DolceraWiki - User contributions [en]

File:Activityp.png

2006-10-16T08:36:07Z

Kirti:

File:Overallp.png

2006-10-16T08:36:04Z

Kirti:

Insurance sector

2006-10-16T08:31:23Z

Kirti: /* Distribution of patents - Based on activity */

Insurance sector

2006-10-16T08:30:13Z

Kirti: /* Insurance type - Overall */

Insurance sector

2006-10-16T08:29:51Z

Kirti: /* Insurance type - Overall */

File:New95.png

2006-10-16T08:28:43Z

Kirti:

File:Domain-filing4.png

2006-10-13T09:31:53Z

Kirti:

Insurance sector

2006-10-13T09:31:44Z

Kirti: /* Trend in least and most crowded domains */

File:Country-Assignee1.png

2006-10-13T09:31:21Z

Kirti:

Insurance sector

2006-10-13T09:31:11Z

Kirti: /* Foreign filing trends of top players */

File:Domain-Assignee1.png

2006-10-13T09:30:47Z

Kirti:

Insurance sector

2006-10-13T09:30:27Z

Kirti: /* Distribution of assignees in the top ten domains */

File:Domain-filing3.png

2006-10-13T09:20:56Z

Kirti:

Insurance sector

2006-10-13T09:20:43Z

Kirti: /* Trend in least and most crowded domains */

File:Domain-filing2.png

2006-10-13T09:17:45Z

Kirti:

Insurance sector

2006-10-13T09:17:35Z

Kirti: /* Trend in least and most crowded domains */

File:Domain-filing1.png

2006-10-13T09:14:43Z

Kirti:

Insurance sector

2006-10-13T09:14:33Z

Kirti: /* Trend in least and most crowded domains */

File:Domain-filing.png

2006-10-13T09:11:32Z

Kirti:

Insurance sector

2006-10-12T11:28:58Z

Kirti: /* Country wise IP activity */

Insurance sector

2006-10-12T11:28:29Z

Kirti: /* Country wise IP activity */

Insurance sector

2006-10-12T11:27:51Z

Kirti: /* Trend in least and most crowded domains */

Insurance sector

2006-10-12T11:27:24Z

Kirti: /* Trend in least and most crowded domains */

File:Domain-filing date.png

2006-10-12T11:26:52Z

Kirti:

Insurance sector

2006-10-12T11:26:41Z

Kirti: /* Distribution of analyzed patents - Based on insurance type */

File:Country-Assignee.png

2006-10-12T11:18:41Z

Kirti:

Insurance sector

2006-10-12T11:18:29Z

Kirti: /* Top five domains and the foreign filing trends */

File:Domain-Assignee.png

2006-10-12T11:13:41Z

Kirti:

Insurance sector

2006-10-12T10:52:04Z

Kirti: /* Assignee wise IP activity */

==Rationale==
* Financial markets are a part of the changing business paradigms, across the globe - G. N. Bajpai
* Today, globalization of competencies, thinking and perspectives has been the part of Strategic Action Plan of all the major players in the financial markets, globally - G. N. Bajpai
* "The focus over the last year has been around proving the value of IT as a key contributor to business success," - David Holtzman
* Real-time documents provide faster time to market with a personal touch - Penn National Insurance

==Search Strategy==
'''Search date:''' 14 Sept, 2006

'''Database''': Micropatent (PatSearch Fulltext)

'''Search Strings, Hits & Scope:'''

* '''Search I'''
** Query: (Life) AND (Insurance OR Reinsurance OR Polic* OR Annuit*) - 532 hits
** Search scope – Title, Abstract & Claims, Date - 2000 till date
** Databases: US, EP, WO, JP, DE, GB and FR (common for all)
* '''Search II'''
** Query: (computer) and (Insurance OR Reinsurance) and (Polic* OR Annuit*) – 511 hits
** Search scope – Title, Abstract & Claims, Date 1991 till date
* '''Search III'''
** Query: (Insurance OR Reinsurance OR polic* or Annuit*) limited by assignee (Insurance OR Bank) – 345 hits
** Search scope – Title, Abstract & Claims, Date – 1991 till date – 345 hits
* Total # of records - Search I + Search II + Search III = 1239 (excluding duplicates and family members but includes off-target)

'''Note:''' ''All search hits exclude family members and duplicate patent records''
----

==Market data - Insurance sector==
* Insurance and risk management is an immense global industry. In America alone, the insurance business employs about 2.5 million people 
* Life and health insurance in the United States will be about a $725 billion in gross revenues business in 2006, compared to only about $500 billion in 2002 
* U.S. life insurance firms hold about $3.8 trillion in assets 
* Personal lines comprise another vast sector of insurance. For example, private passenger automobile insurance will be about a $172 billion annual premium market in the U.S. for 2006 
* Homeowners insurance is about a $50 billion market 
* Property and Casualty insurance premiums will total about $450 billion in the U.S. for 2006

==Year wise IP activity==
* Graph depicts IP activity based on publication year
* 866 patents filed in a span of 16 years (1991 - 15th Sept, 2006). Out of which 792 patents filed in last 7 years
* Trend indicates high IP activity during 2002 followed by sudden fall during 2003, since then recovering gradually

[[Image:PUYear.png|thumb|center|600 px|Assignee wise IP activity]]

==Assignee wise IP activity==
* Graph depicts assignee and number of patents to their credit
* MITSUI SUMITOMO INSURANCE leading in IP activity race with 60 patents to its credit, followed by TOKIO MARINE & FIRE INSURANCE with 49 and AIOI INSURANCE with 23 patent records to their credit

<gflash>545 375 http://www.dolcera.com/Insurance_Assigneewise_IPactivity.swf</gflash>

'''Note''': Below mentioned assignees patents added together and presented as one in above graph
* SUMITOMO LIFE INSURANCE and MITSUI SUMITOMO INSURANCE is presented as MITSUI SUMITOMO INSURANCE
* GE MORTGAGE HOLDINGS and GE FINANCIAL ASSURANCE HOLDING is presented as GE FINANCIAL ASSURANCE HOLDING
* NICHIDO FIRE & MARINE INSURANCE , TOKIO MARINE AND FIRE INSURANCE , TOKIO MARINE & NICHIDO LIFE INSURANCE , TOKIO MARINE & NICHIDO FIRE INSURANCE and TOKIO MARINE & FIRE INSURANCE is presented as TOKIO MARINE & FIRE INSURANCE
* NIPPONKOA INSURANCE , NIPPON ELECTRIC and NIPPON LIFE INSURANCE is presented as NIPPON LIFE INSURANCE

==Country wise IP activity==
* Graph indicates IP activity based on priority country
* United States with 506 patent records is the most happening destination for insurance related IP activities followed by Japan (314) and Australia (9)
* [[Country code]]

[[Image:PCountry.png|thumb|center|600 px|Assignee wise IP activity]]

==Insurance type - Overall==
[[image:Overall123.png|center|600 px|thumb|Types of insurance]]

==Distribution of assignees in the top ten domains==

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="80%"
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"| 
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|N/A
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|MITSUI SUMITOMO
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|TOKIO MARINE & NICHIDO
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|AIOI INSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|NIPPON
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|DAI ICHI MUTUAL
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|G E
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|COMPUTER SCIENCES
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|IBM
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|AIU INSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|HITACHI
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|SWISS REINSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|MEIJI LIFE INSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|DAIDO LIFE INSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|YASUDA FIRE & MARINE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|AMERICAN LIFE INSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|EMPLOYERS REASSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|GENWORTH FINANCIAL
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|SOMPO JAPAN
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|ZURICH
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|AMERICAN INTER. GROUP
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|SONY
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#C0C0C0"|'''Total'''
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|General Insurance
|align = "center"|52
|align = "center"|49
|align = "center"|34
|align = "center"|17
|align = "center"|10
|align = "center"|12
|align = "center"|9
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|8
|align = "center"|7
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|6
|align = "center"|5
|align = "center"|4
|align = "center"|4
|align = "center"|6
|align = "center"|4
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|2
|align = "center"|2
|align = "right"|246
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Life Insurance
|align = "center"|65
|align = "center"|8
|align = "center"|4
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|8
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|4
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|2
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|3
|align = "right"|107
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Automobile Insurance
|align = "center"|18
|align = "center"|7
|align = "center"|5
|align = "center"|5
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|9
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|48
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Health Insurance
|align = "center"|15
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|2
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|20
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Property Insurance
|align = "center"|14
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|2
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|21
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Mortgage Insurance
|align = "center"|2
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|6
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Liability Insurance
|align = "center"|5
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|6
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Credit Insurance
|align = "center"|5
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|7
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Casualty Insurance
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|5
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Title Insurnace
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|2
|-
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#C0C0C0"|'''Total'''
|align = "right"|177
|align = "right"|68
|align = "right"|48
|align = "right"|25
|align = "right"|21
|align = "right"|15
|align = "right"|13
|align = "right"|13
|align = "right"|11
|align = "right"|7
|align = "right"|8
|align = "right"|7
|align = "right"|7
|align = "right"|7
|align = "right"|7
|align = "right"|6
|align = "right"|5
|align = "right"|6
|align = "right"|4
|align = "right"|5
|align = "right"|3
|align = "right"|5
|
|-
|}

==Top five domains and the foreign filing trends==
[[image:Chart-Country-domain.png|center|600 px|thumb|Top five domains and the foreign filing trends]]

==Distribution of analyzed patents - Based on insurance type==
* 95 patents have been analyzed and categorized based on type of insurance
* For definitions follow the [[link]]
* Number in ( ) indicates # of patents
* '''Trend - Top insurance filing sectors'''
** Maximum number of patents file under life insurance category (39) followed by
** Automobile insurance (26) and
** Property insurance (7)
[[Image:Insurance_Types_(95).jpeg|thumb|center|600 px|Distribution of patents - Level-I Analysis]]

==Distribution of patents - Based on activity==
* Above 95 patents further analyzed for more granularity to project various patterns involved
* '''Trend based on various activities under insurance: '''
** Maximum patent filed on insurance information management system (23) followed by
** Insurance payment process (21) and
** Insurance selling system and various selling parameters (15)

[[Image:Activity95.png|thumb|center|850 px|Distribution of patents - Level-II Analysis]]

==Overall Trend - Based on insurance sector and respective activities==
'''Automobile Insurance'''
* Customize insurance policy and customized insurance premium for different cars and people
* Keeping uninsured from driving

'''Casualty insurance'''
* Automatic accident reporting system of an insured person

'''Health insurance'''
* Pharmacy benefits calculator – selects a cost effective insurance plan form the group of plans

'''Life Insurance'''
* Annuity – Automated benefit scheme administration apparatus
* Package – Selling other services (funeral plan) along with life insurance
* Retirement – Computer based retirement planning and income arrangement system

'''Property insurance'''
* GPS Mobile insurance system – Monitoring current location and condition

==Insurance type Vs assignee and their activities==
'''Automobile insurance'''

[[Image:Automobile1.png|thumb|center|750 px|Automobile insurance - Assignee wise patent distribution]]

'''Life insurance'''

[[Image:Life_Insurance.png|thumb|center|750 px|Life insurance - Assignee wise patent distribution]]

'''Casualty + Health + Credit + Intellectual property and Financial loss insurance - Presented together'''

[[Image:Combined.png|thumb|center|750 px|Assignee wise patent distribution]]

----
[[Media:Insurance_Analysis.xls]]

Insurance sector

2006-10-12T10:50:46Z

Kirti: /* Assignee wise IP activity */

==Rationale==
* Financial markets are a part of the changing business paradigms, across the globe - G. N. Bajpai
* Today, globalization of competencies, thinking and perspectives has been the part of Strategic Action Plan of all the major players in the financial markets, globally - G. N. Bajpai
* "The focus over the last year has been around proving the value of IT as a key contributor to business success," - David Holtzman
* Real-time documents provide faster time to market with a personal touch - Penn National Insurance

==Search Strategy==
'''Search date:''' 14 Sept, 2006

'''Database''': Micropatent (PatSearch Fulltext)

'''Search Strings, Hits & Scope:'''

* '''Search I'''
** Query: (Life) AND (Insurance OR Reinsurance OR Polic* OR Annuit*) - 532 hits
** Search scope – Title, Abstract & Claims, Date - 2000 till date
** Databases: US, EP, WO, JP, DE, GB and FR (common for all)
* '''Search II'''
** Query: (computer) and (Insurance OR Reinsurance) and (Polic* OR Annuit*) – 511 hits
** Search scope – Title, Abstract & Claims, Date 1991 till date
* '''Search III'''
** Query: (Insurance OR Reinsurance OR polic* or Annuit*) limited by assignee (Insurance OR Bank) – 345 hits
** Search scope – Title, Abstract & Claims, Date – 1991 till date – 345 hits
* Total # of records - Search I + Search II + Search III = 1239 (excluding duplicates and family members but includes off-target)

'''Note:''' ''All search hits exclude family members and duplicate patent records''
----

==Market data - Insurance sector==
* Insurance and risk management is an immense global industry. In America alone, the insurance business employs about 2.5 million people 
* Life and health insurance in the United States will be about a $725 billion in gross revenues business in 2006, compared to only about $500 billion in 2002 
* U.S. life insurance firms hold about $3.8 trillion in assets 
* Personal lines comprise another vast sector of insurance. For example, private passenger automobile insurance will be about a $172 billion annual premium market in the U.S. for 2006 
* Homeowners insurance is about a $50 billion market 
* Property and Casualty insurance premiums will total about $450 billion in the U.S. for 2006

