What does a sensor do on a pick-by-light compartment display?
A sensor on a pick-by-light compartment display is used to automatically confirm the removal of individual items and also monitors access to the storage compartments. If the picker reaches into the wrong compartment, the system automatically signals the incorrect access, thereby ensuring the quality of the removal.
Range of a pick-by-light sensor
The transmitter emits its signals through a small red disc and receives the reflections back. The range, without an additional reflective surface, is 15-20 cm. Access to the storage compartment must be within this range. For this reason, there are different installation options.
The explanations
The pick-by-light sensor must be connected to the electronics of the storage compartment display. There are various options for installing it. Depending on the design, the modules are then installed above or below the storage compartments.
The classic: Pick-by-Light sensor below a compartment display
During use, the compartment indicator is placed above the storage compartment. The access sensor monitors access to the compartment below. Advantage: The picker's hand is clearly detected from a short distance when accessing the compartment.
Above the subject display
If the containers are very flat or have a side access opening, the pick-by-light display can also be installed below the storage compartment with an access sensor facing upwards. This is also the natural way to attach the compartment display (instead of the storage compartment labels).
Which design is better?
Both designs are good, and the choice depends on the dimensions of the containers and storage compartments. However, a uniform method must always be used here. The compartment displays should always be installed above or below. Mixed operation is not conducive to employee orientation.
How it works
The main function of the pick-by-light sensor is to register access to a storage compartment. Depending on the status of the compartment display, various functions are possible:
- When withdrawal quantity = 1: The sensor automatically acknowledges the withdrawal.
- For withdrawal quantities > 1: The sensor only releases the acknowledgment button, but does not automatically acknowledge the withdrawal.
- The display does not light up: An access error is reported (light signal or horn).
There are many scenarios for how the functions are executed. We would be happy to advise you personally.
Conclusion
A pick-by-light sensor is ideal for picking individual items with a quantity of 1. The pick is automatically confirmed and reported back. Access to the wrong storage compartments is automatically registered and an alarm can be triggered (visual or audible).
FAQ
What is a pick-by-light sensor?
An access sensor on the pick-by-light compartment display is an electronic circuit with a component (transmitter diode) that emits a light signal and receives the reflection back from an object (receiver diode). By interrupting the light signal or receiving the distance modulation, access to a storage compartment can be determined automatically.
Can a pick-by-light sensor count the number of items?
No. A pick-by-light sensor only monitors access to a storage compartment, but cannot record the number of items removed. Counting scales are used for this purpose (see Pick-by-Weight).
How much does a pick-by-light sensor cost?
An access sensor is always an option for a pick-by-light compartment display and costs approximately $60 extra per storage compartment.
When is it worthwhile to use a pick-by-light sensor?
This is particularly useful for fast picking with a quantity of 1 item. The removal is immediately confirmed by the sensor and automatically reported back to the warehouse management system.
