Tool traceability using RFID technology in aircraft maintenance programs

Artigo inédito oriundo de Trabalho da Graduação que foi revisado por pares e aprovado para apresentação oral no Seminário da Feira de Soluções da Fatec de São José dos Campos em 17/junho/2025.

Abstract

In the aeronautical industry, one of the biggest challenges today has been the control and traceability of hand tools used in production and maintenance processes, that is, knowing where they are. In this sense, tool traceability plays a crucial role in the safety and operational efficiency of aircraft maintenance. The implementation of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology emerges as a promising solution to optimize traceability. The objective of this research is to propose different means to control, track and find tools, preventing foreign objects associated with foreign object damage in aircraft after the maintenance process is completed. The methodology used included research in technical literature and application of RFID traceability technology. The results predict optimization with the elimination of foreign objects from maintenance programs. It is concluded that the adoption of RFID contributes to improving safety, ensuring that all tools used in an aircraft are properly tracked throughout maintenance, preventing the occurrence of foreign objects that can cause serious damage to the aircraft. In addition, improved traceability facilitates inventory management, optimizing resource allocation and reducing costs associated with loss or unnecessary replacement of tools.