==Year wise IP activity==
* Graph depicts IP activity based on publication year
* 866 patents filed in a span of 16 years (1991 - 15th Sept, 2006). Out of which 792 patents filed in last 7 years
* Trend indicates high IP activity during 2002 followed by sudden fall during 2003, since then recovering gradually

[[Image:PUYear.png|thumb|center|600 px|Assignee wise IP activity]]

==Assignee wise IP activity==
* Graph depicts assignee and number of patents to their credit
* MITSUI SUMITOMO INSURANCE leading in IP activity race with 60 patents to its credit, followed by TOKIO MARINE & FIRE INSURANCE with 49 and AIOI INSURANCE with 23 patent records to their credit

<gflash>545 375 http://www.dolcera.com/Assigneewise_IPactivity.swf</gflash>

'''Note''': Below mentioned assignees patents added together and presented as one in above graph
* SUMITOMO LIFE INSURANCE and MITSUI SUMITOMO INSURANCE is presented as MITSUI SUMITOMO INSURANCE
* GE MORTGAGE HOLDINGS and GE FINANCIAL ASSURANCE HOLDING is presented as GE FINANCIAL ASSURANCE HOLDING
* NICHIDO FIRE & MARINE INSURANCE , TOKIO MARINE AND FIRE INSURANCE , TOKIO MARINE & NICHIDO LIFE INSURANCE , TOKIO MARINE & NICHIDO FIRE INSURANCE and TOKIO MARINE & FIRE INSURANCE is presented as TOKIO MARINE & FIRE INSURANCE
* NIPPONKOA INSURANCE , NIPPON ELECTRIC and NIPPON LIFE INSURANCE is presented as NIPPON LIFE INSURANCE

==Country wise IP activity==
* Graph indicates IP activity based on priority country
* United States with 506 patent records is the most happening destination for insurance related IP activities followed by Japan (314) and Australia (9)
* [[Country code]]

[[Image:PCountry.png|thumb|center|600 px|Assignee wise IP activity]]

==Insurance type - Overall==
[[image:Overall123.png|center|600 px|thumb|Types of insurance]]

==Distribution of assignees in the top ten domains==

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="80%"
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"| 
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|N/A
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|MITSUI SUMITOMO
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|TOKIO MARINE & NICHIDO
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|AIOI INSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|NIPPON
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|DAI ICHI MUTUAL
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|G E
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|COMPUTER SCIENCES
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|IBM
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|AIU INSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|HITACHI
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|SWISS REINSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|MEIJI LIFE INSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|DAIDO LIFE INSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|YASUDA FIRE & MARINE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|AMERICAN LIFE INSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|EMPLOYERS REASSURANCE
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|GENWORTH FINANCIAL
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|SOMPO JAPAN
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|ZURICH
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|AMERICAN INTER. GROUP
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|SONY
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#C0C0C0"|'''Total'''
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|General Insurance
|align = "center"|52
|align = "center"|49
|align = "center"|34
|align = "center"|17
|align = "center"|10
|align = "center"|12
|align = "center"|9
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|8
|align = "center"|7
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|6
|align = "center"|5
|align = "center"|4
|align = "center"|4
|align = "center"|6
|align = "center"|4
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|2
|align = "center"|2
|align = "right"|246
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Life Insurance
|align = "center"|65
|align = "center"|8
|align = "center"|4
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|8
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|4
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|2
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|3
|align = "right"|107
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Automobile Insurance
|align = "center"|18
|align = "center"|7
|align = "center"|5
|align = "center"|5
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|9
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|48
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Health Insurance
|align = "center"|15
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|2
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|20
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Property Insurance
|align = "center"|14
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|2
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|21
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Mortgage Insurance
|align = "center"|2
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|3
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|6
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Liability Insurance
|align = "center"|5
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|6
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Credit Insurance
|align = "center"|5
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|7
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Casualty Insurance
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|5
|-
|align = "justify" bgcolor = "#808080"|Title Insurnace
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|1
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "center"|
|align = "right"|2
|-
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#C0C0C0"|'''Total'''
|align = "right"|177
|align = "right"|68
|align = "right"|48
|align = "right"|25
|align = "right"|21
|align = "right"|15
|align = "right"|13
|align = "right"|13
|align = "right"|11
|align = "right"|7
|align = "right"|8
|align = "right"|7
|align = "right"|7
|align = "right"|7
|align = "right"|7
|align = "right"|6
|align = "right"|5
|align = "right"|6
|align = "right"|4
|align = "right"|5
|align = "right"|3
|align = "right"|5
|
|-
|}

==Top five domains and the foreign filing trends==
[[image:Chart-Country-domain.png|center|600 px|thumb|Top five domains and the foreign filing trends]]

==Distribution of analyzed patents - Based on insurance type==
* 95 patents have been analyzed and categorized based on type of insurance
* For definitions follow the [[link]]
* Number in ( ) indicates # of patents
* '''Trend - Top insurance filing sectors'''
** Maximum number of patents file under life insurance category (39) followed by
** Automobile insurance (26) and
** Property insurance (7)
[[Image:Insurance_Types_(95).jpeg|thumb|center|600 px|Distribution of patents - Level-I Analysis]]

==Distribution of patents - Based on activity==
* Above 95 patents further analyzed for more granularity to project various patterns involved
* '''Trend based on various activities under insurance: '''
** Maximum patent filed on insurance information management system (23) followed by
** Insurance payment process (21) and
** Insurance selling system and various selling parameters (15)

[[Image:Activity95.png|thumb|center|850 px|Distribution of patents - Level-II Analysis]]

==Overall Trend - Based on insurance sector and respective activities==
'''Automobile Insurance'''
* Customize insurance policy and customized insurance premium for different cars and people
* Keeping uninsured from driving

'''Casualty insurance'''
* Automatic accident reporting system of an insured person

'''Health insurance'''
* Pharmacy benefits calculator – selects a cost effective insurance plan form the group of plans

'''Life Insurance'''
* Annuity – Automated benefit scheme administration apparatus
* Package – Selling other services (funeral plan) along with life insurance
* Retirement – Computer based retirement planning and income arrangement system

'''Property insurance'''
* GPS Mobile insurance system – Monitoring current location and condition

==Insurance type Vs assignee and their activities==
'''Automobile insurance'''

[[Image:Automobile1.png|thumb|center|750 px|Automobile insurance - Assignee wise patent distribution]]

'''Life insurance'''

[[Image:Life_Insurance.png|thumb|center|750 px|Life insurance - Assignee wise patent distribution]]

'''Casualty + Health + Credit + Intellectual property and Financial loss insurance - Presented together'''

[[Image:Combined.png|thumb|center|750 px|Assignee wise patent distribution]]

----
[[Media:Insurance_Analysis.xls]]

File:Chart-Country-domain.png

2006-10-12T10:43:42Z

Kirti:

Supply Chain RFID Applications

2006-09-13T05:57:37Z

Kirti: /* Main applications of RFID along with various stages, S/W applications and H/W<nowiki>’</nowiki>s involved */

== Executive Summary ==
IP activity in the area of RFID-based supply chain applications seems to have started in 1991, and peaked in 2004. Most of the action in the integration of electronic identification system (RFID) with software system in supply chain applications has taken place in the last ten years or so.

Around 423 patents have been published in the span of 4.2 years from 2000 till February 2005. The major market in RFID-based supply chain applications appears to be the United States.

'''Technology area focus by key players'''
* Digital Data Processing
* Communication Techniques
* Computing, calculating, counting
* Recognition of data; Presentation of data
* Signaling Or Calling Systems

'''Some of the key players identified are'''
* United Parcel Service
* G.E.
* Silverbrook
* Micron Technology
* NCR Corporation
* SAP AG
* Savi tech.

'''Various software applications cited in patents'''
* Business applications
* UPS Supply Chain Solutions
* Anti-collision software
* Program for correlating the environmental condition data with the location data.
* Software applications (Web application" TagDetect")
* Software applications supporting a client-server system or n-tiered computer system.
* MW (Micro-warehouse) enterprise application
* XML middleware such as Biz Talk software
* ERP system, web ordering system
* BeefLink Software
* Source code, object code, or scripting code.

'''Key application areas identified'''
* Food and pharma industry
* Semiconductors and High-value electronic items
* Asset and materials management system
* Commercial enterprise
* Beef industry
* Airport and shipyard

'''Key RFID Tracking applications'''
* Assets
* Equipment
* Materials
* Orders
* Personnel
* Processes
* Products
* Production
* Quality
* Resources

== RFID - Market Potential ==
* The global forecast RFID hardware, middleware, and IT market was worth $640 million in 2005. In 2006, this number will grow to more than $713 million, and is projected to reach more than $1.0 billion by 2011 at an average annual growth rate (AAGR) of 8.0% 
* The RFID market is anticipated to continue to grow rapidly in these and many other market sectors and industries including the food and drug industry, propelled by United States FDA mandates. The technical issues that have made standardization more challenging are heading toward resolution with the emergence of the second-generation of UHF RFID 
* Retail RFID is estimated currently at just under 27% of the overall RFID market, and supply chain management (SCM) applications, when considered as separate from warehouse and distribution and transportation, represents just over 15% of the overall RFID market. These distributions will undoubtedly change rapidly, and should be reconsidered at regular time intervals as the RFID technology and established and emerging markets mature (Source - BCC Research)

==Introduction to RFID technology in supply chain==

The supply chain is a complex multi-stage process which involves everything from the procurement of raw materials used to develop products, and their delivery to customers via warehouses and distribution centers. Supply chains exist in service, manufacturing and retail organizations.

Although, the complexity of the chain may vary greatly from industry to industry and firm to firm. Supply chain management can be seen as the supervision of information and finances of these materials, as they move through the different processes, by coordinating and integrating the flows within and among the different companies involved.

The efficiency of the supply chain has a direct impact on the profitability of a company. It is no surprise therefore to find that many large corporate companies have made it a key part of their strategy, and invested heavily in software systems (ERP, WMS...) and IT infrastructure designed to control inventory, track products and manage associated finance.

RFID will bring a new dimension to supply chain management by providing a more efficient way of being able to identify and track items at the various stages throughout the supply chain. It will allow product data to be captured automatically, and therefore be more quickly available for use by other processes such as ASN, stock management and real time billing.

===Search approach and project scope===

The first task was to find the relevant U.S. granted patents, and EP granted patents or published patent applications. This was done for all patents published in years 1975 to 2005. This range of years is more than sufficient; but almost all of the action has taken place in the last ten years or even considerably lesser time in some categories.

Identified patents in RFID-base supply chain applications category using a patent search filter. Filter development and testing is usually the most difficult and time-consuming part of a patent analysis, and that was certainly not the case in this research.

Patent search filters are sometimes relatively simple, but more often complex. Combinations of patent invention art classifications and keywords in titles, abstracts and claims were targeted for search. Because I was working with a combination of US and EP documents, I used classifications based on the International Patent Classification (IPC) system.

Details on the approach of search is given in search strategy. Since the scope of project is limited to test, therefore only 30 patent records were selected for quantitative analysis and 15 for qualitative analysis.

Most of the indicators could not be project due to insufficient data.

===Objective:===

The aim of this project is to identify IP activity in the area of RFID-Based supply chain applications primarily focused on the application of software in warehouse, distribution, inventory control and also the related applications.

===Data Interpretation:===

Appropriate patent records were selected for analysis. The selection criteria was based on:

* Type of RFID tags (Active, Passive, Microwave or Chipless)

* Type of receiver (Mobile, Handheld, fixed)

* Tag system (Read-only/WORM (Write once read many times)/Read-Write tags)

* Type of reader (Interrogator)

* Type Sensor and RFID frequency

* Receiver link and software

* Applications by where the event takes place (Airport, shipyard, factory, warehouse etc.)

* Process involved (Shipping, receiving, inventory etc.)

* Type of software used (Middle ware, applications etc.)

