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Automobile company Ford announced this week that it is cooperating with RFID technology developer ThingMagic LLC and industrial power tool manufacturer DeWalt to apply RFID technology to its trucks and vans. RFID technology will be used for labeling and tracking tools, construction equipment and materials to ensure that all equipment or materials are in place in the truck.
“Contractors and experienced technicians tell us that they often forget to bring the right tools to the work site or leave them on the site when they leave,” said Bill Frykman, Ford Product and Business Development Manager. “RFID technology can ensure you work. Have the right tools at all times”.
The automaker exhibited the system at the Auto Show in Chicago this week.
In September of this year, Ford F-150 trucks, F-series Super Duty trucks and E-series trucks will likely use RFID tags. Frykman said that dealers can choose whether to introduce the system so that customers can purchase it and install it on existing vehicles.
Ford has already adopted RFID technology in its car manufacturing plants. According to Frykman, this is the world’s first application of RFID in light vehicles. Now Ford is applying for a patent for this technology.
The onboard computer has a 6.5-inch touch screen with a wireless keyboard and mouse
Frykman explained that users can use passive RFID thin tags to label tools and equipment, and connect to an on-board computer to write their various tasks and the tools they need. “Think of it as a playlist on an MP3 player. If your job is to dredge water pipes and pull wires, the computer will list the tools needed for this work. This is completely user-defined. When you drive Before going to the work site, you should make sure that you have all the tools you need. When the work is over, you should make sure that all the tools are in the car.
The onboard computer has a 6.5-inch touch screen with a wireless keyboard and mouse. Two antennas are also installed on the truck to scan labeling tools.
Chris Allen, vice chairman of DeWalt Security Business Group, said that when the vehicle starts or receives a user command, the RFID system will automatically scan the labeling equipment.
The price of this system has not yet been announced. Ford plans to announce the price at the same time as the new F-150 cargo truck this spring.
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