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Tag: scanning

New Wearable Barcode Scanner

Posted on by David Priestman

WEROCK Technologies GmbH, an innovative provider of industrial IT solutions, introduces the Rockscan W100, a wearable barcode scanner that sets new standards for efficient and flexible scanning. The Rockscan W100 enables effortless and fast hands-free scanning, offers the best scanning performance in its class and is rugged and durable.

Working in industry, logistics and retail, numerous barcodes need to be scanned every day. The Rockscan W100 was developed to speed up and optimize this process. As a workflow accelerator, it enables effortless and fast scanning while keeping the user’s hands free. With state-of-the-art technology and multiple carrying options, the Rockscan W100 offers a flexible solution to the challenges of the traditional barcode scanning process.

The Rockscan W100 is not only powerful, but also rugged and durable. It is ideal for harsh environments where conventional scanners fail or are not reliable enough. It can withstand drops from up to 1.5 meters onto concrete and more than 2000 drops from 1.2 meters. It therefore exceeds the drop resistance according to MIL-STD-810G and is waterproof and dustproof according to IP65.
The wearable barcode scanner is equipped with a number of innovative features that make it one of the most powerful and versatile barcode scanners on the market. These include

– Easier and faster scanning: The Rockscan W100 features advanced scanning technology that enables fast and easy barcode scanning with a read range of up to 14 meters.
– Long battery life: The Rockscan W100 is equipped with a powerful battery that enables up to 5,000 scans per charge.
– Rugged construction: The Rockscan W100 is designed for use in harsh environments and can withstand drops from up to 1.5 meters onto concrete.
– Flexible applications: The Rockscan W100 can be used as a pocket scanner, ring scanner or back of hand scanner.
– Intuitive feedback: The Rockscan W100 provides acoustic, haptic and visual feedback to avoid errors.

“We are proud to launch the Rockscan W100, an innovative barcode scanner that meets and exceeds our customers’ requirements. It is the result of our many years of experience and expertise in the field of industrial IT solutions. It is the performance booster for the workflows of our customers who work in a world where time savings and precision are of crucial importance,” says Markus Nicoleit, Managing Director of WEROCK Technologies GmbH.

Typical areas of application for the Rockscan W100 include

– Retail: Incoming goods, inventory tracking and point-of-sale transactions.
– Transportation & logistics: parcel tracking and warehouse management.
– Warehousing & Distribution: Warehouse management, receiving, picking, sorting.
– Manufacturing: Inventory management, parts and finished product tracking, assembly.

 

Smart Box Detection for Safe, Continuous Material Flow

Posted on by David Priestman

SICK has launched an industry-first safety light curtain system for Smart Box Detection, designed to enable the continuous safe material flow of cartons or cuboid goods at the entry or exit points of protected areas, while safeguarding people from dangerous materials-handling, conveying or packaging machinery.

The SICK Smart Box Detection system is a plug-and-play automation solution for the SICK deTec4 Safety Light Curtain. It uses intelligent pattern recognition to detect cuboid objects and even some cylindrical goods that produce a cuboid-shaped silhouette and differentiate them from people. Unnecessary stoppages are therefore avoided, for example close to loading and unloading machinery in intralogistics facilities. The protected area above the material remains safeguarded by the light curtain at all times.

No Muting Sensors or Tunnels

The SICK deTec4 Smart Box Detection is the first safety system of its kind to facilitate safe material flow without having to receive signals from an external machine controller. It removes the need to use muting sensors, which take up space, require maintenance and can be easily knocked or damaged.

The Smart Box Detection system can also replace the tunnel guards that are frequently used to provide protection at the openings of machines. As a result, the maximum distance to the hazard can be reduced by more than half.

It is quick and easy to configure using dip switches integrated into the SP2 system plug, so there is no requirement to use a laptop or software. There’s also no need for any additional teach-in, programming, mounting or wiring. Each system can be configured to meet the needs of the application, and if objects of different heights and lengths are being detected, for example on a conveyor, there is no need to teach them in or to adjust the configuration of the safety solution.

Productivity Gains

Martin Kidman, SICK UK’s Market Product Manager for Safety Solutions, commented: “Installing a SICK Smart Box Detection system can improve productivity significantly, which will be welcomed both by machine builders and end users in a wide range of industrial and logistics facilities e.g. in goods inward areas where top- and sideloaders are in operation.

