FIELD WORKS
(Asset Tracking)
OPTION 1: REAL TIME LOCATION SYSTEMS (RFID)
Wireless RTLS tags can be attached or embedded to objects. Readers, on their side, receive wireless signals from the tags, indicating an object location.
Strengths
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Reduce risk of missing high-value items
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Reduction of searching times, especially in extensive facilities
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RFID is a non-contact technology. When tagged object is within the reader's range, it will be identified
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Ability to read multiple tags simultaneously
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Capture data without human intervention
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Facilitates inventory recording
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Tags can be reused. Compared to GPS, local tags are more affordable.
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More affordable than GPS tags.
Weaknesses
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Specialty tags are needed for metallic components
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Tags need proper attachment to keep them from falling.
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Life expectancy of the battery is limited.
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Reach distance is limited to 10m or 30m (in an ideal scenario).
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Specialty tags for galvanising are not available
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RFID ranges are short compared to GPS systems
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equires the use of encoding and reading machines and software.
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Tags cannot be read using smartphones
OPTION 2: REAL TIME LOCATION SYSTEMS (GPS)
They use Global Positioning Systems to track location. Compared to RFID, GPS technologies have an excellent coverage signal when outdoors and are not limited to reading ranges. GPS tags are the great alternative to recover missing items.
Strengths
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Accurate global positioning in real time 24 hrs/day.
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It can track at any location without restrictive ranges.
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Easy to install and plenty of free smartphone applications to use.
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Ability to view tag location directly on a map
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Can set automatic indication when a component leaves or enter a particular area
Weaknesses
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Long Life Battery last six months. However, tags are bulky and impractical.
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Asset tracking is not commonly performed using GPS.
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No practical for indoors.
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High investment in equipment and tags
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Cost involved for monitoring service (up to $10/device/month)
Min 2:05
OPTION 3: BARCODING - QR CODES
They are a tracking technology that uses optical machine-readable codes, which contain data, related to the object attached to it.
Strengths
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Can leverage the Inventor ability to produce QR codes.
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Easy link of physical tags with the virtual model.
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The smartphone can be used as a scanner.
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No issues with parts undergoing galvanising.
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Can store the right size of information required for this application.
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Scalable and can be read even if the printing is damaged up to 30%.
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Can track items using the built-in GPS from smartphones.
Weaknesses
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High investment cost, particularly on the printer and laminator.
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Human intervention is required to capture data.
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Cannot read multiple items at the same time.
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Not very helpful when trying to find lost items
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QR codes are a contact technology and cannot be read at a distance
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Tracking geolocation is not as useful as RFID.
QR Codes
QR Codes
Link QR Codes to Inventor and A360 - Part 1
Link QR Codes to Inventor and A360 - Part 2
