignment management systems for greater collaboration in multi-national logistics operations. The contract was awarded to Savi Technology to facilitate the process of gaining real-time visibility of consignments for NATO member and Partner for Peace nations in their own supply chains as well as when collaborating with other nations to transport critical supplies. Centralizing the logistics procurement process through NAMSA helps control costs and quality while promoting the use of standardized solutions for the operational readiness of NATO forces. " ...

Via Savi Technology: NATO RFID-BASED CONSIGNMENT SOLUTION

DOD RFID Contract Continues With Unisys

U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) awards Unisys its follow-on contract to enhance supply chain visibility for military logistics. ...

... "The contract, which includes firm fixed-price and time and materials work, is worth approximately $28 million in the first year, if the government continues to order time and materials work at the current level. The total value of the contract could be approximately $112 million if the government exercises all options and continues to order time and materials work at the current level. In addition, the contract provides for the award of additional fees if performance metrics are exceeded and the imposition of penalties if the metrics are not met. Award of this contract allows Unisys to continue its efforts on the RFID program that began 13 years ago. Unisys has been working with DoD to develop, maintain and enhance an in-transit visibility system utilizing radio frequency identification technology. Providing visibility almost instantaneously into the location of supplies and shipments enables the military to increase its agility to supply units and soldiers with critical supplies in a timely manner, focus on mission-critical activities and respond quickly to mission changes.

Unisys tracks approximately 125,000 shipments of supplies each week, including ammunition, food/rations and water, medical supplies, vehicles, vehicle parts and aircraft. Attached to these shipments are RFID tags that store information vital to the soldier. Unisys tracks shipments across all modes of transportation - truck, rail, ship and air - to their final destinations in combatant commands worldwide. Fixed and handheld readers send and receive radio signals to and from the tags. Because data written to each tag are replicated among five servers, users worldwide have access to the same information on each item. Consequently, decision-makers at all levels of command and throughout the logistics supply chain can plan, prioritize and redirect shipments accordingly and collaboratively. " ...

Via Unisys: Unisys Wins Bid to Continue Operating and Maintaining One of World's Largest RFID Networks for Department of Defense

RFID Trade Lane Project Enables Shanghai Route

Shanghai-Savannah Express Trade Lane Project will use RFID technology to manage this supply chain route. ...

... "SIPG and Savi Networks have jointly developed a localized China RFID solution which includes electronic seal and GPS integrated handheld for this project. This solution builds on a project previously conducted by SIPG from Shanghai to Yantai and will facilitate SIPG's objective of being a global information and logistics hub. The solution will be built upon an open, international standards-based network platform, including compatibility with ISO standard 18000-7 for active RFID devices and ISO standard 18185 for electronic container security devices, both operating at the 433.92 MHz radio frequency. " ...

Via Savi Technology: Shanghai International Port Group, Georgia Ports Authority and Savi Networks Plan Real-Time Information Pilot on Cargo Shipped From Shanghai to Savannah

DHL RFID Pharma Temperature Controlled Logistics Innovation Recognized

DHL is recognized for innovative application of RFID technology in the pharma supply chain. ...

... "Today's pharmaceutical products generally consist of temperature-sensitive ingredients that can lose their effectiveness when they are placed in an environment that is too cold or too hot. The DHL Innovation Initiative developed an inventive solution to monitor temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products during transport. RFID sensor tags made by the development partner Infratab monitor the temperature of pharmaceutical shipments. The stored measurement data can be read by a RFID reader without physical contact using radio waves. In the process, the shipment does not have to be opened. The link to the database is handled by solutions created by IBM, one of the global innovation partners of the DHL Innovation Initiative. Thanks to the new service, pharmaceutical companies can react to temperatures that exceed or fall below limits even while the shipment is still being transported.

The battery-powered memory chip is equipped with an integrated alarm function that records each time that the temperature rises above or falls below predetermined limits. In the future, unusable medications can be removed more quickly from the supply chain. Based on the temperatures to which the shipment was subjected, the sensor chip also determines the individual expiration date for medications. As a result, physicians and pharmacists can distribute the medication whose expiration date comes first, preventing medications from going bad after they have left the transport chain. " ...

Via DHL: TEMPERATURE-MONITORED PHARMACEUTICAL LOGISTICS WITH RFID

RFID Supports Intermodal Transportation

Horizon Lines implements RFID technology to better manage logistics across multiple modes of transportation. ...

... "To overcome the lack of highway readers, the company placed so-called active RFID tags, which use an internal power source to contact readers, on 5100 containers. " ...

Via Computerworld: RFID in Transportation

RFID Transportation Logistics Solution

Datatrac adds Radio Frequency Identification Data (RFID) collection capabilities to the eTrac shipment tracking system in partnership with Psion Teklogix and KonaWare to enable real-time track and trace capabilities for logistics. ...

... "By leveraging cutting-edge RFID equipped handheld computers from Psion Teklogix and KonaWare's Mobility Platform, Datatrac's eTrac system automatically tracks complete shipment information in real-time from order entry through delivery, invoicing, reconciliation and settlement. Users can now track packages with increased accuracy and obtain specific shipment custody information. Moreover, the RFID capabilities work seamlessly with existing Datatrac systems. " ...

Via TechLinks: Datatrac Enhances Transportation Logistics Solution with RFID Technology ...

RFID Distribution Logistics

RFID technology enables business process improvement for manufacturing and warehouse operations. The shipping process is particularly suited for RFID enablement. RFID supports real-time business process automation at the shipping dock, where paperwork and shipment picking is accelerated to speed the delivery to the customer. ...

... "Once that pallet passes through a specific point at a shipping dock, then the tag is read and the contents of the data loaded earlier gets processed into the enterprise software. This in turn will generate invoices, initiate courier tracking, adjusts inventories, initiates material purchases to name just some of the impact RFID can have for your day-to-day business. Gone too are many of the headaches associated with bottlenecks in the shipping process such as verifying shipments against the bill-of-lading while drivers queue up for their pick-ups, the potential for human error in getting the wrong product on the wrong truck. " ...

Via GAORFID: RFID Technology Simplifies Distribution

RFID Sensor Tag: Medical Product Logistics

DHL develops RFID sensor tag with IBM and partners in the pharmaceutical industry. The RFID sensor tag is used successfully in the overseas transport of diagnostic material and vaccines. ...

... "A special RFID sensor tag controls and documents the temperature of items throughout transport. The measuring data are available at every read point so that senders, recipients and inspectors alike can check the condition of the products at any time. After all, fluctuations in temperature outside of the recommended range can have a negative effect on the lifespan of medical products such as vaccines. The new sensor tag is a combination of temperature sensor and RFID radio chip. It permits continuous monitoring and recording of a pre-defined temperature range as well as read-out of the data at any time, without having to open the shipment. Thanks to the sensor's special design, it can be attached especially close to the product, not just on the inside of the packaging as before. In addition, the current lifespan of the product can be calculated and read out at any time. This was previously possible only at the end of a transport. " ...

