Fast and precise order picking is one of the most important tasks in warehouse logistics. To increase performance in this area, employees are supported by a variety of assistance systems. These include optical impulse generators (pick-by-light) or mobile aids such as headsets (pick-by-voice).
Smart glasses (Source: Picavi)
One of the newer methods for optimizing order picking is pick-by-vision with smart glasses, which combines the advantages of pick-by-voice and pick-by-light in a single system. Thanks to rapid technological advancements, smart glasses have now matured to the point where they can be used in industrial applications. They are suitable for use wherever manual tasks require additional information. This includes warehouse environments, where smart glasses provide an excellent interface for supplying employees with the necessary information.
Pick-by-Vision in the warehouse
In practice, the employee uses smart glasses whose display shows relevant data for the current order in real time. These glasses guide the order picker through the process. A navigation function leads them directly to the storage location of the item to be picked, where a visual overlay displays the corresponding storage location and the required number of picks. Optionally, the smart glasses can be equipped with a camera for scanning barcodes, eliminating the need for a traditional handheld scanner.
The advantage of smart glasses is that, in addition to viewing the data projected onto the display, the user can still perceive their surroundings without distractions and has both hands free to process the order. Furthermore, they receive immediate feedback if a picking error occurs. To increase precision, images of the item can also be displayed via the smart glasses.
All information relevant to the order is transmitted in real time from the ERP or WM system and displayed on the smart glasses: This way, employees and warehouse management software have a constant overview of the type, location and quantity of goods to be picked.
The need for improved order picking performance is obvious in times of global competition. The US market research company Gartner predicts that by 2018, ten percent of all companies will be using pick-by-vision or augmented reality solutions. According to studies by the Technical University of Munich, this technology reduces the error rate in order picking by twelve percent compared to conventional methods, while shortening picking time by approximately nine percent.
Another advantage is the up to fifty percent lower acquisition costs compared to conventional systems. And unlike pick-by-voice systems, smart glasses are also suitable for noisy work environments. In addition, their intuitive user interface significantly reduces the training time for new warehouse workers.
Power Control Battery & Control Unit (Source: Picavi)
Ultimately, the success of the technology hinges on user acceptance. In the past, the comfort of smart glasses was a major focus, alongside often short battery life and limited range. However, some systems now weigh less than 50 grams. Battery life has also improved significantly, allowing smart glasses to last up to ten hours, thus exceeding the duration of a typical work shift.
Logcom has launched its Picavi Smart Glasses, a pick-by-vision solution that allows for the control of all warehouse workflows via the system. Every process step and pick is logged and monitored in real time. The external battery, called Power Control, offers an alternative to operation via the smart glasses' buttons or touchpads thanks to its five integrated and freely programmable buttons. Weighing just 200 grams and with compact dimensions, it can be easily attached to the order picker's belt.
Data glasses – practical applications of smart glasses
Logistics / DHL
logistics company DHL tested the use of smart glasses in a pilot project at a Dutch distribution center. Warehouse employees were equipped with special smart glasses for a period of three weeks. The displays of these glasses showed information about the items being picked during order fulfillment. Ten employees used the devices, picking over 20,000 items for 9,000 orders during this period. According to DHL, the new technology measurably optimized logistics processes. For example, order picking efficiency increased by 25 percent. These positive experiences led DHL to decide to implement the smart glasses in two US logistics centers. There, the smart glasses will be used primarily during peak periods such as Christmas, when a large number of temporary workers are expected. The short training period is seen as offering great potential, especially for these employees who are unfamiliar with the local environment.
Trade & Distribution / Dr. Babor
In its high-bay warehouse, cosmetics manufacturer Dr. Babor stores packaging materials and promotional items for shipment to end customers across 12,000 square meters. A total of approximately 6,000 items are stored there, all of which are picked using the Picavi solution from manufacturer Logcom. According to Dr. Babor, the use of this system results in an 18% time saving in order picking.
Automotive / VW
Following a three-month pilot phase, the Volkswagen Group decided in November 2015 to introduce 3D smart glasses in the order picking area of its plant logistics. The primary goal is to increase process reliability in passenger car production. According to Volkswagen, the advantages of the smart glasses are obvious: With the VW solution, the user automatically receives necessary information, such as the picking location, displayed in their field of vision. Touch and voice control, along with an integrated barcode scanner, further simplify operation. Furthermore, verification takes place immediately after each pick: After scanning the barcodes, correct picks are displayed in green, while incorrectly picked items are colored red.
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