===Search strategy:===

Date of search: Jan 2005

Database used: USPTO, EPO and PatFam

Keywords used for searching are listed below:

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="92%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Device term'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Action term'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Application term'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Other important terms'''
|-
|RFID
|Data Track<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Supply chain
|Software
|-
|Electronic identification
|Data Captur<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Distribution
|Program
|-
|
|Data Collect<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Warehouse
|Computer
|-
|
|Data Read<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Inventory
|
|-
|}

The total number of patent records on RFID based supply chain applications sourced through search was 212, but only 30 records were selected for analysis. An additional broad search conducted (database: PatFem) to understand the actual IP activity (based on keywords and assignees) as depicted in below tables:

====Search based on keywords and relevant hits:====

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="91%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''S. No'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Key words'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Search scope'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''No. of records available'''
|-
|1
|RFID
|1975-2005
|6147
|-
|2
|RFID AND WAREHOUSE
|1975-2005
|444
|-
|3.
|RFID and (SUPPLY CHAIN)
|1975-2005
|212
|-
|4.
|RFID and transportation
|1975-2005
|573
|-
|5.
|RFID and distribution
|1975-2005
|1141
|-
|6.
|RFID and SOFTWARE
|1975-2005
|2301
|-
|}

====Search based on assignees with relevant hits:====

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="88%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''S. No'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Assignee'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Search scope'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''No. of records available'''
|-
|1
|3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY
|1975-2005
|146
|-
|2
|SENSORMATIC ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|66
|-
|3
|HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY
|1975-2005
|63
|-
|4
|NOKIA
|1975-2005
|58
|-
|5
|PHILIPS ELECTRONICS
|1975-2005
|54
|-
|6
|SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC
|1975-2005
|49
|-
|7
|AVERY DENNISON CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|24
|-
|8
|KIMBERLY CLARK
|1975-2005
|19
|-
|9
|SILVERBROOK RESEARCH PTY LTD
|1975-2005
|19
|-
|10
|UNITED PARCEL SERVICE OF AMERICA INC
|1975-2005
|16
|-
|11
|IBM
|1975-2005
|15
|-
|12
|SAP
|1975-2005
|14
|-
|13
|SAMSYS TECHNOLOGIES
|1975-2005
|11
|-
|14
|MEADWESTVACO CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|8
|-
|15
|DE LA RUE INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
|1975-2005
|8
|-
|16
|SAVI
|1975-2005
|6
|-
|17
|MICROSOFT
|1975-2005
|5
|-
|18
|WESTVACO CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|5
|-
|19
|SENSITECH
|1975-2005
|3
|-
|20
|UNITED SECURITY APPLIC ID INC
|1975-2005
|3
|-
|21
|GAP INC
|1975-2005
|2
|-
|22
|SEMBCORP
|1975-2005
|1
|-
|23
|SHAW IP PTY LTD
|1975-2005
|1
|-
|24
|EXAGO PTY LTD
|1975-2005
|1
|-
|}

==Patent analytics==

===IP landscape over years===

IP landscape over years: Growth in RFID base supply chain applications

(Actual scenario based on 423 patent records)

According to the search data IP activity in RFID base supply chain applications seems to have started during the year 1991. The graph shows terrific growth from 2000 onwards and high activity during 2004 with 140 patents records alone. Around 423 patents have been published in the span of 4.2 years from 2000 till date (Feb. 2005) indicating the potential in the field.

[[Image:IP_over_year.jpg|thumb|center|576px| IP landscape over years: Growth in RFID base supply chain applications]]

===IP landscape by region===

IP landscape by region: RFID base supply chain

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_region.jpg|thumb|center|576px| IP landscape by region: RFID base supply chain]]

The present graph and interpretation is based on selected 30 records. The graph reveals that the growth in RFID based supply chain applications patenting has been across all the regions. United States is more active than Europe, Japan and Australia.

===Competitor landscape===

Competitor landscape - Growth in RFID base supply chain

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_competitor.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Competitor landscape - Growth in RFID base supply chain]]

The present graph and interpretation is based on selected 30 records. The graph indicate SAP as leading and consistent player with 3 patent records. EXAGO seems to be the new entrant in 2005. It is interesting to note that the competitors in 2004 have not shown any activity in the beginning of 2005.

===Technology trend===

Technology Trend (Main IPC)

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology Trend (Main IPC)]]

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''IPC Code'''
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Description'''
|-
|'''G01N'''
| Measuring, Testing – Investigating or analyzing materials by determining their chemical or physical properties.
|-
|'''G06F'''
| Computing, calculating, counting - Electric Digital Data Processing
|-
|'''G07B'''
| Checking device - Ticket-issuing; Fare-Registering Apparatus; Franking apparatus
|-
|'''G06G'''
| Computing, calculating, counting – Analogue computers
|-
|'''G06K'''
| Recognition of data; Presentation of data; Record carriers; Handling record carriers
|-
|'''G08B'''
| Signaling - Signaling Or Calling Systems; Order Telegraphs; Alarm Systems
|-
|'''H04Q'''
| Electric Communication Technique – Selecting (Switches, relays etc.)
|-
|}

====Technology landscape (Main IPC) - Growth in RFID base supply chain====

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology1.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology landscape (Main IPC) - Growth in RFID base supply chain]]

The present graph and interpretation is based on selected 30 records. It is evident from graph that '''G06F('''Electric Digital Data Processing) Technology is widely used in RFID based supply chain applications showing continues progress through out. The progress indicates key technology area targeted by many players and having market potential. Followed by '''G08B''' (Signaling), '''H04Q''' (Electric Communication Technique ) and '''G06K''' (Recognition of data; Presentation of data; Record carriers; Handling record carriers).

====Technology Trend (Sub-class)====

(Based on select 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology2.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology Trend (Sub-class)]]

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''IPC Code'''
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Description'''
|-
|'''G01N033569'''
| Measuring, testing or investigating or analyzing material by determining their chemical or physical properties for microorganisms.
|-
|'''G06F00700'''
| Methods or arrangements for processing data by operating upon the order or content of the data handled.
|-
|'''G06F01760'''
| Administrative, commercial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes -electronic cash registers other than digital data processing aspects
|-
|'''G06F01900'''
| Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings
|-
|'''G06G00114'''
| Hand manipulating computing device for arrangements G07B01502
|-
|'''G06K00500'''
| apparatus for collecting fares, tolls or entrance fee at control point with provision of taking account of variable factors such as distance or time e.g. for passenger transport
|-
|'''G06K00710'''
| Recognition of Data; Presentation of Data; Record Carriers; Handling Record Carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing by corpuscular radiation
|-
|'''G08B00108'''
| Signaling Or Calling Systems; Order Telegraphs; Alarm Systems for signaling characterized solely by the form of transmission of signal using electronic transmission
|-
|'''G08B00522'''
| Visible calling system, e.g. personal calling systems remote indication of seat occupied using electric or electromagnetic transmission.
|-
|'''G08B01314'''
| Burglar, theft, or intruder alarm by lifting or attempted removal of hand – portable articles.
|-
|'''G08B02300'''
| Alarm responsive to unspecified or abnormal conditions
|-
|'''H04Q00100'''
| Electrical comm. Technique, details of selecting apparatus or arrangement.
|-
|'''H04Q00522'''
| Selecting arrangements where one or more subscriber stations are connected by the same line into the exchanges. The subordinate center not permitting interconnection of subscriber connected thereto.
|-
|}

====Technology landscape – Assignee wise====

(Based on select 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology3.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology landscape – Assignee wise]]

According to the present data, most of the leading players have focused on building sound: Administration, commerce, management, supervision and forecasting (electronic cash registers other than digital data processing) aspects for RFID-base supply chain applications.

==Qualitative Analysis==

===Classification of patents based on main claims===

The following graph indicates various subjects that have been covered by various assignee in the area of RFID based supply chain applications. The various subjects are the result of SAO analysis. More granularity on subjects is presented in next slide in the form of clusters.

[[Image:Main_claims.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Classification of patents based on main claims]]

===SAO analysis clustering===

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Subject'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Action'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Object'''
|-
|[[Image:method.jpg|130px]]
|* Delivering * Monitoring (3) * Processing * Detecting (2) & tracking (6) * Displaying information * Computing the orientation and position of a wearer * Unattended distribution or retrieval of returned * Return of a return * Retrieving ordered (2) * Receiving * Wirelessly exchanging * Enabling enhanced * Facilitating an interaction * Distributing (3) * Collecting * Entering event data common to a group of individual animals 
|* Between a consignor and a consignee * Container * inanimate and animate objects * Items (2) * Data acquisition and display device * Calibrating a fixed camera * Assets (2) * Unattended facilities * Item to an unattended facility * Items that have been delivered to an unattended facility * Environmental condition associated with an item of inventory * Shipment record from the intelligent asset management and sensing device. * Information * Asset management and tracking capabilities * Between a user and a product item. * Products from a micro-warehouse. * Products from an access restricted area. * Products from a restricted access area having an entry point. * Number of mail units (2) * Livestock information (2) * Database 
|-
|[[Image:system.jpg|130px]]
|* Detecting & tracking (5) * Processing(2) * Unattended distribution or retrieval of returned * Inventory management * Monitoring (2) * Networking * Enabling enhanced * Facilitating an interaction * Distributing (3) 
|* Inanimate and animate objects * Item (6) * Time * Environmental condition * Unattended facilities * Sensing device * Asset management and tracking * Container * Number of mail units * Articles through customs 
|-
|colspan = "3"|[[Image:SAO.jpg|center|800px]]
|-
|colspan = "3"|'''Note:''' Number in ( ) indicates occurrence in more that one patent or main claims.
|-
|}

===Problem Vs Solutions===

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Prior art Problems'''
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Solutions'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Patent number'''
|-
|align = "justify"|'''1.''' A central system has limited visibility of containers in the global supply chain. '''2. '''Drawback of the central system is the delay in alerts concerning the container. '''3. '''Typical central systems have difficulty in collecting reliable information across heterogeneous systems. 
|align = "justify"|A decentralized state system comprising containers to automatically provide continuous and uniform monitoring of a container state is needed. A container should be robustly configured with localized logic capable of determining a state in response to real-time events experienced by the container relative to dynamic and static event information concerning expected events. State determinations made through local information are more reliable to typical prior art systems that use central systems to make inferences about the security state.
|US20040246130 
|-
|align = "justify"|'''1.''' A major disadvantage of all transponder based tag designs is that special anti-collision methods. '''2. '''A short range reader must be used to individually address each tag within the larger field. '''3. '''A second major disadvantage is that to obtain long ranges (100-1,000 feet), higher frequencies are required, and these lead to high power consumption. 
|align = "justify"|'''1. & 2.''' By using lower frequencies (not exceeding 1 MHz, and typically under 300 KHz) and a base station design that uses large loop antennas (such as 10.times.10 feet to 500.times.500 feet) and by transmitting a digital ID to selectively activate a selected client tag, rather than a non-selective signal which would activate many tags simultaneously '''3.''' Networked RF Tags (NRF Tags) have significantly reduced power consumption and long range (1000 sq feet to 10,000 sq feet per antenna), have the power capacity to add displays (e.g. LCD) and light emitting diodes (LED<nowiki>’</nowiki>s) and detectors, and buttons so they may become fully interactive "tag clients" (this is not possible with transponder).
|US20040201454 
|-
|align = "justify"|'''1.''' One drawback to these systems is that they require the goods to be passed through designated gateway areas, typically causing great inconvenience. '''2. '''Another drawback is that it is not possible to track the location of the goods within the warehouse. 
|align = "justify"|'''1. '''Each ID tag is coupled to an asset and is configured to wirelessly communicate with other ID tags in the network within a predetermined proximity. '''2.''' Each tag is also configured to relay communications from other ID tags so that a communication path is established between the RMS and any ID tag in the network, either directly or via other ID tags.
|US20040174260 
|-
|}

===Main applications of RFID===

Applications which appeared in analyzed patent records have been listed.

1. Logistics chain management system in Food and pharma industry

2. Global supply chain of semiconductors

3. Supply chain management of High-value electronic items & pharmaceuticals

4. Tracking system

5. Supply chain management

6. Inventory along a distribution chain

7. Asset and materials management system

8. Point-of-sale and point-of-delivery and/or distribution

9. Reusable transportation means

10. Materials handling

11. Commercial enterprise (personnel and asset retention system (PARS))

12. Tracking cargo through customs

13. Supply chain management in Beef industry

The product moves through the global supply chain which involves various stages (places and processes). Next slide indicate the details about the various stages involved in supply chain applications, software applications and hardware used.

===Main applications of RFID along with various stages, S/W applications and H/W<nowiki>’</nowiki>s involved===

