Indoor tracking of objects is in particularly relevant in industry and logistics with regard to time savings, process optimization and theft protection. The current location of goods, tools and vehicles can be viewed on a digital map at any time. By linking the tracking solution with the company's ERP system, comprehensive asset management can also be ensured. The tracking solution can be complemented by sensor data such as temperature and humidity.
Positioning of Goods
In a warehouse there are several thousand goods waiting for further processing. A lot of times, the required goods cannot be found straightaway, which results in process delays and increased costs. With a tracking solution, the position of goods can be determined reliably and displayed on a digital map. In this way, reduced search times and optimal stock keeping can be realized.
For positioning, individual goods, pallets of goods or pallet cages are equipped with transmitter hardware. The accuracy of the localization depends on the technology used. Especially positioning with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons using Angle of Arrival and localization using UWB tags make very precise real-time positioning in three-dimensional space possible.
Use Case: Pallet Tracking in Logistics
Tracking with E-Ink Display
In addition, the goods or containers to be tracked can be equipped with an electronic display. infsoft E-Ink Display Beacons can be used, for example, to display information on the contents of the container or work instructions. The display can be updated via a connection to the ERP system or using infsoft's own software. The labeling can also be automatically updated, for example, when a container leaves a certain area and is ready for the next work step.
Use Case: Tracking and Labeling of Containers in Production
Tracking with LED Identification
To further facilitate the search for specific goods for pickers, beacons with integrated LED lamps can be attached to containers with individual parts. The lamp lights up automatically when it's approached.
Use Case: Indoor Navigation and LED Identification of Goods in Logistics
Tracking with Temperature Monitoring
Maintaining an uninterrupted cold chain is particularly important when storing food or pharmaceuticals. When beacons with integrated temperature sensors are attached to these goods, in addition to locating the goods, the surrounding temperature can be determined and controlled. If there is a deviation from the target temperature, an alert can be sent automatically to the responsible personnel and prompt intervention is possible.
Use Case: Temperature Monitoring of Food in a Warehouse
Integration of GPS Positioning
The additional use of GPS tracking can ensure the seamless tracking of goods throughout the supply chain. For example, a truck can be equipped with an infsoft Locator Node, which receives the signals from Bluetooth tags attached to goods and can simultaneously locate itself using an integrated GPS unit.
Use Case: Load Carrier Tracking in Logistics
Tracking of Vehicles on Industrial Sites
In addition to goods, vehicles such as forklifts, pallet trucks and tugger trains can also be tracked on industrial sites. With a tracking solution, the current position is always visible on a digital map. To implement such a solution, the vehicles are equipped with transmitter hardware and receiver hardware is installed at regular intervals on the premises.
A tracking solution based on UWB has the advantage of extremely low latency times. This allows real-time tracking as well as providing the drivers with real-time route instructions.
Use Case: Indoor Navigation and Tracking of Tugger Trains