RFID Keyless Entry And Ignition System Speeds FedEx Couriers

Wristband radio frequency identification (RFID) transponders provide hands-free vehicle access and security to 1,100 FedEx delivery vehicles.

Federal Express (Memphis, TN) is the world's largest express parcel delivery company. FedEx delivers approximately 3.2 million parcels daily and operates a fleet of more than 42,500 vehicles worldwide. The company is constantly looking at ways to streamline its delivery processes. In the United States alone, FedEx couriers drive millions of miles daily to deliver parcels. Each time couriers make a delivery, they spend precious time searching for keys to lock and unlock doors to their delivery vehicle. If couriers misplace their keys, they must wait for someone from a FedEx station to bring spares. The vehicle must then be rekeyed at a cost of more than $200. More importantly, shipments from that vehicle are then delayed.

To solve this problem, FedEx contacted Strattec Security Corp. (Milwaukee), specialists in vehicle locks and radio frequency identification (RFID) systems. Strattec then worked with Utilimaster Corp. (Wakarusa, IN), which makes custom-manufactured vehicles for FedEx. The resultant solution was an automatic keyless entry and ignition system. This new system uses RFID transponders from Texas Instruments (TI) (Dallas) embedded within a Velcro wristband. The transponders used the 134.2 kilohertz frequency – a low frequency that is less likely to cause interference. The system is now being used in 1,100 FedEx delivery vehicles.

A Keyless RFID Solution
With the TI RFID system, FedEx delivery personnel are freed from the hassles of juggling their keys while carrying armloads of packages. The keyless entry and ignition system consists of TIRIS transponders and readers mounted at each of the doors to the delivery vehicle. A reader is also mounted on the right side of the steering column near the ignition switch. When the courier places the transponder wristband within six inches of the readers, the transponder's code is compared to those in the system's memory. If they match, the door unlocks for five seconds. The courier simply pulls on the door handle to enter the vehicle. The three remaining doors stay securely locked to prevent unauthorized entry. To start the vehicle, the courier pushes a button on the right side of the steering column. Another button near the start button turns off the vehicle.

All exterior door locks can be released from the inside with conveniently located buttons. A fail-safe keyed lock is maintained for the rear roll-up door, in case of an electrical failure. Antitheft features include motion detectors in both the courier and cargo compartments, and a self-contained horn. The system is programmed to ensure that the vehicle will not start until all doors are shut. All doors automatically lock after five seconds. Each FedEx vehicle is programmed using a master transponder, and can accept up to 10 unique transponders. A single transponder can also be programmed to operate multiple trucks.

Increasing Security And Productivity
During a courier's route, the TI RFID wristband doesn't need to be removed, making it less likely to be lost. If a wristband is misplaced, its code can be purged from the system, and a new code can be programmed in a matter of seconds. Each wristband costs $20. "We wanted to make the courier's job easier," said James Steffen, chief engineer, vehicle/GSE engineering, FedEx. "With TI's RFID technology, couriers can focus on their deliveries without worrying about the security of their packages or losing their keys."

Dan Schell