MINNEAPOLIS, MINN., MARCH 28, 2022 – Flexibility in production and logistics is possible by implementing smart manufacturing solutions, reliable safety sensors for human-robot collaboration, and accurate track and trace systems on conveyors. To make these processes smart, digital transformation principles can be implemented along the entire value-creation process.
In an effort to provide highly-efficient solutions for intralogistics applications, SICK is presenting how logistics get smart at its booth (#B8411) at MODEX 2022. In addition to booth demonstrations, SICK experts will present on the topics of digital transformation, the future of intelligent sensors for a more transparent supply chain, and mobile robot interoperability.
Accurate and Reliable Track and Trace Solutions for Logistics Processes
Finally, at MODEX SICK will be demonstrating how various types of auto ID solutions can be used for item tracking, dimensioning, and overall quality control. Track and trace solutions are a necessity for maintaining a high throughput in intralogistics environments. See how various types of sensors can be used on conveyors for zone control, dimensioning, and overall quality control.
In complex warehouse systems, sensor solutions ensure optimum storage space assignment and accident-free handling by transport shuttles. Integrated cameras and photoelectric sensors automatically detect objects, monitor possible overruns, and position the shuttles precisely in front of shelf bays. This keeps everything safe and efficient.
SICK is also offering a sneak peek at the latest vision-based technology, Lector850, set to launch later in 2022. This system offers improved throughput with the ability to speed up operations, as the high-resolution camera is better able to pick up readings, meaning the conveyor belt can move at a faster rate. The increased speed is also possible thanks to more illumination, which increases contrast to improve read rates. Lastly, the larger depth of field and field of view decreases the number of cameras needed for lower operating costs.
Vision-based technology allows logistics centers to record all data needed for shipments at the touch of a button. In addition, 2D and 3D vision can be used to enable deep learning on conveyor systems to ensure only the correct materials make it through the system, eliminating any potentially hazardous materials.
The Future Belongs to Autonomous Mobile Robots & Vehicles
When logistics gets smart, flexibility is an added benefit. At MODEX, SICK’s solutions for autonomous vehicles and mobile robots will be on display.
Noah Winchester, Digital Consultant for Mobile Platforms, will give a presentation in DC Velocity’s Transportation & Logistics Theater, titled “Addressing Multi-Platform Risk Through Interoperability and Real Time Localization.” As companies continue to deploy more autonomous mobile platforms both inside and outside of their facilities, interoperability between these platforms will become an important requirement. Winchester’s presentation will discuss the status of the work being done to create a standard.
In addition to Winchester’s presentation, SICK will highlight solutions for autonomous robots and vehicles with an autonomous vehicle demo, specifically showcasing autonomous navigation of driverless transport systems (whose autonomous navigation is shown live) along with collision prevention. The data from all the sensors in the smart factory are evaluated on a large display giving visitors a constant overview of logistical and production processes as well as key performance indicators.
Regarding stationary robots, attendees can see the latest technology for robotic bin picking solutions with the PLB robot guidance system, designed for precise localization of parts stored in boxes or on pallets. While this system is suitable for a wide range of applications from handling small parts to large foundry parts, it’s particularly useful in the logistics and retail space with its ability to pick up items of all shapes and sizes like clothes and boxes.
Digital Transformation for Smart Logistics
First, discover how machines can learn to think and advance logistics processes. With deep learning processes, cameras can automatically detect, verify, classify, and localize features or objects by analyzing the learned image base. For example, they can check whether any flats are present in the sorter trays, optimizing sorter cell assignment and increasing throughput. Deep learning networks can compile an enormous amount of data, many of which can be powerful for improving logistics processes.
Second, see digital transformation in action with our dashboard that can provide a live view of the sensors at work. Decentralized intelligence in the sensors (edge computing) forms the basis for flexible control of production processes in smart logistics. Additional cloud intelligence in the form of data analyses and applications allow the use of self-learning mechanisms in the sensors, increasing their adaptability to production-related changes. This process enables indoor localization and asset tracking to improve operations.
By bringing sensor data from the edge to the cloud, and then putting it in an enterprise system, users can actually see the data to better determine what processes are operating slowly and where exactly the pain points are.
For years now, SICK has been focusing on the digitalization of production processes to provide, connect, and use sensor data more intelligently. With our Package Analytics software, users can see an overview of what’s happening on a dashboard to make more informed decisions. In high-volume distribution centers, sensors record and communicate thousands of pieces of logistics data every day, but the challenge is compiling and interpreting all that data. Data gathered by intelligent sensors is full of rich information for your operations, but data is only as powerful as the analysis. SICK’s Package Analytics makes sense of this valuable data to help you make decisions that increase productivity and efficiency. It aggregates this data to help you visualize all SICK sensor data so you can make timely and informed decisions for your logistics operations.
Lastly, our Digital Consulting and Services team is an additional benefit to any of our smart solutions; SICK’s dedication goes beyond the purchase of products, as our team is available for any guidance, troubleshooting and more throughout the lifecycle of your product to be your partner in digital transformation.
Safe and Intelligent Sensors
Rounding out our portfolio of intelligent sensors, SICK will be presenting the outdoorScan3, first safety laser scanner certified to IEC 62998 for use in outdoor applications. It allows automated guided vehicle (AGV) systems to navigate safely through outdoor industrial environments. Thanks to its innovative outdoor-safeHDDM® scanning technology, outdoorScan3 works safely and reliably in all weather – sun, rain, snow, or fog – thus closing a major gap in the automation of industrial processes.
Current safety laser scanners enable humans and machines to work safely alongside one another in industrial environments by reliably protecting stationary and mobile applications. Now, with the outdoorScan3, SICK is launching the first safety laser scanner that allows certified safety sensor technology to be used reliably in outdoor applications too.
This opens huge potential for automating and increasing the efficiency of intralogistics production processes – and brings the vision of a self-managed value chain in the spirit of digital transformation one step closer to reality.
In addition, our Safety Services team is available for the entire lifecycle of your project. There are over 250 field service engineers, over 100 certified safety specialists, and over 50 certified safety application specialists globally to assist in providing the most effective scalable safety offering for your application, based on local laws and regulations.
At MODEX 2022, SICK is providing an in-depth look at our approach to robotics, digital transformation, safety, and track and trace solutions. Talk to our experts about how we can help logistics get smart at Booth #B8411.
