Korea RFID will drive pharmaceutical supply chain efficiency

Korean government will leverage RFID technology on pharmaceuticals to improve inventory management and reduce defects in drug prescriptions. ...

... "Government officials suggest that the radio frequency identification (RFID) tags will improve efficiency in distribution, allowing pharmaceutical companies to save around 1.8 trillion won (about $1.6 billion) annually, and also providing an easier way to retrieve subpar quality drugs. " ...

Via Korea Times: Korea RFID for Drugs

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

Floral Trolleys tracked by RFID

FloraHolland will deploy Omni ID RFID tags to track trolleys that transport flowers and plants through its the supply chain. ...

... "FloraHolland merged with VBA to create a single flower-auction organization with six auction centers, a nationally operating intermediary organization and a transit department. The merge created a need to integrate resources, including the call for a redesign of 270,000 auction trolleys used for logistical processes throughout the entire supply chain. As part of the redesign, over the next two and a half years, every auction trolley will be tagged with an Omni-ID passive UHF RFID tag. " ...

Via Omni-ID: Floral Auctioneer Implements RFID Tags to Track Trolleys

European RFID Retail Application

Rica Lewis will deploy Tagsys RFID in its European value chain to provide real-time visibility to inventory from distribution to the retail point of sale. ...

... "Rica Lewis sells over 5 million pairs of jeans each year and has invested in TAGSYS’ RFID technology to increase its sales and enhance customer’s experience through improved product availability. Each sales manager from Rica Lewis is equipped with portable RFID readers enabling them to perform rapid inventory of RFID enabled items directly on the sales floor of the retailer. Initial results have demonstrated that the duration of the previously manual inventory process has been reduced by more than 80%, making the sales manager available for high value activities such as merchandising and customer interaction. At the conclusion of the inventory process, the RFID data collected is sent to the logistics center, also equipped with a RFID infrastructure, allowing for a much more efficient order preparation and shipping process. With the use of RFID the entire supply chain is optimized to better manage processes in the distribution center and provide greater product availability at the point of sale. " ...

Via Tagsys: RFID DEPLOYMENT AT MAJOR EUROPEAN RETAILERS

SAP RFID Tracking by Zetes

RFID technology will enable inbound material tracking for sugar refiner. ...

... "Zetes has rolled out the pilot phase of a project based on RFID technology at the Azucarera Ebro Guadelete sugar refinery ... " ...

Via Supplychain Standard: RFID for sugar refinery

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

AIAG RFID Revision

The Automotive Industry Action Group, AIAG, updates its item-level RFID standard, offering a comprehensive view to its application in the industry. ...

... "B-11 revision enhances the global RFID user community's use of standards-based RFID technology to meet the needs of OEMs and the supply chain ... " ...

Via AIAG: RFID Standard B-11

Savi OilGas Industry RFID Shipping Management

Savi targets the oil and gas industry supply chain with RFID solution enabling visibility to upstream assets. The solution is created through strategic partnerships with Shipcom Wireless and KBR Wireless. ...

... "By automating visibility, asset and shipment management in upstream operations, this newly tailored solution can cut costs and improve performance, efficiency, security and regulatory compliance. The fully integrated solution can help the oil and gas industry minimize rig downtime, enhance asset utilization, reduce manual processing, and lessen data errors, write-offs, shrinkage and theft. Although new to the oil and gas industry, this type of solution already has proven successful in the chemical, aerospace, defense and other industries. The Savi SmartChain Enterprise Platform and Asset Management application underpin the alliance’s combined solution, which leverages real-time data from Savi’s active RFID tags and KBR’s passive RFID tags, which can be affixed to all kinds of oil and gas assets. " ...

Via Savi: Oil and Gas Industry

Checkpoint RFID EAS Improves Metro Retail Loss

Checkpoint Systems collaborates with Metro Group to deliver an EAS solution built on RFID technology. The RFID-based Electronic Article Surveillance system will comply with GS1 EPCglobal EAS Overview and Technical Implementation Guide. ...

... "METRO Group is working with Checkpoint to deliver standards-compliant, RFID-based EAS to both mitigate loss and optimize our merchandise management, said Dr. Gerd Wolfram, Head of CIO-Office, METRO AG. This effort is in line with our stated RFID strategy to use tags for multiple purposes along the supply chain. We are pleased to continue our partnership with Checkpoint and we are convinced that the GS1 enhanced standards-based solutions are bringing benefits for retailers and suppliers. " ...

Via Checkpoint Systems: Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) Built on RFID

Implanet RFID Tracks Medical Devices in the Supply Chain

Implanet, a medical device manufacturer, will use IBM RFID sensor tech to enable its BeepNTrack service, which tracks the company's knee and hip implants throughout the healthcare supply chain. ...

... "The company's BeepNTrack service uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags to track medical devices from Implanet to hospitals. Prior to shipping, Implanet affixes an RFID tag bearing a unique serial number to the packaging of each individual device. Before a surgical procedure takes place, a hospital uses a handheld device to scan the tag from the medical device being implanted and stores that information along with the patient's records. The tag is given to the patient after surgery so he or she will have all available information concerning the implant in the event of future concerns. " ...

Via IBM: Software Protects Patients in the Event of Medical Device Recalls

Checkpoint Systems Metro RFID Program Expands into China and India

Checkpoint Systems will enable Metro Group's RFID efforts as it expands the use of the technology throughout its China and India supply chains to track inbound shipments and ensure improvement to its customer shopping experience, with inventory visibility and reduced stock-outs. ...

... "This third phase of the program will involve more than 75 Chinese and Indian consumer goods suppliers, in addition to the 100 manufacturers already in the program from Hong Kong, China and Vietnam. Tag It Easy! participants apply RFID labels on shipments bound for METRO Group's facilities in Germany.

The Tag It Easy! program is part of METRO Group's Advanced Logistics Asia (ALA) initiative to improve logistics processes with its Asian suppliers, using RFID to track merchandise throughout the supply chain. METRO Group developed the Tag It Easy! program with Checkpoint, a strategic partner of METRO Group’s Future Store Initiative, to assist suppliers in using RFID within their operations. As an exclusive third-party solutions provider Checkpoint continues to supply pre-printed RFID labels and services to suppliers in the region.

By using RFID to provide real-time visibility, METRO Group is increasing the efficiency of its supply chain, with the aim of improving the customer shopping experience. " ...

Via Checkpoint Systems: Supports METRO Group RFID Efforts in China and India Markets

Supply Chain Visibility through RFID Garment Tracking

G&P Net implements Alien Technology RFID solution for garment tracking in Europe to enable supply chain traceability and channel efficiency. ...

