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

Active RFID Technology Secures Port of Oakland

WhereNet Corp. will assist the Port of Oakland in meeting security requirements of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) by implementing a truck RFID tagging system at one of its most active marine terminals. Drayage trucks at the Oakland International Container Terminal (OICT) will be equipped with WhereNet active RFID tags. ...

... "The Port of Oakland has purchased 1,700 WhereTag active RFID transmitters and is contracting with WhereNet and eModal to distribute the tags to drayage companies that serve the OICT, which is operated by Stevedoring Services of America Terminals (SSAT). WhereNet has completed installation of RFID readers at OICT and drivers using that terminal are already voluntarily installing the tags on their truck cabs. When a driver arrives at the terminal and approaches security, a transmission from the WhereTag is picked up by the WhereNet Real-Time Locating System (RTLS) infrastructure of antennas installed at each marine terminal and automatically cross-references with the information available through the eModal trucking database, ensuring that only authorized vehicles are granted entry. The Port of Oakland's security initiative should be bolstered by the recent DHS decision, announced on January 9, 2007, to award increased grant funding to help secure California ports this year. " ...

Active RFID Technology Improves Security at Port of Oakland

RFID Tags Diabetes Patients

VeriChip tags 18 diabetic patients with its RFID-enabled VeriMed Patient Identification System at the Atlanta Diabetes EXPO, under sponsorship of the American Diabetes Association (ADA). ...

... "At the EXPO, physicians implanted VeriMed RFID microchips in conference attendees who signed up for the voluntary procedure. The VeriMed Patient Identification System, which utilizes an implantable RFID microchip in combination with a handheld RFID scanner and a secure patient database, provides immediate access to important health information for patients who arrive at an emergency department unable to communicate. " ...

Via VeriChip: Diabetic Patients RFID Tagged with Microchip ...

RFID-Enabled Data Center: Tape Location

Imation teams with B&L Associates, Inc. to deliver an RFID-enabled tape tracking system. Imation's DataGuard system is integrated with B&L's VaultLedger or Vertices software to support data administrators work processes: storage, protection, tracking and instantly location of th audit trail of every data cartridge in their data center's tape libraries. ...

... "With RFID-tagged labels affixed to each tape cartridge, administrators can easily check-in and check-out each cartridge via entry and exit workstations. The cartridges -- or case of cartridges -- are then tracked via the B&L VaultLedger or Vertices software. " ...

B&L Associates Partners with Imation to Deliver Next-Generation Tape Tracking System Software

Retail RFID Implementation: European Shoes

Checkpoint Systems enters into a strategic agreement with RENO, European shoe retailer. The agreement will enable an RFID source-tagging program and implementation at 700 retail locations across six countries with NDRF-based (New Digital Radio Frequency) RFID tagging system. The implementation will be completed in May. The RFID system will support reduction of shrinkage and improvement of the customer experience. ...

... "Switching from EM to NDRF technology, RENO wants to further optimise both its market presence and its operational processes. To be successful in the shoe retail trade the goods have to be presented in the right way. As well as displaying shoes in pairs and in boxes, an open shop construction is also particularly important, says Konigs. With NDRF, the current aisle widths in the branches could be increased from 90 cm to 1.80 m and a more customer friendly entrance introduced. Further improvements in the business process include simpler deactivation of the tagged goods at the point of sale. The cashier transaction is sped up while it guarantees that no customer will leave the store with a tag that accidentally remains activated, thereby triggering a false alarm. RENO's decision for radio-frequency source tagging is a further step towards a uniform standard in security technology, not only in Germany, says Ulrich Schafer, Vice-President and General Manager NCE Unit, of Checkpoint Systems. For retailers, radio-frequency source tagging is the best option for reducing the costs of shrinkage. At the same time they are able to create a customer-friendly shopping atmosphere, which will help to boost sales. " ...

Via Checkpoint Systems: RENO Partners with Checkpoint Systems for Its Source Tagging Programme

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

Robot RFID Asset Management for Hospitals

Aethon Inc makes availabile its mobile RFID-enabled solution that locates, delivers and recovers hospital assets. The solution performs automated transportation featuring an RFID-based asset tracking system and a robotic asset delivery and recovery system. The solution helps hospitals to improve efficiency and patient satisfaction, increase utilization of assets, and improve regulatory compliance. ...

