The new SICK LAC (Logistics Access Control) system, launched at IMHX 2013, provides operators with a unique solution to providing a 'virtual lock' on access to designated secure areas for overseas goods transportation.
International anti-terrorism measures are placing increased demands on logistics operators to demonstrate to customers they have secure shipping arrangements in place that can guarantee to avoid any costly hold-ups by customs authorities.
The new SICK LAC System is a proven and unique solution which provides a 'virtual lock' to ensure secure access of people and goods into designated secure areas and in particular can support operators with 'Known Shipper' status for air freight to the US.
The SICK LAC combines non-contact laser measurement sensing with long-range RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology and integrated software in one complete, ready-to-use system. As a unique customs-compliant access control system, the SICK LAC System helps transport firms meet the C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) requirements of the US Customs Authority, as well as European Authorised Economic Operator status.
"Over the last 12 months it has become obvious that unless a logistics operator can meet the new international standards, they could face extensive or indefinite delays in importation," says Gary Young SICK (UK) Logistics Automation Segment Manager.
"If shippers achieve C-TPAT certification by March 2013, they can gain enormous economic benefits by reducing customs procedures. Uncertified operators could miss out on freight contracts and find it increasingly difficult to secure customer contracts whether by air, rail, ship or road."
"The US Department of Homeland Security operates the Known Shipper program through the Transport Security Administration," adds Gary Young. "It was instigated in response to 9/11. All shippers have to be vetted by the TSA, and they of course prefer not to deal with unknown shippers at all. Using SICK's unique LAC System will help show that a shipper is serious about security and achieving certification."
The SICK LAC System is also effective for all secure warehouses and storage and can be used for air freight, road, rail or marine goods handling areas, for example in bond, pharmaceutical and other high value and vulnerable goods.
The SICK LAC detects and identifies moving people, vehicles and goods while maintaining the flow of traffic. It combines a LMS 123 laser sensor with a RFU630 RFID interrogation system using UHF coded transponder cards. The SICK LAC System is operated via integrated evaluation and monitoring software to help supervisors monitor secure access areas.
Any unauthorized people or goods are reliably detected as they approach the secure area. As well as detecting primary authorised or unauthorised identity, the LAC will operate across an open door to detect unauthorised secondary entry, such as an intruder slipping in behind an authorised person.
The identification system sounds an alarm if unauthorised movement of goods or an invalid transponder is detected. Supervisors can then also track the person or object detected via existing surveillance cameras.
As no external control or separate PC/PLC unit is required, the SICK LAC System is less vulnerable to external interference than other, externally operated systems. The LAC's technology provides maximum protection against tampering and muting. The LAC System may be installed as a complete stand-alone unit or as part of a network. It can also be linked to standard intrusion detection and alarm systems.