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|[[Image:ra1.jpg]]
|colspan = "2"|LOGISTICS CHAIN MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IN FOOD AND PHARMA INDUSTRY.
|-
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Place of events'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Process involved'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Type of S/W & Hardware'''
|-
|'''1.''' Airlines and shipping companies '''2.''' Ancillary Suppliers, '''3. '''Cargo Community Networks <nowiki>[</nowiki>CCN<nowiki>]</nowiki> which are made up of some of the other participants, '''4. '''Customs and Quarantine authorities, '''5. '''Freight forwarders, '''6. '''Fresh produce exporters, '''7. '''Fresh produce importers, '''8. '''Government agencies such as freight export information providers, '''9. '''Packer/cool store, '''10. '''Transporters including road haulers and carriers in the importing country.
|'''1.''' Consignment '''2. '''Supplier '''3. '''Transport and '''4. '''Storage 
|'''1.''' Central database '''2. '''A communication secured network '''3. '''Internet with three interactive databases. '''4. '''Database and applications (data in a range of formats (maxima, minima, averages, graphical etc) '''5. '''Passive tag - RW 
|-
|colspan = "3"| 
|-
|[[Image:ra2.jpg]]
|colspan = "2"|GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN OF SEMICONDUCTORS.
|-
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Place of events'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Process involved'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Type of S/W & Hardware'''
|-
|'''1.''' International suppliers '''2. '''Airport '''3. '''Customs agency '''4. '''Distributors '''5. '''Shipping dock '''6. '''Manufacturers
|'''1.''' Transport '''2. '''Inventory '''3. '''Shipping '''4. '''Origin of port '''5. '''Transshipment port '''6. '''Destination port and '''7. '''A consignee
|'''1. '''Program instructions can be in any appropriate form, such as source code, object code, or scripting code. '''2. '''Computing device: Enterprise servers, Application servers, point of sale terminal etc.. '''3.''' Passive tag - RW
|-
|colspan = "3"| 
|-
|[[Image:ra3.jpg]]
|colspan = "2"|SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT OF HIGH-VALUE ELECTRONIC ITEMS & PHARMACEUTICALS.
|-
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Place of events'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Process involved'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Type of S/W & Hardware'''
|-
|1. Warehouse 2. Truck 3. Freight container 4. Sea vessel 5. Distribution center
|1. Shipping 2. Recipient
|1. Central data processor is operable for communication with an internet router. 2. Low frequency tag – 300 KHz
|-
|colspan = "3"| 
|-
|[[Image:ra4.jpg]]
|colspan = "2"|TRACKING SYSTEM
|-
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Place of events'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Process involved'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Type of S/W & Hardware'''
|-
|1. Assembly line 2. Warehouse
|1. Package handling 2. Baggage handling 3. Parts assembly 4. Navigation through marked waypoints 5. Item retrieval and packaging 6. Inventory control
|1. Business applications (cause sorting and loading instructions to appear on the items so that wearer<nowiki>’</nowiki>s of the data acquisition and display device do not have to read each item<nowiki>’</nowiki>s label.) 2. Passive tag
|-
|colspan = "3"| 
|-
|[[Image:ra5.jpg]]
|colspan = "2"|SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT.
|-
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Place of events'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Process involved'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Type of S/W & Hardware'''
|-
|1. Storage facility 2. Shipping container 3. Shipping vessel 4. Airport 5. Shipyard 6. Military heavy assets 7. Warehouse 8. Factory
|1. Shipping goods 2. Transportation (truck) 3. Retail or wholesale locations 4. Train depot 5. Inventory 6. Delivery 7. Outbound transit 8. Inbound transit 9. Advanced shipping notification
|1. Firmware and software to modulate and demodulate the data for the particular protocol 2. Various communication algorithms and command response algorithms 3. UPS Supply Chain Solutions 4. Passive tag – RW – Low freq. or 900 MGz
|-
|colspan = "3"| 
|-
|[[Image:ra6.jpg]]
|colspan = "2"|INVENTORY ALONG A DISTRIBUTION CHAIN.
|-
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Place of events'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Process involved'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Type of S/W & Hardware'''
|-
|1. Distribution 2. Storing 3. Manufacturer (warehouse)
|1. Inventory 2. Monitoring 3. Transportation 4. Tracking 5. Retailer or consumer 6. Wholesaler
|1. Anti-collision software 2. Program for correlating the environmental condition data with the location data. 3. The data reporting medium is a computer display, a LAN, or a web page. 4. Active or passive tag- RW
|-
|colspan = "3"| 
|-
|[[Image:ra7.jpg]]
|colspan = "2"|ASSET AND MATERIALS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.
|-
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Place of events'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Process involved'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Type of S/W & Hardware'''
|-
|1. Lay down yard 2. Warehouse 3. Asset storage
|1. Inventory 2. Shipping 3. Asset management 4. Tracking asset material a. Material identification information b. Description of the material c. Purchasing details d. Storage and maintenance details e. Material location and f. Destination information. 5. Receiving
|1. Software applications (Web application" TagDetect") files may be in HTML format, XML or other formats. 2. Software applications supporting a client-server system or n-tiered computer system. 3. Internet and Central data repository 4. Active or passive tag - RW
|-
|colspan = "3"| 
|-
|[[Image:ra8.jpg]]
|colspan = "2"|POINT-OF-SALE AND POINT-OF-DELIVERY AND/OR DISTRIBUTION.
|-
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Place of events'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Process involved'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Type of S/W & Hardware'''
|-
|1. Distribution 2. Micro-warehouse 3. Manufacturing 4. Marketing 5. Customer relation management
|1. Point of sale 2. Delivery 3. Inventory 4. Billing
|1. MW (Micro-warehouse) enterprise application 2. XML middleware such as Biz Talk.RTM. software. 3. ERP system, web ordering system 4. Passive tag – RW - freq. - 2.45 GHz
|-
|colspan = "3"| 
|-
|[[Image:ra9.jpg]]
|colspan = "2"|REUSABLE TRANSPORTATION MEANS.
|-
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Place of events'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Process involved'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Type of S/W & Hardware'''
|-
|1. Distribution
|1. Tracking: a. Receptacle or b. Container or c. Packing or d. Pallet or e. Trolley car. 2. Wholesale distributor 3. Chain sales store
|1. No Software application 2. Passive tag - RW
|-
|colspan = "3"| 
|-
|[[Image:ra10.jpg]]
|colspan = "2"|MATERIALS HANDLING.
|-
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Place of events'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Process involved'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Type of S/W & Hardware'''
|-
|1. Express mail 2. Storage
|1. Transport 2. Tracking 3. Delivery
|Software modules may include: 1. A database module configured to store data on the storage medium. 2. A decision module configured to determine the presence or absence of stale mail based on information provided by the database module.3. 3. Passive or active tag – read only
|-
|colspan = "3"| 
|-
|[[Image:ra11.jpg]]
|colspan = "2"|COMMERCIAL ENTERPRISE (PERSONNEL AND ASSET RETENTION SYSTEM (PARS)).
|-
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Place of events'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Process involved'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Type of S/W & Hardware'''
|-
|1. Industrial sites 2. Power plants 3. Refineries and 4. Ports of entry
|1. Tracking 2. Monitoring 3. Inventory 4. Security
|1. Company databases are: a. Material management systems b. Procurement systems and c. Time and attendance systems. 2. Applications programming 3. Information access through standard formats such as XML and HTML. 4. Passive tag - RW
|-
|colspan = "3"| 
|-
|[[Image:ra12.jpg]]
|colspan = "2"|TRACKING CARGO THROUGH CUSTOMS.
|-
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Place of events'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Process involved'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Type of S/W & Hardware'''
|-
|1. Airlines 2. Distributor
|1. Shipping 2. Receiving 3. Tracking
|1. Central server runs a program which acts as a central host for processing the information communicated between the different computers. 2. Passive tag - RW
|-
|colspan = "3"| 
|-
|[[Image:ra13.jpg]]
|colspan = "2"|SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT IN BEEF INDUSTRY.
|-
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Place of events'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Process involved'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Type of S/W & Hardware'''
|-
|1. Factory
|1. Identifying 2. Tracking 3. Monitoring 4. Livestock production and processing cycle 5. Inventory
|1. BeefLink.TM. Software (is a collection of components written primarily in VISUAL BASIC® 6.0 programming language and ACTIVE X® programming methodologies.) 2. Inventory-type report can easily be generated. 3. MicroSoft Excel 4.Passive tag- read only
|-
|}

===Features cited in analyzed 15 patent records===

1. The container can be reprogrammed to include updated logic, updated states, and/or updated expected event information. (US20040246130)

2. The system comprises a truck server and an optional in-truck data communications means, which comprise a digital cell phone or satellite link. (US20040201454)

3. A local computer communicates with the see-through display, information gathering devices, and orientation sensors, optical tracking system, and business applications over one or more networks. (US20040182925)

4. OmniTRACS.RTM., which is a two-way satellite communication system that allows trucks to be monitored and tracked and to allow data communication with dispatchers. (US20040174260)

5. The data report from the reporting software can alert the user as to when the detrimental event occurred and identify the custodian who caused the detrimental event. (US20040049428)

6. Web-based information system for a beef marketing alliance; value-based procurement, and supply chain management. (US20020158765)

7. The software contains a component for determining the best time for an animal to go to slaughter based on a target weight. (US20020158765)

===SWOT analysis===

{|border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="80%"
|STRENGTHS * Advanced technology * Easy to use * High memory capacity * Small size
|WEAKNESSES * Lack of industry and application standards * High cost per unit and high RFID system costs * Weak market understanding of the benefits of RFID technology
|-
|OPPORTUNITIES * Could replace the bar code * End-user demand for RFID systems is increasing * Huge market potential in many businesses * Need for standardization
|THREATS * Ethical threats concerning private life * Highly fragmented competitive environment
|-
|}

==Conclusion==

It has been observed that selection of RFID tag depend up on the frequency desirable in supply chain application. Industrial attentions is on passive RFID technology. The integration of software technology with electronic identification system will definitely give new dimensions to the supply chain management.

==Mind Map==
===RFID Warehouse Application===
[[Image:RFID-Warehouse_Application1.jpeg|thumb|center|800px]]
===RFID Application - SAP===
[[Image:SAP-RFID_Application2.jpeg|thumb|center|800px]]

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Kirti:

Supply Chain RFID Applications

2006-09-13T05:13:26Z

Kirti: /* SAO analysis clustering */

== Executive Summary ==
IP activity in the area of RFID-based supply chain applications seems to have started in 1991, and peaked in 2004. Most of the action in the integration of electronic identification system (RFID) with software system in supply chain applications has taken place in the last ten years or so.

Around 423 patents have been published in the span of 4.2 years from 2000 till February 2005. The major market in RFID-based supply chain applications appears to be the United States.

'''Technology area focus by key players'''
* Digital Data Processing
* Communication Techniques
* Computing, calculating, counting
* Recognition of data; Presentation of data
* Signaling Or Calling Systems

'''Some of the key players identified are'''
* United Parcel Service
* G.E.
* Silverbrook
* Micron Technology
* NCR Corporation
* SAP AG
* Savi tech.

'''Various software applications cited in patents'''
* Business applications
* UPS Supply Chain Solutions
* Anti-collision software
* Program for correlating the environmental condition data with the location data.
* Software applications (Web application" TagDetect")
* Software applications supporting a client-server system or n-tiered computer system.
* MW (Micro-warehouse) enterprise application
* XML middleware such as Biz Talk software
* ERP system, web ordering system
* BeefLink Software
* Source code, object code, or scripting code.

'''Key application areas identified'''
* Food and pharma industry
* Semiconductors and High-value electronic items
* Asset and materials management system
* Commercial enterprise
* Beef industry
* Airport and shipyard

'''Key RFID Tracking applications'''
* Assets
* Equipment
* Materials
* Orders
* Personnel
* Processes
* Products
* Production
* Quality
* Resources

== RFID - Market Potential ==
* The global forecast RFID hardware, middleware, and IT market was worth $640 million in 2005. In 2006, this number will grow to more than $713 million, and is projected to reach more than $1.0 billion by 2011 at an average annual growth rate (AAGR) of 8.0% 
* The RFID market is anticipated to continue to grow rapidly in these and many other market sectors and industries including the food and drug industry, propelled by United States FDA mandates. The technical issues that have made standardization more challenging are heading toward resolution with the emergence of the second-generation of UHF RFID 
* Retail RFID is estimated currently at just under 27% of the overall RFID market, and supply chain management (SCM) applications, when considered as separate from warehouse and distribution and transportation, represents just over 15% of the overall RFID market. These distributions will undoubtedly change rapidly, and should be reconsidered at regular time intervals as the RFID technology and established and emerging markets mature (Source - BCC Research)

==Introduction to RFID technology in supply chain==

The supply chain is a complex multi-stage process which involves everything from the procurement of raw materials used to develop products, and their delivery to customers via warehouses and distribution centers. Supply chains exist in service, manufacturing and retail organizations.

Although, the complexity of the chain may vary greatly from industry to industry and firm to firm. Supply chain management can be seen as the supervision of information and finances of these materials, as they move through the different processes, by coordinating and integrating the flows within and among the different companies involved.

The efficiency of the supply chain has a direct impact on the profitability of a company. It is no surprise therefore to find that many large corporate companies have made it a key part of their strategy, and invested heavily in software systems (ERP, WMS...) and IT infrastructure designed to control inventory, track products and manage associated finance.

RFID will bring a new dimension to supply chain management by providing a more efficient way of being able to identify and track items at the various stages throughout the supply chain. It will allow product data to be captured automatically, and therefore be more quickly available for use by other processes such as ASN, stock management and real time billing.

===Search approach and project scope===

The first task was to find the relevant U.S. granted patents, and EP granted patents or published patent applications. This was done for all patents published in years 1975 to 2005. This range of years is more than sufficient; but almost all of the action has taken place in the last ten years or even considerably lesser time in some categories.

Identified patents in RFID-base supply chain applications category using a patent search filter. Filter development and testing is usually the most difficult and time-consuming part of a patent analysis, and that was certainly not the case in this research.

Patent search filters are sometimes relatively simple, but more often complex. Combinations of patent invention art classifications and keywords in titles, abstracts and claims were targeted for search. Because I was working with a combination of US and EP documents, I used classifications based on the International Patent Classification (IPC) system.

Details on the approach of search is given in search strategy. Since the scope of project is limited to test, therefore only 30 patent records were selected for quantitative analysis and 15 for qualitative analysis.

Most of the indicators could not be project due to insufficient data.

===Objective:===

The aim of this project is to identify IP activity in the area of RFID-Based supply chain applications primarily focused on the application of software in warehouse, distribution, inventory control and also the related applications.

===Data Interpretation:===

Appropriate patent records were selected for analysis. The selection criteria was based on:

* Type of RFID tags (Active, Passive, Microwave or Chipless)

* Type of receiver (Mobile, Handheld, fixed)

* Tag system (Read-only/WORM (Write once read many times)/Read-Write tags)

* Type of reader (Interrogator)

* Type Sensor and RFID frequency

* Receiver link and software

* Applications by where the event takes place (Airport, shipyard, factory, warehouse etc.)

* Process involved (Shipping, receiving, inventory etc.)

* Type of software used (Middle ware, applications etc.)

