Computer vision keeps track of warehouse operations
EDITOR ’ S CHOICE A SECOND PAIR OF EYES
PRIME VISION
Computer vision keeps track of warehouse operations
The human eye is a marvel of nature , but nowadays it is often complemented by the vision of cameras and machines . In warehouse logistics , this technology is allowing operators to validate the logistics process - reducing human errors , tracking parcels and providing real-time feedback for improvements . This is giving businesses the opportunity to see the bigger picture .
Mathijs Baron , International Sales & Business Development at Prime Vision and Lorenzo D ’ Arsiè , Computer Vision Product Manager at Prime Vision , explore how image-based tracking can positively affect warehouse operations .
Setting the scene
Smart scene understanding is the ability to visualise the exact location of an item within a warehouse at any time . To achieve this , cameras must capture all goods passing through the facility .
Reading labels on inbound goods ready for sorting can be achieved with optical character recognition ( OCR ) for recording stock keeping units ( SKUs ), purchase order ( PO ) numbers , best before dates and more . Similar technology can be used at picking stations to validate a successful sorting process , imaging barcodes to check order completeness . Cameras installed on the ceiling or areas where actions take place provide complete coverage of items in the warehouse . These cameras are smart enough to offer mapping and overlap , enabling the tracking of objects between them . All imagery can then be stored in a central location and combined
Prime Vision ’ s ‘ Proof of Pick & Pack ’ technology leverages a combination of cameras and voice recognition systems to ensure the accuracy of the picking and packing process .
with other parcel data for total traceability . All this can be done safe and secure and compliant to GDPR and privacy rules .
With this set up , operators can get a complete picture of every single item or order journeying through the warehouse . The benefits of this monitoring are manifold .
Picturing benefits
Image-based tracking reduces manual actions and reasoning in processes like data input or sorting , with the overall aim of minimising human error . However , another important benefit is that it can provide proof of sorting . This level of validation allows operators to identify where problems have occurred during the process .
A centrally stored database of images , such as that provided by Prime Vision ’ s Smart Store solution , means every action is documented , so records can be accessed to spot mistakes . Operators can identify sorting errors or where an item has become damaged . This can help reduce the number of customer claims by verifying the authenticity of complaints with video evidence .
However , a system shouldn ’ t just be reactive , it needs to provide realtime feedback to prevent sorting mistakes before an item leaves the warehouse . If an error occurs , an alert should be quickly delivered via a flashing light , alarm or notification to an operator . Staff can then double-check the current location of the item against where the vision system knows it should be . In this way , mistakes are resolved quickly , well before an order is loaded onto the wrong conveyor or delivery truck , saving time and cost .
Getting a better view
The function and technological capabilities of an image-based
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