I saw Microlise, a UK-based systems integrator, last year in Transport Tracking 2005 and talked with some of their managers. They had some innovative ideas in the RFID area and they were really keen to turn them into new products and services.

Recently, through Using RFID, I noticed that they have done the job. The company has unveiled its patented RFID Trailer portal solution, a stand-alone asset tracking system that can be integrated with the Microlise Fleet & Distribution Suite of applications or with other similar solutions from other providers. The system addresses the common situation where there are more distribution and delivery destinations than there are vehicles in the delivery fleet, or where vehicles deliver to multiple client companies. By RFID-enabling the vehicle rather than the dock doors of the Distribution Centre and delivery points, proof of delivery or collection can be provided for any delivery destination. This helps to reduce the capital investment required for RFID in the supply chain. The portal comprises an array of RFID antennas linked to an RFID reader and in-vehicle computer. Antenna arrays can be installed overhead, on the floor or at the sides of the entry point to the trailer depending on the location of the RFID tags on the roll cage or other re-usable transport assets. The in-vehicle computer has Wi-Fi and GPRS communications to talk to the host system, to download the route manifest and upload real-time RFID POD/POC data, and can also provide vehicle location data if needed.

Well, good job...