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NSK and TOPPAN Edge Celebrate Award for RFID Maintenance Solution

NSK Ltd., headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, and TOPPAN Edge Inc., based in Minato, Tokyo, have recently achieved recognition in the form of an Excellence Award at the 2025 Automatic Identification System Awards. This award was presented by the Japan Automatic Identification System Association during a ceremony held on September 10th.

The accolade was awarded for their collaborative project, the RFID tags equipped with temperature sensors for maintenance management solutions in industrial machinery. This innovative solution was co-developed by both companies starting in 2023 and is already undergoing trial implementations in various sectors, including paper printing and machinery-related manufacturers.

The solution optimally streamlines maintenance operations for a wide range of industrial machinery, including bearings. As a consequence, it significantly contributes to the longevity and stable operation of customers’ equipment.

A Closer Look at the Award-Winning Technology

According to the Japan Automatic Identification System Association, the awarded system features RFID tags integrated with temperature sensors. These tags are attached to either the maintenance-targeted bearings or specific areas where temperature measurement is desired. During inspections or maintenance sessions, a reader collects ID and temperature data simultaneously, enabling the accumulation, management, and analysis of temperature trends over time.

The knowledge and expertise of NSK in bearing technology play a crucial role in ensuring timely maintenance, thereby promoting the digitization and automation of equipment upkeep processes—a key aspect that led to the project's high evaluation.

For more details on the 2025 Automatic Identification System Awards, readers can refer to the Japan Automatic Identification System Association's official website, where past award-winning systems are also listed.

About TOPPAN Edge

TOPPAN Edge, a subsidiary of TOPPAN Holdings, is dedicated to supporting digital transformation (DX) by providing advanced solutions such as payment services and hybrid business process outsourcing (Hybrid-BPO®). Their initiatives aim to address various business and societal challenges through innovation centered around information.

In recent years, automatic identification technologies like RFID have gained significant attention as vital components of digital transformation. TOPPAN Edge has been involved in RFID development and manufacturing for over 20 years, successfully employing this technology in a multitude of use cases. Leveraging their accrued expertise and technical prowess, TOPPAN Edge strives to drive transformative change in customer business processes, fostering safer and more engaging communication in society.

For further insights into TOPPAN Edge’s operations, visit their official page.

About NSK

Since producing Japan's first bearings in 1916, NSK has played a pivotal role in the development of various innovative products and technologies, including automotive components and precision machinery. The company has expanded its presence globally since the early 1960s, establishing operations in approximately 30 countries. Today, NSK is recognized as the world's third-largest manufacturer in the bearing industry, while leading in segments such as ball screws and electric power steering systems.

NSK’s corporate philosophy emphasizes contributing to a smooth and safe society through MOTION & CONTROL™, while also prioritizing environmental conservation. The company aims to enhance connections beyond borders by engaging in global activities. As part of their future vision, NSK aims to co-create value that meets societal expectations and strives to align corporate growth with social contribution under the NSK Vision 2026 slogan, "Creating New Movements."

More information about NSK can be found on their official website.