... "HOMER's unique asset tracking capabilities are an outgrowth of technology made possible by TUG, the most successful automated courier system for the delivery and recovery of hospital goods and supplies. Leveraging the TUG platform, HOMER employs a single mobile antenna that eliminates the typical infrastructure hurdles of competitors’ systems. This translates into more efficient organization and location of pumps, wheelchairs, monitors, respirators, beds and virtually any other assets hospitals are interested in tracking. A cost-effective and comprehensive solution, HOMER can seamlessly merge with existing hospital systems and requires minimal installation. HOMER works with active RFID tags (unique identifiers). Because it can use any third-party tag, HOMER is tag independent. Furthermore, HOMER can be integrated into existing asset management software. Aethon provides installation, tag selection and setup, software integration, training and support. TUG is an autonomous mobile robot that requires no extra infrastructure investment, is simple to install and has many applications such as central supply, dietary, pharmacy, laboratory, medical records, nursing and linens. Currently, the TUG delivery and recovery system is being used in hospitals across 75 sites. Many hospitals have deployed multiple TUGs to save time and money, while increasing staff and patient satisfaction. " ...

Via Aethon: Aethon Redefines Hospital Asset Utilization ...

RFID Track Trace Financial Logistics

SecurCash implements RFID-ready track and trace system, from Transtrack International and Capturetech, to manage dynamic cash logistics and monitor cash transports closely for efficiency and security. ...

... "With the implementation, SecurCash is ready for future RFID technology. RFID makes it possible to work more flexibly and securely. RFID ensures all details of cash transport are registered through reading a chip. This makes the presence of personnel in the transfer of packages partially obsolete. In addition, pay-in safes can independently indicate using specific parameters when a cash transport is required. RFID technology enables SecurCash to use routes dynamically, which benefits security. " ...

Via SecurCash: Tracking & Tracing Prepares Cash Transport for the Future

RFID Patent iCE Invention Bridges Tags

Syscan receives broad patent for iCE technology from Canadian Patent Office. ...

... "Syscan believes that iCE is a significant leap forward in the evolution of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification); not only for the Company's selected verticals in agriculture, pharmaceuticals and the military but throughout the entire spectrum of RFID. With iCE, the real-time desktop monitoring of remote assets can be significantly enhanced and the much predicted internet of things made more functional.

Syscan's iCE invention was developed using an energy-efficient dynamic bi-directional communications protocol that employs transmission windows to dramatically reduce the power consumption of Tag batteries, which comprise a major portion of the per-Tag cost. iCE Readers can access Tags that would normally be out of range by substituting other Tags that are within reach to temporarily act as communication bridges to relay data to the Reader. The architecture of the iCE RFID network can be defined by the Reader or the Tags according to their positions and characteristics. Once configured, the system is equipped with enough intelligence and is sufficiently dynamic to enable it to operate by itself without human intervention, regardless of whether or not there is a change in the position of the Tags or in their environment. " ...

Via Syscan: Syscan's Breakthrough RFID Technology Approved for Patent

Russia RFID Transportation Application: Moscow Metro

UPM Raflatac will supply RFID inlays for contactless passenger tickets on the Moscow Metro. The RFID inlays will be supplied in cooperation with Moscow-based Comvision Russland for ticket converting at JSC Mikron. ...

... "The Moscow Metro is one of the world's most heavily used metro systems, carrying 8.2 million passengers on a normal weekday. The RFID inlays provided by UPM Raflatac will replace the cards with magnetic stripe Moscow Metro is currently using for tickets with a fixed number of journeys. For seasonal tickets, the Moscow Metro is already using contactless RFID smart cards which enable significantly faster entry for passengers. The Moscow Metro was the first metro system in Europe to implement smart cards together with a new type of magnetic card in 1998. In the first stage, the monthly usage of UPM Raflatac HF inlays based on the Mifare Ultralight standard will be 5 million pieces. After a transitional period at the end of summer 2007, usage will rise to approximately 30 million inlays per month. " ...

