Wednesday, February 6, 2008

ThingMagic partners on RFID tool-tracking trucks

Cambridge radio frequency identification technology (RFID) developer ThingMagic Inc. reports it has entered into a new partnership with power tool maker DeWALT and Ford Motor Co. to equip new trucks with RFID-based asset tracking systems.

The partnership will equip 2009 Ford F-150 and F-Series Super Duty pickup trucks, as well as E-Series vans, with an embedded RFID asset tracking system, including readers from ThingMagic. The system, dubbed Ford Work Solutions Tool Link by DeWALT, uses RFID technology to track tagged assets, such as tools, construction equipment and materials, in the truck, ensuring contents are easily accounted for and quickly located at all times. Inventory of bed contents is taken by the readers and relayed to a screen in the cab.

The system also includes antennas, tags, and corrosion and impact resistant housings mounted on the vehicle, according to ThingMagic officials, who said the three companies have been collaborating on the project for more than a year. Financial terms of the deal were not released.

DeWALT, which is a brand name of Maryland-based Black & Decker Corp. has built a reputation for advancing new technologies in the power tool industry. The company was among the first to use nanomaterials-based lithium-ion batteries from A123Systems Inc. last year, and has integrated GPS technology into products aimed at securing job sites for contractors.

Founded in 2000, ThingMagic has brought in more than $20 million in private funding. Investors include The Exxel Group, Morningside Technology Ventures Ltd., Inventec Appliances, Top Line Growth Capital LLC and Cisco Systems Inc.