FedEx Corp has introduced SenseAware, a service that combines a GPS sensor device and a web-based collaboration platform. Developed by FedEx, SenseAware will provide increased access to information between business partners and customers to aid in management of supply chain interactions and initially will target the life sciences industry.
Available in spring 2010, SenseAware is an open, highly adaptive and easy-to-use sensor information sharing platform. It will serve customers who desire near real-time visibility and insight into their shipments. SenseAware will let business decisionmakers quickly and easily collaborate on many types of information data across their global supply chain.
SenseAware is permitted by the Federal Aviation Administration to be used during flight on FedEx aircraft and will allow customers to monitor in-transit conditions during ground transportation.
A SenseAware device riding with a FedEx shipment can provide this information:
•Precise temperature readings
•A shipment’s exact location
•When a shipment is opened or if the contents have been exposed to light
•Real-time alerts and analytics between trusted parties regarding the vital signs of a shipment
SenseAware can be easily adopted as it does not require a costly software installation, infrastructure or large managed-service commitments. It can be used for single shipments or in large palletized shipments.
The service will initially target the health care and life sciences industry. SenseAware was created through intensive research and beta-testing with customers within those industries. By providing extensive aggregated data shipment information, the technology will help life science customers comply with audits and quality checks. For example, within the industry, many shipments must remain within a specified ambient or cold-chain temperature range to be effective for use in patient care. By having the correct and necessary data, users can make the proper business decisions to replenish or make other arrangements to meet the business requirement.
A limited number of SenseAware devices are expected to be available during the initial launch.
Learn more about SenseAware at www.senseaware.com.
