Tracking and Traceability Technologies: Implementation in the SEPT Learning Factory

Tracking and traceability technologies based on Internet of Things (IoT) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) can improve production management in manufacturing industries. They can lead to improved product quality, manage user complaints, reduce the number of damaged goods, and improve production efficiencies. The use of these technologies can improve visibility of production and stock data, status of each production machine, and access to complete plantwide operational information in real-time. The use of smart sensors, Artificial Intelligence (AI) controllers, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technologies and web-based advanced data management software components can lead to the establishment of Traceability 4.0 system in the context of Industry 4.0. Preparing the workforce able to select the appropriate technologies for a specific manufacturing environment, to implement and integrate them in manufacturing processes and systems, and to maintain them in production facilities that implement Industry 4.0 technologies require both knowledge not included in traditional academic curricula and skills that need to be developed in experiential learning environments. The paper presents a review of the main tracking and traceability technologies that can be implemented in manufacturing processes and systems, and describes the technologies that are implemented in a Learning Factory for providing the knowledge and skills to undergraduate and graduate students and for training workforce employees.