... "We previously didn’t have adequate control of our distribution channels or the grey market, but now, with the Aton and Alien RFID item level tagging solution, we have 100% supply chain inventory and channel management control. Now we can take inventory in just a fraction of the time and we have implemented monthly inventory checks at all of our channel retail stores. This increased visibility greatly reduces out-of-stocks which leads to better sales turnover and results in a win-win situation for everyone. " ...

Via Alien Technology: G&P Net of Italy

Pharma Supply Chain RFID Read Accuracy by NXP and Siemens

NXP will collaborate with Siemens on RFID-enabled pharmaceutical supply chain improvements. The projects will target efficiency improvement in the manufacture to retail business processes and will leverage NXP’s Application and System Center to simulate real-world environments. ...

... "The project focuses on creating a system based on NXP’s ICODE high frequency (HF) RFID technology incorporated into the labels of pharmaceutical products. The whole system is configured to already comply with the latest edition of the HF Gen2 standard, which is currently under final review by EPCglobal. The aim of the installation is to accurately bulk read several hundreds of labeled packages quickly, allowing the manufacturer to keep a thorough stock inventory at all points along the supply chain. The ASC enabled the Siemens IT Solutions and Services team to achieve industry benchmark HF read accuracy results. This was accomplished through the use of an advanced high speed anti-collision concept and the optimization of the entire system. " ...

Via NXP: Pharmaceutical RFID Innovation Collaboration

Apparel RFID Finland

Smart RFID-Integrated Supply Chain Software

Savi Technology releases SmartChain 6.0 software for managing visibility in the supply chain and just in time operations through RFID integration. ...

... "SmartChain 6.0 is designed to ease the integration of Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) technologies, such as bar codes, IUID, RFID, GPS and sensors, into existing business processes. With Savi SmartChain 6.0, it is easier than ever to manage assets, shipments and inventory moving within facilities and throughout the global supply chain. " ...

Via Savi Technology: Adaptive Applications Simplify Integration of RFID into the Enterprise

RFID Supplier Visibility

Omnitrol launches real-time visibility into the supplier value chain using RFID sensors. ...

... "OMNITROL Supplier Visibility extends the company’s industry-leading real-time operational and WIP visibility solution for manufacturers with real-time visibility on their orders directly from their suppliers’ shop floors. The OMNITROL Supplier Visibility network is enabling the industry’s first collaborative shop-floor to shop-floor supply chain based on real-time data from RFID and Wi-Fi sensors. OSV integrates seamlessly with Omnitrol Networks’ work-in-process (WIP) and global track-and-trace (GTT) solutions, providing complete supply-chain visibility. " ...

Via Omnitrol: Automated real-time supplier visibility network

RFID Future Factory

RFID and automated data collection will enable the future factory to operate efficiently and more fully embrace lean manufacturing principles. Shop floor transactions and supply chain material movements will be visible through RFID technology. ...

... "Pushing new manufacturing processes through the above mentioned bottlenecks are Radio Frequency based hardware and software solutions. These do not require line of site and manual intervention anymore to read information on fast moving objects or groups of items in large quantity. " ...

Via PCQuest: Future State for Factory Efficiency

RFID Supply Chain Information

Volkswagen RFID-Enabled Smart Supply Chain

Volkswagen Group and IBM collaborate to create a smart logistics process using RFID technology to increase efficiency in supply chain operations. Business processes, such as the material receiving process, will achieve operational excellence through automated data collection. An initial pilot has positioned the company to broaden its deployment to increase adoption and benefits realization. ...

... "The new system will significantly enhance the carmaker's efficiencies in day-to-day operations, for instance at the goods-receiving stage. As a result, Volkswagen is preparing to introduce this technology at its central logistics hall, located at its major plant in Germany. Volkswagen is deploying the new system following a one-year pilot project in which the automaker and IBM tested RFID technology with suppliers. Using this system, shipping containers carrying auto parts destined for Volkswagen will be increasingly fitted with RFID tags.

The information on the tagged containers is automatically collected by readers at all key locations throughout the supply chain -- first at the supplier's shipping department, through the transportation process until they arrive at Volkswagen, then during storage, collection and installation on the automaker's assembly line. The same process is used when Volkswagen returns the empty shipping containers to its suppliers to ensure that all containers are returned after the auto parts are received. The technology is also reducing the need for paper documents and barcode labels.

For the pilot, Volkswagen fitted around 3,000 shipping containers with passive RFID tags, supplied by Intermec Technologies Corporation. The technology has been refined so that it can also automatically register metal containers, which normally interfere with RFID technology. The tags were used on containers carrying sunroofs for the new Volkswagen Golf. Readers at the entrances to the manufacturing line, along with mobile handheld scanners and forklifts were used to identify the containers and their contents. " ...

Via IBM: Volkswagen Creates Smart Supply Chain With RFID Technology

Walgreens RFID in Distribution Channel

Behind the scenes, Walgreens is implementing RFID in its supply chain to create operational efficiencies. ...

... "It is one of the few retailers that is really using RFID for distribution center operations. In 2008, it announced it had integrated RFID with its shipping, warehouse management and material handling operations at its Anderson, South Carolina distribution center. " ...

Via Supply Chain Digest: Walgreens RFID Deployment

RFID Container Standards

ISO tech spec will ensure RFID tags perform in the container supply chain. ...

... "ISO/TS 10891:2009 provides specifications and test methods for RFID devices used for automatic identification of freight containers in supply chains. " ...

Via Refrigerated Transporter: RFID container tags

Retail RFID Implementation Tracks Clothing Through the European Supply Chain

Alien Technology teams up with Eren Holding to implement a high-volume RFID garment tracking installation in Istanbul, Turkey. The solution will provide end-to-end RFID traceability in the garment supply chain of retail stores (88) with a volume of nearly two million items. Eren Holding manufactures and distributes high-end garments, with brand names such as Lacoste, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Coach and Blank. ...

... "Eren Holding had a need to enhance its supply chain traceability process and reduce inventory control/labor costs, so it approached the Alien integrator, STS for a complete hardware and Oracle based software solution. Eren Holding’s main objective in adopting RFID was to provide 100 percent traceability of the clothing articles, from the manufacturing site to the distribution centers, and, finally, to the retail outlet. " ...

Via Alien Technology: RFID Retailing Installation in Europe with Lacoste, Calvin Klein and Burberry

Vela RFID Steel Tracking

Standard Supplies implements Vela Systems' Materials Tracker software integrated with building information modeling system that enables radio frequency identification (RFID) tracking of fabricated steel. The solution will be used to drive efficiency in the construction supply chain. ...

