26-04-06 18:01
Age: 4 yrs

BY: MCFARLANE, DUNCAN

Sensing of the specific identity of products moving through the manufacturing supply chain is generally indirect. Typically such information is inferred from local proximity sensor readings coupled with appropriate computer based tracking models, which align these readings to the last known point of identity recognition. Automated Identification systems promise to address some of the limitations of these approaches by providing automated, item level, product identity information at any point in the supply chain. Technically speaking, the impact of product identity is to enhance the visibility or observability of the state of a production, storage, transportation and retail processes that a product is subject to during its life cycle. Enhanced observability means more accurate, timelier data and ultimately a greater scope for optimisation and customisation of the operation concerned. Hence the title “See More, Do More…” This paper examines the notion of observability, illustrates what it means for physical operations and outlines practical implications for industrial control systems. A materials handling example is used as an illustration. A second white paper will examine product identity and its impact on customisation.

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