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Alien Technology and Ubisense have announced the completion of customer field tests using combined RTLS and RFID for automotive production line component verification.
At the test site, it was essential to register the exact part numbers of critical components (for example air bags) as they are installed in each car. To achieve this automatically while minimizing human interaction and the chance of errors or omissions, Ubisense integrated Alien RFID readers into its Location Platform.
VIN linkage
The resulting system allows each assembly station to recognise each individual vehicle through its industry standard VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) as it reaches the station.
Using the attached RFID tags, the system can then independently verify which components have been added to the vehicle. The system is able to track and visualise each car along the assembly line to within an accuracy of 15cm.
Cost and error reduction
Using combined RTLS and RFID in automotive applications is expected to significantly reduce the cost and error rates associated with mounting critical components in cars as they are assembled, with the aim of reducing costly manual rework and achieving shorter production cycle times.
"Combining RFID technology and precision RTLS has the potential to revolutionise automotive production," noted Richard Green, CEO for Ubisense. "Our engineers have been working with automotive manufacturers to develop this solution, and the feedback about the combination has been fantastic."
For additional information:
· Visit Alien at http://www.alientechnology.com
· Visit Ubisense at http://www.ubisense.net
Sources: Alien Technology Corporation; Ubisense
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