Come along while we debunk common misconceptions and gain current application knowledge in the track and trace industry
We did the research and found some myths circulating about track and trace solutions. After gathering intel from SICK application and solution experts, we were able to discern what is commonly misconceived. From master data to line-scan technology, we have it all. Below are ten myths we debunked with some more information as to why “what you heard” isn’t actually true.
Fact: Competitors cannot accurately claim their readers can process damaged barcodes that laser scanners cannot. Laser scanners are an affordable option for reading damaged barcodes. You don’t always need a camera to read 1D barcodes, and some competitors only offer cameras without providing the cost-effective alternatives that SICK provides. The decoding capacity on SICK scanners continues to improve, especially in the CLV. Whether the barcodes are distorted, covered, washed out, dirty, or glossy, SICK brings the experience of addressing applications over many years and multiple technology sets to find the best solution.
Fact: Stacked or overlapping (unsingulated) boxes do not impact read performance. We can still detect boxes under these conditions: side-by-side, touching, or stacked. When a large number of items arrive at the receiving area, fast and precise dimensioning and identification is essential. The correct and efficient recording of master data at very high shipment throughputs is extremely important for logistics processes, as it helps prevent incorrect sorting and billing.
Fact: Master data analyzers do not require too much space to use. SICK’s Master Data Analyzer Vision captures information and dimensioning for goods entering or leaving a facility and logs it in your system. This helps optimize storage space in your warehouse based on product size and dimensions. SICK’s MDA Vision is an affordable and portable solution, and workers can move the MDA wherever needed. MDA Vision can easily shift between material handling workstations where space may be limited, providing versatility in just one solution.
Fact: Line cameras do not need big conveyor gaps to accurately read, allowing objects to fall through. SICK sensors don’t require a large gap, whereas our competitors do, or it won’t scan correctly. A large gap is not needed because linear systems scan one line at a time, as opposed to an array that creates an image of entire objects as it passes over.
Fact: SICK and sophisticated applications and supplies the technical resources with extensive and expert field coverage. More pre-configured and pre-wired solutions are being developed to eliminate the need for extensive support. SICK provides comprehensive and high-quality services provided to support the entire lifecycle of applications from plant walkthrough to upgrades. These services increase the safety of people, boost the productivity of machines, and serve as the basis for our customers’ sustainable business success.
Some of our services include:
- Verification and optimization
- Modernization
- Training and education
- Smart services
- Management Services
In addition, we work with quality integrators of all sizes who are not exclusive with any supplier, giving us large coverage and support service scope.
Fact: SICK provides a comprehensive quote that includes accurate estimates on installation time to avoid overruns. There is preparation at SICK before , so we have fewer returns to site and keep costs as low as possible for the customer. SICK installs are done by dedicated internal service experts to ensure cost effectiveness and efficiency. We do not rely on third party resources.
Fact: Most people see maintenance as purely an expenditure of time without much return. It requires patience and nerve, but these qualities often come up short. When changing the deflection mirror mounted underneath the conveyor, you separate the base support and pull it out to the side. The reflection mirror has a robust vaporized metal surface with high abrasion and is scratch resistant. This coating can be cleaned more frequently and easily. The mirrors are using a skew angle of 15 degrees, which leads to the fact that a dust can be more easily blown away from the integrated blower unit. Maintaining this blower unit is easy and is not harder to clean.
Fact: Many think linear camera-based systems are significantly influenced by dust and debris. Dust and debris are not a significant problem for linear image scanning systems. SICK uses a quad-line imager and takes the average result from four individual pixel lines. For bottom reading, a mirror is typically installed under the belt gap. The camera is typically mounted under the belt and away from falling dust and debris.
Fact: Many think that linear image scanning technology must build the entire object before decoding , but linear image scanning systems from SICK use a method of decoding called progressive scan that decodes in real-time. It works at high frequencies and does not cause a significant time delay when compared to other auto ID technology. Some camera-based systems require stitching of multiple images, which need to see a certain number of pixels and overlap between strips, which can lead to gaps when working at higher speeds.
Fact: Box movement is never an issue for a bottom reading system. This is because the cameras from below are working with a fixed focus mode. Some linear image scanning systems, such as ones from SICK, use time delay and integration technology in the systems to provide greater responsiveness at higher speeds. This system can take images above the gap when objects move across it, even with vibration and box movement above the conveyor. Movement causes no issue on performance.
Track and Trace: Key to your Success
These are just ten myths we debunked surrounding track and trace solutions. SICK’s track and trace solutions identify 1D and 2D codes and provide volume and weight measurements accurately. High-performance, flexibility, and simplicity are the hallmarks of SICK’s barcode scanners and systems. Any other myths you want busted? We’ve got you covered.
Want to learn more about track and trace solutions? Contact a SICK representative today!