===Search strategy:===

Date of search: Jan 2005

Database used: USPTO, EPO and PatFam

Keywords used for searching are listed below:

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="92%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Device term'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Action term'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Application term'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Other important terms'''
|-
|RFID
|Data Track<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Supply chain
|Software
|-
|Electronic identification
|Data Captur<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Distribution
|Program
|-
|
|Data Collect<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Warehouse
|Computer
|-
|
|Data Read<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Inventory
|
|-
|}

The total number of patent records on RFID based supply chain applications sourced through search was 212, but only 30 records were selected for analysis. An additional broad search conducted (database: PatFem) to understand the actual IP activity (based on keywords and assignees) as depicted in below tables:

====Search based on keywords and relevant hits:====

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="91%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''S. No'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Key words'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Search scope'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''No. of records available'''
|-
|1
|RFID
|1975-2005
|6147
|-
|2
|RFID AND WAREHOUSE
|1975-2005
|444
|-
|3.
|RFID and (SUPPLY CHAIN)
|1975-2005
|212
|-
|4.
|RFID and transportation
|1975-2005
|573
|-
|5.
|RFID and distribution
|1975-2005
|1141
|-
|6.
|RFID and SOFTWARE
|1975-2005
|2301
|-
|}

====Search based on assignees with relevant hits:====

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="88%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''S. No'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Assignee'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Search scope'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''No. of records available'''
|-
|1
|3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY
|1975-2005
|146
|-
|2
|SENSORMATIC ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|66
|-
|3
|HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY
|1975-2005
|63
|-
|4
|NOKIA
|1975-2005
|58
|-
|5
|PHILIPS ELECTRONICS
|1975-2005
|54
|-
|6
|SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC
|1975-2005
|49
|-
|7
|AVERY DENNISON CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|24
|-
|8
|KIMBERLY CLARK
|1975-2005
|19
|-
|9
|SILVERBROOK RESEARCH PTY LTD
|1975-2005
|19
|-
|10
|UNITED PARCEL SERVICE OF AMERICA INC
|1975-2005
|16
|-
|11
|IBM
|1975-2005
|15
|-
|12
|SAP
|1975-2005
|14
|-
|13
|SAMSYS TECHNOLOGIES
|1975-2005
|11
|-
|14
|MEADWESTVACO CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|8
|-
|15
|DE LA RUE INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
|1975-2005
|8
|-
|16
|SAVI
|1975-2005
|6
|-
|17
|MICROSOFT
|1975-2005
|5
|-
|18
|WESTVACO CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|5
|-
|19
|SENSITECH
|1975-2005
|3
|-
|20
|UNITED SECURITY APPLIC ID INC
|1975-2005
|3
|-
|21
|GAP INC
|1975-2005
|2
|-
|22
|SEMBCORP
|1975-2005
|1
|-
|23
|SHAW IP PTY LTD
|1975-2005
|1
|-
|24
|EXAGO PTY LTD
|1975-2005
|1
|-
|}

==Patent analytics==

===IP landscape over years===

IP landscape over years: Growth in RFID base supply chain applications

(Actual scenario based on 423 patent records)

According to the search data IP activity in RFID base supply chain applications seems to have started during the year 1991. The graph shows terrific growth from 2000 onwards and high activity during 2004 with 140 patents records alone. Around 423 patents have been published in the span of 4.2 years from 2000 till date (Feb. 2005) indicating the potential in the field.

[[Image:IP_over_year.jpg|thumb|center|576px| IP landscape over years: Growth in RFID base supply chain applications]]

===IP landscape by region===

IP landscape by region: RFID base supply chain

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_region.jpg|thumb|center|576px| IP landscape by region: RFID base supply chain]]

The present graph and interpretation is based on selected 30 records. The graph reveals that the growth in RFID based supply chain applications patenting has been across all the regions. United States is more active than Europe, Japan and Australia.

===Competitor landscape===

Competitor landscape - Growth in RFID base supply chain

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_competitor.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Competitor landscape - Growth in RFID base supply chain]]

The present graph and interpretation is based on selected 30 records. The graph indicate SAP as leading and consistent player with 3 patent records. EXAGO seems to be the new entrant in 2005. It is interesting to note that the competitors in 2004 have not shown any activity in the beginning of 2005.

===Technology trend===

Technology Trend (Main IPC)

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology Trend (Main IPC)]]

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''IPC Code'''
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Description'''
|-
|'''G01N'''
| Measuring, Testing – Investigating or analyzing materials by determining their chemical or physical properties.
|-
|'''G06F'''
| Computing, calculating, counting - Electric Digital Data Processing
|-
|'''G07B'''
| Checking device - Ticket-issuing; Fare-Registering Apparatus; Franking apparatus
|-
|'''G06G'''
| Computing, calculating, counting – Analogue computers
|-
|'''G06K'''
| Recognition of data; Presentation of data; Record carriers; Handling record carriers
|-
|'''G08B'''
| Signaling - Signaling Or Calling Systems; Order Telegraphs; Alarm Systems
|-
|'''H04Q'''
| Electric Communication Technique – Selecting (Switches, relays etc.)
|-
|}

====Technology landscape (Main IPC) - Growth in RFID base supply chain====

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology1.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology landscape (Main IPC) - Growth in RFID base supply chain]]

The present graph and interpretation is based on selected 30 records. It is evident from graph that '''G06F('''Electric Digital Data Processing) Technology is widely used in RFID based supply chain applications showing continues progress through out. The progress indicates key technology area targeted by many players and having market potential. Followed by '''G08B''' (Signaling), '''H04Q''' (Electric Communication Technique ) and '''G06K''' (Recognition of data; Presentation of data; Record carriers; Handling record carriers).

====Technology Trend (Sub-class)====

(Based on select 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology2.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology Trend (Sub-class)]]

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''IPC Code'''
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Description'''
|-
|'''G01N033569'''
| Measuring, testing or investigating or analyzing material by determining their chemical or physical properties for microorganisms.
|-
|'''G06F00700'''
| Methods or arrangements for processing data by operating upon the order or content of the data handled.
|-
|'''G06F01760'''
| Administrative, commercial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes -electronic cash registers other than digital data processing aspects
|-
|'''G06F01900'''
| Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings
|-
|'''G06G00114'''
| Hand manipulating computing device for arrangements G07B01502
|-
|'''G06K00500'''
| apparatus for collecting fares, tolls or entrance fee at control point with provision of taking account of variable factors such as distance or time e.g. for passenger transport
|-
|'''G06K00710'''
| Recognition of Data; Presentation of Data; Record Carriers; Handling Record Carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing by corpuscular radiation
|-
|'''G08B00108'''
| Signaling Or Calling Systems; Order Telegraphs; Alarm Systems for signaling characterized solely by the form of transmission of signal using electronic transmission
|-
|'''G08B00522'''
| Visible calling system, e.g. personal calling systems remote indication of seat occupied using electric or electromagnetic transmission.
|-
|'''G08B01314'''
| Burglar, theft, or intruder alarm by lifting or attempted removal of hand – portable articles.
|-
|'''G08B02300'''
| Alarm responsive to unspecified or abnormal conditions
|-
|'''H04Q00100'''
| Electrical comm. Technique, details of selecting apparatus or arrangement.
|-
|'''H04Q00522'''
| Selecting arrangements where one or more subscriber stations are connected by the same line into the exchanges. The subordinate center not permitting interconnection of subscriber connected thereto.
|-
|}

====Technology landscape – Assignee wise====

(Based on select 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology3.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology landscape – Assignee wise]]

According to the present data, most of the leading players have focused on building sound: Administration, commerce, management, supervision and forecasting (electronic cash registers other than digital data processing) aspects for RFID-base supply chain applications.

==Qualitative Analysis==

===Classification of patents based on main claims===

The following graph indicates various subjects that have been covered by various assignee in the area of RFID based supply chain applications. The various subjects are the result of SAO analysis. More granularity on subjects is presented in next slide in the form of clusters.

[[Image:Main_claims.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Classification of patents based on main claims]]

===SAO analysis clustering===

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Subject'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Action'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Object'''
|-
|[[Image:method.jpg|130px]]
|* Delivering * Monitoring (3) * Processing * Detecting (2) & tracking (6) * Displaying information * Computing the orientation and position of a wearer * Unattended distribution or retrieval of returned * Return of a return * Retrieving ordered (2) * Receiving * Wirelessly exchanging * Enabling enhanced * Facilitating an interaction * Distributing (3) * Collecting * Entering event data common to a group of individual animals 
|* Between a consignor and a consignee * Container * inanimate and animate objects * Items (2) * Data acquisition and display device * Calibrating a fixed camera * Assets (2) * Unattended facilities * Item to an unattended facility * Items that have been delivered to an unattended facility * Environmental condition associated with an item of inventory * Shipment record from the intelligent asset management and sensing device. * Information * Asset management and tracking capabilities * Between a user and a product item. * Products from a micro-warehouse. * Products from an access restricted area. * Products from a restricted access area having an entry point. * Number of mail units (2) * Livestock information (2) * Database 
|-
|[[Image:system.jpg|130px]]
|* Detecting & tracking (5) * Processing(2) * Unattended distribution or retrieval of returned * Inventory management * Monitoring (2) * Networking * Enabling enhanced * Facilitating an interaction * Distributing (3) 
|* Inanimate and animate objects * Item (6) * Time * Environmental condition * Unattended facilities * Sensing device * Asset management and tracking * Container * Number of mail units * Articles through customs 
|-
|colspan = "3"|[[Image:SAO.jpg|center|800px]]
|-
|colspan = "3"|'''Note:''' Number in ( ) indicates occurrence in more that one patent or main claims.
|-
|}

===Problem Vs Solutions===

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Prior art Problems'''
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Solutions'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Patent number'''
|-
|align = "justify"|'''1.''' A central system has limited visibility of containers in the global supply chain. '''2. '''Drawback of the central system is the delay in alerts concerning the container. '''3. '''Typical central systems have difficulty in collecting reliable information across heterogeneous systems. 
|align = "justify"|A decentralized state system comprising containers to automatically provide continuous and uniform monitoring of a container state is needed. A container should be robustly configured with localized logic capable of determining a state in response to real-time events experienced by the container relative to dynamic and static event information concerning expected events. State determinations made through local information are more reliable to typical prior art systems that use central systems to make inferences about the security state.
|US20040246130 
|-
|align = "justify"|'''1.''' A major disadvantage of all transponder based tag designs is that special anti-collision methods. '''2. '''A short range reader must be used to individually address each tag within the larger field. '''3. '''A second major disadvantage is that to obtain long ranges (100-1,000 feet), higher frequencies are required, and these lead to high power consumption. 
|align = "justify"|'''1. & 2.''' By using lower frequencies (not exceeding 1 MHz, and typically under 300 KHz) and a base station design that uses large loop antennas (such as 10.times.10 feet to 500.times.500 feet) and by transmitting a digital ID to selectively activate a selected client tag, rather than a non-selective signal which would activate many tags simultaneously '''3.''' Networked RF Tags (NRF Tags) have significantly reduced power consumption and long range (1000 sq feet to 10,000 sq feet per antenna), have the power capacity to add displays (e.g. LCD) and light emitting diodes (LED<nowiki>’</nowiki>s) and detectors, and buttons so they may become fully interactive "tag clients" (this is not possible with transponder).
|US20040201454 
|-
|align = "justify"|'''1.''' One drawback to these systems is that they require the goods to be passed through designated gateway areas, typically causing great inconvenience. '''2. '''Another drawback is that it is not possible to track the location of the goods within the warehouse. 
|align = "justify"|'''1. '''Each ID tag is coupled to an asset and is configured to wirelessly communicate with other ID tags in the network within a predetermined proximity. '''2.''' Each tag is also configured to relay communications from other ID tags so that a communication path is established between the RMS and any ID tag in the network, either directly or via other ID tags.
|US20040174260 
|-
|}

===Main applications of RFID===

Applications which appeared in analyzed patent records have been listed.

1. Logistics chain management system in Food and pharma industry

2. Global supply chain of semiconductors

3. Supply chain management of High-value electronic items & pharmaceuticals

4. Tracking system

5. Supply chain management

6. Inventory along a distribution chain

7. Asset and materials management system

8. Point-of-sale and point-of-delivery and/or distribution

9. Reusable transportation means

10. Materials handling

11. Commercial enterprise (personnel and asset retention system (PARS))

12. Tracking cargo through customs

13. Supply chain management in Beef industry

The product moves through the global supply chain which involves various stages (places and processes). Next slide indicate the details about the various stages involved in supply chain applications, software applications and hardware used.

===Main applications of RFID along with various stages, S/W applications and H/W<nowiki>’</nowiki>s involved===

===Features cited in analyzed 15 patent records===

1. The container can be reprogrammed to include updated logic, updated states, and/or updated expected event information. (US20040246130)

2. The system comprises a truck server and an optional in-truck data communications means, which comprise a digital cell phone or satellite link. (US20040201454)

3. A local computer communicates with the see-through display, information gathering devices, and orientation sensors, optical tracking system, and business applications over one or more networks. (US20040182925)

4. OmniTRACS.RTM., which is a two-way satellite communication system that allows trucks to be monitored and tracked and to allow data communication with dispatchers. (US20040174260)

5. The data report from the reporting software can alert the user as to when the detrimental event occurred and identify the custodian who caused the detrimental event. (US20040049428)

6. Web-based information system for a beef marketing alliance; value-based procurement, and supply chain management. (US20020158765)

7. The software contains a component for determining the best time for an animal to go to slaughter based on a target weight. (US20020158765)

===SWOT analysis===

{|border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="80%"
|STRENGTHS * Advanced technology * Easy to use * High memory capacity * Small size
|WEAKNESSES * Lack of industry and application standards * High cost per unit and high RFID system costs * Weak market understanding of the benefits of RFID technology
|-
|OPPORTUNITIES * Could replace the bar code * End-user demand for RFID systems is increasing * Huge market potential in many businesses * Need for standardization
|THREATS * Ethical threats concerning private life * Highly fragmented competitive environment
|-
|}

==Conclusion==

It has been observed that selection of RFID tag depend up on the frequency desirable in supply chain application. Industrial attentions is on passive RFID technology. The integration of software technology with electronic identification system will definitely give new dimensions to the supply chain management.