... "Standard Supplies will use Vela's Materials Tracker to track RFID-tagged fabricated steel pieces that form the structures for Standard Supplies customer projects. As pieces move through various phases of the production process, RFID information will be fed into Tekla Structures, a BIM solution used by Standard Supplies that covers the entire structural design process from conceptual design to detailing, fabrication and construction.

When enabled with field software and RFID, stakeholders in a construction project can manage critical-path steel fabrication components and visualize the supply chain. The end result is better production and erection management. " ...

Via Vela Systems: RFID TRACKING FOR FABRICATED STEEL

RFID Drug Traceability Pilot

A pharma track and trace RFID system is successfully piloted in a live operating, global supply chain. ...

... "Data carriers, including GS1 bar codes (data matrix) and EPC/RFID tags, were used in the pilot to enable the full traceability of every single drug product in the supply chain on all levels of packaging and to monitor the progress of its transportation lorries. The implementation of a 4 string data set which included the product code, serial number, expiry date and batch number enabling mass serialisation of packaging items, together with the EPCIS system, delivered the necessary traceability information which was recorded in and out of each supply chain participants’ custody. All data stored in the EPCIS system provided real time visibility of the tracked products such as where the product is, which company has it now and how long have they got it for, as well as historical data. " ...

Via GS1 UK: First drug traceability pilot

RFID Real-Time Supply Chain Edge Solutions

Omnitrol Networks will enter into collaborative relationship with BT Global Services to create real-time supply chain solutions using RFID technology. ...

... "The collaboration will enable BT Supply Chain Solutions to deliver enhanced and highly scalable real-time supply-chain, asset and operational visibility solutions utilizing next-generation Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), wireless and sensor technologies based on the Omnitrol Networks platform. The OMNITROL platform integrates a powerful Edge Application and Service Creation Engine, EASE, for delivering integrated real-time asset and work-in-process visibility solutions at a very competitive total cost of ownership. " ...

Via Omnitrol: Real-Time Edge Intelligence

RFID Forklift Systems

M/A-COM Technology Solutions introduces sensor-based RFID Forklift System focused on automated material movements in the supply chain. ...

... "The RFID Forklift System automatically records an RFID tagged pallet's exact storage location during handling and slotting processes, without requiring the operator to initiate traditional manual data collection methods, resulting in superior accuracy and efficiency throughout the supply chain. " ...

Via MSNBC, M/A-COM Technology Solutions: Sensor-Based RFID Forklift Systems

Supply Chain RFID

Baylor RFID Symposium

Baylor hosts RFID symposium, which will feature speakers such as Dr. Daniel Engels, director of Texas Radio Frequency Innovation and Technology Center at the University of Texas at Arlington. ...

... "Baylor University's Hankamer School of Business will host the fourth annual Symposium: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Integrated Supply Chains on Sept. 18 and Sept. 19. All events discussing the use of RFID in supply chains will take place on the fifth floor of the Cashion Academic Center at the Hankamer School of Business on the Baylor campus. " ...

Via Baylor University: Annual Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Symposium

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

Checkpoint RFID Strategy Gaining Traction

Checkpoint discusses quarterly results and sees the Oatsystems integration proceeding as planned. ...

... "Our Evolve RF and RFID-enabled product line continues to be well received by our customers and is gaining traction in the marketplace. The addition of OATSystems puts key aspects of Checkpoint's developing strategy for RFID EAS in place as the combination of Checkpoint and OATSystems uniquely positions us as a one-stop-shop for solutions that enable retailers and their supply chains to gain deeper inventory visibility, further reducing shrink and increasing bottom-line profits by enhancing on-shelf merchandise availability for consumers. " ...

Via Checkpoint Systems: Integration of OATSystems progressing as planned

RFID Paper Rolls

Sonoco and IPICO introduce RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology into the paper supply chain. ...

... "Using IPICO's dual frequency technology, the new fiber cores allow customers to automatically identify, track, and locate paper rolls at any point in the supply chain. IPICO and Sonoco have developed a unique process by which RFID technology is embedded in fiber-based cores. Sonoco is using this process to produce its new Intellicore engineered carriers which are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of paper manufactures, said John Colyer, Sonoco vice president, Industrial Products - North America. This technology can be read through any size of paper roll, which allows for easy management throughout the product's life cycle. " ...

Via Sonoco: Embedded Identification Technology

RFID Stent Tracking in Hospital

UMass Memorial Medical Center uses RFID technology to reduce costs, save lives by preventing mistakes, and reducing recall cycle times. ...

... "In UMass Memorial's shiny, four-year old catheterization laboratory, supply chain coordinator Raul Navarro slaps RFID tags onto boxes containing stents and balloons for use in the department's procedure rooms. " ...

Via Boston Globe: Stent Tracking

RFID, The Boxes Know ...

IBM vid on RFID inventory tracking ...

SAP AutoID RFID Integration

Cephalon, Inc. will implement OATSystems RFID solution to enable serialized shipment container tracking using SAP Auto-ID Infrastructure for RFID integration into business processes and operational workflows. ...

... "Cephalon, an international biopharmaceutical company, has been testing RFID technology for the past three years to improve supply chain efficiency and visibility. RFID serialized container tracking will support efforts to combat counterfeiting as well as improve process execution. OAT's RFID solution was integrated with SAP Solution for RFID to enable serialized shipping container tracking and to set the foundation for tracking drug pedigrees. Cephalon has architected SAP Auto-ID Infrastructure as an extension of its core ERP processes for serialized product and containers to enrich standard processes around deliveries, advanced shipping notices (ASNs), pick/pack/ship and handling. This new project extends this architecture further and leverages the combined OAT and SAP solution to enable distribution center-based processes and workflows to track serialized shipping containers. OAT commissions and associates the RFID tags with specific containers and records the containers' contents and attributes; SAP solutions provide process oversight, number range management and OAT provides operational workflow management. After processing, OAT reports back the shipping container’s EPC number and the details of its contents, enabling SAP business processes such as pharmaceutical advance shipping notices (RxASN) to be carried out automatically. " ...

Via OATSystems: RFID Solution Integrated With SAP Auto-ID Infrastructure Platform

RFID Print and Apply in Packaging Process

Mobile RFID Solution for Oracle by NCR

NCR integrates its radio frequency identification (RFID) software solution, called TransitionWorks for RFID and Mobility, with the Oracle ERP Suite to enable greater visibility into objects involved in supply chain business processes. ...

... "With the solution, Oracle's customers, including NCR, can augment current implementations of the Oracle E-Business Suite with updated, streamlined business processes. For example, if a warehouse forklift driver is directed to pick up a certain order, line items are automatically issued to that order as the RFID-enabled forklift retrieves pallets and moves them to a staging area or trailer. Conveyors can also be equipped with RFID readers, sensors and programmable logic controllers, allowing cases to be identified regardless of orientation and diverted down the correct lane. " ...