Via UPM Raflatac: UPM Raflatac supplies RFID inlays for Moscow Metro contactless tickets ...

RFID Research Intermec NASA Collaborate

NASA and Intermec will collaborate to research new automated identification technology, such RFID that can function on space vehicles. Tests are planned to verify the application of RFID to parts identification. The Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala., is one of NASA's largest and most diversified installations. ...

... "Intermec announced a cooperative research effort with the NASA George C. Marshall Space Flight Center to investigate new Automatic Identification Tracking (AIT) System technologies. New technologies to be developed will qualify machine-readable symbol markings and RFID devices for use on space-borne vehicles.

Intermec also will prepare additional marked samples and soft and rigid RFID tags to be included in MISSE 6, scheduled for July 2007. The part identification markings and tags - which remain readable after exposure to the extreme levels of ultraviolet radiation, atomic oxygen, hard vacuum, and contamination in low earth orbit - will be evaluated and then certified for use on future space vehicles and added to NASA's part identification requirements. " ...

Via Intermec: Intermec Partners with NASA to Research New Automated Part Tracking Technologies for Space-Borne Vehicles

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 ...

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 Wristband Point-of-Sale Ski Application

Precision Dynamics implements Smart Band RFID Wristband System at Sno Mountain, formerly Montage Mountain, in the Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania. Denis Carlson, President of Sno Mountain, sees the RFID technology as a competitive differentiator for its customer experience, and has potential to increase revenue through cashless point-of-sale transactions. ...

... "The RFID wristband system provides added conveniences to guests including automated ski lift tickets and cashless point-of-sale (POS). Purchasing food and beverages at the ski park is a breeze using Smart Band's contactless payment feature. Guests can load money onto their wristband at POS stations using cash, credit or debit cards. Smart Bands work well in any environment-wet or dry-making them a great addition to any ski resort. " ...

Via Precision Dynamics Corporation: Sno Mountain Implements Precision Dynamics' Smart Band RFID Wristbands for Automated Ski Lift Passes and Cashless Point-of-Sale ...

3M RFID Library Productivity

3M Library Systems introduces new features into its workstations that make them fast, reliable and easy-to-use RFID products in the library environment. ...

... "Like its 3M predecessor model, the 3M Model 946 - with its ergonomic design - performs checkout or return in one step, combining RFID item identification and Tattle-Tape Security Strip from 3M in the same operation. The system also can perform bar code-to-RFID conversions for new acquisitions and smaller scale collections. For visual and audio media, it enables staff to verify that the case and item within match, without opening the case, and can confirm the presence of a sensitized Tattle-Tape Security Strip by means of a verifier light. Also introduced today was the 3M Conversion Station Model 812, an improved self-contained portable system for rapidly scanning bar codes and converting the data for RFID. Compared to its predecessor model, it contains a larger touch-sensitive screen, an easier-to-load 3M RFID tag dispenser, and the capability of converting all 3M RFID tag formats. Similar to its predecessor, 3M Model 812's sophisticated laser scanner is effective for virtually any bar code location or orientation, and provides a visible scan line that helps the user place items correctly. Because it does not require connection to an automated circulation system, the workstation can be easily moved on its cart for use in the stacks. The station also can reprogram RFID tags as items change. " ...

Via 3M Library Systems: 3M Unveils Two Advanced RFID Workstations with Additional Enhancements for Productivity and Security ...

Libraries are increasingly using RFID technology to manage their processes. ...

3M: Wyoming's Largest Public Library Chooses 3M RFID for Expanded Facility:

... "With the 3M RFID system, everything in the library's collection is affixed with an RFID tag. The tag contains a tiny antenna and a memory chip that stores information about each item's identity and allows accurate identification and tracking. A cordless, handheld scanner reads the tags, enabling library staff to easily locate, inventory, check in and check out materials. Unlike barcode systems, RFID does not require line of sight between the tag and the scanner, resulting in easier, more efficient tracking. " ...

Lower RFID Pricing: Inventory Solutions

Axcess reduces pricing for its Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) enabled asset management solution, called Asset Activator, in order to support faster return on investment for its customers. ...

