Logistics transformation for secure shipping-this is how DataMatrix codes accelerate the general cargo handling-faster and more precise-Image: Xpert.Digital
Security and pace in focus: Datamatrix codes change logistics
Datamatrix codes in general cargo handling: Transformation for speed and security in logistics
Datamatrix codes are increasingly being used in modern logistics to revolutionize general cargo handling processes. This technology not only enables drastic acceleration of the processes, but also increases the safety and traceability of programs through tailored and detailed information. The use of digital twins in connection with highly developed scanning systems marks a turning point in the logistics industry.
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Functioning and advantages of Datamatrix codes
Datamatrix codes belong to the family of two-dimensional barcodes and have established themselves particularly in industrial production and increasingly in logistics. In contrast to conventional one-dimensional line codes, these 2D codes can store significantly more information in a small space. While classic barcodes such as the EAN socket code can only encrypt a product detection, DataMatrix codes enable additional information such as serial numbers, country of origin, expiry data and more.
The technical properties of these codes offer crucial advantages. Datamatrix codes have a highly developed error correction according to the REED solomon algorithm, which enables a complete reading of the code even in damage of up to 50%. This fault tolerance was originally developed for NASA room trip projects and ensures high reliability under various conditions. International standardization by ISO/IEC 16022 ensures standardization and broad applicability.
Another decisive advantage is the low space requirement. Datamatrix codes can be reproduced extremely small and yet reliably scanning, which is advantageous on both small products and large quantities. Fast mechanical readability avoids delays in the logistics sequence and significantly increases process efficiency.
Digital twin in general cargo handling
A prime example of the advanced use of Datamatrix codes in general cargo handling delivers the @ILO project of the logistics service provider Dachser in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Material River and Logistics (IML). In the envelope camps in Unterschleißheim near Munich and Öhringen near Heilbronn, a digital image of all packages, assets and processes is generated fully automatically and in real time - a so -called “digital twin”.
Each package has a 9.5 x 9.5 centimeter data matrix code on the top. Several hundred optical scan units in the ceiling area of the halls record the entire floor and continuously provide data for the digital image of the envelope. @Ilo stands for “Advanced Indoor Localization and Operations” and describes the digital twin, which in the future is to deliver fully automated real-time data for every palletized shipment in the European Dachser Transport network.
In the @ILO terminals, packages are fully automatically identified when entering, staying and leaving the envelope bearing and recorded in the transport management system. Manual barcode scanning processes on the input and output are no longer necessary. This means considerable work easier for employees and a significant acceleration of the processes.
Speed and efficiency through automation
The implementation of Datamatrix codes in general cargo handling leads to a significant acceleration of the processes. Due to the automated recording, time-consuming manual scanning processes are eliminated, which brings considerable time advantages, especially with several thousand pallets that go through a typical general cargo coverage.
The 2D matrix code enables much faster and more precise recording of data compared to conventional barcodes or QR codes. Thanks to its denser information coding, more data points can be stored in a single code, which significantly reduces the detection time. This enables warehouse employees to edit orders faster and minimize bottlenecks when entering data.
The input and starting processes are clearly accelerated by the system because the packages are recorded without manual intervention. This leads to a higher envelope speed and enables the overall more efficient operation of the envelope.
Increased security and troubleshooting
In addition to the increased speed, the use of Datamatrix codes also offers increased security in general cargo envelope. The automated recording minimizes human errors. Storage employees no longer have to enter long number combinations manually, but the data are scanned directly from the code. This reduces the risk of errors drastically, which leads to increased accuracy and a lower number of returns and complaints.
The meter-precise location of all pallets in real time in the often soccer field-sized envelope also increases the transparency and safety of the goods envelope. The parking spaces of shipments and the position of industrial trucks can be visualized in real time and on websites, apps or mobile displays together with leading information for internal transport.
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Suitable and detailed information
A main advantage of the DataMatrix codes is the possibility of storing and transmitting precise and detailed information. The Datamatrix codes transmit the same information about the program as the currently usual NVE barcodes, but offer space for additional data.
The 2D matrix codes offer the possibility of storing a variety of information in a small area. In addition to traditional order details such as item number, quantity and delivery address, additional information such as serial numbers, country of origin, expiry dates and more can be accommodated in a single code. This allows for better traceability and quality control in the warehouse.
AI-based algorithms interpret the data recorded every second of optical scan units in order to automatically identify, locate and measure all packages in the future. These real -time data always provide current information about where which package is located, of which employees, drivers, but also employees benefit in disposition and customer service.
Future prospects and industry -wide development
The @Ilo project from Dachser and the Fraunhofer IML is part of a larger trend in the logistics industry towards digitized and automated processes. If a positive fundamental decision is made for roll-out, Dachser plans to gradually use the technology in all large Dachser envelope halls in Europe.
A migration of one -dimensional to two -dimensional codes can be observed across the industry. With increasing information needs for customers as well as business partners along the supply chain and the digitization of many processes, the requirements for the data carriers increase. One-dimensional barcodes such as the EAN tiercode reach their limits because they can only contain a very limited amount of information. The solution are two-dimensional barcodes such as the GS1 Datamatrix or the GS1 Digital Link in QR code or Datamatrix.
Datamatrix codes: The key to more efficient logistics processes
The use of Datamatrix codes in general cargo handling marks significant progress in the logistics industry. The combination of highly developed scanning systems with these information-rich 2D codes creates digital twins that enable a new stage of transparency, speed and security in logistics processes.
The advantages are diverse: automated processes reduce manual work and error quotas, accelerated input and starting processes increase efficiency, and the detailed information enables precise tracking and control of all packages. With the increasing digitization and the growing need for information along the supply chain, Datamatrix codes and similar technologies become indispensable tools for future-oriented logistics companies.
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