Product tracking and identification
Waggon identification
Waggon identification by radio signals (RFID) – SCALEX WID The Scalex WID waggon identification system is based on data collectors attached to the waggons and on read/write heads installed on the track or beside the track. Data can be read and written on the move.
RFID - Radio Frequency IDentification
A long distance product identification technology, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), is spreading quickly throughout industry. This technology utilises a weak radio frequency signal, and therefore is a wireless identification operating in the radio frequency spectrum.
In principle, the RFID system uses an antenna, which sends a radio signal to the identification tag. The tag will reply with another signal. The signals are used to transfer both power and data between the reader and the identification tag.
The tags can also be used as memories. In this case, data can be written or changed using the tag reader. The tags are durable and they can be re-used. There are many types of tags, from small capsules inserted under the skin to large disks.
Good security properties make the system suitable for invoicing for example.
There are no batteries or any other parts subject to wear and tear in the passive tags. The price is competitive compared to other identification technologies. Development and standardisation projects involving tracking of consumer goods may even bring this technology to the shelves of local supermarkets. The RFID reading range depends principally on the antenna and its design. The desired result can be achieved by using customised antennas. Standard models can be used when low cost is desired. A standard antenna, a few centimetres in size, consisting of a single piece, is suitable for example in Access Control for identifying people, when a reading range of 5–10 cm is adequate. A 3D gate reader can achieve reading ranges of up to 1.5 metres, independent of the position and location of the tag between the gates. We also supply solutions for very long ranges (even up to tens of metres). The size and shape of the tags are selected according to the application. Size and location of the tags affect the reading range: a larger tag can be read from a longer distance. Inexpensive sticker tags made of paper, special tags fixed to clothes by ironing or button tags that withstand chemicals and wear can be selected according to the application.