==Mind Map==
===RFID Warehouse Application===
[[Image:RFID-Warehouse_Application1.jpeg|thumb|center|800px]]
===RFID Application - SAP===
[[Image:SAP-RFID_Application2.jpeg|thumb|center|800px]]

Supply Chain RFID Applications

2006-09-13T05:12:36Z

Kirti: /* SAO analysis clustering */

== Executive Summary ==
IP activity in the area of RFID-based supply chain applications seems to have started in 1991, and peaked in 2004. Most of the action in the integration of electronic identification system (RFID) with software system in supply chain applications has taken place in the last ten years or so.

Around 423 patents have been published in the span of 4.2 years from 2000 till February 2005. The major market in RFID-based supply chain applications appears to be the United States.

'''Technology area focus by key players'''
* Digital Data Processing
* Communication Techniques
* Computing, calculating, counting
* Recognition of data; Presentation of data
* Signaling Or Calling Systems

'''Some of the key players identified are'''
* United Parcel Service
* G.E.
* Silverbrook
* Micron Technology
* NCR Corporation
* SAP AG
* Savi tech.

'''Various software applications cited in patents'''
* Business applications
* UPS Supply Chain Solutions
* Anti-collision software
* Program for correlating the environmental condition data with the location data.
* Software applications (Web application" TagDetect")
* Software applications supporting a client-server system or n-tiered computer system.
* MW (Micro-warehouse) enterprise application
* XML middleware such as Biz Talk software
* ERP system, web ordering system
* BeefLink Software
* Source code, object code, or scripting code.

'''Key application areas identified'''
* Food and pharma industry
* Semiconductors and High-value electronic items
* Asset and materials management system
* Commercial enterprise
* Beef industry
* Airport and shipyard

'''Key RFID Tracking applications'''
* Assets
* Equipment
* Materials
* Orders
* Personnel
* Processes
* Products
* Production
* Quality
* Resources

== RFID - Market Potential ==
* The global forecast RFID hardware, middleware, and IT market was worth $640 million in 2005. In 2006, this number will grow to more than $713 million, and is projected to reach more than $1.0 billion by 2011 at an average annual growth rate (AAGR) of 8.0% 
* The RFID market is anticipated to continue to grow rapidly in these and many other market sectors and industries including the food and drug industry, propelled by United States FDA mandates. The technical issues that have made standardization more challenging are heading toward resolution with the emergence of the second-generation of UHF RFID 
* Retail RFID is estimated currently at just under 27% of the overall RFID market, and supply chain management (SCM) applications, when considered as separate from warehouse and distribution and transportation, represents just over 15% of the overall RFID market. These distributions will undoubtedly change rapidly, and should be reconsidered at regular time intervals as the RFID technology and established and emerging markets mature (Source - BCC Research)

==Introduction to RFID technology in supply chain==

The supply chain is a complex multi-stage process which involves everything from the procurement of raw materials used to develop products, and their delivery to customers via warehouses and distribution centers. Supply chains exist in service, manufacturing and retail organizations.

Although, the complexity of the chain may vary greatly from industry to industry and firm to firm. Supply chain management can be seen as the supervision of information and finances of these materials, as they move through the different processes, by coordinating and integrating the flows within and among the different companies involved.

The efficiency of the supply chain has a direct impact on the profitability of a company. It is no surprise therefore to find that many large corporate companies have made it a key part of their strategy, and invested heavily in software systems (ERP, WMS...) and IT infrastructure designed to control inventory, track products and manage associated finance.

RFID will bring a new dimension to supply chain management by providing a more efficient way of being able to identify and track items at the various stages throughout the supply chain. It will allow product data to be captured automatically, and therefore be more quickly available for use by other processes such as ASN, stock management and real time billing.

===Search approach and project scope===

The first task was to find the relevant U.S. granted patents, and EP granted patents or published patent applications. This was done for all patents published in years 1975 to 2005. This range of years is more than sufficient; but almost all of the action has taken place in the last ten years or even considerably lesser time in some categories.

Identified patents in RFID-base supply chain applications category using a patent search filter. Filter development and testing is usually the most difficult and time-consuming part of a patent analysis, and that was certainly not the case in this research.

Patent search filters are sometimes relatively simple, but more often complex. Combinations of patent invention art classifications and keywords in titles, abstracts and claims were targeted for search. Because I was working with a combination of US and EP documents, I used classifications based on the International Patent Classification (IPC) system.

Details on the approach of search is given in search strategy. Since the scope of project is limited to test, therefore only 30 patent records were selected for quantitative analysis and 15 for qualitative analysis.

Most of the indicators could not be project due to insufficient data.

===Objective:===

The aim of this project is to identify IP activity in the area of RFID-Based supply chain applications primarily focused on the application of software in warehouse, distribution, inventory control and also the related applications.

===Data Interpretation:===

Appropriate patent records were selected for analysis. The selection criteria was based on:

* Type of RFID tags (Active, Passive, Microwave or Chipless)

* Type of receiver (Mobile, Handheld, fixed)

* Tag system (Read-only/WORM (Write once read many times)/Read-Write tags)

* Type of reader (Interrogator)

* Type Sensor and RFID frequency

* Receiver link and software

* Applications by where the event takes place (Airport, shipyard, factory, warehouse etc.)

* Process involved (Shipping, receiving, inventory etc.)

* Type of software used (Middle ware, applications etc.)

===Search strategy:===

Date of search: Jan 2005

Database used: USPTO, EPO and PatFam

Keywords used for searching are listed below:

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="92%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Device term'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Action term'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Application term'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Other important terms'''
|-
|RFID
|Data Track<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Supply chain
|Software
|-
|Electronic identification
|Data Captur<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Distribution
|Program
|-
|
|Data Collect<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Warehouse
|Computer
|-
|
|Data Read<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Inventory
|
|-
|}

The total number of patent records on RFID based supply chain applications sourced through search was 212, but only 30 records were selected for analysis. An additional broad search conducted (database: PatFem) to understand the actual IP activity (based on keywords and assignees) as depicted in below tables:

====Search based on keywords and relevant hits:====

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="91%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''S. No'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Key words'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Search scope'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''No. of records available'''
|-
|1
|RFID
|1975-2005
|6147
|-
|2
|RFID AND WAREHOUSE
|1975-2005
|444
|-
|3.
|RFID and (SUPPLY CHAIN)
|1975-2005
|212
|-
|4.
|RFID and transportation
|1975-2005
|573
|-
|5.
|RFID and distribution
|1975-2005
|1141
|-
|6.
|RFID and SOFTWARE
|1975-2005
|2301
|-
|}

====Search based on assignees with relevant hits:====

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="88%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''S. No'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Assignee'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Search scope'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''No. of records available'''
|-
|1
|3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY
|1975-2005
|146
|-
|2
|SENSORMATIC ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|66
|-
|3
|HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY
|1975-2005
|63
|-
|4
|NOKIA
|1975-2005
|58
|-
|5
|PHILIPS ELECTRONICS
|1975-2005
|54
|-
|6
|SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC
|1975-2005
|49
|-
|7
|AVERY DENNISON CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|24
|-
|8
|KIMBERLY CLARK
|1975-2005
|19
|-
|9
|SILVERBROOK RESEARCH PTY LTD
|1975-2005
|19
|-
|10
|UNITED PARCEL SERVICE OF AMERICA INC
|1975-2005
|16
|-
|11
|IBM
|1975-2005
|15
|-
|12
|SAP
|1975-2005
|14
|-
|13
|SAMSYS TECHNOLOGIES
|1975-2005
|11
|-
|14
|MEADWESTVACO CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|8
|-
|15
|DE LA RUE INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
|1975-2005
|8
|-
|16
|SAVI
|1975-2005
|6
|-
|17
|MICROSOFT
|1975-2005
|5
|-
|18
|WESTVACO CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|5
|-
|19
|SENSITECH
|1975-2005
|3
|-
|20
|UNITED SECURITY APPLIC ID INC
|1975-2005
|3
|-
|21
|GAP INC
|1975-2005
|2
|-
|22
|SEMBCORP
|1975-2005
|1
|-
|23
|SHAW IP PTY LTD
|1975-2005
|1
|-
|24
|EXAGO PTY LTD
|1975-2005
|1
|-
|}

==Patent analytics==

===IP landscape over years===

IP landscape over years: Growth in RFID base supply chain applications

(Actual scenario based on 423 patent records)

According to the search data IP activity in RFID base supply chain applications seems to have started during the year 1991. The graph shows terrific growth from 2000 onwards and high activity during 2004 with 140 patents records alone. Around 423 patents have been published in the span of 4.2 years from 2000 till date (Feb. 2005) indicating the potential in the field.

[[Image:IP_over_year.jpg|thumb|center|576px| IP landscape over years: Growth in RFID base supply chain applications]]

===IP landscape by region===

IP landscape by region: RFID base supply chain

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_region.jpg|thumb|center|576px| IP landscape by region: RFID base supply chain]]

The present graph and interpretation is based on selected 30 records. The graph reveals that the growth in RFID based supply chain applications patenting has been across all the regions. United States is more active than Europe, Japan and Australia.

===Competitor landscape===

Competitor landscape - Growth in RFID base supply chain

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_competitor.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Competitor landscape - Growth in RFID base supply chain]]

The present graph and interpretation is based on selected 30 records. The graph indicate SAP as leading and consistent player with 3 patent records. EXAGO seems to be the new entrant in 2005. It is interesting to note that the competitors in 2004 have not shown any activity in the beginning of 2005.

===Technology trend===

Technology Trend (Main IPC)

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology Trend (Main IPC)]]

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''IPC Code'''
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Description'''
|-
|'''G01N'''
| Measuring, Testing – Investigating or analyzing materials by determining their chemical or physical properties.
|-
|'''G06F'''
| Computing, calculating, counting - Electric Digital Data Processing
|-
|'''G07B'''
| Checking device - Ticket-issuing; Fare-Registering Apparatus; Franking apparatus
|-
|'''G06G'''
| Computing, calculating, counting – Analogue computers
|-
|'''G06K'''
| Recognition of data; Presentation of data; Record carriers; Handling record carriers
|-
|'''G08B'''
| Signaling - Signaling Or Calling Systems; Order Telegraphs; Alarm Systems
|-
|'''H04Q'''
| Electric Communication Technique – Selecting (Switches, relays etc.)
|-
|}

====Technology landscape (Main IPC) - Growth in RFID base supply chain====

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology1.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology landscape (Main IPC) - Growth in RFID base supply chain]]

The present graph and interpretation is based on selected 30 records. It is evident from graph that '''G06F('''Electric Digital Data Processing) Technology is widely used in RFID based supply chain applications showing continues progress through out. The progress indicates key technology area targeted by many players and having market potential. Followed by '''G08B''' (Signaling), '''H04Q''' (Electric Communication Technique ) and '''G06K''' (Recognition of data; Presentation of data; Record carriers; Handling record carriers).

====Technology Trend (Sub-class)====

(Based on select 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology2.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology Trend (Sub-class)]]

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''IPC Code'''
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Description'''
|-
|'''G01N033569'''
| Measuring, testing or investigating or analyzing material by determining their chemical or physical properties for microorganisms.
|-
|'''G06F00700'''
| Methods or arrangements for processing data by operating upon the order or content of the data handled.
|-
|'''G06F01760'''
| Administrative, commercial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes -electronic cash registers other than digital data processing aspects
|-
|'''G06F01900'''
| Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings
|-
|'''G06G00114'''
| Hand manipulating computing device for arrangements G07B01502
|-
|'''G06K00500'''
| apparatus for collecting fares, tolls or entrance fee at control point with provision of taking account of variable factors such as distance or time e.g. for passenger transport
|-
|'''G06K00710'''
| Recognition of Data; Presentation of Data; Record Carriers; Handling Record Carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing by corpuscular radiation
|-
|'''G08B00108'''
| Signaling Or Calling Systems; Order Telegraphs; Alarm Systems for signaling characterized solely by the form of transmission of signal using electronic transmission
|-
|'''G08B00522'''
| Visible calling system, e.g. personal calling systems remote indication of seat occupied using electric or electromagnetic transmission.
|-
|'''G08B01314'''
| Burglar, theft, or intruder alarm by lifting or attempted removal of hand – portable articles.
|-
|'''G08B02300'''
| Alarm responsive to unspecified or abnormal conditions
|-
|'''H04Q00100'''
| Electrical comm. Technique, details of selecting apparatus or arrangement.
|-
|'''H04Q00522'''
| Selecting arrangements where one or more subscriber stations are connected by the same line into the exchanges. The subordinate center not permitting interconnection of subscriber connected thereto.
|-
|}

====Technology landscape – Assignee wise====

(Based on select 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology3.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology landscape – Assignee wise]]

According to the present data, most of the leading players have focused on building sound: Administration, commerce, management, supervision and forecasting (electronic cash registers other than digital data processing) aspects for RFID-base supply chain applications.

