Wrap 'n Read: Stretch Wrapper with Integrated RFID Tag Reader Introduced for Exel's Total DC Solution
February 9, 2006 - Lantech has developed a fully integrated RFID tag-reading capability for stretch wrappers in a collaborative effort with supply chain management leader Exel. The first such machine, a Q-300 semiautomatic exhibited at Pack Expo in Las Vegas, has been delivered to Exel's center of excellence in Harrisburg, PA, where it is being integrated into a RFID-enabled order fulfillment system.
"In collaboration with our industry partners, we're evaluating the most appropriate methods for RFID implementation so that our customers will benefit from products and processes that have been tested and proven successful in real-world applications," said Tony Hollis, Exel's manager for RFID Strategy and Execution. "As a result of this collaboration, we are developing an integrated RFID offering that provides our customers with access to a scalable and cost-effective solution."
The Q-300 stretch wrapper proved to be a perfect chassis for integration of RFID tag-reading hardware, according to William Caudill, Lantech's marketing manager for automatic products. The machine has a Symbol Technologies XR400RFID reader and wireless bridge mounted inside the mast, and Symbol AN400 area antennas on adjustable brackets attached to the roll carriage. RFID-enabled stretch wrappers provide a number of advantages, Caudill added. "With the additional read points that inter-warehouse RFID applications like the Q-300 provides, real-time, case-level visibility is increased beyond the points of ingress and egress, which RFID portals systems provide." he stated. "Because the load rotates past the antennas multiple times during wrapping, the stretch wrapping application provides an ideal opportunity for an extremely reliable and complementary read point in achieving optimal, system-level read rates. The reader is active only when the machine is wrapping, so it can't generate false reads from a pallet on a passing forktruck. Transmission of tag data from the wrapper to the warehouse management system is wireless, so the stretch wrapper can be moved around the facility, as these machines often are in a real DC. Another key advantage is that Symbol's XR400 RFID reader has already been Generation 2 (Gen 2) certified and protects our customers' investment because the XR400 can be upgraded to Gen 2 through a single software update."
Caudill said that Lantech will ultimately create a retrofit package to allow existing machines to be upgraded for RFID tag reading with various manufacturers' hardware. Lantech is working with leading companies in the market to create an 'open' system that will allow customers to use any RFID or warehouse management system they choose.
"RFID is 'must have' technology for the retail industry and the defense department, and it has the potential to transform operations where it is implemented," Caudill added. "In a recently published report, Wal-Mart stated it reduced out-of-stock merchandise by 16 percent at the company's stores using RFID, and was able to restock tagged items three times as fast as non-tagged items. Wal-Mart has more than 130 major suppliers shipping tagged merchandise to its DC's, and expects to add another 200 suppliers by early 2006, with about 1,000 stores and warehouses ready to receive tagged goods. This is critical mass in our business, and we're pleased to be in the forefront with Exel in bringing an out-of-the-box solution to the market."
Lantech's packaging and productivity solutions include semiautomatic and automatic stretch wrapping; automatic case handling; automatic palletizing; shrink packaging and pallet-load conveying systems. Lantech is the originator of stretch wrapping technology and world's largest manufacturer, with 50,000 systems placed around the world. Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, with manufacturing operations in the U.S. and the Netherlands, Lantech products are sold and serviced by a network of 175 distributor locations. Visit the Lantech website at www.lantech.com for more product information.
Sales Contact
Sales & Marketing Group
Lantech.com
11000 Bluegrass Pkwy.
Louisville, KY 40299-2399.
Tel: 800.866.0322
Fax 502.266-5031
E-mail: sales@lantech.com
Web: www.lantech.com
Advertising & Editorial Contact
Jerry Todd
Advertising & Promotion Mgr.
Lantech.com
11000 Bluegrass Pkwy
Louisville, KY 40299-2399
Tel: 800.866.0322
Fax 502.266.5031
E-mail: jerryt@lantech.com
Reader Service Inquiries To
Leads Coordinator
Lantech.com
11000 Bluegrass Pkwy.
Louisville, KY 40299-2399
