The recent IET Event RFID principals and the Internet of Things was the first to be hosted at Balluff and was a great success. With the venue filled almost to capacity we were treated to two lectures on RFID principles, applications and the Internet of Things and Data capture software and real-time visibility within manufacturing and the supply chain
The first lecture delivered by Oliver Puetz-Gerbig of Balluff covered the principles of RFID, and the differences between various frequencies of systems before moving onto future developments of RFID. We heard how large multi-national companies are researching the use of RFID as part of 'Industry 4.0' which appears to be another name for 'the internet of things'. At one stage we were even treated to a six dimensional graph on how different identification technologies can fulfill the entire supply chain from raw materials through to the consumer and the technological maturity or potential of each different technology. The slide focused on RFID and its current and future role in the whole process. Though the six dimensions were at first confusing, the following slides made sense of it all.
Hot on the heels of an excellent buffet refreshment break with time to network with other IET members, followed the second lecture, delivered by Andy O'Donnell of Redledge. Andy's hands on live demonstration of UHF RFID systems included considerations about system selection, environmental and practical issues from a systems perspective. This informal lecture was entertaining with some curious insights into the thought processes of software developers and their destructive nature when it comes to RFID tags! Andy gave practical examples of different types of tags and their performance, including 'on metal' tags and related them to real life installations in the field.
Following the lectures, we had further time to network and see/view live demonstrations of the technology which included a Machine Tool RFID simulation, hand held RFID scanners with stock checking and asset location demonstrations and a conveyor system including RFID which simulated a closed loop production line.
Overall this was an informative and entertaining evening and there are already discussions about repeating the event perhaps in a different location.