FROM SWEDEN--A MICROWAVE SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATIC CONTAINER IDENTIFICATION

Automatic Container Identification (ACI), a technology where an electronic label or transponder with a specific coded number is attached to a container and an interrogator or reader is able to read the number coded into the electronic label by illuminating it with electro-magnetic radiation. Microwave Institute Foundation MIF) has developed a microwave system for ACI based on an electronic label carried on the container. The electronic label is remotely read when passing an interrogator. The interrogator illuminates the electronic label with a fixed frequency microwave beam and receives back a frequency shifted echo which is modulated by the container number stored in the label. The MIF ACI-system has shown itself to be a flexible system with several important options and has thus found a wide range of applications. Containers are already numbered using an ownership code of four alpha-number signs and in addition a six digit number. These container numbers are already used in inventory control and shipping documents. A committee within the American National Standards Institute is working on standardization of coding and marking. Such a standard will leave room for additional information directed towards all users as well as a specific user or owner. An ACI system in combination with a computerized monitoring and inventory control system will give the container operator substantial benefits. The interrogators reading the container numbers are operating on-line with the computer or off-line via data recorders associated with the interrogator.

• Corporate Authors:

  Communication Channels, Incorporated

  461 8th Avenue
  New York, NY  United States  10001
• Authors:
  • Henoch, B T
• Publication Date: 1978-1

Media Info

• Pagination: p. 42-44
• Serial:
  • CONTAINER NEWS
  • Volume: 13
  • Issue Number: 4

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Automatic equipment identification; Containerization; Containers
• Old TRIS Terms: Automatic container identification; Container control; Container identification systems
• Subject Areas: Freight Transportation; Marine Transportation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00170918
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Container News Incorporated
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Mar 29 1978 12:00AM