Mars Tohken develops and provides a wide range of RFID-related products and inventory management systems. In this article, we introduce a case study showcasing a solution that addresses FIFO (First-In, First-Out) challenges by utilizing DENSO’s LED-equipped “Navigation Tags” in combination with RFID tags.
Introduced for the first time in Southeast Asia! Warehouse System Utilizing DENSO LED Tags
This system, developed by Mars Tohken, was initiated in response to a request from one of our existing customers—a major Japanese motor manufacturer.
Previously, inventory was managed using barcodes, but the customer faced challenges such as difficulties implementing FIFO (First-In, First-Out) and frequent picking errors.
To address these issues, DENSO’s original battery-powered LED tags were introduced to implement Poka-Yoke (human error prevention). By attaching RFID tags to each bag of parts, the system enables accurate First-In, First-Out (FIFO) operations.
In response to the customer's request for integration with their existing management system, Mars Tohken developed custom software—delivering a solution that resolved the challenges without requiring replacement of the current system.
❖ DENSO‘s glowing tags (Navigation Tags) and scanners
❖ Dedicated software developed by Mars Tohken
▲ Workflow image
Features of the FIFO Management System Using Glowing Tags x RFID Tags
✔ Battery-Powered LED Tag
The LED tags, featuring DENSO's proprietary technology and built-in battery, ensure stable illumination. The LED can light up even from a distance of up to 8 meters. Additionally, as no wiring is required, changing the layout is easy.
✔ Poka-Yoke for Picking (Error Prevention)
By using the LED light as a guide for picking, human errors are effectively prevented.
✔ FIFO (First-In, First-Out) Management with RFID Tags
RFID tags are attached to items upon entry (e.g., to each bag), enabling precise FIFO management.
✔ Paperless Operation
With the Android device screen guiding the process, picking lists and other documents are no longer necessary.
These features and benefits greatly enhance the accuracy and efficiency of picking operations (resulting in time savings). Additionally, by utilizing QR codes, the picking history can be tracked and recorded.
The customer, who is the first to implement this system in Southeast Asia, has provided positive feedback, noting a significant reduction in picking errors and considerable improvements in efficiency.
The System Utilizing Glowing Tags and RFID Tags is Especially Effective in the Following Situations
This solution is particularly useful when you face the following challenges:
⚡ A large number of parts
⚡ Many similar parts that are easily confused
⚡ Picking takes a long time
⚡ Picking errors are an issue.
Specifically, the system is effective in the following types of environments:
● Manufacturing factory warehouses
● Logistics (storage) warehouses
● Luggage management in hotels
Even in non-manufacturing settings, this system can greatly reduce mistakes and save time. In Japan, there is already a successful implementation case for luggage management at a large-scale, well-known hotel.
▲ Ideal for applications such as searching for shelves, boxes, cart trolleys, and stored luggage.
