Supply chains have significantly transformed in the past decade with the advent of the Internet of Things, or IoT, and digital transformation, or DX, initiatives. Beyond tracking a package or product, the ability to monitor specific details with the right sensor has become key to today’s warehouses and distribution centers.
More specifically, connected devices and sensor technology enable real-time monitoring of production processes, facilitating predictive maintenance and improving overall efficiency. In fact, the proliferation of the IoT in supply-chain operations has spurred the development of some of the most innovative sensor technologies on the market.
Sensors can provide warehouse visibility
An effective supply chain starts with optimized warehouses. Here, sensors are key to improving visibility, efficiency, and successful management of materials as they move through production, storage, and distribution.
Manufacturers can use IoT sensor data to make well-informed decisions, whether in the warehouse or remotely monitoring the system.
Though the type of connectivity may vary depending on the range needed and the location of the sensor, many facilities use Ethernet in combination with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth low-energy (BLE), and cellular communications.
Sensors can ensure that environmental factors (including temperature or humidity) are stable to provide real-time tracking data. They can even monitor predictive maintenance needed on warehouse machinery.
Further, positioning sensors such as accelerometers and gyroscope sensors can track a product’s position and orientation.
Tapping into IoT sensors allows data to be stored, analyzed, and interpreted. This can identify areas for improvement or solutions for issues that may arise.
Asset trackers and sensors are becoming less expensive, so they are more widespread in manufacturing and warehousing facilities. With the increasing number of sensors available, data management becomes more important.
A sensor can enable inventory traceability
IoT sensors are also key to inventory management and traceability. These include sensors connected to barcodes that automatically log items in and out to ensure reliable stock levels.
Barcode scanners with image sensors can also provide valuable real-time visibility throughout a product’s journey through the supply chain.
In the past, cameras only took pictures. Now though, they are used to track objects, monitor quality control, and ensure accurate orders. With the addition of IoT to warehouses, sensors, and the corresponding data can go to the cloud and be stored for future detection of defects or recalls.
Advanced traceability solutions are essential for a well-developed supply chain and optimized warehouse functionality. Traceability scanners minimize manual checks and add efficiency by viewing multiple items simultaneously, aiding in quality control, packaging, and accuracy for current and future orders.
Robots use the latest sensor technologies
Sensors are also core to the functions of advanced robotic systems to perform various tasks along the supply chain with greater precision and complexity than ever before. Collaborative robots (cobots), autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) all see increased adoption as they improve efficiency.
AMRs can also work around tight spaces where toxic chemicals and heavy machinery pose a danger to humans. Using sensors, machine vision, and artificial intelligence, AMRs can navigate surroundings accurately and are completely independent of human control.
AGVs excel at material handling in warehouses and distribution facilities. They move on preprogrammed paths and using sensors such as lidar. AGVs are designed to handle basic tasks such as moving pallets or removing trash.
Cobots do menial and dangerous tasks alongside human counterparts freed to work on more complicated jobs. Cobot sensor arrays to detect the presence of people or obstacles. For example, laser scanners on cobots prompt speed reductions in predetermined zones to ensure worker safety.
With DX programs in place, all information related to these actions can go to the cloud for analysis anywhere. This ensures continuous operational improvement for full-capacity performance.
Enhance connectivity to optimize warehouses
The latest communication technologies also complement sensors for fully optimized warehouse processes. Besides Ethernet, these include 5G networks, new forms of Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for more effective data transmissions.
In fact, ever-smaller communication-component sizes are enabling connectivity in more spaces than ever before. Enhancing connectivity across warehouses assists in efficient data collection — automatically bringing it to one place for a cohesive view of what is happening and when.
The future of the supply chain depends on real-time data collection, predictive analysis and end-to-end visibility, all of which rely on a strong connective platform across the supply chain.
About the author
Kelsie McMillin is a DigiKey senior technology marketing specialist. DigiKey is a leader in the high-service distribution of electronic components and automation products worldwide, providing more than 15.9 million components from more than 3,000 manufacturers.
Editor’s note: This article was syndicated from Automated Warehouse sibling site Design World.
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