==Qualitative Analysis==

===Classification of patents based on main claims===

The following graph indicates various subjects that have been covered by various assignee in the area of RFID based supply chain applications. The various subjects are the result of SAO analysis. More granularity on subjects is presented in next slide in the form of clusters.

[[Image:Main_claims.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Classification of patents based on main claims]]

===SAO analysis clustering===

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|'''Subject'''
|'''Action'''
|'''Object'''
|-
|[[Image:method.jpg|130px]]
|* Delivering * Monitoring (3) * Processing * Detecting (2) & tracking (6) * Displaying information * Computing the orientation and position of a wearer * Unattended distribution or retrieval of returned * Return of a return * Retrieving ordered (2) * Receiving * Wirelessly exchanging * Enabling enhanced * Facilitating an interaction * Distributing (3) * Collecting * Entering event data common to a group of individual animals 
|* Between a consignor and a consignee * Container * inanimate and animate objects * Items (2) * Data acquisition and display device * Calibrating a fixed camera * Assets (2) * Unattended facilities * Item to an unattended facility * Items that have been delivered to an unattended facility * Environmental condition associated with an item of inventory * Shipment record from the intelligent asset management and sensing device. * Information * Asset management and tracking capabilities * Between a user and a product item. * Products from a micro-warehouse. * Products from an access restricted area. * Products from a restricted access area having an entry point. * Number of mail units (2) * Livestock information (2) * Database 
|-
|[[Image:system.jpg|130px]]
|* Detecting & tracking (5) * Processing(2) * Unattended distribution or retrieval of returned * Inventory management * Monitoring (2) * Networking * Enabling enhanced * Facilitating an interaction * Distributing (3) 
|* Inanimate and animate objects * Item (6) * Time * Environmental condition * Unattended facilities * Sensing device * Asset management and tracking * Container * Number of mail units * Articles through customs 
|-
|colspan = "3"|[[Image:SAO.jpg|center|800px]]
|-
|colspan = "3"|'''Note:''' Number in ( ) indicates occurrence in more that one patent or main claims.
|-
|}

===Problem Vs Solutions===

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Prior art Problems'''
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Solutions'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Patent number'''
|-
|align = "justify"|'''1.''' A central system has limited visibility of containers in the global supply chain. '''2. '''Drawback of the central system is the delay in alerts concerning the container. '''3. '''Typical central systems have difficulty in collecting reliable information across heterogeneous systems. 
|align = "justify"|A decentralized state system comprising containers to automatically provide continuous and uniform monitoring of a container state is needed. A container should be robustly configured with localized logic capable of determining a state in response to real-time events experienced by the container relative to dynamic and static event information concerning expected events. State determinations made through local information are more reliable to typical prior art systems that use central systems to make inferences about the security state.
|US20040246130 
|-
|align = "justify"|'''1.''' A major disadvantage of all transponder based tag designs is that special anti-collision methods. '''2. '''A short range reader must be used to individually address each tag within the larger field. '''3. '''A second major disadvantage is that to obtain long ranges (100-1,000 feet), higher frequencies are required, and these lead to high power consumption. 
|align = "justify"|'''1. & 2.''' By using lower frequencies (not exceeding 1 MHz, and typically under 300 KHz) and a base station design that uses large loop antennas (such as 10.times.10 feet to 500.times.500 feet) and by transmitting a digital ID to selectively activate a selected client tag, rather than a non-selective signal which would activate many tags simultaneously '''3.''' Networked RF Tags (NRF Tags) have significantly reduced power consumption and long range (1000 sq feet to 10,000 sq feet per antenna), have the power capacity to add displays (e.g. LCD) and light emitting diodes (LED<nowiki>’</nowiki>s) and detectors, and buttons so they may become fully interactive "tag clients" (this is not possible with transponder).
|US20040201454 
|-
|align = "justify"|'''1.''' One drawback to these systems is that they require the goods to be passed through designated gateway areas, typically causing great inconvenience. '''2. '''Another drawback is that it is not possible to track the location of the goods within the warehouse. 
|align = "justify"|'''1. '''Each ID tag is coupled to an asset and is configured to wirelessly communicate with other ID tags in the network within a predetermined proximity. '''2.''' Each tag is also configured to relay communications from other ID tags so that a communication path is established between the RMS and any ID tag in the network, either directly or via other ID tags.
|US20040174260 
|-
|}

===Main applications of RFID===

Applications which appeared in analyzed patent records have been listed.

1. Logistics chain management system in Food and pharma industry

2. Global supply chain of semiconductors

3. Supply chain management of High-value electronic items & pharmaceuticals

4. Tracking system

5. Supply chain management

6. Inventory along a distribution chain

7. Asset and materials management system

8. Point-of-sale and point-of-delivery and/or distribution

9. Reusable transportation means

10. Materials handling

11. Commercial enterprise (personnel and asset retention system (PARS))

12. Tracking cargo through customs

13. Supply chain management in Beef industry

The product moves through the global supply chain which involves various stages (places and processes). Next slide indicate the details about the various stages involved in supply chain applications, software applications and hardware used.

===Main applications of RFID along with various stages, S/W applications and H/W<nowiki>’</nowiki>s involved===

===Features cited in analyzed 15 patent records===

1. The container can be reprogrammed to include updated logic, updated states, and/or updated expected event information. (US20040246130)

2. The system comprises a truck server and an optional in-truck data communications means, which comprise a digital cell phone or satellite link. (US20040201454)

3. A local computer communicates with the see-through display, information gathering devices, and orientation sensors, optical tracking system, and business applications over one or more networks. (US20040182925)

4. OmniTRACS.RTM., which is a two-way satellite communication system that allows trucks to be monitored and tracked and to allow data communication with dispatchers. (US20040174260)

5. The data report from the reporting software can alert the user as to when the detrimental event occurred and identify the custodian who caused the detrimental event. (US20040049428)

6. Web-based information system for a beef marketing alliance; value-based procurement, and supply chain management. (US20020158765)

7. The software contains a component for determining the best time for an animal to go to slaughter based on a target weight. (US20020158765)

===SWOT analysis===

{|border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="80%"
|STRENGTHS * Advanced technology * Easy to use * High memory capacity * Small size
|WEAKNESSES * Lack of industry and application standards * High cost per unit and high RFID system costs * Weak market understanding of the benefits of RFID technology
|-
|OPPORTUNITIES * Could replace the bar code * End-user demand for RFID systems is increasing * Huge market potential in many businesses * Need for standardization
|THREATS * Ethical threats concerning private life * Highly fragmented competitive environment
|-
|}

==Conclusion==

It has been observed that selection of RFID tag depend up on the frequency desirable in supply chain application. Industrial attentions is on passive RFID technology. The integration of software technology with electronic identification system will definitely give new dimensions to the supply chain management.

==Mind Map==
===RFID Warehouse Application===
[[Image:RFID-Warehouse_Application1.jpeg|thumb|center|800px]]
===RFID Application - SAP===
[[Image:SAP-RFID_Application2.jpeg|thumb|center|800px]]

Supply Chain RFID Applications

2006-09-13T05:11:29Z

Kirti: /* SAO analysis clustering */

== Executive Summary ==
IP activity in the area of RFID-based supply chain applications seems to have started in 1991, and peaked in 2004. Most of the action in the integration of electronic identification system (RFID) with software system in supply chain applications has taken place in the last ten years or so.

Around 423 patents have been published in the span of 4.2 years from 2000 till February 2005. The major market in RFID-based supply chain applications appears to be the United States.

'''Technology area focus by key players'''
* Digital Data Processing
* Communication Techniques
* Computing, calculating, counting
* Recognition of data; Presentation of data
* Signaling Or Calling Systems

'''Some of the key players identified are'''
* United Parcel Service
* G.E.
* Silverbrook
* Micron Technology
* NCR Corporation
* SAP AG
* Savi tech.

'''Various software applications cited in patents'''
* Business applications
* UPS Supply Chain Solutions
* Anti-collision software
* Program for correlating the environmental condition data with the location data.
* Software applications (Web application" TagDetect")
* Software applications supporting a client-server system or n-tiered computer system.
* MW (Micro-warehouse) enterprise application
* XML middleware such as Biz Talk software
* ERP system, web ordering system
* BeefLink Software
* Source code, object code, or scripting code.

'''Key application areas identified'''
* Food and pharma industry
* Semiconductors and High-value electronic items
* Asset and materials management system
* Commercial enterprise
* Beef industry
* Airport and shipyard

'''Key RFID Tracking applications'''
* Assets
* Equipment
* Materials
* Orders
* Personnel
* Processes
* Products
* Production
* Quality
* Resources

== RFID - Market Potential ==
* The global forecast RFID hardware, middleware, and IT market was worth $640 million in 2005. In 2006, this number will grow to more than $713 million, and is projected to reach more than $1.0 billion by 2011 at an average annual growth rate (AAGR) of 8.0% 
* The RFID market is anticipated to continue to grow rapidly in these and many other market sectors and industries including the food and drug industry, propelled by United States FDA mandates. The technical issues that have made standardization more challenging are heading toward resolution with the emergence of the second-generation of UHF RFID 
* Retail RFID is estimated currently at just under 27% of the overall RFID market, and supply chain management (SCM) applications, when considered as separate from warehouse and distribution and transportation, represents just over 15% of the overall RFID market. These distributions will undoubtedly change rapidly, and should be reconsidered at regular time intervals as the RFID technology and established and emerging markets mature (Source - BCC Research)

==Introduction to RFID technology in supply chain==

The supply chain is a complex multi-stage process which involves everything from the procurement of raw materials used to develop products, and their delivery to customers via warehouses and distribution centers. Supply chains exist in service, manufacturing and retail organizations.

Although, the complexity of the chain may vary greatly from industry to industry and firm to firm. Supply chain management can be seen as the supervision of information and finances of these materials, as they move through the different processes, by coordinating and integrating the flows within and among the different companies involved.

The efficiency of the supply chain has a direct impact on the profitability of a company. It is no surprise therefore to find that many large corporate companies have made it a key part of their strategy, and invested heavily in software systems (ERP, WMS...) and IT infrastructure designed to control inventory, track products and manage associated finance.

RFID will bring a new dimension to supply chain management by providing a more efficient way of being able to identify and track items at the various stages throughout the supply chain. It will allow product data to be captured automatically, and therefore be more quickly available for use by other processes such as ASN, stock management and real time billing.

===Search approach and project scope===

The first task was to find the relevant U.S. granted patents, and EP granted patents or published patent applications. This was done for all patents published in years 1975 to 2005. This range of years is more than sufficient; but almost all of the action has taken place in the last ten years or even considerably lesser time in some categories.

Identified patents in RFID-base supply chain applications category using a patent search filter. Filter development and testing is usually the most difficult and time-consuming part of a patent analysis, and that was certainly not the case in this research.

Patent search filters are sometimes relatively simple, but more often complex. Combinations of patent invention art classifications and keywords in titles, abstracts and claims were targeted for search. Because I was working with a combination of US and EP documents, I used classifications based on the International Patent Classification (IPC) system.

Details on the approach of search is given in search strategy. Since the scope of project is limited to test, therefore only 30 patent records were selected for quantitative analysis and 15 for qualitative analysis.

Most of the indicators could not be project due to insufficient data.

===Objective:===

The aim of this project is to identify IP activity in the area of RFID-Based supply chain applications primarily focused on the application of software in warehouse, distribution, inventory control and also the related applications.

===Data Interpretation:===

Appropriate patent records were selected for analysis. The selection criteria was based on:

* Type of RFID tags (Active, Passive, Microwave or Chipless)

* Type of receiver (Mobile, Handheld, fixed)

* Tag system (Read-only/WORM (Write once read many times)/Read-Write tags)

* Type of reader (Interrogator)

* Type Sensor and RFID frequency

* Receiver link and software

* Applications by where the event takes place (Airport, shipyard, factory, warehouse etc.)

* Process involved (Shipping, receiving, inventory etc.)

* Type of software used (Middle ware, applications etc.)