Via DHL: DHL and partners develop RFID sensor solution for the pharmaceutical industry ...

RFID Korea Manufacturing

LS Industrial Systems, Korean integrator, and Impinj, RFID supplier, partner to deliver high-performance RFID solutions in the Korean manufacturing market. ...

... "Responding to significant demand from the Korean manufacturing sector for RFID-enabled logistics and distribution capability, LS Industrial Systems will build and distribute a comprehensive RFID solution incorporating Impinj's Speedway reader platform and Monza Gen 2 tag chips. Available starting in February 2007, the LS Industrial Systems RFID solution targets Korean product distributors, manufacturing companies and government entities requiring RFID technology to improve factory automation and supply chain efficiency. " ...

Via Impinj: LS Industrial Systems and Impinj Partner to Deliver High-Performance Gen 2 Radio Frequency Identification Solutions in Korea ...

RFID Adaptive Supply Chain Networks

SAP upgrades its transportation management functionality, as part of the mySAP Supply Chain Management (mySAP SCM) modules to support adapting business processes to optimize revenue across global trade operations. The upgraded software will support ocean shipping management and transportation planning through increased visibility and control of shipments globally. Transportation management costs will be reduced by making the business process more flexible and dynamic using real world aware practices, such as RFID technology. RFID technology integration into the adaptive supply chain will occur through SAP's NetWeaver platform. SAP reports that its existing transportation management software is used by more than 2,200 companies worldwide. This upgrade positions SAP as a strong competitor in the supply chain logistics software market. ...

... "Powered by the SAP NetWeaver platform and leveraging emerging technologies and real world aware practices - using technologies such as radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, smart cards and sensors - mySAP SCM transforms traditional, linear supply chains into adaptive supply chain networks to meet the challenges of rapidly changing market dynamics. These adaptive supply chain networks allow all participants, including suppliers and logistics providers, to sense changes in demand and supply conditions as they occur and to share the critical knowledge needed to respond intelligently. The result is an adaptive supply chain network that is not only demand-driven but can also leverage its assets to influence demand where appropriate. mySAP SCM offers a dynamic synchronization of demand-driven planning, logistics and network execution based on real-time information that provides the capability to synchronize supply with demand by balancing push and pull network planning processes and to replenish and produce based on actual demand; sense and respond with an adaptive supply chain network in which distribution, transportation and logistics are driven and integrated into real-time planning processes; and enable network wide visibility, collaboration and analytics across the extended supply chain. " ...

Via SAP: SAP Helps Companies Meet the Challenges and Reduce the Costs of Global Trade ...

RFID Context Aware Location Services

Sybase enhances its RFID Anywhere solution to support advanced services that enable context-aware locating capabilities. Location information is given a business context in applications that support asset management, access control, resource management in industries, such as logistics, healthcare, and other supply chain environments. Location information will integrate sensor technology data associated with assets. Assets will be identified and associated with fixed locations and temporal information to provide location and timing insights. Conditions can be monitored and alerts will be provided based on events. ...

... "RFID Anywhere 3.0 breaks new ground with the delivery of a context-aware Location Information System. Using RFID Anywhere, businesses can not only track assets from a range of data collection points [such as passive RFID, active RFID, real-time location systems (RTLS), barcode, global positioning systems (GPS) and environmental sensors], but can dramatically enhance the value of this data by associating environmental inputs (e.g., temperature) along with the location data. In addition, the RFID Anywhere 3.0 Location Information System exposes its complete feature set via a rich service oriented architecture (SOA) web services layer allowing organizations to easily transform static business information into business-aware intelligence. " ...

Via Sybase: Sybase iAnywhere Pioneers Context-Aware Location Information System with RFID Anywhere 3.0 ...

RFID Anywhere simplifies the development, deployment, configuration and management tasks for highly distributed, multi-site, intelligent sensor networks, and abstracts the interaction with the physical network of devices. With support for over forty devices, this powerful infrastructure enables the creation of intelligent sensor networks out-of-the-box. By using RFID Anywhere, sensors are able to work together as an intelligent network by combining, organizing and coordinating these technologies through a common management structure, advanced feature set and event-driven development framework.

RFID Technology Enables Asia Logistics for Metro Supply Chain

The METRO Group and Savi Networks will collaborate to implement the Advanced Logistics Asia (ALA) project. The project will deploy RFID radio frequency identification technology to monitor the location and security of inventory shipped from Asia to Europe in real-time through the supply chain. ...

... "The ALA project, managed by METRO Group Buying Hong Kong (MGB Hong Kong), will utilize SaviTrak(TM), a web-based, real-time information service that leverages automatic data transmissions from Electronic Product Code (EPC) - compliant passive and active RFID tags, among other wireless devices, on shipments transported throughout the global supply chain. MGB Hong Kong manages METRO Group imports from sourcing to delivery at Distribution Centers in Germany. Under the ALA project, SaviTrak will monitor a variety of retail products while they are transported through a global RFID reader network, stretching from a consolidation center in Hong Kong, through the Port of Hong Kong, to the Port of Rotterdam, the inland Port of Duisburg in Germany and finally to a METRO Group distribution center in Unna, Germany.



Active, battery-powered RFID tags on containers will be utilized to automatically transmit information into the SaviTrak information service. As a six-month pilot, the ALA project is designed to evaluate improvements in the visibility, management and security of inventory while it is transported end-to-end. The project will further evaluate investment returns in reduced lead times and inventory, improved customer service as well as supply chain and financial performance." ...

Via Savi Networks: The METRO Group and Savi Networks Launch Real-Time Information Service on Inventory Shipped From Asia to Europe

RFID Supports Nissan Continuous Improvement Initiative

Nissan implements a continuous improvement initiative to target vehicle labor cost reduction, increase logistics throughput accelerating customer service, and enhance vehicle quality through defect elimination early in the product lifecycle. The initiative will be enabled by a wireless architecture and active RFID technology in the Nissan Canton MS manufacturing facility, supplied by WhereNet. ...

... "As part of a continuous improvement initiative at its four-million square foot assembly plant in Canton, Mississippi, Nissan will leverage a single wireless architecture to run multiple WhereNet applications, including the WhereSoft Yard Management System (YMS) and Vehicle Tracking and Management System (VTMS), to improve production velocity and throughput, labor productivity, and vehicle quality. Nissan's Canton assembly plant has the capacity to produce 400,000 vehicles per year, including the Altima sedan, Armada full-size sport utility vehicle, Infiniti QX56 full-size sport utility vehicle, Quest minivan, and Titan full-size pickup truck.

