DHL Technology DHL introduces new SmartSensor technology

DHL is introducing a new temperature monitoring technology

A new temperature monitoring technology will be introduced in the Gulf region by express logistics company, DHL. SmartSensor, a type of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) will be piloted to customers from the food and pharmaceutical companies to ensure every shipment is kept at a specific temperature without the need of opening the packages. The technology, which has been tested and is now available worldwide, was introduced by the DHL Innovation Centre and can offer continuous temperature monitoring along the supply chain regardless of time and location.

The global standard and its limitations

The barcode has spread around the world since being invented in the middle of the last century. Over the past 30 years, it was the leading technology used to collect data in an automatic and contactless manner - particularly because it is economical to install and read. Even today, most global logistics systems would be incapable of functioning without the barcode. But, the barcode is increasingly reaching its limits because the storable amount of information is restricted and no longer adequate for many applications.

Examples of 1-D and 2-D barcodes

The characteristics and application areas of EDI

Barcodes are located on practically all consumer goods, and our everyday world would be unimaginable without them. The barcode is an optical and electronically readable representation of information that consists of various widths of parallel lines and spaces. The data contained in a barcode can be read and electronically processed by equipment such as scanners or cameras.

Barcode hand scanner The standards and capabilities of the barcode A barcode can display numeric or alphanumeric symbols and is globally standardized. One of the most widely recognized types of one-dimensional barcode (the 1-D code) is the European Article Number Code EAN code . To be able to use this barcode, a company must register at EAN International. It will then receive a special coding scheme that must be placed at the start of the barcode that it uses. Afterward, it assigns individual barcodes to its separate products. One widely used standard of the EAN codes EAN code is EAN 128. It is primarily used at the point of sale Point of sale . Barcodes are also used by track and trace Tracking & tracing . Within a mature supply chain, the barcode facilitates the automatic recording of stock receipts, and this helps reduce inventories and improve data quality. The payment process for stock receipts can be carried out without any human activity by linking the recording process to enterprise resource planningEnterprise resource planning . As a storage medium, the barcode is undergoing continuous refinement. To be able to show more information on less space, the two-dimensional barcode (2-D code) was developed. This code consists of stacked 1-D codes, and is arranged in rows or is displayed as a true matrix. For instance, such barcodes are used by railroad companies, airlines and concert organizers to mark tickets. In three-dimensional barcodes (3-D codes), color forms the third dimension. Recently, 4-D codes have come into use. This new form is based on the normal (black-white) 2-D codes. But the format uses both color and animation. The colored animation sequences can be filmed by any cell-phone camera. The cell phone converts the information into letters, numbers or graphics. Using this technology, account statements can be transferred directly from automated teller machines to mobile telephones. At the moment, though, the cell phone needs extra software before it can perform this function.

The strengths and weaknesses of the barcode

The benefits of the barcode Barcodes are precise and efficient. Their key strengths are their extremely low costs and the global use of standardized barcode technology. Added to this is a wide range of potential uses in cross-company and cross-divisional partnerships. It is

an important feature especially for international trade. Combined with plain text, the barcode is also easy to read and, as a result, well-suited for manual identification at places such as warehouses. It permits the use of advance shipping information and, especially in multi-dimensional forms, is flexible in terms of the data it contains. In addition, it increases work speed while simultaneously providing transparency about goods movements. Barcodes placed on parcels are called identifiers. Just like ID cards used by people, they make it possible to identify an individual package and play a major role in returns management. The drawbacks of barcodes As a result of the increased complexity of logistics processes, the barcode system is no longer adequate. A 1-D code contains only a relatively small amount of product information that can be used to identify a particular item. But logistics has a continuously rising need for additional information about goods. For electronic products, serial numbers are important. For consumer goods, the manufacturing and expiration dates as well as the production site are essential. Compared with a possible successor technology like RFID Radio frequency identification , the capabilities of the barcode are limited. The barcode is a passive form - that is, a visual contact between the product and scanner must be created in order for the code to be read. In the process, errors occur relatively often. In addition, considerable handling is required in order to correctly point the barcode at the scanner. RFID, on the other hand, is an active format that enables labeled products to be automatically identified and located.

