Auto ID: Some innovations, much attention
Central at the Auto ID theatre on ICT & Logistics was what companies can and cannot do with RFID. Some parts of the process are suitable for RFID, but for other parts its more convenient to use a barcode. The implementation of RFID continues, but slower than originally expected. The emphasis is especially on the application for returnable transport items.
Besides RFID and barcodes there was a lot of attention for RTLS (Real Time Location System). Through this active form of RFID a more accurate location can be determined compared with a GPS. This makes it possible that a pallet doesn’t have to be scanned to check the location. It saves time and reduces the chance on mistakes.
Auto ID supplier ABM from Belgium introduced a new order picking system ‘pick-to-graphics’. In this system pick instruction are shown in a graphical way on pick-to-light displays. From every product the exact location, representation and colour is shown.
Suppliers from scanners such as Motorola and Datalogic showed new models with features such as computer facilities on handheld scanners in order to increase the functionality. Also GPS facilities are included, which make the scanners suitable as navigation systems. A picture of a product damage can be match to GPS data. Another checking possibility is that the signature at delivery of the goods was done at the correct address.