Deploying the WhereNet single wireless infrastructure over the entire Canton complex will take less than 90 days. The hardware consists of 1500 active RFID WhereTag transmitters, which are temporarily attached to new vehicles as they roll off the assembly line as part of the WhereNet VTMS system; 700 WhereTag transmitters that are permanently fixed to trailers belonging to Nissan's dedicated suppliers or temporarily attached to others as part of the WhereSoft YMS application; 120 WherePort magnetic exciters positioned between gates and at key choke points across the complex; and a local infrastructure of 80 wireless WhereLAN locating access points.

Nissan also plans to deploy the WhereNet automated gate check-in/out solution known as Fast Gate that supports 24x7 sequenced parts deliveries from Nissan suppliers. Fast Gate senses when a truck is approaching the gate; cross-references detailed information about the truck in a database; and, if authorized, automatically opens the gate to grant entry. Then, based on business rules loaded into the WhereSoft yard management application, the system instructs drivers and yard personnel to deliver the inbound load to the appropriate dock door for just-in-time sequencing of parts based on the assembly line build plan for that work shift.



When new vehicles roll off the Nissan assembly line, each vehicle is assigned an active RFID WhereTag transmitter that is married to the vehicle identification number (VIN). The WhereTag remains on the vehicle until it has been processed and is ready to ship to its final destination. Nissan uses the WhereNet VTMS in off-line areas to manage post-assembly verification and test processes, as well as quality repair, containment and shipping zones. The system includes a logical hierarchy of rules that manages the processing of every vehicle in accordance with its assigned status so that critical orders are processed before lower-priority units. " ...

Via Wherenet: NISSAN SELECTS WHERENET'S LOCATABLE, ACTIVE RFID SYSTEM TO AUTOMATE INBOUND SUPPLY CHAIN AND OUTBOUND DELIVERY CHAIN ...

RFID Smart Logistics

The future of logistics involves RFID smart cargo ...

... "First, it will be intelligent, or smart, meaning that it can provide detailed information about its location and the condition of its cargo at all times, through the use of RFID. " ...

Via ITPBusiness: Link

RFID Battery-Assist Passive Tag: Supports Logistics and Manufacturing ...

Intelleflex RFID tags can be used by logistics companies and in manufacturing in long-range, battery-assisted mode for real-time inventory tracking of assemblies in the warehouses. The RFID system can automatically generate a proof of shipment when assemblies are shipped. When used in maintenance operations in passive mode, companies can realize significant benefits from having actionable manufacturing and repair history data in the 64Kb user memory of the RFID tag at the point of use. ...

... "Intelleflex's InfoSure tags and the I-Beam reader are multi-protocol, ensuring global interoperability using EPC standards. InfoSure tags can be used as passive C1G2 tags with any other C1G2 reader or used in the battery-assisted passive mode at long ranges with the I-Beam reader. InfoSure tags offer up to 100-meter read/write range in free space, which translates to 100 percent read/write reliability at standard working ranges in industrial environments. They also offer 64 kb user memory, which is segmented into 1 kb blocks so they can be independently protected for read/write access through passwords. The I-Beam reader can read any EPC C1G2 tag as well as the Class 3 InfoSure tag. Initial product shipments of both the tags and readers are targeted for asset management, yard management, manufacturing and zonal access control applications. " ...

Via Intelleflex Corporation: Intelleflex Announces Availability of its RFID Battery-Assisted Passive Tag and Reader Products ...

Logistics RFID: Inbound Process ...

TNT NV, a global provider of mail, express and logistics services, pilots RFID in inbound logistics processes for manufacturing firm. ...

... "Supply chain processes covered by the projects ranged from inbound logistics and warehousing to multi-country distribution. In the US, TNT worked closely with an automotive manufacturer to improve the inbound process to one of its main manufacturing facilities. The use of RFID led to quicker and more accurate scanning of cargo and therefore resulted in shorter delivery times, simplified processes and a significant decrease in identification errors. Especially in a time-sensitive environment of assembly line manufacturing, RFID has proven to make a critical difference by reducing the likelihood of costly mistakes. TNT is already discussing with its client how RFID can help further achieve cost reductions and apply the solution to other manufacturing facilities. Based on the successful outcome of the six projects, TNT is further implementing RFID technology throughout its divisions. The experience gained from the projects, both on the technology itself and in how to apply it in order to gain maximum benefit, will be used to further roll out the technology within suitable customer operations. For this reason and following the early successes, TNT has already started the second phase of the RFID programme in which the company aims to turn the projects into successful industry sector solutions in very close collaboration with its clients. " ...

Via TNT: TNT successfully finishes phase one of RFID programme ...

DOD RFID Dept of Defense Implementation Enablers

ODIN Technologies shares some of the key ingredients (Accuracy and Implementation Speed) to enabling their successful implementation of RFID technology in the DOD supply chain. The Dept of Defense has strict read rate accuracy requirements that ODIN had to meet with limited technology capabilities at that time. In addition, ODIN perfected an implementation methodology for the DOD that improved the speed of delivery while sustaining performance quality. ...

... "DoD is modernizing its logistics system to better support the warfighter. Passive RFID is at the center of that transformation. It is a core element of the DoD's force transformation initiative designed to create a more agile military. However, if the tags and readers do not communicate reliably, the benefits will not materialize. After years of planning, the DLA needed a highly accurate RFID network established rapidly.

...

Accuracy: DoD expected its RFID system to be an order of magnitude more sophisticated than what was currently being deployed. Boundaries relative to read-rates and performance were strict, unlike many retailers who have toyed with trial-and-error methods. Rather than just attempt to read a single pallet tag, the DoD demanded 20 Gen 1.0 and Gen 2.0 RFID tags be affixed to cases and read as they come through a dock door - 100% accurately. This required scientific precision when designing and configuring the RFID network. Each portal was tested 10 times for that performance criteria. The DoD has shown RFID will reduce costs, increase supply visibility and streamline its entire supply chain, from the factory-to-the-foxhole. However, it can only do this if the RFID system is accurate and reliable.

...

Implementation Methods and Speed: Eighteen facilities spanning the continental U.S. (CONUS) were evaluated, solutions designed, installed and tested to 100% accuracy in under 130 days. " ...

Via ODIN Technologies: DOD Case Study (PDF) ...

RFID Case Tracking: BestBuy Compliance ...

NetGear complies with BestBuy RFID mandate through services of APL Logistics. ...