DHL TECHNOLOGY PARTNER

In enger Zusammenarbeit mit unseren Technologiepartnern sucht DSI nach neuen Technologien, die aktuelle oder zuknftige Herausforderungen in der Logistik lsen helfen.

7iD

Since 2005 7iD Technologies has been a leading expert and reliable project partner, providing unique, passive UHF RFID systems to meet the highest possible standards. Modular standard components can be flexibly combined and customized software ensures maximum reliability. Compliance with EPCglobal RFID standards offers customers both a secure investment and a choice of vendor partners, worldwide. The successful creation of industry-specific solutions means 7iD has a wealth of experience at their fingertips. 7iD Technologies then applies this to meeting all required standards and simplifying processes at an individual Wide-ranging installations in the automotive, rail and logistics sectors are testimony to the high quality of 7iD solutions currently being successfully applied by big name companies including ASFINAG, the Ford Motor Company, DHL and Thales. One Pager RFID Consumer Electronics

BT

BT Global Services is a telecoms services provider, helping corporations to manage information and improving the efficiency with which they collaborate with others.

BT Network Services enable the secure and reliable exchange of information between users and systems. BT Collaboration Services improve the efficiency with which supply chain managers collaborate. BT Supply Chain Solutions provide the visibility of information that enables clients to map and monitor the flow of goods as they make their way through todays extended, fragmented and complex supply chains. The manufacturing and distribution plans behind many of the products that line our retailers shelves have been refined and agreed over BT provided infrastructure. The replenishment plans for these products will have been communicated and executed over the same BT infrastructure. And BT stands behind some of the worlds largest and most successful RFID deployments.

CAEN RFID

CAEN RFID is a leading Italian company in the design and production of RFID UHF readers and tags. A totally inhouse expertise on RF electronics and related Software, together with its active involvement in the EPC Global and ETSI work groups, allow CAEN RFID to provide readers and tags at the leading edge of existing technology. CAEN RFID is providing its Easy2Log UHF RFID loggers for the implementation of the DHL SmartSensor Temperature solution. One Pager SmartSensor

CargoGuard

With its unique supply chain security system, CargoGuard closes the increasing security gaps in complex supply chains of logistics companies and companies or organizations with high security requirements. The personalized locking and opening processes set completely new technological security standards in the supply chain security. Together with DHL Solutions & Innovations the company develops a new security system for standard transport containers.

digitalSTROM

Comfort, Security and Sustainability digitalSTROM is a simple method of connecting electrical appliances. Electricity consumption becomes visible and measurable. Simultaneously digitaSTROM increases security and comfort. An ant-size chip makes all this possible: Mounted directly into the devices or in an adapter plug, it lets the devices communicate with one another. The system works over the existing 230 V mains. Installation only takes a few easy steps.

GS1

GS1 Germany supports companies from all sectors in the adoption and practical implementation of modern identification, communication and process standards in order to improve the efficiency of their business processes. To initiate with the GS1 standards, GS1 Germany provides GS1 Complete. Herewith organisations receive the foundation for the barcode-access to all systems of numbers from GS1. In addition GS1 Complete supports the appliance of new technologies establishing fully-automated identifications of objects (EPC/RFID). Alongside individual usage for an unobstructed product and data flow, GS1 Germany provides solutions for more customer orientation (ECR Efficient Consumer Response). Together with DHL Solutions & Innovations, GS1 works to advance the standardization of RFID. In 2007 GS1 Germany, Deutsche Post DHL, Karstadt and METRO Group built the European EPC Competence Center.

IBM

IBM has a wide range of integrated e-Business solutions in the logistics field. In the field of trade logistics in particular, IBM as a system integrator has extensive expertise. In a joint project, DHL Solutions & Innovations, IBM and an additional partner develop a solution for temperature monitoring during transport. The solution is based on the combination of RFID and sensor technology. One Pager SmartSensor

infoware

infoware specialises in the development of software for digital road map applications. We are a leader in the fields of GPS navigation, route calculation, processing of traffic and address data as well as map applications. Our activities focus on the development of software components, software development kits and frameworks that allow professional software developers to easily access sophisticated mapping functions. We also license off-the-shelf applications as white label products. We support our customers with individual mapping-related development projects upon request. infoware products are available for the following operating environments: Server (Windows, Linux) MacOS, Windows, Linux Windows CE, Windows Phone 7 iOS (iPhone, iPad) Android Blackberry Typical areas of application include: Navigation systems for professional and private users Mapping applications on the internet and for smart phones

