Top ten automated order picking systems from manufacturers and companies with barcode/barcode, RFID and 2D matrix code sensor technology

The smooth execution of order picking plays a crucial role in warehouse operations. To optimize this process, companies are increasingly relying on automated picking systems. Alongside conventional warehouse systems, these innovative systems offer a multitude of advantages that lead to improved picking accuracy and increased productivity. In this text, we will examine the various automated picking systems, such as pick-to-light and voice picking systems, in more detail and explain their significance for warehouse operations.

Pick-to-Light systems

Pick-to-light systems are visual aids that provide order pickers with clear instructions on which products to retrieve from which storage locations. Special light indicators are installed at the storage locations, showing employees the exact location and quantity of the product to be picked. This direct visual feedback improves picking accuracy by minimizing errors. Furthermore, these systems enable high picking speeds, as employees can work without additional searching.

Voice picking systems

Voice picking systems use voice control to optimize the order picking process. Pickers wear special headsets through which they receive instructions for retrieving the products. The employee confirms the instructions via microphone and provides feedback on the completed order. This system enables completely hands-free order picking and increases productivity, as employees can fully concentrate their hands and eyes on retrieving the products.

Automatic conveyor systems

Automated conveyor systems support the order picking process by transporting products from one storage location to the next. The products are moved on conveyor belts, gravity roller conveyors, or automated vehicles. Using these systems eliminates manual transport, resulting in time savings and improved productivity. Furthermore, automated conveyor systems can be used in combination with other automated order picking systems to ensure a seamless overall process.

Robot-assisted order picking

Robot-based order picking systems are increasingly being used to reduce manual effort in order picking. These systems utilize robotic arms or automated guided vehicles (AGVs) to retrieve products from storage locations and transport them to picking stations. By using robots, companies can increase picking speed while minimizing error rates. Furthermore, they allow for flexible adaptation to different product sizes and shapes.

Combination of different systems

In many cases, various automated order picking systems are combined to achieve optimal efficiency and accuracy. For example, pick-to-light systems can be used in combination with automated conveyor systems to further increase productivity. Combining different systems enables a customized solution that meets the specific requirements and conditions of warehouse operations.

The importance of automated order picking systems in warehouse operations cannot be overstated. They significantly contribute to increased efficiency and productivity, helping companies meet the growing demands for fast and precise order picking processes. Furthermore, they lead to a reduction in errors and associated costs. Ongoing technological advancements also enable increasingly innovative solutions that further optimize warehouse operations and provide employees with a more comfortable working environment. Companies that rely on automated order picking systems can therefore gain a competitive advantage and strengthen their market position.

Daifuku

Daifuku is a leading manufacturer of automated order picking systems. The company offers a wide range of solutions, including robotics and shuttle systems, as well as pick-to-light and voice-picking systems. Daifuku operates internationally and has a strong focus on innovative technologies and customized solutions for the logistics industry. Its portfolio also includes software solutions for controlling and optimizing the order picking process. Daifuku is a key brand in the field of automated order picking systems and is used by many companies worldwide.

Swisslog AG

Swisslog is an international provider of automated logistics solutions and offers a wide range of order picking systems, including pick-to-light and voice picking systems.

Kardex Remstar GmbH

Kardex Remstar develops and produces automated storage and picking systems, including shuttle systems for efficient product picking.

SSI SCHÄFER AG

SSI SCHÄFER is one of the world's largest manufacturers of warehouse and logistics solutions and also offers automated picking systems based on RFID technology, robotics and pick-to-light.

Dematic GmbH

Dematic is an international provider of automated logistics solutions and offers picking systems for various industries, including high-speed picking robots and RFID-based solutions.

Knapp AG

Knapp specializes in the development and manufacture of automated logistics and order picking systems and offers a wide range of solutions, including innovative shuttle systems for order picking.

Vanderlande Industries BV.

Vanderlande is a world-leading provider of automated material flow systems and also offers order picking systems that work with robotics and pick-to-light technology.

viastore SYSTEMS GmbH

viastore develops and supplies picking systems for warehouse logistics and intralogistics and offers customized solutions for the efficient and precise picking of products.

TGW Logistics Group GmbH

TGW is an international provider of automated intralogistics solutions and offers order picking systems based on robot, shuttle and pick-to-light technology.

Beumer Group GmbH & Co. KG

Beumer Group is a global provider of intralogistics solutions and also offers picking systems based on innovative technologies such as AR-controlled picking and sorting.

In addition to the pick-to-light and voice picking systems already mentioned, there are other order picking systems used in various warehouse operations. Here are some further examples:

RF/Barcode Picking Systems

These systems rely on the use of radio technology or barcodes to control the order picking process. Employees use handheld devices or mobile scanners to scan the barcodes on products or in storage locations to select the correct items.

