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Related expressions
RFID transponder,
RFID reader
Explanation
The transponder applicator attaches the transponders into the items (logs for example) for traceability applications using RFID. The transponder applicator consists of a machining tool, an application tool for the transponders, and of a magazine for the transponders. The machining tool and the application tool may be integrated together. The transponder applicator may be controlled either manually or automatically (a man with a hammer vs. tool mounted on a harvester head : Cf. below for extra details).
The selection of the transponder concept, such as the selection between a dipole or patch type antenna, affects the choice of the application method. Dipole type antennas can be used in nail-shaped transponders but a patch antenna is more suitable for patch shaped transponders.
The shape of the transponder determines the best attachment method:
- nail-like tags can be embedded into the wood by inserting them into a hole similar to nails that are hammered into wood, while
- patches can be inserted into slots or groves machined into the log.
Application/usage in Indisputable KEY
In forestry applications concerned by Indisputable KEY, both manual and automatic transponder applicators are needed as softwood is felled and processed using harvesters in most countries, but motor-manual felling is still commonly carried out for hardwoods or large-dimensioned trees.The manual applicator can be a special hammer, which allows the transponders to be hammered easily to the butts of the logs. Nevertheless, hammering a nail made of artificial wood into a log is probably not feasible so the applicator has to drill a hole for the transponder.
For an automatic application by the harvester head, the transponder applicator should be mounted on the head and the application should be done automatically during the bucking operation without significantly slowing down the process. The harvester must be able to operate normally without the operator having to carry out extra tasks for the transponder application. The applicator has to have a powerful machining tool that can drill a hole or machine a slot or a groove into a log very quickly so that the transponder is attached into the log in a short timeslot. Ideally, this should be done during the crosscutting of the log so that the operation of the harvester is not slowed down;
The transponder magazine in the applicator needs to hold a large number of transponders, allowing uninterrupted operation of the harvester.
Institutions with teaching capabilities
Competency within this field will be developed during the Indisputable KEY project. Teaching capabilities will develop based on this competency.
Available text books and training material
Little information is published within this topic. Books in forestry engineering and general engineering are available.
