Honeywell, Stereolabs launch mobile AI solution for warehouses
Honeywell has announced a collaboration with Stereolabs to introduce a mobile solution for measuring the size, volume and weight of boxes and pallets within distribution centres.
The solution integrates Stereolabs' stereoscopic camera, employing a vision-based artificial intelligence perception system, with Honeywell's SwiftDecoder barcode-decoding software. The unified system is capable of capturing product dimensions, weight, barcode data, optical character recognition information, and high-quality imagery. All captured details are automatically uploaded to a central database, offering a comprehensive record of the volume occupied by each pallet, their composition, as well as the size and weight of products undergoing transport.
The solution aims to transition operations away from manual methods or fixed systems, allowing organisations to adopt a mobile approach that can adjust to the dynamic needs of modern distribution centres.
The companies stated that many warehouses and logistics providers currently rely on manual techniques such as tape measures and weigh scales to record product information, or fixed systems including scan tunnels to identify and measure packages on conveyor belts. In comparison, the mobile solution seeks to facilitate more flexible daily operations.
Combined technology
The joint solution brings together the Stereolabs ZED stereoscopic camera and calculator with Honeywell's SwiftDecoder software. This combination enables the capture of essential weight and dimensional data for products. The subsequent automatic upload of data to a central database gives businesses real-time insight into the volume and composition of goods loaded in each trailer. This information can then be used to plan efficient and cost-effective transportation, loading, or de-stocking activities.
"Products stored in a warehouse and transported on a truck contain a wealth of data, from weight and size to the item's name, expiration date and warning label on the box," said David Barker, President of Honeywell Productivity Solutions and Services. "Finding a way to capture this data in one place and use it effectively to streamline processes presents a challenge for many operations. By combining the strengths of Honeywell and Stereolabs, we can help the supply chain operate more efficiently and address major pain points."
The intent behind this integration is to help logistics operators improve their planning capabilities for truck loading, understand the number of vehicles needed for transporting goods, and efficiently trace items in transit.
Implementation and integration
Olivier Braun, Chief Product Officer at Stereolabs, commented on the process of combining technologies: "Integrating Honeywell's SwiftDecoder software together with our ZED cameras and advanced perception stack was a smooth and efficient process. We are now able to deliver a rich, all-in-one data capture solution - combining product dimensions, barcode data, optical character recognition (OCR) information and high-quality imagery - that is seamlessly ready for integration into any warehouse management system."
The new system is intended to be compatible with existing warehouse management platforms, supporting efficient and accurate data integration for operators.
The product is aimed at supply chain operators seeking to address longstanding challenges associated with manual measurement and inventory tracking processes, as well as those looking for a more adaptable approach to warehouse management in fast-paced logistics environments.