... "Global supply chain management leader APL Logistics has won the RFID tagging solution business of Silicon Valley-based NETGEAR, a leading provider of wireless networking equipment. Under terms of the agreement, APL Logistics will affix Radio Frequency Identification tags to cases of NETGEAR product sent to selected Best Buy stores in the U.S. The deal highlights a growing trend among major retailers who mandate that their suppliers use Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags on shipments. It also confirms APL Logistics' role as an innovative provider of the technology for supply chain management. " ...

Via APL Logistics: NETGEAR Turns to APL Logistics for RFID Mandate

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 Retail Solutions POS

Tally partners to RFID-enable the retail shopping experience. It will leverage the strengths of AVAAN for integration of RFID technology into the point-of-sale process. This positions Tally in the high-growth segments of the retail industry. ...

... "Tally announced its alliance with AVAANA, an Innovation and Integration Services Company focused on the high growth RFID market. The Tally-AVAANA alliance is to RFID-enable Tally Products and establishes AVAANA as Tally's Preferred RFID partner. AVAANA will be providing the RFID enablement for the TallyShoper Retail POS (Point-Of-Sale) of India's largest product software company. This targets the high-growth Retail industry. This will also be deployed in an upcoming industry RFID pilot. RFID is a data collection technology that provides suppliers, retailers, manufacturers and distributors with up-to-the-minute supply chain visibility, from inventory and logistics to freshness dates. RFID is powerful because it provides a unique identifying serial number to each and every item, unlike bar codes that typically have a unique number for a set of similar items. " ...

Via Tally Solutions: TALLY and AVAANA sign MOU for RFID As Tally's Preferred RFID Partner, AVAANA's RFID technology enables Shoper for Retail industry ...

RFID Reader: ROHS Compliant ...

Omron introduces 13.56MHz ISO15693 RFID readers, that comply with the Restriction of Hazardous Substance (RoHS) Directive. ...

... "The suite of new products includes 4W and 1W output fixed type readers (V720S-BC5D4, V720S-CD1D), and an embedded OEM reader (V720S-HMC73). Omron RFID began producing V720 HF series readers in 2000 and since then has shipped more than 300,000 units worldwide. They are used today in a wide variety of RFID reader applications including manufacturing and distribution logistics, consumer goods packaging, libraries and the apparel industry. Omron's long track record for superior quality RFID products and our established expertise in HF RFID technology today provides immediate solutions to those whose needs involve item-level tagging, particularly pharmaceutical, asset management and library applications ... " ...

RFID Reader: ROHS Compliant: Via Omron: Suite Of RoHS Compliant HF (13.56MHz) RFID Products ...

RFID Oracle EdgeServer Success ...

Noel SA, South American CPG company, successfully uses Oracle RFID edge services to understand the application of RFID to logistics business processes. ...

... "Noel SA used RFID-enabled Oracle Warehouse Management (WMS), part of the Oracle E-Business Suite, as the logistics platform for the pilot, which included tagging 2,000 pallets of Ducales cookies that were sent to the distribution center in Medell? Colombia. Noel SA used Oracle Sensor Edge Server, a component of Oracle Fusion Middleware, to connect and manage all the devices on the RFID system, including tag printers and readers. Data captured from the system was processed by Oracle WMS and synchronized with the Oracle enterprise resource planning (ERP) applications. Each pallet received a passive RFID tag, which included important order information such as the lot number and product expiration date.



The RFID-tagged pallets were read throughout the supply chain from the production floor to the final distribution center to ensure proper delivery of orders. Once the pallet arrived at the distribution center of Medell? it was read again to reconcile the sales order and fulfillment information held in the Oracle order management system. At the conclusion of the pilot, Noel SA uncovered that the bar code process prior to the RFID pilot was being executed incorrectly, rendering inventory and shipment data inaccurate. Noel SA gained valuable visibility into its operations such as inventory management and order fulfillment using RFID. The company plans to begin the roll out of a full-scale RFID system in the future. " ...

Via Oracle: Noel SA Successfully Completes RFID Pilot Based on Oracle Solutions

RFID Chips Smart Library ...

Philips Electronics announces next-generation ICODE product, ICODE SLI S, which is based on RFID technology and enables controls in the smart library ...

... "Librarians are able to address many of the challenges found in library management, including reader logistics, material identification and inventory and information storage. The ICODE SLI-S offers increased read performance and is specifically well suited for automated management of media in libraries. With Philips RFID technology embedded, consumers can also enjoy an enhanced library visit, with faster check-out of books, CDs and DVDs. In addition to this self-service checkout, consumers can also serve themselves when making returns. At return, the item is scanned in and automatically sorted by electronic sorting stations which saves library staff time. With RFID technology embedded, consumers and library staff alike enjoy a simpler, more efficient experience. To date, several hundreds of libraries worldwide have installed RFID for self-service check-in and check-out, automatic sorting and cataloguing, as well as advanced theft protection; more than 50 percent of these libraries use Philips ICODE technology. As the largest producer of RFID ICs worldwide, Philips has secured design-ins in the public library in Singapore with the largest RFID installation globally of more than 10 million RFID labels in use; the public library of Shen Zhen; Jimei University Library in Xiamen, China, and Europe's largest RFID installation in libraries, the Munich Public Library. " ...

RFID Chips Smart Library: Via Philips: Libraries around the world are becoming smarter with Philips RFID chips

RFID Cold Chain Application 3PL: Third Party Logistics ...

Atlas Cold Storage implements Ship2Save RFID systems in a second phase of its cold chain. ...

... "As part of Atlas Cold Storage's RFID expansion initiative, Ship2Save has deployed yet another Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system for the cold storage third party logistic provider (3PL). The 2nd deployment site is phasing in a superior Gen2 tag standard that has facilitated Atlas Cold Storage to have a more flexible operational process with the RFID tagging. As it stands, Ship2Save has deployed its RFID solution at 2 of Atlas Cold Storage's 55 facilities. This solution can easily and rapidly deployed at the other Atlas facilities. The Company strongly believes that this number will grow as more and more food and beverage manufacturers begin to adopt RFID as part of their supply chain. " ...

RFID Cold Chain Application 3PL: Third Party Logistics: Via Ship2save: Ship2save deploys second RFID solution for Atlas Cold Storage Inc. ...

RFID Position Determination ...

AXCESS International introduces an enhanced method for providing positioning and directional capabilities for RFID applications. Their product is called the Dual Activator, built on their ActiveTag platform. ...

... "The Dual Activator product is based on the Company's ActiveTag platform that enables automatic tracking of personnel, assets and vehicles in multiple industries that use this capability for security, logistics and operations effectiveness. The patent pending solution is available now for purchase. The Dual Activator provides a high precision method for determining the position of people, vehicles and assets. Many other RFID systems don't have the ability to provide dependable positioning and rely on guestimation techniques or added switches to determine the location and direction of objects. AXCESS' enhanced product offers a more precise method which is cost and installation friendly. The ability to determine location and direction of the RFID tag is required to provide effective and secure perimeter control. The dual activator, connects directly to two transmit antennas to offer a radio frequency signal that awakens the tags as they pass through each antenna field. It writes its own ID to the tag, which is then retransmitted, along with the tag's unique ID, to provide the tag's location and direction at time of activation. " ...