“There are also both cost- and space-saving benefits from installing Smart Box Detection. Machine designers can build new machinery in a smaller footprint, while production teams can remove tunnels, or eliminate the need to keep an inventory of muting sensors, for example.

“Using SICK’s innovative deTec4 safety light curtain means boxes can also be measured, if needed, without additional sensors by transmitting beam data over IO-Link. The user could then combine with speed data to calculate volume. Diagnostic information accessed via either Near Field Communications or IO-Link makes it easier for operators to investigate machine stoppages in real time, as well as making informed service decisions for predictive machine maintenance.”

The SICK deTec4 Prime offers protective field heights in increments from 300mm to 2100mm and a choice of finger (14mm) or hand (30mm) resolution providing protection against operator intervention in accordance with ISO 13855 in applications covering up to 21 metres. It is a Type 4 device (IEC 61496), enabling compliance in applications with requirements up to PLe (ISO 13849) and SIL 3 (IEC 62061).

MultiScan Master Data Solution Available

Posted on by David Priestman

Knapp, leading technology partner for value chains, is making its MultiScan master data capture system available to customers through short-term rental or outright purchase.

MultiScan is an intelligent and customisable master data capture solution. As well as acquiring article dimensions, MultiScan features integrated weight recording and can also capture other data such as fragility and stackability. The solution records all the data needed to optimise the utilisation of storage space and the efficiency of fulfilment operations.

“The MultiScan system can be particularly beneficial for companies handling seasonal or promotional items of stock,” explained Ben Carroll, IT Business Development Manager for Knapp UK, “as well as for retailers or 3PLs working with multiple vendors, smaller warehouse operators looking to boost efficiency in their e-fulfilment operations or organisations needing to capture article data for robotic systems.”

Maximum efficiency

As well as enhancing manual warehouse operations, capturing accurate master data is essential for automating material flows and achieving maximum efficiency through digitalisation of work processes. MultiScan automatically records all relevant data for an application, transmitting the information to the WMS or ERP system to enable optimal warehouse management. By maximising space utilisation – in totes, on shelves and in racking – and optimising the efficiency of packing operations by fitting more items into each carton or bag, MultiScan enables warehouse operators to achieve environmental benefits and lower transport costs. In addition, improving fulfilment efficiency – by requiring fewer visits to each location and fewer tote retrievals – means shorter picking times for both automated and manual systems, thereby improving the customer experience.

Accurate and versatile

MultiScan is suitable for a wide range of articles and records data with consistent accuracy. Optional precision scales and digital callipers enable measurement of smaller items, starting at 0.01mm and 0.5g. Another accessory, SCANtape, allows wireless measurement and identification of goods sized up to 3m. Further accessories include a bar code scanner and an industrial camera for high-resolution product photos, which can be directly interfaced to merchandising systems. An optional cart and battery mean that MultiScan can be used for mobile operations for up to 16 hours between charging, with the advantage that a 1-hour charge returns the battery to 80% capacity.

Intuitive operation

Featuring intuitive design, MultiScan enables rapid operation and avoids the need for lengthy training. Items can be placed anywhere on the measuring plate and data is captured quickly and automatically at the push of a button. The design is rugged and ergonomic, making it simple to use even when wearing gloves. “The solution’s software is compatible with any end device,” added Ben Carroll, “as well as with various interfaces and all common operating systems. MultiScan is also compatible with KNAPP’s AI-enabled KiSoft Genomix software in order to capture additional attributes and accelerate the process.”

IO-Link for Auto-ID Devices

Posted on by David Priestman

SICK has pioneered the addition of IO-Link to two of its most compact and industry-standard identification devices. Both the SICK CLV61X fixed-mount 1D bar code reading scanner and the RFU61X UHF RFID read/write device were first to market with IO-Link variants, enhancing the integration versatility of SICK’s identification portfolio.

Both the SICK CLV61X and the RFU61X are already well known for their compact dimensions and wide-ranging connectivity with standard communications interfaces. The addition of IO-Link opens up opportunities to configure edge integrations with other IO-Link sensors and IO-Link Masters. It promises to improve data transparency from the lowest field level right up to the Cloud.
With IO-Link, using either device for identification also presents an opportunity to reduce cabling significantly, lowering costs and enabling more efficient installation. IO-Link also facilitates rapid commissioning, as well as easy device replacement.

IO-Link Integrations ‘Make Sense’

“It is rare for identification devices to be used in isolation,” explains Darren Pratt, SICK’s Market Product Manager for Identification. “They are almost always used with presence detection sensors for triggering or measurement sensors for classifying or measuring. Such sensors now frequently use IO-Link to provide access to additional data for diagnostic purposes. So, it makes sense for the customer to use IO-Link for their identification devices, too. Using IO-Link results in a common interface infrastructure with low-cost plug-and-play cabling, while still providing access to diagnostic data and enabling configuration via the communications network.”

Both the CLV61X and the RFU61X already offer highly-versatile connectivity with Ethernet/IP and PROFINET protocols, and an option for a single Power-over-Ethernet connection. Both devices offer a direct connection option for a trigger sensor.

Excellent Reading Performance

THE CLV 61X’s is used in many industries thanks to its highly-reliable 1D code reading performance across a wide reading field even at short distances, ideal for many common identification tasks on a conveyor belt. With SMART620 code reconstruction, even damaged, contaminated and partially-obscured barcodes are read consistently. Some CLV61X variants come with integrated heating in order to work reliably even in deep-freeze environments down to -35 °C.

Compact and Rugged

The smallest industrial UHF RFID read/write device of its kind, the SICK RFU61X needs an installation space of just 80 x 92 x 38 mm and achieves an impressive scanning range up to 0.5metres. The innovative design of the SICK RFU61X combines in-built antenna, intelligent control and connectivity into a single, rugged, IP67 aluminium housing. Compact and economic integration into tight spaces is therefore assured because there is no need for a separate connection box, and cabling is minimised.

The SICK RFU61X is ideal for applications such as tracking of smaller parts, sub-assemblies and electronic components, materials handling in e-Kanban processes, identifying pallets on a roller conveyor, or monitoring consignment transfers onto smaller Automated Guided Vehicles and Carts.

Off-Site Configuration Options

Pratt concludes: “The choice of identification device depends very much on the individual applications, with RFID devices offering a solution in dirty and dusty environments, where direct line-of-sight is obscured or where identification data needs to be both written and read. Increasingly, operators are choosing to have a section of conveyor configured off-site, including barcode scanners, RFID and photocells. With these two IO-Link devices, the wiring concept can be much more straightforward so on-site installation and commissioning is much quicker and easier.”

Autonomous Data Capture

Posted on by David Priestman

Stock-taking in a warehouse is a time-consuming, manual process. Until now. David Priestman visited a British supplier of a robotic alternative.

Real-time data, including inventory, enables structural visibility in logistics, which leads to better resource allocation, reduced downtime and improved customer service. Dexory’s robot (pictured) automated inventory management, providing instant, continuous data. It can scan a medium-sized distribution centre in two hours, whereas doing it manually could take months. It corrects WMS errors and provides a ‘digital twin’ of the facility with 3D mapping.

Dexory offer this on a subscription model – RaaS, or robots-as-a-service – with no capital investment required. The company’s target are tier 1 customers with multiple locations, including third party logistics (3PL) firms, often with shared-user facilities. Maersk and Schenker have both invested in Dexory and Maersk are also using the product. I visited the production and demonstration site in Wallingford, Oxfordshire to understand why the company is making such rapid progress.

Tatiana Kalinina, VP of Sales, told me that Dexory has grown from 17 staff last summer to a likely 100 by this Christmas. She describes the machine as an ‘autonomous data capture unit’. The new model (RE4) is silent, handles precarious routes well and fully navigates a 3D space. The stopping distance is amendable and it can move around obstacles. It features an emergency stop button, though Kalinina says that has never needed to be used.

At 3.25m high the RE4 extends to 12m and can thereby scan up to 13.5m in a warehouse. Future models will be even taller. It lights up in a pleasant way and can work through the night. On average there are 16 LiDAR (light detection and ranging) cameras on each robot but sometimes up to 20. The LiDARs scan and produces high-res photos. The bot utilises a wireless docking station (supplied by Wiferion) for charging and recognises when it needs to charge, with an 8-hour battery life. Customers can choose bespoke options (such as height), their own livery colours or ‘skin’ and give the bot a nickname. It is easy to see why the bots are popular with warehouse workers.

“3PLs can invest in our system knowing this helps them to win business,” Kalinina told me. “We test each machine here with the customer’s bar codes before shipping it out to their site,” she added. Quality assurance testing of the tower extensions and cables, for example, is done here in Wallingford before shipment, vertically, using specially-designed transport trailers. Training and final testing is then done at the customer’s site, with remote monitoring and diagnostics provided.

All the design is done at this centre, as well as 3D printing of various plastic and carbon-fibre parts. The cameras are bought in, as are the batteries. The base is made first, then the tower. The target is to produce one robot per day by next year, in order to meet demand, and Dexory is scaling-up to that level. The whole unit weighs 600kg. It can work in ambient temperatures and within chilled areas of DCs, anything above zero degrees as the cameras cannot operate in frozen environments.

Dexory View

The platform that the robots work on is called ‘Dexory View’ (see image). This provides web-based reports, data interpretation and visualisation. KPIs can be measured. “It provides the capability to optimize your warehouse,” Kalinina explained. “It’s a Digital Twin – a like-for-like copy of your DC. All the aisles and location numbers are inputted in the first week of installation.” Given installation is usually just a week, quicker than for AMRs or AGVs, there are low barriers to entry. “There’s very little we ask for from customers,” she informed. “We do all the mapping for them and build the optimal path through the DC.”

A 2D ‘birds eye’ view is provided, which is intuitive to use and has zoom functions. Red is used to highlight errors detected. Options include not scanning reserve stock or very slow-moving products on site. Customers can choose which items are scanned daily. Dexory View provides a summary of each scan: time taken, locations scanned, missing items, places occupied with the incorrect item, unreadable barcodes, wrong items, put-away accuracy, volumetrics and more. It truly is ‘big data’ in action.

Warehouse managers can therefore compare, on a daily basis, each metric and see the trends – for example replenishment and stock turnover. These statistics can then be compared across different warehouses operated by the customer for best practice targets. The 3D view shows every location, with each one clickable and showing a photo. This enables errors to be checked and escalated without physically visiting the aisle in question. Tasks can be allocated from these findings. A photo scan of the whole aisle is also provided.

“We eliminate manual, repetitive tasks,” Kalinina concluded, “and provide a single source of the truth, alongside WMS and ERP, because of the regularity of scans. The bigger the facility, the greater the benefits and efficiencies.”

Next-Generation Vision Provider

Posted on by David Priestman

With eCommerce booming, vision provider Cognex is helping to accelerate warehouse automation with a range of standard, easy-to-use logistics solutions.

The global increase in eCommerce triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic saw functions within warehouses stretched to breaking point as businesses struggled to fulfil record volumes of goods. Furthermore, consumer demands for greater levels of availability, affordability, speed and sustainability drove companies to seek ways to increase throughput without sacrificing accuracy.

There are two fundamental ways a warehouse can process throughput higher than it was originally designed to do – either invest in additional infrastructural capacity or find ways to maximise its existing assets. The latter is normally the most cost-effective option but is often limited by factors such as available space. However, the simplest ways to increase the rate at which boxes, parcels, packets and cartons are conveyed – placing the items closer together on the conveyor, or increasing the speed of the belt, or both – means existing scanning technologies may struggle to accurately read items at speeds with which they were not designed to cope.

Next-Generation Scanning Technology

Whilst the capabilities of scanning technology are constantly evolving, poorly printed, torn, or otherwise damaged labels and barcodes can prove to be a barrier. A solution to reducing and eliminating misreads lies with next-generation machine vision hardware and lighting which performs better and decodes better with every new release. The latest cameras are capable of cycling at much faster rates and therefore offer multiple shots of a single barcode as it progresses through its field of view, allowing the software multiple opportunities to understand the data it is asked to process. “That multiple shot enables us to look at more symbologies and angles at a higher resolution,” says Piers Quarry, Strategic Manager, Project Solutions Team at machine vision provider Cognex. “We are seeing increasingly better performance on shiny materials, odd angles, slightly crinkled labels, which previously may have been misread.”

To overcome the challenge of items placed closely together on a conveyor, the latest iteration of vision scanning technology features the steepest-ever camera angles. Combined with (3D vision) technology for precise barcode assignment, the barcodes of two packages in close proximity can be very accurately assigned not just to the correct package, reducing misreads while increasing throughput, but also to the right face on that package, giving extra data that adds intelligence to the system. “We’re striving to get camera angles as steep as possible to look down between items and achieve that higher throughput,” says Quarry.

Simple Solutions

Ultimately, these high-throughput facilities have the most to gain by incremental increases in performance of scanning technologies. But many much smaller businesses with a logistics function within their operations can also benefit greatly from some of the simpler scanning technologies currently on the market.

Even the simplest hands-free barcode scanning solutions, many of which are ‘plug-and-play’, feature high levels of functionality. Offering next-generation lighting, a variety of fields-of-view, and benefits such as a high-speed steerable mirror (HSSM) to move the field of view with the operator, they can be tailored to suit businesses of every shape and size. Previously, pallet scanning, aggregation, and large area scanning functions required expensive, high-resolution PC-vision, or two or more smart cameras to successfully read the high volume and variation of barcodes. Now, an HSSM attached to Cognex’s DataMan 470 fixed-mount barcode reader can provide a high-performance, cost-effective solution for large field of view applications.

“These simple hands-free solutions are opening people’s eyes to what they can do with barcode reading,” says Quarry.

The warehouse of the future will rely on the integration and optimisation of multiple logistics functions all incrementally improving as they collect and analyse data along every step of the way, from goods-in to dispatch. Vision scanning will play a significant part in the outright effectiveness of the facility, for any one bottleneck in the system has implications for the overall efficiency of the entire operation.

“Vision in logistics is a most exciting area for us,” says Quarry. “Cognex is a visionary company which, in logistics, has previously been heavily concentrated on barcode readers. But actually, its pedigree is about using vision for multiple applications across multiple industries. That makes us very excited about being able to deploy more of that into the logistics industry to optimise this cutting-edge sector.”

Whatever the size or shape or location the warehouse of the future will be, one thing is certain – vision technology will be key to accelerating warehouse automation.

New all-in-one Wearable Scanner

Posted on by David Priestman

IPCMobile (founded as Infinite Peripherals), a leader in enterprise mobility solutions, announced the launch of HaloRing, a groundbreaking all-in-one wearable scanner (Android).

With its powerful processor, integrated connectivity and multi-colour high-resolution display, HaloRing allows users to move freely through their workflows using just a single thumb while sending and receiving real-time information. The enterprise browser allows for quick and seamless deployment of HaloRing without the need for developing native applications, and users can efficiently scale resources through their workflow and manage each device in real time with the Quantum IQ device management platform.

All of these innovative features are packed into a sleek, ultra-compact form factor that weighs in at just 2.6 ounces, creating a solution that’s uniquely designed not only to increase productivity, but also to reduce fatigue and prevent repetitive stress injuries.

“This is yet another example of our ability to study an enterprise workflow and create a solution that has never existed previously,” said IPCMobile Founder and CEO Jeff Scott. “Combining specialized hardware with award-winning software, it will be extremely exciting to see just how far we can take this technology.”

“To say that HaloRing can future-proof your business would be an understatement,” said IPCMobile Chief Technology Officer John Broderick. “The true power of HaloRing is its ability to create a bridge between legacy technology and workflows over to your desired future state. It’s a transformational device that meets you where you are today with tethered Bluetooth solutions, yet allows you to build toward tomorrow with true enterprise mobility over Wi-Fi, writing directly to the system of record.”

“Fitting such powerful capabilities within a light, compact and ergonomic data acquisition device will create a paradigm shift in how businesses and their employees utilize technology within their workflows,” said IPCMobile Chief Engineering Officer John Vargas. “HaloRing eliminates the need for a static and expensive separate host device, which further empowers workers to address the need for untethered workflows to increase productivity and improve the quality of their services.”

Ergonomic Design – HaloRing’s patent-pending design helps the user maintain a neutral wrist position, reducing fatigue and providing freedom of movement and user comfort no matter the hand size or if the operator is right- or left-handed. A comfortable two-finger design improves balance while increasing productivity in scan-intensive applications with maximum versatility, comfort, functionality and performance.

Rapid Deployment – HaloRing comes pre-loaded with the RapidWedge keyboard that allows your business to start scanning immediately into your existing applications, with no development costs and zero maintenance of code over time. Additionally, with an Android OS, developers can leverage Intents to control HaloRing’s three programmable buttons to go beyond scanning and program for time-saving workflows without sacrificing ergonomics.

Enterprise Browser – With HaloRing, there is no need to write native applications, and developers can access HaloRing features using available JavaScript APIs without the native Android platform’s steep learning curve. This will help users increase their speed to market while also lowering development and maintenance costs.

Responsive Notifications – HaloRing’s proprietary Ring Scanner Language (RISL) means you can create efficient closed-loop workflows without the need for any code. Simply create the necessary business logic in your system of record, and HaloRing will take care of the rest, triggering essential two-way communications with fewer potential points of failure.

Device Management – Manage your growing fleet of devices with Quantum IQ. Streamline asset configuration initiated over-the-air, or benefit from a holistic view into the device’s health and proactively take action to keep users productive. Understand your business with custom analytics reporting and measure the things that matter most to you.

Freedom – HaloRing offers best-in-class ring scanner performance and is not tethered nor restricted to pairing with a nearby computer. Experience the freedom with the only ring scanner of its kind to have its own OS that can connect to your network and back office, creating a higher return on investment and a lower overall cost of ownership.

Designed for Productivity – Hands-free 1D/2D scanning allows workers to use both hands to move packages, products, or materials. Maximize efficiency and productivity with the input navigation, selection, and confirmation using the fully programmable push buttons.

Enterprise Ready – HaloRing’s rugged design offers more features and functionality than any other ring scanner on the market. Stringent drop specifications and a broad operating temperature range ensure reliable performance in the most extreme environments. A smart, user changeable battery, IP65 rating, and 65,000-color AMOLED display.

Scandit launches 10x faster scanning solution

Posted on by David Priestman

Scandit, a leader in smart data capture, has launched MatrixScan Count, an out-of-the-box scan and count solution for received goods and inventory. Part of the Scandit Smart Data Capture platform, MatrixScan Count enables the accurate scanning and counting of multiple items at once via smart devices, speeding counting workflows by up to 10 times. The solution is designed to boost worker productivity, reduce human error and maintain accurate stock levels.

Enterprises in retail and logistics are facing multiple business challenges. They must deliver first-class customer service in the face of economic pressures, ensure accurate supply chain visibility, and maintain an efficient and empowered workforce. Improving productivity can ease some of these challenges. By shifting tedious, repetitive tasks from frontline workers to technology, errors in stock management or goods delivery can be eliminated while people are freed up to engage in value-add activities.

Tasks like receiving, stock taking, and cycle counting can be incredibly time-intensive, inefficient, and error-prone. Offered as an out-of-box solution, the built-in UI in MatrixScan Count means that enterprises can start using the solution immediately with minimal development time. Equipping workers with MatrixScan Count maximises efficiency, as workers can speed up counting workflows by up to 10 times. Inaccuracies throughout the supply chain are reduced as workers using MatrixScan Count receive real-time on-screen alerts via augmented reality guiding them to complete counting workflows precisely, avoiding incorrect products, double-counting, or accidentally skipping items.

“Counting accurately is a critical part of many business workflows for multiple industries, but tedious, multi-step or manual processes still prevail,” said Christian Floerkemeier, CTO and co-founder of Scandit. “Enterprises are struggling to recruit and retain staff, so by introducing tools such as MatrixScan Count which reimagine processes to super-speed through tedious tasks, workers can engage in high-value assignments leading to an enhanced experience.”

Free workers to focus on value-add activities

MatrixScan Count is built for speed, accuracy, and reduced human intervention. MatrixScan Count offers enterprises across the retail, logistics, parcel and post industries the ability to optimise labour resources and maximise process efficiency by addressing the entire counting workflow, for example:

  • Achieving accurate stock taking and inventory counting with built-in stock information updates and confirmation
  • Reducing time-to-receive in warehouses and back-of-store operations with visual counting and confirmation against a list that includes expected items to receive
  • Maximising drivers’ efficiency in verifying and counting parcels for delivery during van loading and unloading

Customised Experiences with out-of-the-box UI

MatrixScan Count gives workers the freedom to work how they want, equipping them to count at speed with maximum comfort, leading to increased productivity and an improved working experience. Pre-set user interfaces mean that customisations including left-handed mode, strap mode, and landscape scanning mode are provided depending on user preference.

MatrixScan Count is designed with real-world conditions in mind with stable long-range performance for capturing as many items in one shot at once, particularly important where large items are included.

Available now on iOS and select Android devices, MatrixScan Count leverages MatrixScan technology to locate, track and decode multiple barcodes simultaneously.

Smart scanning software set to be a game-changer

Posted on by Keith McKinley

In logistics, the flow of information matters as much as the flow of goods. The advent of barcode scanning software that can run on multiple types of camera-enabled, smart devices is set to be a game-changer.

Logistics starts with orders. Increasingly, these orders are being generated by apps on smartphones with integrated barcode software to scan items, catalogues and lists. These apps are created by suppliers to run on almost any smartphone or tablet. Using the app generates an order that passes to fulfilment.

At the heart of fulfilment is the warehouse and distribution centre. The tracking of shipments through these centres used to be done with heavy, expensive, handheld computers and scanners. Their value was limited by the small numbers of these special devices available in each site. Barcode scanning software solves this problem by running on different devices wherever needed. Low-priced Android smartphones can be supplied to every worker for regular or occasional manual scanning and can be scaled-up quickly for peak.  Fixed ‘gate’ or camera portals in receiving can scan pallet or parcel labels as they are unloaded. Forklifts with cameras can scan pallets as they are moved and scan the location barcodes at putaway.

Fixed cameras can scan barcodes on items moving on conveyors and in automated storage systems. Robots and drones can perform continuous inventory counts and highlight errors. Picking robots or cobots, with camera scanning, help find and pick inventory or verify the items being picked. Warehouse managers who have implemented these new scanning technologies know that their WMS system can then be trusted to be a true digital image of the warehouse and the information leveraged to reduce warehouse costs, and better serve both suppliers and customers.

At the end of the chain, goods are delivered to customers. Delivery methods continue to expand and they now include Pick-Up and Drop-Off (PUDO), Buy Online Pick-up In-Store (BOPIS), part load, pallet delivery and, of course, last-mile, parcel delivery. In all of these, barcodes are scanned to ensure the items match the order and to provide confirmation of delivery. Here again, smartphones and apps are becoming the standard tools to control these processes at very modest costs (especially if the hardware is a BYOD model).

The right hardware for camera scanning is relatively easy to find. Smartphones with scanning apps are already very able scanning platforms. For fixed and robotics solutions, industrial cameras with standard single board PCs or Jetson-type industrial computers running Linux provide the solution. The hardware is generic and so can be easily sourced. Even alternative second sources can be specified – a significant advantage compared to dedicated barcode scanners that by their nature are single sourced.

While finding the hardware is relatively easy, the barcode scanning software itself still has a tough job to do given the particular demands of this industry and its often-difficult environmental conditions. Dirty, damaged, marked barcode labels and the large distances between cameras and barcodes (especially in warehouses) add particular scanning challenges. Also, many of the above solutions require reading multibarcode shipping labels and multiple labels per image (as on a full pallet of marked items). Whatever the conditions, the barcode scanning software must read all of the barcodes, all the time, in any orientation.

Viziotix barcode software provides fast, efficient and accurate scanning on all of these different devices. Advanced computer-vision algorithms work on the high-resolution cameras used in nearly all smartphones and automation solutions, and provide higher scanning performance than the old dedicated barcode equipment – often with more than 5% higher read rates and up to 10x faster scan times. With high read rates, long-distance scanning and the ability to scan 10s or 100s of barcodes in a single image, Viziotix is ideal for these manual and automation applications. Whole pallets can be read in one scan by a gate-reader. Smartphones can scan multiple parcels for sortation and van loading in one scan. Robots and drones can quickly scan thousands of locations as they move around the aisles of a warehouse.

“We are leading the digitisation of the warehouse and logistics chain,” says Cedric Mollon, CEO at Viziotix. “Errorfree logistics is now a real, attainable goal and there are considerable, measurable, cost savings in eliminating errors, lost shipments, cycle-counts and manual corrective actions. Not to mention the value generated by the resulting better customer service. Our barcode scanning software is enabling all kinds of new solutions at every touchpoint in the logistics chain.”

Reducing barcode errors

Posted on by Keith McKinley

When barcodes go wrong, it has major consequences for your supply chain and your business. Items get lost, deliveries get missed and customers go elsewhere.

Brother, the supplier of technology solutions, has worked with VDC Research – a leading authority on the global markets for automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) technologies – to compile a free report.

It shows how a smart barcode labelling solution can cut supply chain losses and protect your margins. In the report you’ll see how market leaders are already reaping the benefits and discover how you can too.

Also covered in the report:

  • What causes barcode labelling errors?
  • What is the true cost of labelling errors?
  • How barcode labelling solutions can reduce operational challenges
  • How successful organisations best describe their barcode labelling process
  • How to lower error incidence with effective barcode labelling

Research featured in the report is backed by extensive primary research across the following communities – barcode printer hardware vendors, labelling software solution providers, enterprise application vendors, and businesses making strategic investments in these technologies.

CLICK HERE to download the report.

 

 

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