Rfid Applications In Manufacturing Draft 7

RFID applications in manufacturing have evolved beyond just attaching tags to items. Middleware is used to filter redundant tag data and translate it into a format usable by applications. Current common applications are driven by external mandates to attach tags for tracking shipments. Many companies take a "slap and ship" approach where tags are attached by third parties. However, RFID also enables in-house applications like tracking tools and parts on the factory floor. Further applications could integrate RFID with production systems for mixed-model assembly and inventory management. Wider adoption faces challenges from the lower costs of established barcode technology.