Technology
Keeping track of the way we keep track…DHL offers Pharma industry enhanced tracking
DHL Solutions & Innovations, the R&D arm of forwarder DHL has produced a GSM enabled variant of its SmartSensor RFID device reports Analytica. Like that device, SmartSensor GSM monitors the temperature of sensitive shipments such as pharmaceuticals. But unlike its predecessor, from which data is recovered retrospectively for review purposes, SmartSensor GSM as the name implies actively transmits data during the course of the shipping process. The data feed is accessed via a web portal so no extra hardware is required. As well as temperature; sensors also monitor humidity, shock and light levels (which can indicate premature or unauthorized opening of the container) and track location. The device not only provides visibility but actively warns of adverse temperature changes or increases in light levels by email or text alert.
According to Analytica when placed in an air freight shipment the device continuously logs data as usual but automatically switches off its antenna before flight and defers all transmissions till arrival so as to avoid interference with aircraft avionics.
DHL has just taken full control of a specialist life sciences logistics provider it had previously run as a joint venture with Lufthansa (see Forwarding section). According to a statement from DHL released September 21, the company is preparing for an upsurge in demand for generic medications in the Latin American market. Efforts by national governments in the region to extend healthcare benefits to their citizens as the proportion of over 65 year olds increases coincide with the expiry of patents on several brand name drugs.
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