RFID Position Determination: Via Axcess: AXCESS International Enhances Unique RFID Method for Precision Position Determination of Enterprise Assets and Personnel ...

RFID DOD DLA Contract: Passive Systems ODIN Tech ...

ODIN Tech awarded contract from DOD DLA for passive RFID systems ...

... "DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY: ODIN Technologies, Dulles, Va., is being awarded a maximum $7,000,000 combination firm fixed price, cost, and time and materials contract for passive radio frequency identification (RFID) portals, hardware, and installation for Defense Logistics Agency. Other location(s) of performance are Defense Distribution centers, CONUS and OCONUS. Proposals were Web-solicited and 11 responded. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Date of performance completion is May 16, 2007. Contracting activity is Defense Distribution Center (DDC), New Cumberland, Pa. (SP3100-06-D-0003). " ...

RFID DOD DLA Contract: Passive Systems ODIN Tech: Via DoD: Contracts for May 17, 2006 ...

Java RFID Sensor Community ...

Sun launches community for RFID sensor development using Java as the software foundation. ...

... "RFID (radio frequency identification) and sensor-based applications are being used increasingly in a variety of industries, including manufacturing retail health care, pharmaceuticals, transportation, logistics, aerospace and government. They can dramatically reduce costs for companies, increase operational efficiencies, improve security and accountability of assets, and help ensure the authenticity and integrity of products. However, the complexity of developing and integrating RFID and sensor solutions can slow adoption while developers come up to speed.

The Sun RFID Community has grown out of the experiences of technical collaboration among internal Sun experts and the more than 350 members of Sun's RFID Partner Advantage program. Any developer can access the Sun RFID and Sensor Community by joining Java.Net. Members of the Sun RFID Community can participate in e-mail lists, code-building projects, and community activities. The Sun Java System RFID Software, toolkits and documentation are freely available for download. " ...

Java RFID Sensor Community: Via Sun Microsystems: Sun Launches New RFID and Sensor Community for Java Developers ...

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 ...

RFID Drug Authenticity Pilot at Cardinal Health ...

Cardinal Health begins second wave of RFID testing that supports the safety of the drug supply. RFID technology will enable in-process authentication as drugs make their way through the extended supply chain. Cardinal will also look for ways to achieve operational efficiencies from the RFID-enabled supply chain information. The company is expecting to complete this wave of tests by the 4th Quarter of 2006. ...

... "Cardinal Health, Inc., the leading provider of products and services supporting the health-care industry, announced the next phase of the first end-to-end pilot program to test technology that could improve the safety and efficiency of the nation's drug supply. The pilot program will begin to tag medication with labels carrying unique data that can be captured and read to verify its authenticity at each step of the supply chain. Verifying the authenticity of pharmaceuticals along each step of the distribution path adds an additional layer of security to lessen the chance of counterfeit pharmaceuticals entering the supply chain. In addition, the data gathered could improve efficiency as logistics experts at Cardinal Health will be able to analyze the data to identify bottlenecks, read rates and other opportunities to improve efficiency in the supply chain.

In conducting the end-to-end pilot program, Cardinal Health will use new technology to place radio frequency identification (RFID) tags on the labels of brand-name and generic solid-dose prescription drugs at the company's Printed Components facility in Moorestown, N.J. Next, the company's facility in Philadelphia will encode the electronic product code (EPC) standard data at the unit, case and pallet levels during the packaging process. The products will be then shipped to a Cardinal Health distribution center in Findlay, Ohio, where the data will be read and authenticated as products are handled under normal operating conditions. Normal operating procedures will be enhanced with RFID hardware and software from Alien Technology Corporation and IBM along with project management support from VeriSign. From Findlay, the tagged product will be sent to a health-care provider to further test read rates and data flow using the same technology as the distribution center. The product dispensed to patients will not be in the RFID packaging. The company launched the pilot in February and expects to complete the test in the fall." ...

RFID Drug Authenticity Pilot at Cardinal: Via Cardinal Health: Cardinal Health Announces Next Phase Of RFID Pilot ...

RFID Technology: Savi Acquisition ...

Lockheed Martin acquires Savi Technology, a company that specializes in radio frequency identification, RFID. ...

... "Lockheed Martin Corporation announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Savi Technology, Inc. (Savi), a provider of active radio frequency identification (RFID) solutions. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Savi, based in Sunnyvale, Calif., has developed innovative logistics solutions that track in-transit asset shipments in a secure, accurate and timely manner. Its full line of hardware and software products have been implemented by the U.S. Department of Defense, international defense agencies, civil agencies and commercial enterprises to monitor cargo shipments globally. Savi's products include active RFID asset tags, data rich high performance tags, sensor tags that monitor security and environmental conditions and related fixed and mobile readers. " ...

RFID Technology: Savi Acquisition: Via Savi Technology: LOCKHEED MARTIN AGREES TO ACQUIRE SAVI TECHNOLOGY: Purchase of Active RFID supplier enhances capabilities in global focused logistics ...

RFID Supply Chain Pilot: China EPC Initiative ...

VTech implements RFID supply chain pilot to enable Walmert compliance ...

... "Cisco Systems and Intel Corporation announced that VTech (Telecommunications division), a leading supplier of corded and cordless telephones, has selected a radio frequency identification (RFID) solution from Cisco and Intel for its pilot participation in the Hong Kong EPCnetwork initiative directed by EPCglobal Hong Kong. Upon completion, VTech will be able to comply with Wal-Mart's RFID request requiring key suppliers and business partners to become RFID-compliant. This will also help VTech improve the efficiency of warehouse operations and management through automation, as well as serving to enhance visibility throughout the supply chain.

VTech's pilot participation demonstrates that the Hong Kong EPCnetwork of EPCglobal Hong Kong has made significant strides since its launch last year. The Hong Kong EPCnetwork initiative aims to bring end-to-end supply chain visibility to the Pan Pearl River Delta (PPRD) region through the use of a common, standards-based data exchange allowing easy, secure, real-time communication between manufacturers, logistics companies and retailers. Manufacturers and logistics companies in the PPRD can expect to enhance their connections and relationships with retailers worldwide through the EPCnetwork initiative.