Via NCR: NCR Integrates RFID and Mobility Software with the Oracle E-Business Suite

Airbus RFID Worlds Largest RFID Manufacturing Initiative

Airbus selects IBM and OATSystems to implement multi-million dollar, multi-year RFID project to streamline Airbus' supply chain and manufacturing operations resulting in reduced aircraft production and maintenance costs. ...

... "The project represents the manufacturing industry's single largest RFID software transaction to date. Using a solution comprised of software from IBM and OAT, Airbus' objective is to error-proof and automate its supply chain and manufacturing operations, while also reducing costs. The company selected IBM and OAT for the project following exhaustive research and pilot testing over the past year. The IBM/OAT solution runs on IBM's RFID infrastructure, which is powered by service oriented architecture technology that includes the IBM WebSphere Premises Server and the IBM Business Process Management portfolio, including WebSphere Process Server and WebSphere Business Monitor. " ...

Via IBM: Airbus Selects IBM and OATSystems for World's Largest RFID-enabled Manufacturing Initiative

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

Mojix RFID Technology

New announcement and launch planned for upcoming RFID event. ...

... "Mojix plans to unveil a new technology and a new class of RFID system that brings quantum leaps in RFID reliability, reach, scale and security to supply chain management and asset tracking. " ...

Mojix Link

UHF Item-Level RFID for Pharma Supply Chain

RFID in the pharmaceutical supply chain ...

Walmart RFID Inventory Management Improves Accuracy

Airfreshener RFID-enabled inventory management study shows improved out-of-stock situations for Walmart stores. ...

... "The study's findings that RFID has a positive effect on inventory accuracy underscore the promise that the technology could streamline the supply chain. A more efficient and effective supply chain translates down the line to fewer out-of-stock items or excess inventory. " ...

Via Northwest Arkansas News: RFID improves inventory accuracy, study finds

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 Handles Retail Supply Chain Final Mile

Handleman Company is collaborating with epcSolution to demonstrate how RFID can serve the last 100 feet in retail, from the back room to the store shelf, enabling successful product promotions, new product launch, and improved store merchandise. ...

... "Handleman and epcSolutions saw an opportunity to combine their existing core competencies, together with RFID, to provide retailers and suppliers with increased visibility for the last 100 feet of the retail supply chain. The combined offering, known as Tag it, Ship it, Find it, Merchandise it, Return it (TM) is a solution that uses existing Handleman technology, epcSolutions RFID software and solutions, as well as the existing in-store merchandisers to provide a real solution. Join Handleman and epcSolutions as they discuss this breakthrough technology on February 20th at 2:00 pm ET during a free webinar that is open to all. This webinar will feature keynote speakers Khaled Haram and Kevin Kail. We encourage you to register today for this exciting and informative webinar. " ...

Via Handleman Company: Last 100 Feet of the Retail Supply Chain

Savi RFID Pilot Tracks Automotive Assets in the Supply Chain

Land Rover and Savi will pilot an active Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) solution that will achieve synchronized auto parts deliveries from multiple suppliers in Land Rover's supply chain to the company's assembly plant in West Midlands (U.K.). ...

... "Savi is supplying RFID hardware and software to enhance visibility, inventory management, and asset utilization, and to reduce losses, assembly plant disruptions, and time spent locating assembly parts. Phase 2 of this pilot enables 18 suppliers and Land Rover to better locate, track, and deliver stillages (specialized steel conveyances) that carry bumpers, front grills, suspension parts, moon roofs, and vehicle bodies, among other parts. Real-time information on RFID-tagged assets is shared among the partners and is automatically transmitted to cell phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and web-based tracking software. " ...

Via Savi Technology: RFID PILOT TO TRACK AUTO PARTS BETWEEN SUPPLIERS AND ASSEMBLY PLANT

West Midlands Automotive Cluster

WalMart Supplier RFID Policy

Walmart updates its RFID policy for suppliers to its Sam's Club stores. Walmart has developed a timeline to drive efficiencies into its supply chain. ...

... "The retailer says that beginning Jan. 30, it will charge suppliers a $2 fee for each pallet they ship to its Sam's Club distribution center in Texas that doesn't have an RFID tag. The charge is to cover Sam's Club's cost to affix tags on each pallet ... " ...

Via InformationWeek: WalMart Gets Tough

Mobile RFID Handheld Reader Integrates GPS WWAN Barcodes

Intermec introduces the IP30 RFID reader, that adds on mobile RFID read / write capability to Intermec mobile computer family. ...

... "The IP30 posts two RFID industry firsts. It becomes the first handheld RFID system with integrated GPS and WWAN when combined with the Intermec CN3 mobile computer. In addition, when the IP30 is combined with the Intermec CK61ex, it becomes the first handheld RFID system with an integrated near/far bar code imager enabling users to scan both 1D and 2D barcodes from a variety of distances up to 50 feet, conveniently complementing RFID data collection. Both firsts assure investment protection for customers as they build the supply chain of tomorrow. " ...

Via Intermec: New IP30 Handheld RFID Reader for Mobile Computers

WalMart RFID Compliance Becomes Company Supply Chain Foundation

Daisy Brands is leveraging its use of RFID technology for Walmart compliance into its broader supply chain. The benefits of a more robust tracking system is the foundation for a higher performance supply chain. This company's supply chain enables the flow of perishable products via a cold chain. ...

... "Daisy says its investment in RFID has been a boon, helping Daisy better manage the flow of its perishable products through WalMart stores and ensure marketing promotions proceed as planned ... " ...

Via Information Week: Dairy Company Leverages Walmart RFID Compliance

64Kb RFID Tag

Fujitsu introduces high-capacity RFID tag that delivers high-speed data writing and durability. The product is targeted for applications in highly efficient aircraft maintenance processes. Its high memory capacity (64KB RFID tag) supports automated data exchange and data management for tracking important assets over their lifecycles in the aviation supply chain. ...

... "Fujitsu developed a 64 KB high-capacity RFID tag memory for the aviation industry. Fujitsu's new RFID tag will increase the quality and the efficiency of aircraft maintenance operations by enabling the traceability of various products and maintenance information for parts exchanged between companies and across nations around the world. Overall, customers will realize improved supply chain management through shorter cycle times and lower costs. " ...

Via Fujitsu: World's First 64KByte High-Capacity FRAM RFID Tag for Aviation

RFID Drug Serialization for California

IBM and TAGSYS to deliver RFID technologies for item level serialization in pharmaceutical manufacturer packaging operations. ...

