The durability of passive-RFID tags in automotive manufacturing logistics
Zhang, Thomas (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202503315334
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202503315334
Tiivistelmä
This thesis examines the durability of passive RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags in automotive manufacturing logistics, with a specific focus on Toyota Motor Manufacturing France (TMMF). The primary objective was to assess the lifespan of passive RFID tags in real world logistics operations and identify key factors contributing to their degradation.
The study analyzed RFID tag data collected from Toyota’s logistics tracking system between June 2021 and October 2024. It investigated patterns of tag failures, potential causes of damage, and maintenance trends. Data was obtained from RFID gate scans, which tracked the movement of tagged parts boxes throughout the facility. Additionally, production data from public Toyota reports and automotive news sources were incorporated to provide broader industry context.
Findings indicate that mechanical stress, such as friction and impact during handling, is the primary factor affecting RFID tag durability. Over the study period, 0.7 million new tags were introduced, with an average annual increase of 0.2 million tags, largely driven by increased production volumes. While passive RFID tags do not experience electronic failures, they often become unreadable due to physical wear and tear.
The research concludes that optimizing the placement and protection of RFID tags can significantly enhance durability, reduce replacement costs, and improve operational efficiency. Further research is recommended to explore protective enclosures that minimize mechanical damage, as well as alternative logistics tracking solutions. Insights from existing systems, such as those already implemented in other Toyota facilities, could provide valuable guidance for future improvements.
The study analyzed RFID tag data collected from Toyota’s logistics tracking system between June 2021 and October 2024. It investigated patterns of tag failures, potential causes of damage, and maintenance trends. Data was obtained from RFID gate scans, which tracked the movement of tagged parts boxes throughout the facility. Additionally, production data from public Toyota reports and automotive news sources were incorporated to provide broader industry context.
Findings indicate that mechanical stress, such as friction and impact during handling, is the primary factor affecting RFID tag durability. Over the study period, 0.7 million new tags were introduced, with an average annual increase of 0.2 million tags, largely driven by increased production volumes. While passive RFID tags do not experience electronic failures, they often become unreadable due to physical wear and tear.
The research concludes that optimizing the placement and protection of RFID tags can significantly enhance durability, reduce replacement costs, and improve operational efficiency. Further research is recommended to explore protective enclosures that minimize mechanical damage, as well as alternative logistics tracking solutions. Insights from existing systems, such as those already implemented in other Toyota facilities, could provide valuable guidance for future improvements.