scope:

Introduction and problem definition

How and why can the use of transponder technology help to improve processes?

A well-structured and technically safe information flow of valid data has come to form an essential element for designing and extending materials-flow systems. This information flow from the physical level of materials-flow technology is linked via various interfaces such as identification systems or analytical systems. In areas where work processes are automated, data acquisition is, then, the crucial link between the control or management level and the actual production process. In addition to the materials-flow systems, it is the fields of service, procurement and distribution logistics that are concerned more and more often by the ever-growing importance of the need for information.

It will be particularly important in future to establish a communication system that includes all links in the textile chain, from the raw-materials supplier via the clothing manufacturer and logistics service provider up to the retailer. New and supplementary information media in sales are also needed in view of an intensified customer service at the point of sale (POS). Defining the "optimisation of the logistic process chain" as objective, all companies involved are therefore required to consider the use of new, available information and identification techniques on the basis of electronic media. The so-called RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) - often also called transponder technology - is a suitable means to this end. There is, already today, a slow but increasing tendency to use this technology, in addition to the established bar code technology, as an information and identification technology accompanying the goods in logistics chains.

Structure of this guideline

The guideline consists of several parts having different degrees of detailing and specialisation so as to take into account the various fields of application of RFID technology in the supply chain, including differentiated requirements of various branches, perspectives of the individual target groups and technological variants of RFID applications. This Part 1 - General - contains largely general descriptions of technology and definitions.

Guideline VDI 4472 Part 2 focuses on passive highfrequency (13,56 MHz) RFID systems and their use in the textile chain. This part of the guideline explains important criteria and relevant quantities in connection with 13,56-MHz technology. In addition, VDI 4472 Part 2 specifies the technical requirements to be met by transponder systems.

Further parts are intended to contain and document not only low-frequency and ultra-high-frequency specifications and technological considerations in the textile chain, but also the technology specifics of various RFID systems in such branches as multipath logistics and reefer logistics are not related to the textile segment.