... "Serialization is the first step towards compliance with California's drug pedigree regulations and the basis for improved supply chain performance. As of January 1, 2009, all prescription drugs being sold in the State of California must bear a unique identifier that can be used to track products throughout the supply chain, making it easier to identify counterfeits and prevent them from reaching patients. The new IBM and TAGSYS offering provides the hardware, software, and services needed to validate the performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of RFID for this purpose. " ...

Via IBM: Serialization Pilot Kit for Pharmaceutical Manufacturers

Alien RFID European Implementations in Various Markets

European businesses are looking to differentiate themselves and gain efficiencies by applying RFID technology in their business processes. Here is evidence of the adoption as Alien gains customers in Europe in the food and retail industries. The companies are looking to increase the performance and responsiveness of their supply chains. ...

... "Penam, a leading bread producer in the Czech and Slovak republics, will use Alien tags and readers to track three hundred thousand crates throughout their supply chain. Additionally, Portuguese fashion retailer Throttleman, has specified Gen 2 Alien Squiggle inlays be used for the roll-out of its RFID pilot. " ...

Via Alien Tech: Czech Bread Producer and Portuguese Retailer Select Alien

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

Savi RFID Active Reader Order Enables Tracking

Savi Technology received orders of more than $3 million from Comtech Mobile Datacom Corporation for more than 6,000 Savi active Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reader modules, that will be used in tracking applications. ...

... "Comtech embeds Savi OEM active RFID reader modules into Comtech's satellite-based Movement Tracking System (MTS) kit atop the roof of the driver's cab, providing customers with two-way communications to automatically locate, manage and redirect ground shipments. MTS is used by the U. S. Army to automatically read and relay information of stockpiles at depots or in staging areas by driving MTS-mounted vehicles past RFID-tagged containers and supplies, providing mobile communications to the DoDs In-Transit Visibility network, the world's largest RFID-based cargo tracking system. Savi Technology holds a $424.5 million RFID II procurement contract with the U.S. DoD for active RFID products and services. Comtech Mobile Datacom Corporation recently announced that it was awarded a new $605.1 million indefinite delivery / indefinite quantity contract with the U.S. Army for its Movement Tracking System. " ...

Via Savi Tech: RFID-GPS-SATCOM System Orders Surpass 10,000 Unit Mark

Zebra RFID Printing Enables USAF Operating Supply Chain Model

Zebra Technologies is shipping RFID printer/encoders to the U.S. Air Force (USAF), enabling the USAF Cargo Movement Operation System (CMOS) at more than 214 locations world-wide. ...

... "The planned RFID initiative is expected to improve overall efficiency and productivity of the USAF's and Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain and other logistical operations. CMOS is a DoD support system designed to automate and streamline logistical processes and cargo movement through the strategic application of Automatic Identification Technology (AIT). The AIT Program Office at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is responsible for the implementation plan to promote the use of RFID automatic identification technology in the USAF." ...

U.S. AIR FORCE'S CARGO MOVEMENT OPERATION SYSTEM'S LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT

Metro RFID Future Store Initiative

Nice video of Metro Group's Future Store Initiative that relies on RFID for supply chain visibility. ...

Pharma RFID Integrated ePedigree with ERP

Acsis can reduce the time required to integrate ERP systems, RFID serialization systems and electronic pedigree (ePedigree) solutions through collaboration with pharmaceutical companies and SupplyScape ePedigree software. ...

... "The pharmaceutical supply chain is undergoing dramatic changes as manufacturers, distributors and retailers accelerate various initiatives to protect patient safety, product integrity, supply chain security, company brand and product revenue streams. To help meet this challenge and the related federal and state mandates, Acsis, in conjunction with SupplyScape, is deploying the industry's first scalable end-to-end RFID serialized solution, providing bi-directional integration of ERP systems and ePedigree applications. As part of the solution, Acsis integrates serialization information between the manufacturing shop floor and the ERP system, facilitating serialized Rx Advanced Shipping Notices (RxASN) and ePedigree records. " ...

Via Acsis: ERP, ePedigree and RFID Device Management Solutions for Pharmaceutical Marketplace

RFID eSeals Track Cargo Support ISO-18185

Savi Technology will license its intellectual property used in electronic cargo seals (e-Seals) to support global standard, ISO 18185. Active RFID technology is used for security and tracking of cargo that improves visibility and efficiency in the world trade supply chain. ...

... "E-Seals combine mechanical locks with wireless RFID communication systems to automatically notify users about security breaches and container locations. Program participants gain access to Savi's patent-protected, intellectual property on how these active, battery-powered RFID tags communicate with readers. Savi Technology launched the program May 1 with its QuickStart program, and continues licensing through its Basic program. The U.S. SAFE Port Act of 2006 calls for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (USDHS) to define the voluntary use of container security devices in accordance with international standards. USDHS considers ISO 18185 (International Standardization Organization), which enables interoperability of products from multiple vendors, as an applicable container security standard. " ...

Via Savi Tech: RFID E-Seal Licensing Program

Airbus RFID ODIN Expertise

Airbus partners with ODIN tech for RFID technology experience. ...

... "ODIN will provide solution design, deployment, testing and support services for the first of three ambitious phases to provide real-time automated visibility across the Airbus value chain. Airbus plans to employ ODIN expertise for numerous projects throughout its supply chain and assembly operations, and make ODIN's RFID services and performance optimization software available to Airbus suppliers and customers. " ...

Via ODIN technologies: Airbus Deal

RFID Fast Moving Consumer Goods

TOSHIBA TEC is working to demonstrate fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) in an integrated Supply Chain Management system, called the RFID EXPRESS POS Project. ...

... "The TOSHIBA TEC set up consisted of a barcode printer at the manufacturing side to print RFID tags and the innovative RFID-driven Express POS terminal in the retail shop. The combination of barcode and RFID technologies allows a gradual integration of RFID into the retail organisation while at the same time protecting their ICT investment. " ...

Via TOSHIBA TEC: TOSHIBA TEC tests Supply Chain Management program for item-level RFID consumer goods

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 PathMinder System Building Block

RFID PathMinder is a system building block that is configured to meet RFID application-specific needs in the industrial space. ...

... "The RFID PathMinder combines the RFID integration and domain expertise of URS/EG&G with Siemens advanced automation and RFID product technology to deliver the reliable, real-time, asset tracking required in supply chain logistics, retail distribution centers and manufacturing.

The RFID PathMinder offers a wide array of optional, fully integrated functionalities, including RFID reading (UHF), advanced event triggering, pre-processing/filtering RFID readings, wireless networking, PLC control, motion control, optical data matrix reader interfaces, status indicators (light column, audio alarms, HMI) and UPS protected power. The RFID PathMinder can also be configured to include an all-flash memory based industrial PC (Siemens Microbox controller) to support application specific software locally. " ...

