RFID Tunnel

Overview: Automated Carton Validation RFID Tunnel

Reduce EPC chargebacks, shipping inaccuracies, and inefficient, random carton audits. The CYBRA RFID Cage validates EPC-tagged items in cartons at greater than 99% read accuracy, at conveyor speeds of up to 600 feet per minute. Use the CYBRA RFID Cage to convert EPC compliance costs into real cost savings.

What is an RFID Tunnel?

An RFID tunnel, also known as an RFID portal or RFID gateway, is a physical structure equipped with RFID antennas and readers that create a detection zone or “tunnel” through which items equipped with RFID tags can pass. RFID tunnels are commonly used in logistics, warehousing, and retail environments to automate the identification and tracking of inventory items as they move through a specified area.

The RFID tunnel consists of RFID antennas positioned strategically to create an RF field within the designated space. As items with RFID tags pass through the tunnel, the antennas emit radio waves that interact with the tags, capturing the unique identifier encoded in each tag. The RFID readers connected to the antennas then process the data collected from the tags and transmit it to a central database or inventory management system in real-time.

How the RFID Tunnel Works

The CYBRA RFID Cage easily integrates with existing legacy ERP and WMS systems. Using the RFID Cage, Edgefinity IoT scans the UCC128 or LPN barcode, reads EPC tags in carton, converts EPC data to UPC, then validates UPC detail against PO detail.

The CYBRA RFID Cage can operate stand alone, validating random sample cartons, or picked up and placed over powered conveyor, to validate every carton.

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RFID Tunnel Use Cases

An RFID validation system integrated into a warehouse conveyor system can enhance efficiency, accuracy, and control over various warehouse operations. Here are some use cases for an RFID validation system in a warehouse conveyor setup:

• Inventory Management and Accuracy: An RFID tunnel validation system can be used to verify that the items placed on the conveyor match the inventory records. This ensures that the right products are moving through the supply chain, reducing the risk of errors and discrepancies.
• Order Picking and Fulfillment: During the order fulfillment process, RFID tags on products and order containers can be validated as they move along the conveyor. This helps ensure that the correct items are picked, packed, and shipped to customers, reducing shipping errors.
• Quality Control: In manufacturing and distribution centers, RFID validation can be used to check the quality of products. If an item does not meet quality standards, it can be flagged and removed from the conveyor automatically, preventing defects from reaching customers.
• Returns Processing: When handling returned items, RFID validation can confirm the identity and condition of products. This allows for efficient processing and restocking of returned merchandise.
• Product Tracking and Traceability: RFID validation helps maintain end-to-end visibility of products throughout the supply chain. This is especially crucial for industries with strict traceability requirements, such as pharmaceuticals or food.
• Batch and Lot Management: In industries that deal with batch or lot-based production, RFID validation can ensure that products from the same batch or lot are properly sorted and processed together.
• Cross-Docking: In cross-docking operations, where products are quickly transferred from incoming to outgoing shipments, RFID validation ensures that items are correctly sorted and routed to the appropriate trucks for outbound delivery.
• Security and Anti-Theft Measures: RFID validation can help prevent theft or unauthorized removal of items from the conveyor. If an item lacks a valid RFID tag or is not in the database, an alarm can be triggered.
• Distributed Order Fulfillment: In large warehouses with multiple zones or distribution centers, RFID validation systems can help route items efficiently through the conveyor network, ensuring timely order fulfillment and minimizing bottlenecks.
• Automated Replenishment: RFID tags on storage bins or shelves can trigger automatic replenishment requests when inventory levels run low. This ensures that items are restocked in a timely manner, optimizing inventory management.
• Real-time Visibility and Reporting: RFID validation systems provide real-time data on the status and location of items in the conveyor system. This data can be used for reporting, analytics, and process optimization.
• Serialized Tracking: In industries where serialized tracking is required (e.g., electronics, automotive), RFID validation ensures that each individual item is tracked accurately throughout its lifecycle.

Implementing an RFID validation system on a warehouse conveyor helps streamline operations, improve accuracy, and optimize resource allocation. It is particularly valuable in high-throughput environments where rapid and error-free processing is essential.

Benefits of Automatically Validating Cartons

The CYBRA RFID Cage brings a host of features and capabilities that you simply will not find anywhere else. Why randomly check your shipping and receiving manually? You can efficiently automate your validation processes, and drastically improve accuracy, with zero down time!

RFID Tunnel Product Specs

The RFID Cage is a rare product that validates cartons faster, and more accurately than anything on the market right now. The Cage comes loaded with the following:

• Ready to assemble T-slot extruded aluminum frame + stand
• Preloaded EdgeBox Controller
• 4 optimized RFID panel antennas with all cables and mounts
• GPIO box with 4 inputs (for sensors, etc.) and 4 outputs
• 4-port RFID Reader and power supply
• Red and Green status LED’s and all cables
• High speed, compact industrial bar code scanner
• Barcode interface hardware, power supply and cables
• Barcode photo sensor, cable and bracket
• RFID Package Sensor, cable and bracket
• Industrial Ethernet switch
• Industrial surge protector and AC power strip

Additional Resources