Product tracking with GKN Fokker
CASE STUDY:PRODUCT TRACKING
Background & Challenges
GKN struggled with visibility of some manufactured components, leading to wasted time and resources on manual searches. This poor visibility resulted in wasted time, compliance concerns, and workflow inefficiencies.
They needed a light-touch solution, especially since they had just consolidated four of their sites into one, which was still in transition.
CASE STUDY:PRODUCT TRACKING
The Solution
PRODUCT VISIBILITY
Pathfindr provided a straightforward solution by installing Ultra-Wide Band Tracking. We initiated a three-month pilot to track their components throughout the facility with high accuracy.
When components were sent to external buildings or abroad for testing or subcontracting, a zonal detector was set up to track the receiving end. This approach was highly successful. Within two months of implementing the technology and tagging an initial 300 components for a specific product line, the visibility issues were resolved.
ULTRA-WIDE BAND (UWB) TAGS
Our UWB Tags provided a high level of tracking accuracy throughout the facility. This was achieved installing a network of Detectors throughout, and connecting these Detectors to a central Cellular Gateway. This approach is entirely free-standing, with no impact or disruption to existing infrastructure.
CASE STUDY:PRODUCT TRACKING
The results
User and product manager testimonials showed significant benefits, including easier part control, precise escalations, and streamlined operations.
For instance, inspectors now locate parts in minutes, not hours, boosting workflow. Increased visibility has also improved throughput, enabling the processing of more orders.
Pathfindr has solved our visibility issue almost overnight. During audits, our customers said it’s the best solution they’ve seen, which is significant given they already use another tracking provider.
Chris Grimshaw
Site Logistics Manager
GKN Aerospace
CASE STUDY:JOB CARD TRACKING
Before & after tracking
Rolls-Royce was able to achieve significant improvements in several key areas:
Metric | Before Pathfindr | With Pathfindr |
|---|---|---|
Number Of Search Events Per Month | 55 | 55 |
Average Search Time | 1 hr 10 min | 5 min |
Annual Cost of Searching For Job Cards | £77,022 | £5,497 |
CASE STUDY:JOB CARD TRACKING
Investment vs ROI
18 Detectors + 600 Ble Tags
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ROI
Cost Savings - Investment
Investment
£53,765
Per Year
£1,480
Solution Cost Per Month
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This results in an annual saving for each tracked job card of
£89.60
To cover the facility area, 18 Detectors were installed and 600 Tags placed onto Job Cards.