The car industry has been using it for a long time. The use of RFID (radio frequency identification) to identify parts and subassemblies. The “Build-to-Order” process, where each product that comes of the line has its own unique combination of options and colours would be almost impossible or too expensive without automatic identification of parts.
But RFID is not just applicable for products with extensive configuration (like computersystems, bicycles or airplanes). RFID is useful when keeping large amounts of stock is too expensive. “Just-in-Time” environments. Or in those cases where fixing mistakes later on in the assembly process simply is too expensive.