... "The unique active RFID system automatically provides precise automatic location determination, tracking, inventory counts, and physical protection for all types of enterprise assets. The reduced pricing is designed to generate an ROI for the customer of less than six months for all system sizes. The low cost RFID asset management solution enables corporations to manage assets and effectively protect intellectual property and customer privacy data. Corporations can more easily comply with state personal privacy notification laws. AXCESS' unique solution provides both management and security in one standalone package which is also capable of interfacing with the full range of existing enterprise systems. Asset Activator is installed and operating in several corporate facilities worldwide. " ...

Via Axcess: AXCESS Introduces Scalable System Pricing for RFID Physical Asset Inventory and Security Solution ...

RFID Shipment Tracking and Detection

Pliant implements IBM-designed RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) platform pilot program, that tracks shipments between technical centers and customer sites. The RFID system detects tampering in shipped products and enables workforce mobility using handheld devices to track products. Potential tampering can be identified and addressed in real-time. ...

... "IBM Global Business Services consultants collaborated with Pliant to develop a comprehensive RFID technology roadmap, helping Pliant prepare and validate the RFID equipment in its labs. Pliant's IBM software and solution, which has been in place since December 2005, leverages IBM's Data Collection Server software and WebSphere RFID Device Infrastructure. The software installed on Pliant's network helped to create RFID labels which were printed and deployed on pallets and the pallets were tracked as they moved between the two Pliant technical centers in Newport News, Virginia and Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. IBM consultants worked with Pliant to create Web pages on a network database to track the content and movement history of each pallet so that its location was always known.



A wireless handheld RFID reader loaded with the WebSphere RFID Device Infrastructure used to scan the pallets within the plants to immediately look up pallet content information. With the support provided by the IBM Global Business Services team, Pliant now has a proven product concept to access to real-time tracking information for shipments between its two facilities. This setup allowed Pliant to download and monitor critical information which helped protect business-critical applications. " ...

Via Pliant Corporation: IBM Helps Pliant Design and Implement RFID System to Track Shipments and Detect Tampering ...

RFID Ink Tattoo

Somark is a technology company located at the Center for Emerging Technologies and is
developing a proprietary ID system based on a biocompatible ink with chipless RFID functionality. The company has successfully tested RFID ink in animals, which proves that ink can be delivered and read. The primary application of the RFID ink is animal tracking in the livestock industry. ...

... "Somark announces the successful testing of Biocompatible Chipless RFID Ink in cattle and laboratory rats. The test proved the efficacy of injecting and reading a Biocompatible Chipless RFID Ink tattoo within the skin of animals. The technology will be initially leveraged to the livestock industry to help identify / track cattle and thus mitigate export trade loss from BSE (a.k.a. Mad Cow Disease) scares. Secondary target markets include laboratory animals, dogs & cats, prime cuts of meat, and military personnel. The company, which is currently raising a Series A equity financing, will license the technology to secondary target markets." ...

Via Somark Innovations: Somark Innovations Announces Successful Live Animal Tests of Biocompatible Chipless RFID Ink in Cattle and Laboratory Rats

RFID Warehouse Forklift System

Intermec introduces forklift RFID system that integrates automated data collection to drive efficiency in warehouse business processes. ...

... "This ground-breaking RFID (radio frequency identification) forklift installation system allows forklift drivers to use RFID and other data collection technologies to gather complete real-time inventory data efficiently and safely without leaving their vehicle. Intermec partnered with Cascade Corporation, the world leader in the design and manufacture of lift truck attachments, to create an RFID-enabled forklift system that integrates durable, rugged inventory and data collection technology with existing forklift equipment. The system improves performance and safety while significantly reducing the cost of RFID forklift deployments in warehouse applications. The Intermec Adaptable Load Backrest and Antenna Cell system can be made to accommodate almost all forklifts on the market, providing customers a factory-certified product designed specifically for their lift trucks that meets OSHA and industry safety requirements. Flexible and configurable, the Adaptable Load Backrest switches easily from one application to another, allowing the driver to accomplish pallet-, case- and even shelf-level readings without the costly and intensive labor associated with retrofit systems. " ...

Via Intermec: Intermec and Cascade Introduce Mobile RFID Forklift Adaptable Load Backrest for Rugged, Industrial Warehouse Use