Via Siemens: Siemens & URS/EG&G Introduce RFID PathMinder

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

RFID Growth in Farm Supply Chain

New market research shows that the use of RFID systems and tags will increase to $5.8 billion spent in managing the food supply chain by 2017. ...

... "The allied sector of RFID on animals and in farming is similarly rising rapidly in dollars spent, an already robust figure of $462 million in 2007 rising to $2.6 billion in 2007. " ...

Via Research and Markets: RFID for Animals, Food and Farming

RFID Research in Retail Supply Chain

Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals funds RFID research. ...

... "Hardgrave's research team has already been collaborating with WalMart Stores Inc. in the use of RFID at the pallet and case level, and found that using the tags can reduce out-of-stock inventory by 30 percent. " ...

Via The Morning News: RFID Lab

Metro Supplier RFID Tag Pilot

METRO Group's Tag It Easy! pilot uses Checkpoint RFID labels to manage the inbound supply-side of its supply chain in Asia to Germany. ...

... "The METRO Group expects that the RFID pilot will optimize efficiency and transparency in the international flow of goods. Access to more-accurate, real-time shipment data will help the retailer improve control over its international supply chain, resulting in lower warehousing costs and reduced out-of-stock situations.

METRO Group has standardized on UHF EPC Gen 2 tags for compliance to all regional requirements: 917 - 922 MHz for China; 920 - 925 MHz for Hong Kong; and 865.6 - 867.6 MHz for Europe. The RFID tags on the labels provided by Checkpoint will store the Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC), which will be read at several points along the supply chain from Hong Kong to Unna, Germany. The METRO Group will receive an electronic delivery note in advance of the shipment, detailing the container content. The supplier also benefits, by gaining detailed proof of package delivery. The pilot will run for three months, and the METRO Group expects to extend the project to include several other Asian suppliers at a future date if the concept proves to be feasible. " ...

METRO Group and Checkpoint Systems Partner to Help Suppliers Tag it Easy

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

RFA RFID Technology Provides DVD Theft Protection in Supply Chain

NXP Semiconductors and Kestrel Wireless collaborate to develop an RFA (Radio Frequency Activation) RFID solution to provide DVD theft protection throughout the supply chain. The solution enables the ability to disable DVDs at manufacture and enable at the point of sale, rendering the in-transit goods useless while in the supply chain, which eliminates the motive for theft. ...

... "The first application of NXP and Kestrel's RFA / RFID solution will be integrated into optical media. The solution, however, is applicable to all consumer electronics products, such as MP3 players, electric shavers, toothbrushes, flat screen TVs, ink jet cartridges and flash memory. NXP and Kestrel's network-based RFID solution opens up new opportunities for the distribution of optical media and consumer electronics. It eliminates expensive security devices, restrictive packaging and display cages, enabling a more comfortable shopping experience for consumers. Minimized product packaging creates more environmentally friendly solutions, such as paper instead of plastics. Additionally, the costs and problems of returns for DVDs and other disc-based media are reduced. " ...

Via NXP: NXP and Kestrel Wireless partner to eliminate theft of DVDs in retail

RFID Discovery Services

Afilias will offer its Discovery Services for free to RFID supply chain pilot programs through 2007. ...

... "Afilias Discovery Services provide a unique standards-based solution that companies can implement to link their supply chain partners to historical information concerning the life cycle of RFID tags, while still keeping competitive data secure. " ...

Via Afilias: Free Discovery Services for RFID Pilots

WalMart RFID Technology Expansion Continues Per CIO

Executive Vice President and CIO Rollin Ford describes WalMart's plan to continue implementation of RFID technology in a keynote speech at the RFID Journal Live conference in Orlando, Florida. ...

... "WalMart Stores continues to expand its RFID capability to additional facilities, enabling an additional 400 WalMart stores by the end of this fiscal year, WalMart Executive Vice President and CIO Rollin Ford said in a speech Monday. Ford also discussed the technology's current and future benefits to both business and consumers including broad benefits for improving sustainability. He said current benefits include a 30 percent reduction of out-of-stocks, reduction of excess inventory in the supply chain, and sustainability impacts. Ford also outlined advancements including pallet locators now being used at Sam's Club locations. On a daily basis, more than 24 million people shop our stores. If 100,000 extra trips are avoided by having items in stock, we will save customers $22.8 million a year in gas savings and reduce greenhouse gases by 80,209 metric tons. " ...

Via WalMart: WalMart Continues RFID Technology Expansion

Kimberly-Clark RFID Data Enables Demand Forecasting and Lower Out-Of-Stock Conditions On Retail Shelves

TrueDemand Software closes enterprise-wide license deal with Kimberly-Clark that integrates RFID technology into the demand forecasting and replenishment system. ...

... "Kimberly-Clark will leverage the TrueDemand Forecast and Replenishment Manager (FRM) Release 2.1 to improve sales by reducing retail shelf out-of-stocks (OOS) for its global consumer product brands, which include Kleenex, Scott, Huggies, Pull-Ups and Kotex. TrueDemand's FRM solution will leverage RFID data to provide Kimberly-Clark with greater insight including: perpetual inventory by retail store and selling floor, a daily forecast by product and store, and OOS root causes and lost sales by product and store and retail DC, with prioritized actions for replenishment analysts, retail partners and field operations teams. As a result, Kimberly-Clark will be able to more accurately predict product availability, inventory, execution and out-of-stock problems at the aggregate level across all stores, as well as at the detailed product-store level, and take the appropriate preventive action. TrueDemand’s unique predictive software will recommend specific replenishment, forecasting and store operations actions that Kimberly-Clark can take to help improve sales and market share. It provides out-of-stock root cause analysis and recommendations for continuous improvement for regular replenishment." ...

Via Kimberly-Clark: Kimberly-Clark to Power Shelf-Back Supply Chain (PDF) ...

RFID Zero-Sales Preventer Avoids Out-of-Stocks Through Real-Time Supply Chain Visibility

New Zero Sales Prevention module enables manufacturers to improve the real-time performance of their retail businesses by leveraging RFID-enabled supply chain information to avoid stock-outs and support decision making. ...

