Cleveland-based SPEDE Technologies has launched a new wireless system which interfaces RFID devices to overhead cranes, enabling enhanced automation and inventory control in large warehouse situations.

The SPEDE RFID Crane Locator System uses an RFID reader mounted on the crane hook to scan RFID tags on items as they are hoisted, and two RF laser range finders mounted atop the crane are aimed at X-Y planes to record the precise location where the item is put. The exact placement can be recorded automatically by the crane operator, and inventory can be performed simply by moving the hook over items.

“Now a crane operator can locate a specific item in seconds, just by looking at the screen,” explained Bob Bunsey, president of SPEDE Technologies, in a press release. “The laser range finders assist the operator in moving the crane to that location, and the RFID reader ensures the correct item is picked.”