The Problem with Paper-Based Equipment Information

Industrial equipment can remain in service for many years. During that time, manuals may become separated from machines, technical documents may be revised, and maintenance teams may struggle to identify the correct spare parts when replacing critical modules like an industrial power supply or field controller.

Printed labels provide essential identification, but their information is difficult to update after installation. A QR code linked to a managed digital record offers another approach.

Instead of storing all information directly on the label, the code provides access to a digital product identity. Authorized users can retrieve current documents and product information using a smartphone or other compatible device.

How a Digital Product Identity Works

Brady's TwinLead platform, reported by Engineer Live in November 2026, connects physical product markings with cloud-hosted digital information. Each appropriately labelled product can receive a unique serialized QR code.

When a user scans the code, the platform can display product specifications, manuals, videos, support resources, and other associated information. The hosted content can be updated while the physical label remains unchanged.

This distinction is important. A printed QR code identifies the product, while the digital record provides information that can evolve during the product's service life.

Industrial Applications

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Technicians can scan a machine or component label to access the relevant manual, wiring information, maintenance instructions, and service contacts—streamlining diagnostics for complex hardware like a GE Mark VI application control module. This can reduce time spent searching through document folders.

Spare Parts Identification

Product-specific records can connect equipment to compatible spare parts and service requests. This helps reduce confusion between similar models and revisions, whether sourcing a replacement Siemens ET 200M bus module or a dedicated Honeywell analog input module.

Compliance Documentation

Digital records can provide access to declarations, certificates, manufacturer information, and other compliance documents. The responsible organization should control document approval and revision status.

Asset Lifecycle Management

Serialized identification can help link a physical unit to its installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement history. This information is valuable when equipment moves between sites or changes ownership.

How to Implement QR-Based Traceability

Step 1: Define the information structure. Decide which data belongs to each product, such as model number, serial number, manufacturer, technical documents, and service history.

Step 2: Create unique identifiers. Assign a unique code to each product unit where individual traceability is required. Avoid using one generic code for products that need separate histories.

Step 3: Prepare controlled documentation. Upload approved manuals, drawings, certificates, and service information. Establish a process for reviewing and updating documents.

Step 4: Select durable labels. Consider temperature, moisture, chemicals, abrasion, UV exposure, and cleaning procedures. A QR code is only useful if it remains readable throughout the intended service life.

Step 5: Connect the workflow. Where appropriate, link the digital record to maintenance management, spare parts ordering, or enterprise asset systems.

Step 6: Test access and permissions. Verify that technicians, customers, suppliers, and auditors can access the correct information without exposing restricted data.

Security and Long-Term Data Management

A permanent product identifier does not guarantee permanent access to its information. Manufacturers must consider hosting continuity, data backups, platform migration, and ownership of digital records.

Role-based access control and audit logging can help protect sensitive information. Public product documentation may be available to everyone, while service records or customer-specific files may require authentication.

Brady's report also highlights the relationship between digital product information and emerging initiatives such as Digital Product Passports and Right to Repair. Companies should verify the exact requirements that apply to their products and markets rather than assuming that a QR code alone establishes compliance.