 Transportation and logistics Fleet management One Pager SmartTruck

Intel

Since its founding in 1968, Intel Corporation has grown into the worlds largest semiconductor company (based on revenue). The company employs nearly 80.000 people across more than 50 countries. Intels products and technologies are at the heart of computing solutions that have become essential parts of businesses, homes and schools around the world; and are being used to tackle some of the worlds most complex problems in areas that include education, healthcare, economic development, and environmental sustainability. The companys products include microprocessors, chipsets and other semiconductor products that are integral to computers, servers, note- and netbooks, as well as consumer electronics, handheld devices and connected embedded products becoming part of cars, shopping kiosks and bank ATMs. Intels focus in not solely on the products it delivers. From primary schools to leading universities, Intel is committed to improving the quality of education around the world. Over the past decade alone Intel has invested over USD 1 billion and Intel employees have donated over 2.5 million hours toward improving education in more than 50 countries. Intel is headquartered in Santa Clara, California (USA). Additional information about the company is available at blogs.intel.com. 2010 Intel Corporation. All rights reserved.

Mecomo

The group of companies MECOMO AG is one of the leading solution providers for Tracking & Tracing in Europe. Its Division MECOMO Telematics is specialized on ambitious solutions for Telematics or Telemetrics it owns outstanding knowhow for Hardware/Software integration. As a systems house, with products like GPS solar which has been developed with DHL Solutions & Innovations as well as the scalable tracking platform nLP, MECOMO solves the individual requirements of internationally operating companies with regards to their logistics information chain. MECOMO is an innovative, fast growing company with its head office in Unterschleissheim near Munich and subsidiaries in Brazil (MECOMO do Brasil) as well as Germany (MECOMO Mobile Apps and Content GmbH).

MOJIX

MOJIX is revolutionizing supply-chain, asset- and yard-management for large enterprises by driving quantum leaps in RFID reliability, reach and scale. Mojix system extends the use of passive RFID to enable real-time location services for global standard based passive EPC Gen 2 tags. This allows presence-detection as well as locating of goods and

assets flowing through supply-chains and single enterprises. Funded by Oak Investment Partners, InnoCal Venture Capital and Red Rock Ventures, Mojix is headquartered in Los Angeles, USA. Mojix is Partner of DHL Solutions & Innovations. This partnership aims to create new innovative ways of using passive RFID in logistics.

Motorola

Motorola Solutions is a leading provider of business- and mission-critical communication products and services for enterprise and government customers. Through leading-edge innovation and communications technology, it is a global leader that enables its customers to be their best in the moments that matter. We are partnering with DHL Solutions & Innovations to develop and integrate future technology solutions for the logistics business. One Pager SmartTruck

Oracle

Oracle is the world's most complete, open, and integrated business software and hardware systems company. In the area of Supply Chain & Logistics, customers around the globe leverage database- and middleware-solutions as well as Business Applications to effectively manage their processes. A central focus of the partnership with the DHL Solutions & Innovations will be on integrating information from innovative tracking technologies such as RFID - with DHLs logistics control and information systems. One Pager RFID Fashion One Pager RFID Retail One Pager RFID Consumer Electronics

Quintiq

Quintiq is a leading provider of software solutions for advanced planning & scheduling and supply chain optimization.It is the fastest growing Advanced Planning & Scheduling software company in the world, capable to address any logistics, manufacturing, and workforce planning challenge. With an impressive track record of exceeding KPI targets in its implementations, Quintiq helps companies to increase their operational efficiency, reduce operating costs, and greatly improve service quality through better planning. As a technology partner of DHL Solutions & Innovations, Quintiq works on the development of an innovative dynamic route

planning application in the SmartTruck pilot project. Within the project, Quintiq focuses on optimizing routes and ensures that available vehicle capacity is utilized to the maximum. One Pager SmartTruck