... "The new service represents a revolutionary advance in how manufacturers use and view RFID data to find supply chain issues, understand root causes and quickly resolve problems to ensure sales are not negatively impacted. Manufacturers such as Ocean Spray Cranberries, an early adopter of the service, are now able to prevent more out-of-stocks and zero sales days because of the visibility provided by TR3's On-Demand RFID Solutions. TR3's Zero Sales Prevention module is a new addition to the company's TR3 On-Demand Solutions suite - currently in use by more than 30 leading manufacturers - that enables product managers to dramatically improve promotions and perishables management and prevent out-of-stock situations. By automatically converting the millions of RFID scans received from retailers on a daily basis, TR3 On-Demand sifts, organizes and extracts critical issues that were previously invisible to product and supply chain managers. Within a single dashboard, manufacturers can view the performance of each product line and have visibility to prioritize and fix supply chain issues in real-time. " ...

Via TR3 Solutions: TR3 Solutions Extends Leadership in RFID Solutions with Release of Zero Sales Prevention Module

RFID Open-Standards Benefits Container Tracking Per Pilot

Recent active RFID pilot project using Oracle and Savi Technology infrastructure validates the need for common standards to realize benefits in port operations. RFID-enabled seaborne shipping containers provide real-time tracking status in the Asian supply chain tested in the pilot, using EPC Information Services (EPCIS), a draft standard championed by GS1 EPCglobal. The objective of this effort is to enable greater transport visibility across stakeholders, countries and continents. ...

... "The benefits seem clear, but many vendors and end users believe that the prerequisites for greater RFID adoption in this sector are a common nomenclature for RFID data, and a standard framework for the way in which that information is shared via open standards such as EPCIS. The EPCglobal pilot with Savi and Oracle represents a significant step towards the practical realization of a truly useful standard, notes Liard. It is the first real-world demonstration among port operators of the potential created when multiple trading partners and service providers can speak the same language. " ...

Via ABI ResearchContainer Tracking Pilot Highlights the Benefits of RFID Standards in Port Management

LIME RFID Tag Secure Encryption of Item-Level Data

SecureRF Corp introduces the LIME RFID-Tag, which is a battery-assisted passive tag with security technology that authenticates and encrypts data communications on the tag. It can be used at the item-level that only allows authorized readers to access the sensitive information on the tag. The company will begin deployment of the LIME tag in the pharmaceutical industry supply chain. The RFID tag will support authentication and data protection to address drug counterfeiting through cryptographic methods that translate into an electronic seal. ...

... "The company's strong LIghtweight Multistream Encryption Tag (LIME Tag) is based on SecureRF and industry standard security protocols. SecureRF's solutions include integration technology that allows its tags to be used with most of today's Gen 2 compliant readers without the need for firmware upgrades. This will allow currently deployed systems to easily upgrade to a fully secured supply chain with little cost or change to their current network. Mike McGregor, formerly a lead RFID chip designer at Alien Technology Corp. and one of the industry's foremost RFID chip engineers, is in charge of creating the new LIME Tag. SecureRF's founders include three world-class mathematicians / cryptographers who developed the cryptographic algorithm. " ...

Via SecureRF: LIME Tag authenticates and encrypts data communications on the tag ...

RFID Solution Center Certified

EPCglobal Inc. certifies Alien Technology's Dayton RFID Solution Center with its Performance Test Center Accreditation mark. ...

... "The Accreditation Mark signifies that the Alien RFID Solution Center has successfully completed the EPCglobal Performance Test Center Audit and that it uses a standard set of performance test profiles to simulate real-world conditions in testing the readability of end-user products that are tagged with the Electronic Product Code. In successfully completing the audit, the Alien RFID Solutions Center is now accredited to provide RFID-tagged unit performance testing services in dynamic conveyor and dock door portal environments, in order to provide organizations with the assurance of a uniform level of readability for their tagged items across the supply chain. " ...

Via Alien Technology: Alien RFID Solutions Center, Dayton accredited for EPCglobal-certified RFID conveyor and dock door testing ...

RealTime RFID Cargo Tracking Pilot in Asia

Oracle and Savi Technology collaborate to implement real-time the location tracking of cargo containers shipped from Hong Kong to Japan. The pilot project with GS1 EPCglobal has been completed. ...

... "The milestone project was the first time that real-time information generated from active, battery-powered RFID tags on sea containers was exchanged with EPC Information Services (EPCIS), a draft GS1 EPCglobal standard enabling trading partners to communicate in a common computer language on objects moving throughout the supply chain. The communication interface with the EPCIS Server and Repository was enabled through integration of Oracle Sensor Edge Server, a component of Oracle Fusion Middleware, as well as Savi Site Manager operating software and active RFID tag and data collection systems. " ...

Via Oracle: Oracle and Savi Technology Provide Critical Information Link to Track Active RFID-Tagged Containers Shipped from Hong Kong to Japan ...

Shaw Industries RFID Implementation For Supply Chain Value

Shaw Industries Group, Inc. partners with ODIN to implement RFID technology at 37 of its distribution sites around the United States. This implementation brings the total number of RFID-enabled sites to 40 for Shaw. ODIN helped Shaw to pilot RFID for supply chain visibility and retailer compliance in 2006. Shaw understands the ROI of an RFID-enabled supply chain system and is implementing RFID across its US distribution network. Supply chain visibility will drive operational efficiency and improve customer service. ...

... "ODIN technologies is currently deploying an RFID enabled Master Bill of Lading tracking and visibility system that was originally piloted in 2006. With the system, Shaw has real time visibility into the status of trucks and customer orders in its distribution network. This will allow Shaw to be more effective and also provide their customers with accurate feedback on order shipment status. The Master Bill of Lading system will be deployed at an additional seven primary Distribution Centers (DCs) and an additional 30 regional DCs located across the country. ODIN technologies deployed RFID printers and customized secure RFID enclosures. The acceptance testing protocol documented 100% read rates in the pilot and is fully integrated into MQ Series and Shaw’s legacy systems. " ...

Via ODIN technologies: Shaw Industries RFID Implementation

Bookseller RFID Enables Growth

Bookseller implements RFID technology from its supply chain throughout the customer experience and shows increased sales. ...

... "Selexyz, the Netherlands's largest book chain, has been testing an RFID inventory-management system at an outlet in the town of Almere. " ...

Via CNN-Money: Bookseller uses RFID technology

Hyundai RFID Enables Supply Chain Management

Hyundai-Kia Motors Group, South Korean vehicle manufacturer, implements RFID technology to provide visibility throughout the automotive parts supply chain. Transitioning from applied bar code labels, Hyundai Group's Glovis company will automate its distribution process with RFID to acquire real-time distribution information. ...

