A Guide to Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) in Manufacturing
Whats is RTLS ? -How does RTLS work?- How is RTLS being used in Manufacturing?
What is RTLS?
Real-Time Location System is a technology that enables the real-time tracking and monitoring of assets or individuals within a defined area. RTLS uses a combination of hardware and software components to provide accurate and up-to-date location information. This technology utilizes various methods such as radio frequency identification (RFID), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), or infrared to determine the real-time position of objects or people. RTLS finds applications in diverse industries such as healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and retail, where real-time tracking and asset management are crucial for operational efficiency, safety, and security. For numerous years, RTLS has been a prevalent technology in manufacturing, logistics, and aerospace industries. However, its applications are expanding rapidly, now encompassing various sectors like healthcare, defense, and office spaces. The primary purpose of RTLS is to provide real-time tracking of assets, which can range from machines, vehicles, stock, tools, and even people. By offering a digital overview of the plant, factory, yard, or hangar, RTLS creates a valuable "digital twin" that simplifies site management.
How does RTLS work?
Tags or Beacons: The RTLS system relies on small electronic devices called tags or beacons. These tags can be attached to or integrated into assets, objects, or even worn by personnel. Each tag has a unique identifier that distinguishes it from others in the vicinity.
Anchors or Readers: The RTLS infrastructure includes fixed anchor points or readers strategically placed throughout the area being tracked. These anchors are equipped with antennas to receive signals from the tags.
Communication: The RTLS system uses various wireless technologies, such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), Bluetooth, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Wi-Fi, or Zigbee, to establish communication between the tags and anchors.
Triangulation or Trilateration: When a tag comes into the range of multiple anchors, the system uses either triangulation or trilateration techniques to calculate the tag's precise location. Triangulation involves measuring the angles between the tag and multiple anchors, while trilateration calculates the tag's position based on the distance from each anchor.
Data Processing: The data collected from the tags and anchors is sent to a central server or cloud-based platform for processing and analysis. The RTLS software processes this information to determine the real-time location of each tagged asset or individual.
Visualization: The RTLS software then visualizes the location data on a user interface, typically in the form of a digital map. Users can access this map to view the real-time positions and movements of assets, objects, or people.
Alerts and Analytics: RTLS systems can also be configured to set up alerts for specific events or conditions, such as asset movements beyond defined boundaries or potential safety risks. The collected data can be analyzed to identify patterns, optimize workflows, and make data-driven decisions to improve operational efficiency.
In summary, RTLS works by leveraging wireless technologies, tags, and anchors to track and monitor the real-time location of assets or personnel. This valuable data provides organizations with enhanced visibility, efficiency, and safety across a wide range of industries and applications, from manufacturing and logistics to healthcare and beyond.
How is RTLS being used in Manufacturing?
RTLS (Real-Time Location System) has become a game-changer in the manufacturing industry, revolutionizing various processes and enhancing overall efficiency. Let's explore some of the prominent applications of RTLS in manufacturing across different sectors:
Aerospace Industry: In the aerospace sector, RTLS is employed to track the aircraft assembly process, including the location of tools, parts, and personnel. It ensures better management of expensive tools, enhances worker safety, and streamlines production logistics. The ability of RTLS systems to monitor machinery and parts with data such as visual, infrared, and vibration data helps optimize production cycles and reduces costs.
Automotive Industry: RTLS plays a crucial role in speeding up production cycles in vehicle manufacturing by tracking the location of cars and wireless tools. Automation of tool operations and proximity-based tool calibration enable manufacturers to meet production targets more efficiently. Additionally, tagged vehicles can be tracked through storage and even retain tags for future maintenance and repair tasks after sale.
Yard Management: For manufacturing and logistics facilities, yard management is vital. RTLS systems ensure smooth coordination and timely delivery of products by ensuring transport vehicles are at the right loading bays with the correct inventory. With the disruptions caused by thee. Our Guide to Asset Tracking Technologies.
Efficient yard management is of utmost importance for manufacturing and logistics facilities. To achieve seamless coordination and ensure timely delivery of products, many organizations are turning to RTLS systems. By leveraging RTLS technology, companies can track and monitor the precise location of transport vehicles, ensuring they are positioned at the right loading bays with the correct inventory. The disruptions caused by recent events, such as the global pandemic, have underscored the significance of robust yard management. Manufacturers are increasingly building up stock reserves to mitigate supply chain disruptions in the future. This heightened focus on inventory management has placed a greater burden on storage and logistics operations. Our Guide to Asset Tracking Technologies.