SAP

SAP understands that for a leader in logistics like DHL, innovation is more than developing software and deploying logistics services it's generating breakthrough technologies and best practices that shape emerging trends in transportation and logistics. Technology empowers mobile users and growth in emerging regions drives urbanization. This creates an innovation-intersection requiring long term and short term insight, which can be achieved with the leading analytics solutions that can efficiently leverage big-data. SAP is leading innovations in Cloud and In-Memory computing technologies without ignoring the future of existing on-premise solutions. SAP and DHL are committed to providing sustainable transportation and logistics solutions evidenced by their own recognition in green-logistics practices as well as how they help their customers achieve the same. With SAP, DHL refines their core business processes to reduce costs and leverage leading technologies specific to DHLs industry to win new business. SAP and DHL are working together to enable leading industry solutions like EBPP (trans-border exchange of electronic invoices) and RFID technology, as well as explore innovations in managing big data and mobility. All this without sacrificing strides in sustainable logistics services to protect brand and service integrity.

Siemens

Siemens AG is a global powerhouse in electronics and electrical engineering, operating in the industry, energy and healthcare sectors. The Siemens Mobility Division is the internationally leading provider of transportation and logistics solutions. With Complete mobility, the Division is focused on networking the various modes of transportation in order to ensure the efficient and environmentally compatible transport of people and goods. As global technology and innovation partners DHL Solutions & Innovations and Siemens work at the development of integrated transport solutions for the flow of goods of the future.

T-Systems

Deutsche Telekom AGs corporate customer division T-Systems is Europes leading information and communications technology (ICT) provider for the transportation and logistics industry. One key focus of the partnership with DHL Solutions & Innovations is the use of mobile solutions for innovative logistics services. Furthermore, the companies also expect to identify new information and communication trends with relevance for logistics.

Tricon

TRICON is as system integrator and engineering company one of the leading providers of soultions in the field of radio frequency identification (RFID). The technology partner already tested successfully the use of RFID for the transport of the DHL corporate wear, jointly with DHL Solutions & Innovations. One Pager RFID Fashion One Pager RFID Consumer Electronics

ZETES

Zetes Industries with more than 800 employees at 14 branch office is a leading pan-European company in the valueadded solutions and services industry for Automatic Identification of Goods and People. Zetes uses both emerging and mature technologies such as barcode, voice recognition, RFID, smartcards and biometrics. Consulting, software development, integration, repair and maintenance services are delivered by Zetes along the whole project life cycle. As Advanced Technology Innovation Partner Zetes along with other partners has supported DHL Solutions & Innovations in realising the ColdChain solution SmartSensorTemperature.

DHL Launches Smart Sentry Tracking Technology

DHL recently announced that it has launched DHL Smart Sentry, a wireless locator device for high-value cargo that provides real-time tracking data for increased security and is the first device of its kind to meet FAA specifications so it can be safely used on commercial airlines in the U.S. The compact DHL Smart Sentry provides increased security and transparency for shippers since it includes sensors for key criteria such as temperature, humidity, pressure, shock, location and vibration. The DHL device uses multiple modes of sensing and proprietary logic, giving it the necessary intelligence to automatically suppress its wireless radios to an off mode, thus ensuring safe and FAA-compliant operation during flight.

Once in transit, the DHL Smart Sentry transmits real-time tracking data and analytics via a global cellular network to a central monitoring location staffed 24/7 by the DHL Same Day analytics team. Additionally, clients can track DHL Smart Sentry deliveries through a web-based dashboard to monitor the progress and condition of their package. DHL has partnered with the leading airline carriers who accept this new technology so it can be offered to global customers requiring expedited air courier delivery service, an innovative new logistics option. By implementing solutions for real-time asset tracking that harness the collaborative power of the web, DHL can increase top-line revenues by offering its customers value-added services many others arent, while saving money by avoiding lost shipments and customer dissatisfaction, said James Brehm, Sr. Strategist and Consultant at Compass Intelligence. DHL Global Same Day, the special services group of DHL Express, will introduce DHL Smart Sentry as part of its white-glove service that guarantees the fast and secure delivery of high-value cargo items including mission critical packages, temperature-sensitive supplies for medical and pharmaceutical clients, as well as specialized parts and deliveries demanding extreme urgency. This innovation will provide enhanced visibility along the entire supply chain, and offers increased security for the expedited handling of sensitive cargo says Vice President and General Manager of DHL Global Same Day, John Fox.