MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA /PRNewswire/ -- Savi Technology, a Lockheed Martin company and provider of radio frequency identification (RFID)–based total asset management solutions, announced the first six companies that have agreed to license Savi's intellectual property, which is now incorporated in the new global standard (ISO, 18185) for electronic cargo seals (e-Seals). E-Seals are an emerging class of active RFID devices with built-in security and tracking features that enhance visibility, security, and efficiency of in-transit cargo containers, which account for 90% of world trade.
E-Seals combine mechanical locks with wireless RFID communication systems to automatically notify users about security breaches and container locations. Program participants gain access to Savi's patent-protected, intellectual property on how these active, battery-powered RFID tags communicate with readers. Savi Technology launched the program May 1 with its QuickStart program and continues licensing through its Basic program.
"Some 200 million containers flow through the world's ports each year, and the efficient and secure movement of cargo is a U.S. and global priority," said Pat Burns, Savi's Vice President of Marketing and Licensing. "Savi Technology is committed to building ISO-based RFID networks throughout the world, and having multiple e-Seal licensees with products that can communicate using a standard protocol brings visibility, efficiency, and homeland security solutions to customers such as international shippers, government agencies, and logistics service providers."
The U.S. SAFE Port Act of 2006 calls for the Department of Homeland Security (USDHS) to define the voluntary use of container security devices in accordance with international standards. USDHS considers ISO 18185, which enables interoperability of products from multiple vendors, as an applicable container security standard.
Companies named as authorized licensees of Savi's e-Seal RFID patents around ISO 18185 are:
- Axcess International Inc. provides dual-active RFID and real-time location systems, specializing in ultra-low cost, small form factor tagging solutions for personnel auto-ID, asset control, physical security, supply chain efficiencies, and sensing.
- Evigia Systems, based in Ann Arbor, MI, provides RFID solutions that leverage sensors directly onto integrated circuits, enabling customers to increase functionality for the management of the logistical supply chain.
- Envotech Co., Ltd., based in Malaysia, provides personal potection equipment and training services for defense, law enforcement, and civilian organizations, with products exported primarily to Asia, Europe, and North America.
- Identec Solutions, headquartered in Lustenau, Austria, specializes in long-range wireless tracking and tracing solutions, which help simplify manufacturing and logistics processes and bring more transparency to the supply chain.
- KPC, headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, provides information technology services and products, such as active RFID, that improve the supply chain operations through enhanced location-tracking and security solutions.
- SAVR Communications Inc., based in Irving, TX, is a creator of standardized and unique RF systems, active tags, custom solutions, and services.
With over 17 years of experience, Savi is a leading provider of active RFID solutions and services for the management and security of supply chain assets, shipments, and consignments. Savi Technology is a wholly owned subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, with headquarters in Mountain View, CA, and offices in Washington, DC, London, Singapore, and Melbourne. For more information, visit the company's Web site.
Headquartered in Bethesda, MD, Lockheed Martin employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration, and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products, and services. The corporation reported 2006 sales of $39.6 billion. For additional information, visit the corporation's Web site.