The batch number, expiration date and article number are saved on an RFID transponder which is attached to the product carton when the goods are received and before they are stored, eliminating batch tracing problems, even with automated picking. Before articles are replenished, an RFID transponder is attached to the first article in the carton and the respective channel is replenished.
Full release:
Automatic Batch Tracing Charlotte, North Carolina – One of the toughest mandates for use of drug pedigrees goes into effect in several states in July of this year. In anticipation of this strictly controlled regulation, Schaefer has developed state-of-the-art technology for batch tracing, targeting the pharmaceutical industry. The batch number, expiration date and article number are saved on an RFID transponder which is attached to the product carton when the goods are received and before they are stored, eliminating batch tracing problems, even with automated picking. Before articles are replenished, an RFID transponder is attached to the first article in the carton and the respective channel is replenished. The RFID transponder is ejected onto the conveyor along with the products. An antenna in the conveyor activates the chip in the transponder relaying information to the system about the new batch. Products, including the transponder are emptied into a tote or carton. All totes that carry a transponder are automatically diverted to the check station. The RFID transponder is removed by the operator and the product, for which the transponder transmits a batch change, is checked. The delivery note states exactly how many products of one batch are consolidated in an order—this is accomplished without any additional personne. The system easily adapts to existing automated systems. Even with several batch changes in one order, 100% accuracy was achieved.
Full release:
Automatic Batch Tracing Charlotte, North Carolina – One of the toughest mandates for use of drug pedigrees goes into effect in several states in July of this year. In anticipation of this strictly controlled regulation, Schaefer has developed state-of-the-art technology for batch tracing, targeting the pharmaceutical industry. The batch number, expiration date and article number are saved on an RFID transponder which is attached to the product carton when the goods are received and before they are stored, eliminating batch tracing problems, even with automated picking. Before articles are replenished, an RFID transponder is attached to the first article in the carton and the respective channel is replenished. The RFID transponder is ejected onto the conveyor along with the products. An antenna in the conveyor activates the chip in the transponder relaying information to the system about the new batch. Products, including the transponder are emptied into a tote or carton. All totes that carry a transponder are automatically diverted to the check station. The RFID transponder is removed by the operator and the product, for which the transponder transmits a batch change, is checked. The delivery note states exactly how many products of one batch are consolidated in an order—this is accomplished without any additional personne. The system easily adapts to existing automated systems. Even with several batch changes in one order, 100% accuracy was achieved.
Aluminum foils used in product packaging can cause interference in typical, passive RFID transponders, resulting in poor antenna reading rates. Schaefer’s bracket shaped RFID transponders are not attached to the product, but are ejected onto the conveyor belt along with the product. Using a ferrite antenna which is incorporated in the transponder, the tags can be very small, achieving a read rate of 12” – 16”. Since ferrite antennas are very directional, a second ferrite antenna in another direction has been integrated. Schaefer’s new technology avoids having to attach transponder labels to the product, as these can be confusing. In a fully automated picking system where a transponder has already been attached by the manufacturer, the antenna can be fitted under the ejector which is then able to register the ejection of every channel. The antenna can also be installed under the inclined belt before the filling point, so that all contents of the order are read. Tracing options -- RFID systems are based on the radio frequency transmission of data between transponder and reader. When using read-only transponders, a data connection is required for reading and storing the information. With a read-write transponder data is stored directly. Data can be read merely by using a hand-held terminal. With both methods the transponder is ejected onto a conveyor along with the order and is read by an antenna at the end of the conveyor belt. The order can be diverted, the papers for batch change and batch number can be printed, the transponder can be removed and reused. SSI Schaefer is a leading supplier of warehousing and logistics systems. Services offered range from complex warehouse/distribution center design to providing the equipment. Schaefer manufactures 80% of the equipment used in a DC or warehouse and also acts as the general contractor to implement comprehensive logistics projects. For further information, please contact: Ross Halket, Director – Automated Systems Phone: 704.944.4527 Schaefer Systems International, Inc. Shipping Address 10021 Westlake Drive Charlotte, NC 28273 Mailing Address P.O. Box 7009 Charlotte, NC 28241 Tel: 704-944-4500 Fax: 704-588-1862 Email: [email protected]www.ssi.schaefer-us.com
