Project description
A new way to track, trace and verify
Track & trace as well as product verification have become essential processes for the distribution and logistics of any company. However, current technologies such as RFID are expensive and do not meet the needs of all types of SMEs. The EU-funded Mag-ID project proposes a magnetic ink barcode reader that identifies and verifies product authenticity. The solution is innovative and based on TMR sensing technology, resulting in a cost-effective, reliable and alternative system for high volume tracking and tracing for product verification. The technology allows the replacement of barcodes with a more reliable read while permitting distance reading. It is environmentally friendly and ideal for cost-effective anti-counterfeiting measures.
Objective
The project consortium consisting of BOGEN (project coordinator, SME), INESC-MN (research), and INSPECTRON (SME) will bring the novel identification solution for track & trace, anti-counterfeiting and product verification to market. INSPECTRON has recently developed a magnetic ink barcode reader and has implemented this in a mailer project. BOGEN has developed with INESC-MN a new technology to read magnetic ink with TMR sensing technology. Combining these approaches results in a disruption for the identification and authentication/anti-counterfeiting markets with Mag-ID, the magnetic readable barcode based on ink. The objective of this action is to introduce Mag-ID as a cost-efficient alternative for high volume tracking & tracing, brand protection and inspection and to replace passive RFID as a cheap solution for high volume applications. Since magnetic barcodes are dirt resistant, the technology will replace some barcodes with a more reliable read. The technology allows for distance reading, which means that the information can be read through coatings, e.g. parts before and after a paint booth can be identified automatically with the same technology. This can be used for tracking and tracing of components in a subassembly e.g. in identification documents to ensure that personal data and pictures are matched in the process and after assembly. Together with a verification as a service platform, SMEs can provide authentication and validation services world-wide. Magnetic barcodes can replace many RFID solutions as they are environment-friendly without separate electronic device disposal. Within Mag-ID, the SME partners will demonstrate the results manifold: BOGEN Mag-ID one-shot reader in a volume application, INSPECTRON with evaluation modules for the Mag-ID brand protection, tracking and inspection solutions. INSPECTRON will move into a service-based business model, while BOGEN will create a separate business for a project-based model.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
IA - Innovation actionCoordinator
1000 029 Lisboa
Portugal