Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has experienced exponential growth in recent years. As technology has evolved, so have RFID applications. Today we will analyze the fundamental aspects of RFID technology, its operation, practical applications, especially in the use of industrial tools, and its future potential.
What is RFID technology?
RFID technology is a method of automatically identifying objects using radio waves to transfer data from RFID tags to an RFID reader. This tag consists of a small microchip and an antenna, which attaches to an object to transmit information about that object to the reader.
The operation of RFID technology
RFID technology works by using radio waves to transmit information from an RFID tag to an RFID reader. The RFID tag contains a microchip and an antenna. When a reader approaches the tag, the RFID tag antenna receives a radio signal from the RFID reader.
This signal activates the microchip in the RFID tag, transmits the information stored on the microchip through the antenna to the radio signal of the RFID reader. The information transmitted may include details about the tagged object, such as its identification, location, and record.
Applications of RFID technology
RFID technology has applications in a wide variety of industries. For example, in the logistics industry, RFID is used to track and manage shipments.
In the healthcare industry, RFID is used for tracking patients, medicines, and medical equipment.
In addition, the technology is also used in agriculture for tracking livestock and crops, as well as in the automotive industry for tracking vehicles and parts.
RFID technology in the industrial tool
Thanks to RFID, technologies can be developed that allow a safer and more efficient use and management of industrial tools.
For example, on assembly lines, where tool trolleys are provided, work is done in shifts, and by different operators. This scheme involves risks such as:
- Using the wrong tool
- Become a FOD (Foreign Object Debris)
- Loss
Tool trolleys, with built-in RFID, make inventory management much more accurate.
For example, you can program:
- What tools to use in assembly operations
- In which drawers they will be located
- Control who can access which tool drawers
- See if tools are missing
Thus, since each operator has an identification card, when scanning it, only the tool drawers that must be opened will do it.
It therefore avoids errors in the use of tools in assembly operations, reduces the risk of loss and FOD.
Want to know more? Find about inventory management systems by RFID® technology from EGA Solutions
Also in tightening jobs, RFID technology is of great help, since, in demanding industries, such as aerospace, exquisite precision quality is required when applying tightening torques.
RFID now allows digital torque wrenches, for example, to be programmed remotely, indicating the number of jobs to be performed and what torque to be applied in the operation. And in turn, you can have a traceability of:
- Who has done the tightening work
- Which pairs have been applied
- With what key
- When the work was done
In short, there is a bidirectionally synchronized flow of information, thus improving communication, centralizing data and thus increasing integration.
This information can be analyzed in real time, thanks to this bidirectional synchronization of information, and apply continuous improvement in the quality of the processes of industrial users.
Delve deeper into EGATORK® torque management systems from EGA Solutions
The future potential of RFID technology
As RFID technology continues to evolve, its applications are expected to expand in a variety of industries. Technology is increasingly being integrated into IoT (Internet of Things) devices and artificial intelligence. In addition, RFID technology is expected to evolve to enable higher transmission speed and higher warehouse capacity.
Do you need to apply RFID in the processes where the industrial tool is involved?
Contact us and we will advise you.