'Smart Labels' Will Aid Timely Replacement Of Parts

Boeing announced plans to introduce radio frequency identification (RFID) "smart labels" on maintenance-significant parts of the 787 Dreamliner. The manufacturer expects the use of passive RFID technology will help airlines reduce costs, by managing part maintenance and repair histories.

"Boeing customers are eager to take advantage of automated identification technology, especially the capabilities and benefits of RFID," said Mike Bair, 787 vice president and general manager. "Introducing this advancement on our newest airplane makes good sense."

RFID is an automated identification technology that uses radio frequency waves to transfer data between a reader and items that have RFID devices affixed. The "smart labels" contain a microchip and antenna and operate at internationally recognized standard frequencies. Similar to a bar code, the RFID tag stores data but offers enhanced data collection and significant advantages such as being able to read without a direct view of the RFID label and a dynamic read/write capability.

Boeing plans for the tags to contain unique identification as well as maintenance and inspection data. Typical Dreamliner parts to incorporate RFID smart labels will be line replaceable units (LRUs) and life-limited parts, as well as on-board emergency equipment.

The RFID labels will be applied during the manufacturing process, prior to delivering the airplane to airlines.

In response to the expected widespread use of the new technology, in May 2005 the FAA published RFID policy which states that passive RFIDs -- transponders that do not have a dedicated power supply, but instead derive their operating power from the reader -- pose no safety risk and are acceptable for use on civil aircraft under specified conditions.

Boeing has completed two successful in-service evaluations of passive RFID smart labels on a FedEx MD-10 Freighter. The tests showed that passive RFID devices do not adversely affect the simultaneous operation of any aircraft systems or interfere with continued safety of flight.

FMI: www.boeing.com