RFID picking systems

Radio frequency identification (RFID) tags are used to identify items in the warehouse. Employees wear RFID scanners or handheld devices that automatically detect the tags and indicate the correct picking procedure.

Automated order picking systems

These systems use automated machines to pick products. For example, robotic arms or automated guided vehicles (AGVs) can remove items from shelves and place them in containers or on conveyor belts.

Picking shuttle systems

These systems use special shuttles that move along the shelves and automatically retrieve the products. The shuttles transport the items to a central picking station where employees pick them.

Order picking robot

There are robots specifically designed for order picking. They can scan shelves, select items, and place them in containers or on conveyor belts. These robots often work in collaboration with human employees.

Augmented Reality (AR) order picking systems

These systems use AR technology to support the order picking process. Employees wear AR glasses or use mobile devices to receive visual instructions or information about storage locations and products.

➡️ These order picking systems are used depending on the type of warehouse, the products, and the company's requirements. Each system has its own advantages and can help make order picking more efficient and precise.

Automated picking systems that use barcodes play a crucial role in modern warehousing and logistics processes. These systems enable efficient and precise order picking by using barcodes to identify and track products. By implementing automated picking systems, companies can increase productivity, reduce errors, and improve order fulfillment accuracy.

One of the fundamental technologies in automated barcode picking systems is the barcode scanner. These devices capture the barcodes on products and translate them into digital information that is fed into the warehouse management system. Barcode scanners can read various shapes and sizes of barcodes, including linear barcodes, 2D barcodes, and QR codes. They use different scanning technologies, such as laser scanners, CCD scanners, or image-based scanners, to capture the barcodes quickly and reliably.

Another important element in automated barcode picking systems is the barcode printer. These devices enable companies to create barcode labels with unique identification codes and affix them to products, packaging, or containers. The barcode printer plays a crucial role in the identification and traceability of goods throughout the entire logistics process.

A popular automated order picking system for barcodes is the so-called pick-to-light system. With this technology, light displays are installed in the shelves or containers of the warehouse, providing visual instructions to the order pickers. The light displays show employees which product should be picked and in which container it needs to be placed. This visual support speeds up order picking and minimizes the error rate.

Another automated picking system for barcodes is the voice picking system. With this method, pickers receive voice-controlled instructions via wireless headsets. Employees hear the order details and can provide confirmation or feedback via their headset microphones. This technology enables hands-free and intuitive picking, allowing employees to focus their full attention on the products.

The advantages of automated picking systems for barcodes are numerous. They enable faster and more efficient order processing, reduce error rates, and improve inventory control and product traceability. By using barcodes, companies can also collect detailed information about their products, such as stock levels, production data, and expiration dates.

Integrating automated barcode picking systems requires a suitable software solution that enables communication between the individual components. Warehouse management software (WMS) or an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system is often used to control and monitor the entire picking process. These software solutions allow for seamless integration of barcode scanners, printers, and other picking technologies, and provide real-time information on inventory levels, order status, and logistics data.

Automated barcode picking systems offer companies an efficient and precise solution for optimizing their warehousing and logistics processes. Using barcodes to identify and track products enables increased accuracy, speed, and traceability. By integrating these systems, companies can enhance their competitiveness and satisfy their customers with faster, error-free deliveries.

Automated order picking systems play a crucial role in modern warehouse logistics, enabling efficient and precise order picking processes. In addition to using barcodes for identification, RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technologies are increasingly being employed. RFID offers contactless and automatic data capture, leading to further optimization of order picking.

Honeywell Intelligrated is a manufacturer specializing in automated picking systems using RFID. Their product range includes RFID systems that enable the identification and tracking of goods during the picking process. RFID technology is based on radio waves received by tags or labels on the products. These tags contain product information such as article number, serial number, or production date. Using RFID minimizes errors in product detection and allocation because the information is captured automatically and without physical contact.

Another renowned manufacturer of automated picking systems with RFID is Siemens. Their product range includes RFID solutions for warehouse logistics, including order picking. Siemens RFID systems enable fast and reliable identification and tracking of goods in real time. Integrating RFID into automated picking systems optimizes processes by accelerating product recognition and improving accuracy.

An interesting aspect of automated order picking systems with RFID is the ability to track products in real time. By integrating RFID tags into the products, they can be tracked throughout the entire picking process. This enables precise inventory tracking and management, as the location and status of the products can be recorded in real time. In this way, bottlenecks or stockouts can be quickly identified and resolved.

The advantages of automated order picking systems with RFID are numerous. Besides improved accuracy and efficiency, they enable faster order processing and a reduction in errors and bottlenecks. The automatic capture of product data minimizes human error and accelerates the picking process. Furthermore, RFID can also play a crucial role in product traceability within the supply chain and in ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards.

Automated picking systems with RFID contribute to optimizing warehouse logistics. They enable more precise and efficient order picking, improve inventory tracking, and offer better transparency regarding the location and status of products. With ongoing technological advancements, automated picking systems with RFID are expected to play an even more important role in warehouse logistics, contributing to further efficiency gains and cost savings.