... "In March 2007, Glovis, an affiliated company of Hyundai/Kia Motors Group in charge of the supply chain management (SCM), will begin receiving RFID tagged boxes of automotive parts from more than 200 suppliers. In the first phase of the project, approximately 130,000 UPM Raflatac DogBone UHF RFID tags will be applied to parts boxes and packaging cases from five major suppliers for exportation to Hyundai/Kia Motors' overseas factory in Alabama, USA. In the second phase, 20 million UPM Raflatac RFID tags will be used annually to track all boxes and containers of automotive parts through the supply chain. Using RFID technology, Glovis will be able to track corrugated cardboard boxes of automotive parts through the major SCM processes, including delivery to the distribution centre, the repacking process, leaving the distribution centre, delivery to the overseas distribution centre and final delivery to Hyundai/Kia Motors' overseas factory. In the RFID-enabled SCM, the completion reports for each process are automatically collected by passing the parts boxes through an RFID interrogator gate. " ...

Via UPM Raflatac: UPM Raflatac RFID tags enhance supply chain management at Hyundai/Kia Motors

DLA RFID: Zebra Printers Label DOD Supply Chain

Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) will deploy Zebra Technologies' radio frequency identification (RFID) printers for smart labeling applications throughout the Defense Distribution Center's (DDC) global supply chain. ...

... "ODIN technologies selected Zebra to provide its reliable RFID printer/encoders for the initiative. DLA is a U.S. Department of Defense agency providing supply support as well as technical and logistics services to the military services and to several civilian agencies. Headquartered at Fort Belvoir, Va., DLA is the one source for supplying nearly every consumable item to the military, whether for combat readiness, emergency preparedness or day-to-day operations. Announced in May 2006, the prime contract calls for ODIN to provide DLA's global distribution centers with a UHF RFID technology solution and supporting equipment by the end of 2007. ODIN recently outfitted 71 facilities at 17 DDC sites to accept RFID-tagged cases and pallets from suppliers. In addition to receiving RFID-tagged material, the DDC has developed UHF EPC Gen 2 tagging capabilities, which are now being further enhanced throughout DLA distribution centers. To date, more than 100 Zebra-brand R110Xi high performance RFID printer/encoders have been ordered. " ...

Via Zebra Technologies: Defense Logistics Agency Runs With Zebra Technologies for Global RFID Initiative

WalMart RFID Challenging Rollout

Walmart is challenged to complete its full roll-out of RFID technology through its supply chain. ...

... "But so far it has installed the technology at just five, plus 1,000 stores. WalMart expects to add another 400 stores this year. " ...

Via Graphic Arts Monthly: WalMart RFID

ItemLevel RFID Pharma Packaging

Impinj RFID solutions address high tag-throughput rates and secure track and trace capabilities, which are essential deployment criteria for RFID technology in pharmaceutical supply chains. Impinj RFID reader achieves read reliability with throughput exceeding 1000 tags per second in supply chain environments, and 200 tags per second in dense reader environments with up to eight readers. ...

... "Scheduled for production-level deployment in the second quarter of 2007, Purdue Pharma's Gen 2 RFID-enabled packaging line will utilize the Impinj GrandPrix UHF RFID solution, comprising Speedway readers, tags powered by Monza chips, and application-specific near-field reader antennas. The packaging line will be certified for production readiness under SYSTECH International's TIPS Serialized Product Tracking solution that includes exhaustive tests modeling Purdue Pharma production packaging environments. During advance testing, the Impinj-powered packaging line surpassed tag read rate requirements with 100% tag read reliability. " ...

Via Impinj: Purdue Pharma Selects Impinj Gen 2 RFID Item-Level Tagging Technology for First-of-Its-Kind High-Speed Packaging Line

China RFID SupplyChain: Exponential Growth Opportunity

Research report explores future market for RFID technology in China and discusses the government policies towards development of RFID in the country. ...

... "China is aware of the role RFID tags can play in improving the competence of manufacturing and supply chain management and data collection. Considering the vast variety of potential applications and the power it has to cut the supply chain costs significantly, the RFID market is anticipated to record an exponential growth in China in the coming years. " ...

China Banking on RFID

RFID Supply Chain Implementation at SSA: Intermec Technology Deployed

Intermec implements RFID (radio frequency identification) technology for the United States Social Security Administration, that improves data collection accuracy and reduces labor costs. The SSA automated data collection in its warehouse and supply chain which resulted in accurate data and increased customer service performance. A 70% labor savings is targeted in its inventory management processes. ...

... "The SSA deployed Intermec RFID hardware in its Supply Chain Management program to fulfill more than 42,000 orders for forms, publications and other documents each year and ship 240,000 line items to SSA office locations worldwide. Operating from an 80,000 square-foot supply building at SSA headquarters in Woodlawn, Md., the agency implemented a paperless warehouse management control system upgrade that integrates the Intermec IP3, IP4 and 1555 portable RFID readers and PM4i printers with RFID software from System Concepts and warehouse management system software from Radio Beacon. The system tracks and validates each warehouse operation and incorporates workload scheduling software to optimize employee productivity and provide control over the inventory management processes. " ...

Via Intermec: Social Security Administration Uses Intermec RFID Technology to Improve Data Collection Accuracy, Reduce Labor Costs ...

Checkpoint RFID Metro Pilot Implementation Solves Technical Challenges

Checkpoint Systems is involved in pilot of UHF RFID technology at METRO Group's Distribution Centres near Hamm, Germany, under supervision of the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) task group 34 (TG34). The European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) plays a major role in the global standardization of Information and Communication Technologies. This pilot has been created to improve the read performance of RFID tags in a high-density UHF reading environment and validate the performance of portal dock door solutions. The successful pilot solves UHF RFID challenges and supports Metro's plan to implement RFID more broadly in 2007. The Metro RFID implementation is aimed at enhancing customer service and increasing the efficiency of its supply chain. METRO Group is an international retailing company with 2005 sales of EUR55.7 billion. The company has a headcount of about 250,000 employees and operates more than 2,200 outlets in 30 countries. ...

... "Utilizing equipment from numerous RFID suppliers in Europe and North America, Checkpoint served as a hardware integrator for the trials. In this capacity, Checkpoint helped with the design work for the hardware solution and procurement, configuration and installation of the 36 RFID-enabled dock door portals which were used to validate successful simultaneous operation of multiple dock doors using a 4-channel synchronized approach under the ETSI 302 208 standard. Pallets containing 62 individually tagged cases largely containing RFID unfriendly materials (such as cans, liquids and metal lined items) were simultaneously transported at warehouse speeds through 36 adjacent loading dock doors. Some 4.5 million individual reads were recorded over the course of the trials. Complying with the ETSI listen before talk (LBT) requirements, the tests achieved a 98.5%+ read rate simultaneously from multiple pallets as they were wheeled through the dock doors. " ...

Via Checkpoint Systems: Checkpoint Systems Partners with Metro Group to Successfully Deploy UHF RFID Dock Door Solution: 98.5%+ Read Rate Represents Milestone in European RFID Deployment ...