Each chemical barrel has an RFID tag and sensor device attached to it. The sensor device provides constant monitoring and if data falls outside the normal range, the RFID tag will activate and real-time data is transmitted to appropriate personnel, instantly alerting them of temperatures, chemical leakage, or improperly storing or moving chemicals within the same warehouse zone. The system is fully compatible with AXCESS' reusable container tagging solution, which provides automatic real-time inventorying, locating and managing of containers.
"The goal of the laboratory is to prove the value of converging sensor monitoring with RFID technology," stated Ben Zoghi, professor and director of the lab. "By combining the two technologies, we can provide constant monitoring as items move throughout a facility and the on-demand RFID triggers alarms when it is outside the normal set range. This is true, real-time visibility."
"Texas A&M has an outstanding reputation in the engineering field and we are excited they have chosen AXCESS' semi-active RFID for use in their lab," commented Allan Griebenow, president and CEO of AXCESS. "The uniqueness of semi-active RFID provides the transmission of data on an as-needed basis with zero human involvement. This solution is easily replicable and we enjoy working with Dr. Zoghi's team."
AXCESS' patented ActiveTag RFID systems use small, battery powered tags (generically called "semi-active" tags) that when automatically activated, transmit a wireless message typically 30 to 100 feet to hidden palm size receivers. The receivers are connected via standard network simultaneously to the enterprise system software, the existing security alarm equipment, and standalone management software. Optionally, the tag system can be used to trigger security video recording and live remote video transmission. The tags are used for a variety of enterprise productivity applications including automatic personnel access control and tracking, automatic vehicle access control and payload management, automatic asset management and protection, as well as special purpose sensing. Automatic email alerting and paging is offered for rapid response to security related incidents.
AXCESS International Inc. headquartered in greater Dallas, TX, provides Active and Semi-Active RFID (radio frequency identification) systems for asset management, physical security and supply chain efficiencies. The battery-powered (active) RFID tags locate, identify, track, monitor, count, and protect people, assets, inventory, and vehicles. AXCESS' RFID solutions are supported by its integrated network-based, streaming digital video (or IPTV) technology. Both patented technologies enable applications including: automatic "hands-free" personnel access control, automatic vehicle access control, automatic asset management, and sensor management. AXCESS is a portfolio company of Amphion Innovations plc.
About Texas A&M Sensor/RFID Laboratory
The purpose of the SenseRFID Laboratory is to design systems and sensor networks integrating remote sensors (Environmental, Security and Tracking, Biomedical, Asset and People Location, Process Control Automation, and Structural) monitoring, RFID, GPS and wireless technology. Projects include using these networks to develop new applications that securely link the physical plant and its operational environment to the information technology and business environment allowing customers to dynamically aggregate, analyze and act upon data and adjust operations in response to changes in their business environment. The lab also works to ensure interoperability for the RFID industry and to offer educational courses on RFID technology and other emerging technologies. The lab has RFID development kits and systems from multiple suppliers, a range of RFID tags, various antennas, computer networking hubs, Sensors, and PC based workstations.