GS1 QR Code for Tracking Parts in Aerospace Industry

GS1 QR Code for Tracking Parts in Aerospace Industry

The ability to track the complete lifespan of every part used in the assembly and maintenance of an aircraft is known as aircraft parts traceability. This traceability includes recording its source, production procedures, installation, maintenance, and eventual nonfunctioning.

Aircraft manufacturers and operators must monitor various assets to ensure availability and operating conditions. To achieve this, many companies utilize QR code technologies to simplify tracking and traceability procedures.

The GS1 QR code for tracking parts in aerospace provides a solid equipment management solution in an industry. Let’s find out how!

Table of Contents

    1. Why tracking aircraft parts are important?
    2. Drawbacks of the traditional direct part marking (DPM) codes
    3. How do GS1 QR codes for tracking parts in aerospace address DPM challenges? 
    4. How do GS1 barcodes differ from QR codes for tracking parts?
    5. How can your aerospace business benefit from GS1 barcodes?
    6. How to create GS1 2D barcode for tracking parts in Aerospace?
    7. Track parts in aerospace faster with GS1 2D barcode

    Why tracking aircraft parts are important?

    Aircraft require timely maintenance and replacement of specific parts to operate smoothly. Every part is critical to the aircraft's performance, and any mishap could mean the difference between life and death. 

    With such high stakes, using reliable tracking features for parts and equipment becomes vital. This ensures parts are replaced on time, and the safety of goods is maintained.

    Traditional methods for tracking and maintaining aircraft have not always been successful. The most popular method, Direct Part Marking (DPM) codes, often fail when accuracy and access to live status are critical.

    Given the high-precision nature of the aerospace industry, modern technologies are needed to ensure structured tracking of tools and equipment. GS1 QR code for tracking parts in aerospace offers a cost-effective and systematic solution for aerospace companies to better manage their tools and parts.

    Drawbacks of the traditional direct part marking (DPM) codes

    GS1 barcodes have undeniably revolutionized part tracking. However, challenges arise when these codes are directly imprinted on parts, a process known as Direct Part Marking (DPM).

    DPM involves permanently embedding codes, such as QR codes, onto parts. While this method is widely used in aerospace, automotive, telecommunications, and healthcare to monitor and ensure product compliance, it faces specific challenges. The following are the challenges:

    Incomplete or poorly printed codes

    Incomplete or poorly printed DPM codes can be complicated for many barcode scanners to read, leading to missed or errorful data entries.

    Low contrast

    The print process often produces low contrast between the code and the part's surface, hindering scannability. Conventional barcode readers struggle to decode these faint markings.

    Reflective materials

    Another obstacle is the reflective nature of materials commonly used in aerospace, such as glass and metal. Glare interferes with the scanning process, especially when code contrast is insufficient.

    Irregular surfaces

    Irregular and uneven surfaces prevalent in aerospace components can distort DPM codes, complicating data capture.

    These challenges underscore the need for advancements in DPM technology to overcome these limitations and ensure accurate and well-organized part tracking in the aerospace industry.

    How do GS1 QR codes for tracking parts in aerospace address DPM challenges? 

    The main challenges associated with traditional parts tracking methods are accuracy and lack of real-time updates. Integrating the GS1 Data Matrix technology addresses these challenges in the following ways:

    Superior readability

    GS1 2D barcodes stand out for their excellent readability. They maintain high contrast with the materials they are printed on, making them easier to scan.

    Even if the surface is uneven or lighting conditions are challenging, the high contrast helps scanners accurately capture the QR code. This ensures that the codes are readable and reliable in various aerospace environments.

    Advanced error correction

    GS1 digital link QR codes come with advanced error correction capabilities. This feature allows them to be read even when partially damaged or poorly printed. It reduces the risk of data loss and ensures that the information remains accessible.

    Versatile application

    GS1 tracking QR codes can be applied to different materials and surfaces. This flexibility makes them suitable for various aerospace parts, regardless of size, shape, or material. This adaptability is essential in an industry where parts can vary widely.

    How do GS1 barcodes differ from QR codes for tracking parts?

    Most people are familiar with QR codes, but Data Matrix code may be a new term. This code is often displayed on electronic devices or even home appliances. While the two look almost similar, a few differences exist.

    Data Matrix codes are an essential part of manufacturing processes. They are used for component traceability and ensure manufacturing parts' proper use and installation.