The RFID solution, comprising Cisco AON for RFID and Cisco Services for RFID, is based on platforms powered by Intel technologies including Intel Xeon-based servers, RFID readers and PCs. The solution delivers integrated and intelligent RFID capabilities that connect the VTech and Wal-Mart RFID systems. The Hong Kong EPCnetwork project will enable VTech to take advantage of next generation RFID technology to track telecommunications products from the Dongguan factory to Wal-Mart distribution centers in the US. " ...

RFID Supply Chain Pilot: China EPC Initiative: Via Cisco: VTech Selects Cisco and Intel RFID Solution for Supply Chain Pilot ...

RFID KimberlyClark Gen2 Walmart Tags ...

Kimberly-Clark ships Gen2 RFID tags on products shipped to Walmart. ...

... "Kimberly-Clark Corporation announced it has begun shipping Gen2 RFID-tagged cases of product to WalMart. This next step in the implementation of RFID technology is a result of K-C's extensive research and testing on the compatibility of Gen2 hardware and software with conveyor, packaging, logistics and shipping systems in the company's dedicated Auto-ID research lab in Neenah, Wis. Leveraging the accuracy and up-to-the-minute information the Gen2 platform provides, K-C has shipped to WalMart approximately 100,000 cases of Huggies brand diapers and other infant and child care products since March. Using industry-leading Gen2 hardware and software, K-C encoded the RFID tags, placed them on the cases, captured and transferred product data into its supply chain system, and forwarded the data to WalMart, letting them know their product order had been shipped. " ...

RFID KimberlyClark Gen2 Walmart Tags: Via Kimberly-Clark Investors: Kimberly-Clark Begins Shipping Gen2 RFID-Tagged Cases Of Products To WalMart ...

Walmart RFID Commitment ReAffirmed by New CIO ...

Walmart CIO, Rollin Ford, reaffirms committment to the Walmart RFID program, praising company innovations and the efforts of Linda Dillman. ...

... "The pioneering work at WalMart to mine the supply chain benefits of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) will continue unabated under the Wal-Mart Information Systems Division's new leader. Rollin Ford, WalMart's new executive vice president and chief information officer, who previously served as the company's executive vice president of logistics and supply chain, strongly endorsed RFID technology at the biannual CIO summit, hosted by WalMart on Wednesday in Bentonville. Ford told the audience of CIOs he was thrilled to be in his new position and that both logistics and information systems were at the center of WalMart's competitive advantage. Ford said he intended to build on the success of his predecessor, Linda Dillman, who was named executive vice president of risk management and benefits administration at Wal-Mart. " ...

Walmart RFID Commitment ReAffirmed by New CIO: Via WalMart Stores: New CIO Confirms Wal-Mart Commitment to RFID ...:

Walmart RFID: Dillman Transfers ...

Linda Dillman changes positions for WalMart ...

... "WalMart isn't about to abandon RFID technology, but Linda Dillman is taking a step back from the world of RFID. Dillman, the force behind WalMart's initial RFID mandates, is leaving her position as executive vice president and chief information officer to oversee risk management and benefits administration for the giant retailer. " ...

Walmart RFID: Dillman Transfers: Via John R. Johnson's RFID Watch Weekly: WalMart shuffles RFID management team ...

Via WalMart Stores: WalMart Names Lawrence Jackson President and CEO of Global Procurement: Other senior leadership changes spread talent across the organization: "Linda Dillman, previously executive vice president and chief information officer, will become executive vice president of risk management and benefits administration. She will also lead the company's sustainability efforts. Last fall, Wal-Mart announced aggressive sustainability goals and has recently increased its offerings of organic products. Rollin Ford, previously executive vice president of logistics and supply chain, will become executive vice president and chief information officer, responsible for leading the company's global information systems division. "

China RFID Contract Win ...

RC Group secures contract win for RFID-enabled warehouse management solutions in the China market. ...

... "Under the MOU the Group will initially be commissioned to deliver its newly developed packaged RFID solutions for the use in warehouse and logistics management to manufacturing enterprises throughout the industrial region of Xiaolan in Southern China. Since the recent launch of the packaged RFID solution 10 installation projects have been secured in Xiaolan and other parts of Southern China. " ...

China RFID Contract Win: Via RCG MARVEL: RC Group Major RFID Contract Win ...

WIFI RFID System on Chip ...

G2 Microsystems introduces RFID system on a chip that supports WIFI networking standards. ...

... "G2 Microsystems Inc., a developer of integrated circuits for the Mobile Resource Management (MRM) market, announced an ultra low-power, active radio frequency identification (RFID) System-on-a-Chip (SoC) that leverages the widely-deployed Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) network infrastructure. By using this existing infrastructure, G2 Microsystems SoC enables businesses to install asset tracking systems at a fraction of the cost of today's solutions resulting in at least a 75% reduction in total cost of ownership. Additionally, the chip's integrated support for multiple location technologies and environmental sensing coupled with ultra low-power consumption enables a new class of tags that will open the door for global MRM services in many enterprise applications.

Mobile resource management is a fast-growing market that uses RTLS to track and monitor assets both inside and outside of facilities. The Yankee Group forecasts the global RTLS market will grow to $1.6B by 2010, fueled by deployments in healthcare, manufacturing and logistics. Targeted at the RTLS market, G2 Microsystems' G2C501 Wi-Fi Active RFID SoC is a very flexible solution that enables a broad range of customer types to tailor systems to their specific application at a very low total cost of ownership. The chip is currently being incorporated into leading RTLS solutions including those from Ekahau and PanGo Networks. " ...

WIFI RFID System on Chip: Via G2 Microsystems: G2 Microsystems Significantly Reduces Cost of Asset Tracking Systems with Industry's First Wi-Fi RFID System-on-a-Chip: Leading Real-Time Location System (RTLS) Providers, Ekahau and PanGo Networks, Plan to use G2 Microsystems' Chip ...

RFID Antenna Technology: UHF Performance Boost ...

Omron develops RFID antenna technology that boosts UHF tag reading performance. ...

... "OMRON Corporation, a global leader in automation, sensing and control technologies, announced that it has developed a new electronic control antenna technology. The technology is the first of its kind to be embedded in UHF-band RFID reader that can improve RFID tag reading performance. UHF offers significantly greater communications range than other frequency bands. As a result, the use of UHF RFID systems for full traceability of products has seen tremendous growth in the retail and logistics industries, mainly in the United States but also in other parts of the world. UHF tags, however, are subject to multipath interference, an inherent problem of electromagnetic signals, which can make an RFID tag unreadable even if it is within the range of the reader. To solve this problem, OMRON developed a new type of antenna technology that can electronically control the electromagnetic field emitted from the reader. By adopting this technology for UHF RFID systems, OMRON has succeeded in reducing reflections, thus minimizing the degradation of system performance due to multipath interference. While an electromagnetic wave from a conventional antenna propagates over a wide area as it travels in a given direction, OMRON's new antenna technology allows a wave with directivity to propagate in any specific direction, with the direction of the propagation controllable from the reader. " ...