===Search strategy:===

Date of search: Jan 2005

Database used: USPTO, EPO and PatFam

Keywords used for searching are listed below:

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="92%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Device term'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Action term'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Application term'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Other important terms'''
|-
|RFID
|Data Track<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Supply chain
|Software
|-
|Electronic identification
|Data Captur<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Distribution
|Program
|-
|
|Data Collect<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Warehouse
|Computer
|-
|
|Data Read<nowiki>*</nowiki>
|Inventory
|
|-
|}

The total number of patent records on RFID based supply chain applications sourced through search was 212, but only 30 records were selected for analysis. An additional broad search conducted (database: PatFem) to understand the actual IP activity (based on keywords and assignees) as depicted in below tables:

====Search based on keywords and relevant hits:====

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="91%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''S. No'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Key words'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Search scope'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''No. of records available'''
|-
|1
|RFID
|1975-2005
|6147
|-
|2
|RFID AND WAREHOUSE
|1975-2005
|444
|-
|3.
|RFID and (SUPPLY CHAIN)
|1975-2005
|212
|-
|4.
|RFID and transportation
|1975-2005
|573
|-
|5.
|RFID and distribution
|1975-2005
|1141
|-
|6.
|RFID and SOFTWARE
|1975-2005
|2301
|-
|}

====Search based on assignees with relevant hits:====

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="88%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''S. No'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Assignee'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Search scope'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''No. of records available'''
|-
|1
|3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY
|1975-2005
|146
|-
|2
|SENSORMATIC ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|66
|-
|3
|HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY
|1975-2005
|63
|-
|4
|NOKIA
|1975-2005
|58
|-
|5
|PHILIPS ELECTRONICS
|1975-2005
|54
|-
|6
|SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC
|1975-2005
|49
|-
|7
|AVERY DENNISON CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|24
|-
|8
|KIMBERLY CLARK
|1975-2005
|19
|-
|9
|SILVERBROOK RESEARCH PTY LTD
|1975-2005
|19
|-
|10
|UNITED PARCEL SERVICE OF AMERICA INC
|1975-2005
|16
|-
|11
|IBM
|1975-2005
|15
|-
|12
|SAP
|1975-2005
|14
|-
|13
|SAMSYS TECHNOLOGIES
|1975-2005
|11
|-
|14
|MEADWESTVACO CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|8
|-
|15
|DE LA RUE INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
|1975-2005
|8
|-
|16
|SAVI
|1975-2005
|6
|-
|17
|MICROSOFT
|1975-2005
|5
|-
|18
|WESTVACO CORPORATION
|1975-2005
|5
|-
|19
|SENSITECH
|1975-2005
|3
|-
|20
|UNITED SECURITY APPLIC ID INC
|1975-2005
|3
|-
|21
|GAP INC
|1975-2005
|2
|-
|22
|SEMBCORP
|1975-2005
|1
|-
|23
|SHAW IP PTY LTD
|1975-2005
|1
|-
|24
|EXAGO PTY LTD
|1975-2005
|1
|-
|}

==Patent analytics==

===IP landscape over years===

IP landscape over years: Growth in RFID base supply chain applications

(Actual scenario based on 423 patent records)

According to the search data IP activity in RFID base supply chain applications seems to have started during the year 1991. The graph shows terrific growth from 2000 onwards and high activity during 2004 with 140 patents records alone. Around 423 patents have been published in the span of 4.2 years from 2000 till date (Feb. 2005) indicating the potential in the field.

[[Image:IP_over_year.jpg|thumb|center|576px| IP landscape over years: Growth in RFID base supply chain applications]]

===IP landscape by region===

IP landscape by region: RFID base supply chain

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_region.jpg|thumb|center|576px| IP landscape by region: RFID base supply chain]]

The present graph and interpretation is based on selected 30 records. The graph reveals that the growth in RFID based supply chain applications patenting has been across all the regions. United States is more active than Europe, Japan and Australia.

===Competitor landscape===

Competitor landscape - Growth in RFID base supply chain

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_competitor.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Competitor landscape - Growth in RFID base supply chain]]

The present graph and interpretation is based on selected 30 records. The graph indicate SAP as leading and consistent player with 3 patent records. EXAGO seems to be the new entrant in 2005. It is interesting to note that the competitors in 2004 have not shown any activity in the beginning of 2005.

===Technology trend===

Technology Trend (Main IPC)

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology Trend (Main IPC)]]

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''IPC Code'''
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Description'''
|-
|'''G01N'''
| Measuring, Testing – Investigating or analyzing materials by determining their chemical or physical properties.
|-
|'''G06F'''
| Computing, calculating, counting - Electric Digital Data Processing
|-
|'''G07B'''
| Checking device - Ticket-issuing; Fare-Registering Apparatus; Franking apparatus
|-
|'''G06G'''
| Computing, calculating, counting – Analogue computers
|-
|'''G06K'''
| Recognition of data; Presentation of data; Record carriers; Handling record carriers
|-
|'''G08B'''
| Signaling - Signaling Or Calling Systems; Order Telegraphs; Alarm Systems
|-
|'''H04Q'''
| Electric Communication Technique – Selecting (Switches, relays etc.)
|-
|}

====Technology landscape (Main IPC) - Growth in RFID base supply chain====

(Based on selected 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology1.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology landscape (Main IPC) - Growth in RFID base supply chain]]

The present graph and interpretation is based on selected 30 records. It is evident from graph that '''G06F('''Electric Digital Data Processing) Technology is widely used in RFID based supply chain applications showing continues progress through out. The progress indicates key technology area targeted by many players and having market potential. Followed by '''G08B''' (Signaling), '''H04Q''' (Electric Communication Technique ) and '''G06K''' (Recognition of data; Presentation of data; Record carriers; Handling record carriers).

====Technology Trend (Sub-class)====

(Based on select 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology2.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology Trend (Sub-class)]]

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''IPC Code'''
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Description'''
|-
|'''G01N033569'''
| Measuring, testing or investigating or analyzing material by determining their chemical or physical properties for microorganisms.
|-
|'''G06F00700'''
| Methods or arrangements for processing data by operating upon the order or content of the data handled.
|-
|'''G06F01760'''
| Administrative, commercial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes -electronic cash registers other than digital data processing aspects
|-
|'''G06F01900'''
| Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings
|-
|'''G06G00114'''
| Hand manipulating computing device for arrangements G07B01502
|-
|'''G06K00500'''
| apparatus for collecting fares, tolls or entrance fee at control point with provision of taking account of variable factors such as distance or time e.g. for passenger transport
|-
|'''G06K00710'''
| Recognition of Data; Presentation of Data; Record Carriers; Handling Record Carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing by corpuscular radiation
|-
|'''G08B00108'''
| Signaling Or Calling Systems; Order Telegraphs; Alarm Systems for signaling characterized solely by the form of transmission of signal using electronic transmission
|-
|'''G08B00522'''
| Visible calling system, e.g. personal calling systems remote indication of seat occupied using electric or electromagnetic transmission.
|-
|'''G08B01314'''
| Burglar, theft, or intruder alarm by lifting or attempted removal of hand – portable articles.
|-
|'''G08B02300'''
| Alarm responsive to unspecified or abnormal conditions
|-
|'''H04Q00100'''
| Electrical comm. Technique, details of selecting apparatus or arrangement.
|-
|'''H04Q00522'''
| Selecting arrangements where one or more subscriber stations are connected by the same line into the exchanges. The subordinate center not permitting interconnection of subscriber connected thereto.
|-
|}

====Technology landscape – Assignee wise====

(Based on select 30 records)

[[Image:IP_by_technology3.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Technology landscape – Assignee wise]]

According to the present data, most of the leading players have focused on building sound: Administration, commerce, management, supervision and forecasting (electronic cash registers other than digital data processing) aspects for RFID-base supply chain applications.

==Qualitative Analysis==

===Classification of patents based on main claims===

The following graph indicates various subjects that have been covered by various assignee in the area of RFID based supply chain applications. The various subjects are the result of SAO analysis. More granularity on subjects is presented in next slide in the form of clusters.

[[Image:Main_claims.jpg|thumb|center|576px| Classification of patents based on main claims]]

===SAO analysis clustering===

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|'''Subject'''
|'''Action'''
|'''Object'''
|-
|[[Image:method.jpg]]
|* Delivering * Monitoring (3) * Processing * Detecting (2) & tracking (6) * Displaying information * Computing the orientation and position of a wearer * Unattended distribution or retrieval of returned * Return of a return * Retrieving ordered (2) * Receiving * Wirelessly exchanging * Enabling enhanced * Facilitating an interaction * Distributing (3) * Collecting * Entering event data common to a group of individual animals 
|* Between a consignor and a consignee * Container * inanimate and animate objects * Items (2) * Data acquisition and display device * Calibrating a fixed camera * Assets (2) * Unattended facilities * Item to an unattended facility * Items that have been delivered to an unattended facility * Environmental condition associated with an item of inventory * Shipment record from the intelligent asset management and sensing device. * Information * Asset management and tracking capabilities * Between a user and a product item. * Products from a micro-warehouse. * Products from an access restricted area. * Products from a restricted access area having an entry point. * Number of mail units (2) * Livestock information (2) * Database 
|-
|[[Image:system.jpg]]
|* Detecting & tracking (5) * Processing(2) * Unattended distribution or retrieval of returned * Inventory management * Monitoring (2) * Networking * Enabling enhanced * Facilitating an interaction * Distributing (3) 
|* Inanimate and animate objects * Item (6) * Time * Environmental condition * Unattended facilities * Sensing device * Asset management and tracking * Container * Number of mail units * Articles through customs 
|-
|colspan = "3"|[[Image:SAO.jpg|center|800px]]
|-
|colspan = "3"|'''Note:''' Number in ( ) indicates occurrence in more that one patent or main claims.
|-
|}

===Problem Vs Solutions===

{|border="2" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="100%"
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Prior art Problems'''
|align = "center" bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Solutions'''
|bgcolor = "#808080"|'''Patent number'''
|-
|align = "justify"|'''1.''' A central system has limited visibility of containers in the global supply chain. '''2. '''Drawback of the central system is the delay in alerts concerning the container. '''3. '''Typical central systems have difficulty in collecting reliable information across heterogeneous systems. 
|align = "justify"|A decentralized state system comprising containers to automatically provide continuous and uniform monitoring of a container state is needed. A container should be robustly configured with localized logic capable of determining a state in response to real-time events experienced by the container relative to dynamic and static event information concerning expected events. State determinations made through local information are more reliable to typical prior art systems that use central systems to make inferences about the security state.
|US20040246130 
|-
|align = "justify"|'''1.''' A major disadvantage of all transponder based tag designs is that special anti-collision methods. '''2. '''A short range reader must be used to individually address each tag within the larger field. '''3. '''A second major disadvantage is that to obtain long ranges (100-1,000 feet), higher frequencies are required, and these lead to high power consumption. 
|align = "justify"|'''1. & 2.''' By using lower frequencies (not exceeding 1 MHz, and typically under 300 KHz) and a base station design that uses large loop antennas (such as 10.times.10 feet to 500.times.500 feet) and by transmitting a digital ID to selectively activate a selected client tag, rather than a non-selective signal which would activate many tags simultaneously '''3.''' Networked RF Tags (NRF Tags) have significantly reduced power consumption and long range (1000 sq feet to 10,000 sq feet per antenna), have the power capacity to add displays (e.g. LCD) and light emitting diodes (LED<nowiki>’</nowiki>s) and detectors, and buttons so they may become fully interactive "tag clients" (this is not possible with transponder).
|US20040201454 
|-
|align = "justify"|'''1.''' One drawback to these systems is that they require the goods to be passed through designated gateway areas, typically causing great inconvenience. '''2. '''Another drawback is that it is not possible to track the location of the goods within the warehouse. 
|align = "justify"|'''1. '''Each ID tag is coupled to an asset and is configured to wirelessly communicate with other ID tags in the network within a predetermined proximity. '''2.''' Each tag is also configured to relay communications from other ID tags so that a communication path is established between the RMS and any ID tag in the network, either directly or via other ID tags.
|US20040174260 
|-
|}

===Main applications of RFID===

Applications which appeared in analyzed patent records have been listed.

1. Logistics chain management system in Food and pharma industry

2. Global supply chain of semiconductors

3. Supply chain management of High-value electronic items & pharmaceuticals

4. Tracking system

5. Supply chain management

6. Inventory along a distribution chain

7. Asset and materials management system

8. Point-of-sale and point-of-delivery and/or distribution

9. Reusable transportation means

10. Materials handling

11. Commercial enterprise (personnel and asset retention system (PARS))

12. Tracking cargo through customs

13. Supply chain management in Beef industry

The product moves through the global supply chain which involves various stages (places and processes). Next slide indicate the details about the various stages involved in supply chain applications, software applications and hardware used.

===Main applications of RFID along with various stages, S/W applications and H/W<nowiki>’</nowiki>s involved===

===Features cited in analyzed 15 patent records===

1. The container can be reprogrammed to include updated logic, updated states, and/or updated expected event information. (US20040246130)

2. The system comprises a truck server and an optional in-truck data communications means, which comprise a digital cell phone or satellite link. (US20040201454)

3. A local computer communicates with the see-through display, information gathering devices, and orientation sensors, optical tracking system, and business applications over one or more networks. (US20040182925)

4. OmniTRACS.RTM., which is a two-way satellite communication system that allows trucks to be monitored and tracked and to allow data communication with dispatchers. (US20040174260)

5. The data report from the reporting software can alert the user as to when the detrimental event occurred and identify the custodian who caused the detrimental event. (US20040049428)

6. Web-based information system for a beef marketing alliance; value-based procurement, and supply chain management. (US20020158765)

7. The software contains a component for determining the best time for an animal to go to slaughter based on a target weight. (US20020158765)

===SWOT analysis===

{|border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="4" width="80%"
|STRENGTHS * Advanced technology * Easy to use * High memory capacity * Small size
|WEAKNESSES * Lack of industry and application standards * High cost per unit and high RFID system costs * Weak market understanding of the benefits of RFID technology
|-
|OPPORTUNITIES * Could replace the bar code * End-user demand for RFID systems is increasing * Huge market potential in many businesses * Need for standardization
|THREATS * Ethical threats concerning private life * Highly fragmented competitive environment
|-
|}

==Conclusion==

It has been observed that selection of RFID tag depend up on the frequency desirable in supply chain application. Industrial attentions is on passive RFID technology. The integration of software technology with electronic identification system will definitely give new dimensions to the supply chain management.

==Mind Map==
===RFID Warehouse Application===
[[Image:RFID-Warehouse_Application1.jpeg|thumb|center|800px]]
===RFID Application - SAP===
[[Image:SAP-RFID_Application2.jpeg|thumb|center|800px]]

File:System.jpg

2006-09-13T05:08:58Z

Kirti:

File:Method.jpg

2006-09-13T05:08:46Z

Kirti: