Spy Review

FedEx is one of the most trusted names in the courier delivery business. But accidents and delays can happen and this is of utmost importance in some industries where delivery on time is crucial because the shipment can become unusable for any number of reasons. This is particularly true for the medical industry but can apply to a host of other industries where urgent delivery and knowing where the package is crucial in its operations and the strive for greater efficiency.

FedEx has thus come up with Senseaware which comprises a sensor the size of a Blackberry handset, which has temperature and light meters as also GPS and a cellular antenna. When the shipment has Senseaware attached, it becomes live as its contents are constantly monitored for temperature changes, location and if the package has been tampered with or opened or exposed to light. This means that the integrity of the parcel is not compromised in any way. This is a bit like a tracking device but with more details of the contents

A successful trial run was undertaken in transporting surgical kits which the doctors used and then sent back. The kits are then refurbished and used again. The live monitoring saves both the doctors’ and the company’s time as there is no delay.

While currently the Senseaware costs $120 a month, if it is put in greater use and greater economies of scale are generated, the price is expected to drop to $10 a trip, which means it can be used for more items, perishable or otherwise.

Via: NYT