Track and trace

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In the distribution and logistics of different types of products, traces and impressions or tracking and tracking, concerning the process of determining current and past locations (and other information) of unique goods or property.

This concept can be supported by the calculation and reporting of vehicle positions and containers with property that is feared, stored, for example, in a real-time database. This approach leaves the task of drawing up a coherent picture of the next status report.

Another approach is to report the arrival or departure of objects and record object identification, location where observed, time, and status. This approach leaves the task of verifying reports of consistency and completeness. An example of this method may be the tracking of packages provided by the sender, such as Deutsche Post, United Parcel Service, AirRoad, or FedEx.

Video Track and trace

Technology

The international standards organization EPCglobal under GS1 has ratified EPC network standards (especially EPCIS EPCIS information services) that modifies the syntax and semantics for supply chain events and safe methods to selectively share supply chain events with trading partners. This Tracking and Tracking Standard has been used in successful implementation in many industries and there are now a wide range of products certified as being compatible with this standard.

In response to the increasing number of withdrawal incidents (food, pharmaceuticals, toys, etc.), Software, hardware, consulting and system vendor waves have emerged over the last few years to offer industry-wide search solutions and tools. Radio frequency identification and barcode are two common technology methods used to provide traceability.

RFID is synonymous with track-and-trace solutions, and has an important role in the supply chain. RFID is a code carrier technology, and can be used instead of barcodes to allow for non-vision-reading lines. Deployment of RFID was previously constrained by cost limitations but its use is now increasing.

Barcodes are a common and cost-effective method used to implement traceability in both item and case level. Data variables in barcodes or numeric or alphanumeric codes can be applied to packaging or labels. Secure data can be used as a pointer to search information and can also correlate with production data such as time to market and product quality.

The packaging converter has a choice of three different tech classes to print barcodes:

Inkjet system (dot on demand) is capable of printing high resolution images (300 dpi or higher for dot on demand) at press speeds (up to 1000fpm). This solution can be applied either when pressed or offline.
Laser marking can be used to blur layers or cause color changes in certain materials. The advantages of the laser are fine detail and high speed for character printing, and no consumables. Not all substrates receive laser marks, and certain colors (eg red) are not suitable for barcode readings.
Thermal and thermal transfer directly. For low speed applications, heat transfer and thermal direct printers are ideal for printing variable data on labels.

Consumers can access websites to track the origins of the products they buy or to seek delivery status. Consumers can type the code found on the item into the search box on the tracking website and view the information. This can also be done through smartphones that take 2D barcode images and thereby open a website that verifies the product (ie product authentication).