    QR codes differ in that they are larger and contain more data. You may encode information such as website URLs or downloadable files within a QR code. You can also encode information using various fonts like numeric and alphanumeric.

    QR codes for aerospace are necessary for aerospace because they are the only 2D barcodes with GS1 approval. Choosing the right code helps with the proper flow of information and traceability of essential parts. 

    How can your aerospace business benefit from GS1 barcodes?

    Integrating QR codes in the tools and parts tracking process can benefit your business in several ways. This ranges from real-time status checks to well-organized equipment allocations.

    Real-time status tracking

    GS1 barcodes store a wide range of information. Since aerospace equipment must always be in perfect condition, adding QR code tags successfully provides critical information about the tools and equipment.

    When users scan the code, they can check the condition of the equipment and when it was last scheduled for maintenance. To avoid confusion, this may also include information such as allocated aircraft. 

    GS1 QR code scanning

    Ease of equipment allocation by GS1 barcode for aerospace

    Aerospace uses many different kinds of tools, and it is essential to match them correctly. With aircraft needing to maintain flight schedules, companies must eliminate delays at every point.

    Amidst this demanding task, allocating and managing equipment across multiple aircraft and needed repairs can be labor-intensive and confusing. However, integrating the G1 QR codes for storing data about scheduled maintenance and time of use. 

    When field officers scan the GS1 digital link QR code, they can find information about equipment and its allocation. This helps eliminate delays and mistakes in aircraft repair since they can quickly know more about the aircraft before starting work. 

    GS1 QR code for tracking parts in aerospace also makes it possible to match the right aircraft to its corresponding garage or bay, saving significant time. By embedding the GPS location of the garage into the QR code, personnel can easily identify and manage the aircraft.

    Align maintenance with flight schedule 

    QR codes can easily schedule the maintenance of aeronautical tools and equipment. Every manufacturing process or part can have a QR code tag attached to its body for quick scanning.

    Information such as the aircraft details is embedded into the QR code. When the personnel scan the code, they can tell about the current status of the aircraft, including its operational data and current location. 

    Including a GPS tracking feature in the QR code makes the tracking of aerospace parts even more accurate. Once you scan the code with your smartphone, you can find its current location in real-time, allowing live tracking of the equipment. 

    Additionally, the GS1 QR code for parts tracking and recalls enhances the ability to trace and manage parts successfully, ensuring quick action in case of recalls and maintaining the highest safety standards.

    The codes also offer the benefit of being attached to difficult surfaces of complex parts, which have traditionally been challenging to track. 

    GS1 QR code for aerospace

    How to create GS1 2D barcode for tracking parts in Aerospace?

    Creating GS1 2D barcodes is relatively easy with a GS1 digital link QR code generator. Here are some simple steps to get you started:
    1. Open your favorite browser and visit the GS1 digital link QR code generator. Sign up for an account if you do not have one.
    2. Specify your primary identification details and other vital attributes the GS1 barcode generator needs for your QR code.
    3. Select the type of QR code that best fits your aerospace organization’s needs.
    4. Click to create and generate your code.
    5. Customize your QR code by adding a logo and adjusting colors and patterns to align with your aerospace branding.
    6. Ensure your QR code scans correctly by testing it. Once satisfied, save it for use.

    To ensure a GS1 QR code for tracking parts in aerospace functions properly, conduct thorough testing by scanning it with different devices and under various conditions. Check that the scanned data matches the intended information and verify that the code is readable in all conditions.


    Track parts in aerospace faster with GS1 2D barcode

    In the aerospace industry, tracking and managing parts and equipment are crucial for safety. Traditional methods like Direct Part Marking (DPM) codes often fall short regarding accuracy, readability, and real-time data access. 

    QR codes offer a modern solution to the challenges of tracking aerospace parts. They overcome the limitations of traditional DPM codes, offering superior readability and advanced error correction. 

    Our GS1 QR code generator provides an easy way to generate GS1 QR code for tracking parts in Aerospace industry. You can customize and create a QR code with a few steps to meet your specific business needs. 


    DISCLAIMER: We acknowledge that GS1, as well as the materials, proprietary items, and all related patents, copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property (collectively, “intellectual property”) relating to its use, are the property of GS1 Global, and that our use of the same shall be in accordance with the conditions provided by GS1 Global.