Automated order picking systems have made significant progress in recent years, particularly with the introduction of 2D matrix codes. This advanced technology has enabled companies to make the order picking process more efficient and accurate. In this text, we will examine automated order picking systems specifically designed for the use of 2D matrix codes.

A 2D matrix code is a two-dimensional barcode that can store a large amount of data in a compact format. Unlike traditional linear barcodes, a 2D matrix code contains both horizontal and vertical elements that encode information. This allows for higher data density and improved readability, even with damaged or dirty codes.

A key application area for automated picking systems using 2D matrix codes is the logistics industry. By using 2D matrix codes, warehouse workers can quickly and accurately identify, track, and pick products. The 2D matrix codes can be applied to packaging, pallets, or even directly to the products themselves. This allows for seamless integration of the automated picking system into warehouse operations.

An example of an automated picking system for 2D matrix codes is the pick-to-light system. In this system, light indicators are installed at storage locations to show employees which product needs to be picked. By scanning the 2D matrix code with a handheld scanner or a fixed camera, the system can identify the exact storage location and activate the corresponding light indicators. The employee can then pick the product and confirm the picking process by pressing a confirmation button. This results in high picking accuracy and efficiency.

Another example of automated order picking systems using 2D matrix codes are voice picking systems. With this system, employees receive clear instructions for the picking process via a voice control device. By scanning the 2D matrix code, the system can identify the product's location in the warehouse and guide employees to the corresponding storage location using voice prompts. This enables smooth and error-free order picking.

The advantages of automated picking systems using 2D matrix codes are clear. Firstly, they enable faster and more accurate identification and tracking of products in the warehouse. Using 2D matrix codes allows more information to be stored in a smaller code, resulting in more efficient warehouse management. Furthermore, automated picking systems with 2D matrix codes can improve picking accuracy and minimize error rates, leading to cost savings and increased customer satisfaction.

However, implementing automated picking systems using 2D matrix codes requires careful planning and integration into the existing warehouse infrastructure. Suitable barcode scanners, cameras, or voice control devices must be selected to ensure reliable and rapid capture of the 2D matrix codes. Furthermore, it is crucial to choose the right software solution that allows seamless integration with the warehouse management system and ensures efficient processing of the captured data.

Automated order picking systems using 2D matrix codes offer an innovative solution for the efficient and accurate picking of products in the warehouse. By using this technology, companies can optimize their warehouse processes, improve picking accuracy, and increase productivity. The future of automated order picking undoubtedly lies in the further development and application of 2D matrix codes, as well as the integration of these codes into advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Order picking is a crucial step in logistics and refers to the process of assembling products or goods from the warehouse to fulfill customer orders. To make this process more efficient and precise, increasingly automated order picking systems based on advanced sensor technology are being used.

Sensor technology plays a central role in automated order picking systems, as it enables the collection and processing of data essential for efficient order picking. Various types of sensors are used in this context, including industrial sensors specifically designed for use in industrial environments.

An example of an industrial sensor used in order picking is the optical sensor. This sensor uses light beams to capture information about the position, shape, and size of objects. In automated order picking systems, for example, an optical sensor can be used to identify the correct position of a product in the warehouse and ensure that it is picked correctly.

Another important sensor technology is the use of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology. RFID tags or labels are attached to products or packaging and contain information that can be read wirelessly by an RFID reader. In order picking, RFID technology and readers can be used to identify products, determine their location in the warehouse, and optimize the picking process.

In addition, pressure sensors are also used. These sensors detect the pressure or weight of an object and can be used in automated order picking systems to, for example, determine the correct quantity of a product or monitor the quality of the packaging.

The advantages of sensor technology in automated order picking systems are numerous. Firstly, sensors enable more precise data acquisition and improved object recognition, leading to higher picking accuracy. This reduces error rates and prevents incorrect shipments to customers.

Furthermore, automated order picking systems with sensor technology contribute to increased efficiency. The use of industrial sensors can accelerate the product detection and retrieval process. This leads to shorter throughput times and higher productivity in the warehouse.

Integrating sensor technology into automated order picking systems also opens up opportunities for data analytics and machine learning. The collected data can be analyzed to gain insights into inventory levels, picking patterns, and process optimization. This enables continuous improvement and adaptation of picking strategies.

However, it is important to note that selecting and implementing the right sensor technology in automated order picking systems requires careful planning. The choice of suitable sensors depends on various factors, including the type of products being picked, the environment, and the warehouse requirements.

Automated order picking systems, with their sensor technology, offer numerous advantages for companies looking to optimize their warehousing and order picking processes. The use of industrial sensors can increase picking accuracy, efficiency, and productivity, ultimately leading to improved customer satisfaction and competitiveness.