RFID Antenna Technology: UHF Performance Boost: Via OMRON: OMRON Develops World's First Antenna Technology That Boosts UHF RFID Tag Read Performance ...

RFID Logistics Readiness PDK ...

Marines get trained in using the RFID-enabled portable deployment kit (PDK) to increase their logistics readiness. ...

... "The PDK assists with gear and shipment accountability by using radio frequency identification to continually keep track of electronic tags embedded with supplies. Unlike most RFID interrogators, which are static in design and cannot move, the PDK fits inside a case that can be carried by one person. ...

For the first two days of the training, the Marines attended lectures about the components that make up the PDK and how to use them properly. Marines then began practical application of their new skills by riding in a HMMWV and configuring their PDK to scan for specific RFID tags. " ...

RFID Logistics Readiness PDK: Via US Marine Corps: Marines increase logistics readiness with PDK training

Marine Corps: Logistics tracking equipment valuable to operations: "Tracking all this equipment can be an arduous task, but with the help of the portable deployment radio frequency identification tag kit made by Savi Technologies Incorporated and the Marines of Marine Air-Ground Task Force Distribution Center, the of tracking these shipments is made a little easier. "

RFID Truck Tag Program ...

WhereNet is supporting the RFID needs of port logistics ...

... "Now counting 11 West Coast terminals as customers, in its largest marine security effort to date, announced January 12, WhereNet was tapped to equip up to 10,000 drayage trucks serving two of the nation's largest -- at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach -- with its active RFID tags as part of the TruckTag program initiated by PierPASS. " ...

RFID Truck Tag Program: Via JeraOne: RFID Technology from WhereNet Providing Safe Harbor for U.S. Commerce ...

RFID: Sun SAP Collaborate ...

Sun and SAP collaborate to enable seamless RFID solutions ...

... "Sun Microsystems, Inc. expanded its relationship with SAP AG to integrate and standardize RFID technology based on the SAP(R) Auto-ID Infrastructure component of SAP NetWeaver(R) and the Sun Java System RFID Software. This collaboration will enable RFID data network communication between Sun and SAP RFID technology (part of the mySAP Business Suite solutions), allowing for seamless data flow from any RFID-enabled device to the mySAP Business Suite. The technology integration has been tested and certified by SAP. Customers in a broad range of industries, including retail and manufacturing, are looking to RFID technology to help them gain insight into multiple facets of the logistics process, including maintaining inventories, interacting with suppliers, improving customer service and tracking orders. The collaboration between SAP and Sun will help speed time to deployment for customers looking to integrate RFID data into their back-end systems. The Sun Java System RFID Software provides centralized monitoring and management capabilities for large numbers of distributed RFID devices and delivers Jini technology-based dynamic networking capabilities, which help ensure that RFID data can continue to be transmitted to the SAP applications under demanding production environments. " ...

RFID: Sun SAP Collaborate: Via Sun: Sun and SAP Collaborate to Simplify Deployment of RFID Solutions on SAP NetWeaver ...

Additional references on SAP and RFID ...

Via SAP - Components & Tools of SAP NetWeaver: SAP Auto-ID Infrastructure: "SAP Auto-ID Infrastructure, the key component of SAP NetWeaver that provides RFID capabilities, provides SAP applications with a gateway into RFID data. "

Via SAP: SAP RFID Rollout Signals Major Savings for Midsize Flag-Maker: "SAP NetWeaver provides companies with a powerful platform to manage, integrate and leverage RFID data within their SAP and non-SAP business applications. By integrating a combination of SAP NetWeaver components with core business applications, such as enterprise resource planning or supply chain management, customers can RFID-enable their business processes. The implementation of SAP RFID technology was facilitated by Annin's implementation partner CIBER Novasoft. The integration of SAP RFID technology and the pre-existing SAP IT infrastructure means information captured from the RFID tags for the more than 500,000 master cartons shipped annually can be accessed directly in the enterprise SAP system. Retailers can track and report on the movement of Annin's inventory tagged with RFID through warehouses and stores. By creating this real-world aware network, Annin has laid the groundwork for shipping items using RFID and developing an integrated and scalable approach to the technology, providing benefits beyond merely meeting the Wal-Mart requirement. "

Via SAP: SAP Forges Next Generation of RFID-Enabled Business Solutions with Kimberly-Clark: "SAP and Kimberly-Clark will continue to leverage EPCglobal efforts to promote standards based solutions to the marketplace. SAP is bringing to bear the state-of-the-art Auto-ID, analytical and event-driven technologies provided by the SAP NetWeaver platform to collect, analyze and act on EPC (electronic product code) data shared among Kimberly-Clark and its trading partners. Kimberly-Clark has already deployed SAP Auto-ID Infrastructure as the system of record of enterprise-wide EPC information and as the interface that controls all EPC information flowing into mySAP ERP. "

Via SAP: SAP Enables Fraport AG to Reduce Maintenance Costs and Increase Safety at Frankfurt Airport with Mobile Asset Management: "Before the mobile deployment, service engineers had to fill out lengthy forms during equipment checks, then enter the data manually into the central ERP software. Service technicians now use PDAs to access daily maintenance plans and carry out work orders. The PDAs read maintenance-relevant information from the RFID tags installed on ventilation shutters and act as clients to the ERP software for reporting and archiving. Because the PDAs can read tags only at a distance of three centimeters or less, the mobile scenario confirms that service technicians duly checked each vent on their work orders. In addition to safeguarding maintenance processes and generating reports in compliance with federal regulations, the solution helps the company maintain a complete view across the entire asset life cycle and more quickly locate reoccurring faults. "

RFID Factory Automation Solutions ...

RFID enables automation of material movements in the factory, avoiding complicated manual efforts to keep transaction systems updated. This also supports the tracking of material genealogy ...

... "For applications on PROFINET, it is possible to use the same RFID function blocks as with connecting to PROFIBUS networks. A function block can process RFID devices both in PROFIBUS and PROFINET environments in a single application. In this way, existing RFID applications in PROFIBUS environments can also be run on PROFINET without modification.

The UHF-range RFID system SIMATIC RF600 for logistics and distribution is being extended – by new components and an intelligent link to SIMATIC IT. The new components are a Mobile Reader and SmartLabels. In addition, RFID data can now be transferred from SIMATIC RF600 with the SIMATIC IT Production Modeler to SIMATIC IT for further processing. MES applications of SIMATIC IT offer new possibilities through RFID integration." ...

RFID Factory Automation Solutions: Via Siemens Industrial Automation Systems: simatic Innovations, November 2005

Active RFID Network Enables Spain Military ...

