RFID controlled flexible manufacturing cell

[aspearin1]

I'm investigating utilizing RFID labels imbedded into workpiece tooling that will transmit a signal to the main controller, telling it what pre-programmed operations to run. The workcell is flexible, but the tooling is part specific. Does anyone have experience with similar projects? I am curious as to whether I should be looking into PLC or PC control. I'm looking at 20-30 different tooling types, and I'm not sure I want to devote I/O ports just for tooling. I may need something a little more logical than True/False control. Does anyone have success with a system that translates an RFID signal to retrieve and activate a program file? Thanks.

ChemE, M.E. EIT
"The only constant in life is change." -Bruce Lee

 

[MikeHalloran]

I'm not aware that RFID is ready for prime-time in retail, much less in factory automation. I could have missed a meeting; it happens.

How about milling a barcode into the tooling?



Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[Japalingish]

I have used off the shelf RFID Tags and readers for part tracking for part type and work completed info. We used Balugh with GE Fanuc PLC. Works will and is relatively inexpensive and makes your life easier

 

[nornrich]

aspearin1,

RFID is definately ready for prime time. I worked on relocating a very large pallet handling system (300+ pallets). The system tracked up to 30 different routing options for over 300 pallets through the use of Omron RFID tags and RFID readers. The system was extremely flexible and allowed for troubleshooting of individual pallets as well as the item on the pallet. We interfaced the system to a Modicon 984 series PLC and this handled all the conveyors and the RFID system. This system was vintage 1990s and to check out Omron's current offerings you can hit their website at

http://www.omronrfid.com.

Regards,

Rich......

Richard Nornhold, PE

 

[ozmosis]

I agree with nornrich, RFID is certainly ready and working out there. Siemens have quite advanced systems working on this, and can interface serially or via ethernet into PC or PLC, as an example.
There's some info on the web:

http://www.automation.siemens.com/simatic-sensors/html_76/rfid-systeme.htm

that might be of interest but the local Siemens A&D guy to you should advise.

 

[alainriaud]

I have used RFID for almost ten years in shoe factories.

We deal with about 1000 tags fitted on pallets
Each tag carries the process parameters for the individual shoe on the pallet and keeps track of every operation.

In our applications tags readers are connected to PC's through Jbus/Modbus, or propietary serial link.

This is a mature technology.