Intermec Inc., an RFID pioneer and leading supplier of Gen 2 RFID technology and equipment, and Cascade Corp., the world's largest manufacturer of forklift attachments, are teaming to develop a forklift system that incorporates RFID technology into a forklift's very infrastructure, replacing today's cumbersome and inefficient bolt-on approach to data collection.
Forklifts envisioned by Cascade and Intermec incorporate powerful dashboard computers positioned for maximum safety and efficiency, easy-to-reach RFID controls assimilated into the lift's control mechanisms, wireless real-time location tracking and navigational LEDs for optimal routing, and easy-to-adjust RFID readers designed into the frame of forklift attachments for flexible and accurate use with a wide range of goods and supplies. The system, designed specifically for the rugged environment of daily warehouse use, also includes a sophisticated cable management system, state-of-the-art wireless scanning capabilities and a built-in camera for cargo documentation.
Cascade and Intermec unveiled a prototype future forklift at Intermec's 2006 Global Partner Conference in Dallas.
Chantal Polsonetti, ARC Advisory Group, commented, “Seamless integration of automated RFID reads into existing processes and architecture is a key functional requirement of the Auto ID infrastructure of the future. Forklift or clamp truck-mounted RFID readers are an increasingly popular option to this end, particularly for customers whose preferred approach to RFID reads is to bring the reader to the product, rather than vice versa.”
