Abstract:
In this paper a prototype smart conveyor system is developed with the integration of Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID) technology and a robot hand for product handling in a manufacturing environment. A
novel Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) with customer based production is introduced using web-services
technology> and a real-time updatable inventory database to enhance operational efficiency’ of the
manufacturing environment. The FMS designed is a fully automated system with RFID tags/detectors,
intelligent control systems, robot arms and sorting mechanisms, smart conveyor system and a real time
updatable inventory database with application software. This study demonstrates the significance and benefits
oj a smart conveyor system with the integration of RFID technology for product identification and handling,
specifically in the manufacturing industry.
