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We are all familiar with how
UPC codes are used in our
everyday world. This can
of Coca Cola, and every one
of the same type, has the same UPC code on it that
allows for better data collection.
Imagine if there was a
problem with a shipment of
a batch of cans of Coca Cola,
how would you be able to identify each can affected
if
they were not individually tracked? |
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How
could you collect data on those cans and the processes
they go through if they were not individually serialized?
This is where UID comes into play; it is a process of
assigning a unique identifier to every can that can be
leveraged with any process.
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Who is using UID?
- There
are many industries moving toward UID in some
manner including defence, pharmaceutical, medical,
beauty supplies, automotive, and others.
- Companies
such as New Balance Shoes, Mennen Health
Products, General Motors, and Johnson and
Johnson are now leveraging UID on their products.
- In
the defence industry, we are impacted by Policy
paving the way of utilization of UID
on assets. Mil Std 130 in the United States, and
the
impending ratification
of STANAG 2290 edition 2 now call out
for UID to be implemented on military assets and
pave the way for
Governments to issues clauses/mandates
to leverage UID, which, in turn, may become policy.
How is a UID assigned?
- UID is a comprised of several
pieces of data merged to form a globally unique
number.
- The first part of the construct is the
Enterprise Identifier which can be your Cage
Code, NATO Cage
Code, DODAC, DUNS Number, and several other industry recognized
numbers. These are issued globally
as a specific number to your business.
- Within that
serialization you can assign individual numbers
for items that you own or produce
thus making them globally unique.
What
IUID vs. UID?
IUID represents the application of UID to an individual item. An item unique identifier is only assigned to a single item and is never reused. The choice of which identifier to use is based upon normal industry practices of the organization assigning the serialization. The formatted data is called a Unique Item Identifier (UII). The Data Matrix symbol is a machine-readable representation of the UII.
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What does a UID look like
and how is it created? |
- UID is a form of barcode
called Data Matrix and more specifically a
two dimensional data matrix (2D).
- It is different than the
standard one dimensional (1D) linear barcode
we are used to seeing with UPC in that it can
hold much more data without getting bigger
in relation.
- The syntax for Data Matrix
is not a standard set of raw data; it is managed
via ISO and Commercial Standards that call
out how to encode a Data Matrix barcode.
- These technical standards
are also called out in the policies mentioned
for NATO and U.S. DoD.
- The mark is created using
already in practice methods of barcoding to
include thermal transfer, dot peen, laser engraved,
and others.
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Why UID?
The challenge for
better item visibility and improved performance is
often hindered as a product moves through the supply
chain. Sometimes this is caused by the different legacy
systems in your own process, or from sub-tier supplier
to prime, or from the military to repair and overhaul
operations. Many times a problem in the field that
can be identified back to its source can help eliminate
problems and improve performance. UID solves that problem
by creating a universal language that we all recognize
for that asset and allows for a unique identity of
assets. Creating a UID for each asset starts a path
of visibility for everything that happens to that item,
including part number changes and/or material revisions
related to that item.
Why should I attend the UID Summit?
UID will impact all
aspects of military asset management in the coming
years. The policy movements call out very technical
definitions on how to implement UID. The policies that
will emanate from Governments implementing UID will
be faced with the task of educating their key personnel
on understanding UID and how to implement UID.
The goal of the UID Summit is to educate those being impacted by a UID mandate,
those looking to leverage UID, and to educate solution providers on how they
can help in this newly emerging arena. The goal is to share the knowledge gained
to date to demonstrate what is possible with UID and how it can be leveraged
for maximum benefit. |
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