PinPoint introduces tool tracking system

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SHELTON, Conn., Dec. 11 (UPI) -- A line of tool and asset management systems for the aerospace industry has been launched by the PinPoint Group, a U.S. subsidiary of United Technologies.

The systems for aerospace manufacturers, maintainers and operators are AeroMASTER, AeroCREW and AeroRACK, which use radio frequency identification and GPS tracking for control of tools, ground support equipment and other devices.

The systems were developed by PinPoint in partnership with IDZ Technologies of Texas.

"The PinPoint system is the first to integrate RFID and GPS technologies -- offering aerospace customers a truly comprehensive tracking solution," said Peter Fuchs, managing director of the PinPoint Group, LLC.

"Our system makes 100 percent tool accountability possible and will significantly reduce foreign object damage risk.

"Fully compatible with customers' existing tools, it provides many advanced capabilities that will help reduce the maintenance burden on our customers worldwide."

The technology was developed with direct input from civil and military aircraft mechanics and maintenance managers. The systems have a "pocket-level control" feature that can differentiate identical tools and determine when a tool isn't in its assigned place. Users can also track the path of an asset in a hangar or on a flight line.