Spain's military leverages Savi's active RFID network to optimize its supply chain ...

... "The Spanish Armed Forces (SAF) has contracted with Savi Technology to deploy Savi's Consignment Management Solution (CMS), which includes an active RFID network that interoperates with similar networks deployed by Savi for NATO countries and other allies. Savi's RFID networks and related software solutions have been deployed for a growing number of international defense organizations, including the U.S. Department of Defense, NATO headquarters, United Kingdom Ministry of Defence, Australian Defence Forces, and Denmark Ministry of Defence, among others. Recent findings from defense organizations show that Savi's solutions based on active RFID technologies when used with improved supply chain processes have significantly improved fill rates, reduced backlog orders by 70 percent, and reduced inventory by many tens of millions of dollars. Just as importantly, Savi's active RFID solutions for defense organizations have proven to improve operational efficiency, and enhance the confidence of war fighters in their logistics operations to get the right supplies to the right place at the right time. Savi's RFID solutions have been implemented in over 2,000 locations in over 50 countries, and are the foundation for the largest interoperable RFID networks deployed worldwide. Savi has also sold over 1.5 million tags to defense forces, and the combined networks track about 35,000 consignments a day. These RFID-based networks, which can function independently or interoperate with each other during multi-national deployments, are based on ISO’s 18000-7 standards operating at 433.92 MHz. Active RFID operating at 433.92 MHz with its ability to bend around metal objects has been proven to be the most effective RFID frequency in environments where large metal ISO containers are tracked and stored. Many other frequencies face significant challenges in this harsh environment, which can lead to decreased performance or require significant additional readers and other infrastructure to be as effective as Savi’s RFID networks. " ...

Active RFID Network Enables Spain Military: Via Savi Technology: SPAIN JOINS NATO AND ALLIED DEFENSE’S INTEROPERABLE RFID SOLUTIONS DEPLOYED BY SAVI TECHNOLOGY: Real-Time Active RFID Network Based on Global Standards Is Foundation for Spain’s Implementation of Savi’s Consignment Management Solution ...

RFID: Volvo Asset Tracking ...

Volvo continues to embrace RFID technology and drive its adoption in various opportunity areas. ...

... "Truck and bus manufacturer Volvo is considering using radio frequency identification (RFID) tagging to track equipment in its warehouses. " ...

RFID: Volvo Asset Tracking: Via IT Week: Volvo studies RFID for tracking assets ...

Additional references on Volvo and RFID ...

Via Volvo: Mats Boll to speak at the RFID Europe conference: "Mats Boll, Business Develop Project Manager at Volvo Logistics, will speak at the RFID Europe conference in Frankfurt, Germany, on October 21. Mats Boll will discuss some of Volvo's case studies involving containers and packaging, security, distribution of finished vehicles and distribution of hazardous material. He will also review a solution introduced within manufacturing facilities of Commercial Vehicles. "

Via RFID Journal LIVE! Europe: Agenda 11 October: "Volvo has been using RFID in production and logistics for a long time and continues to launch new pilot tests on a regular basis. This session will communicate how RFID has improved Volvo's visibility, traceability and lead-time reduction. Besides demonstrating where Volvo is today, the leaders of the company's RFID projects also will look into Volvo's future, where RFID seems destined to enhance its entire supply chain. Speaker: Stina Apel, RFID Project Manager, Volvo; Annika Johansson, RFID Project Manager, Volvo "

Via IT-universitetet i Goteborg | Nyheter: Students in successful pilot project for Volvo logistics: "They carried out an RFID - Radio Frequency Identification pilot project at the cross-docking terminal at Arendal. Volvo Logistics were very pleased with the result of the project and all three of these students are today employed at Volvo Logistics. "

RFID Journal LIVE! 2006 Announced ...

... "RFID Journal LIVE! 2006, its 4th annual conference and exhibition will be held May 1-3, 2006, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. RFID Journal LIVE! 2006 will feature many of the leading early adopters in five key industry segments: Retail/Consumer Goods; Defense/Aerospace; Transportation/Logistics; Health Care/Pharmaceutical, and Manufacturing industries. Business leaders from the leading companies in these industries will be presenting case studies and applied examples of profitable and efficient ways to utilize RFID. " ...

Via RFID Journal: RFID JOURNAL Announces Unparalleled Speaker Lineup for RFID Journal LIVE! 2006

RFID in Military Deployments ...

RFID technology has role in the logistics of military deployments. DOD RFID policy was development from experiences in
logistics and operational requirements during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). ...

... "Radio frequency identification (RFID) technologies are being used by the military to provide visibility of items moving across the Defense Transportation System (DTS), as well as for asset visibility. RFIDs are a type of automatic identification system that has been available in commercial systems for a number of years. An RFID system enables data to be transmitted by a portable device called a tag. A tag is activated by an RFID interrogator and then transmits data stored on it. That information is read (by RFID), processed, and stored according to the needs of a particular application or information system. Typically, applications are in the fields of logistics, inventory control, rail yard asset management, and vehicle tracking. " ...

RFID in Military Deployments: Via FHWA Office of Operations: Coordinating Military Deployments on Roads and Highways - Chapter 5. Technologies Supporting Military Deployments

RFID eIdentity USB Reader: Passport Capable ...

ASK introduces USB-connection RFID reader that has shown interoperability with Interfest e-passport standards. ...

... "ASK launches the RDR 400 series of contactless USB readers, designed for performance, security and ergonomics. RDR 400 readers are ideal for contactless logical/physical access control, identity, banking and PC-based applications. Based on CPL 400 couplers, the RDR 400 series is high speed, low cost, multi-standard and multi-application; its unique and powerful RF interface means that RDR 400 readers support all current ISO dual interface/contactless cards and contactless tickets.

RDR 400 has passed successfully e-passport Interfest interoperability tests taking place in November in Singapore. These tests involved 124 different passports complying with ISO14443 type A or B standards from 28 countries to be tested on 40 readers. ASK reader reached the best performances both in terms of interoperability and communication speed. ASK is breaking new ground in emerging markets such as e-identity and banking where clients need technology partners with superlative expertise in both RFID card and reader technology " ...

RFID eIdentity USB Reader: Passport Capable: Via ASK: ASK launches new contactless USB reader RDR 400 series ...

Founded in 1997, ASK is now the supplier of the most comprehensive range of contactless cards, tickets, RFID tags and readers on the market. All products comply with ISO and EPC standards. ASK addresses the mass transit, access control, e-government ID, supply chain and logistics markets. 50 million contactless cards, tickets and RFID labels are already in use worldwide. ASK’s manufacturing plant is located at its Sophia-Antipolis headquarters in France, with regional offices in Paris, Singapore and Westport, USA.