Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
General Applications of RFID and Other Tracking Technologies
Supply Chain Logistics
The most well known use for RFID is in the moving of inventories from one facility or company to the next. Human error is greatly reduced by readers which automatically record shipping and receiving data on the tags as a package is moved. Visual signals can be utilized to verify that packages are loaded on the correct truck as well as showing that incomplete orders are loaded.
Inventory Location
RFID on inventory or inventory positions can minimize the time to locate the correct part or product. A computer can direct a person to the exact position of the inventory within a large warehouse and then verify automatically amongst a group of similar products which one is correct.
First In First Out?
For many products, the order in which products are manufactured or shipped is very important. RFID makes it easier to identify which products have been sitting the longest within a group.
Expediting
How big and bright of notice do you have to make for a person to identify a specific product at a workstation? RFID tags can be utilized to cause a signal at each workstation as to a high priority job in the area.
Time and Other Industrial Studies Made Easier
RFID tags minimize the need of individuals following a product around the plant or standing in front of a workstation collecting data. Properly placed readers can follow the tagged products throughout a manufacturing facility and automatically updating a database on timing information.
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