Savi Announces First Participants in its Standardized RFID E-Seal Licensing Program
Savi Technology, a Lockheed Martin company and provider of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-based total asset management solutions, today announced the first six companies that have agreed to license Savi's intellectual property, which is now incorporated into the new global standard (ISO 18185) for electronic cargo seals (e-Seals). E-Seals are an emerging class of active RFID devices with built-in security and tracking features that enhance visibility, security and efficiency of in-transit cargo containers, which account for 90 percent of world trade.
E-Seals combine mechanical locks with wireless RFID communication systems to automatically notify users about security breaches and container locations. Program participants gain access to Savi's patent-protected, intellectual property on how these active, battery-powered RFID tags communicate with readers. Savi Technology launched the program May 1 with its QuickStart program, and continues licensing through its Basic program.
"Some 200 million containers flow through the world's ports each year, and the efficient and secure movement of cargo is a U.S. and global priority," said Pat Burns, Savi's vice president of Marketing and Licensing. "Savi Technology is committed to building ISO-based RFID networks throughout the world, and having multiple e-Seal licensees with products that can communicate using a standard protocol brings visibility, efficiency and homeland security solutions to customers such as international shippers, government agencies and logistics service providers."
The U.S. SAFE Port Act of 2006 calls for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (USDHS) to define the voluntary use of container security devices in accordance with international standards. USDHS considers ISO 18185 (International Standardization Organization), which enables interoperability of products from multiple vendors, as an applicable container security standard.
Companies named today as authorized licensees of Savi's e-Seal RFID patents around ISO 18185 are:
• Axcess International Inc. provides Dual-Active(TM) RFID and Real Time Location Systems specializing in ultra low cost, small form factor tagging solutions for personnel auto-ID, asset control, physical security, supply chain efficiencies, and sensing.
• Evigia Systems, based in Ann Arbor, Mich., provides RFID solutions that leverage sensors directly onto integrated circuits, enabling customers to increase functionality for the management of the logistical supply chain.
• Envotech Co., Ltd., based in Malaysia, provides Personal Protection Equipment and training services for defense, law enforcement and civilian organizations, with products exported primarily to Asia, Europe and North America.
• Identec Solutions, headquartered in Lustenau, Austria, specializes in long-range wireless tracking and tracing solutions, which help simplify manufacturing and logistics processes and bring more transparency to the supply chain.
• KPC, headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, provides information technology services and products, such as active RFID, that improve the supply chain operations through enhanced location tracking and security solutions.
• SAVR Communications, Inc., based in Irving, Texas, is a creator of standardized and unique RF systems, active tags, custom solutions and services.