Development of a framework for an RFID-based manufacturing process automation system

The use of radio frequency identification (RFID) in manufacturing process automation is becoming increasingly popular in various industries. However, the integration of RFID with various manufacturing systems is still a challenge. This paper presents the development of a framework for an RFID-based manufacturing process automation system (MPAS) for use in manufacturing industries. The MPAS is characterised by its ability to capture and harness real-time production and process data of semi-finished products and components during the manufacturing and assembly processes. It supports rapid logistics decision-making for the re-allocation of production resources and rectification of bottleneck problems to meet tight delivery schedules. A prototype system has been built and the potential benefit of the system has been realised through a series of implementations in selected reference sites.