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Extensions to the Pick-to-Light system

Barcode scanners, RFID readers, scales and label printers are often connected to a Pick-to-Light as extensions. In this article, you will learn how these devices are connected to the system and what options and functions are available.

Functions of the extensions on a Pick-to-Light system

Additional devices are required in certain complex process sequences of a Pick-to-Light system. They are used in different ways and basically have the following functions:

  • Manual and automatic activation of orders
  • Recording of serial numbers and batches
  • Weight checks in order picking
  • Creation of labels

Paperless picking does not necessarily mean working completely without paper. Picking itself is actually paperless.

Activation of orders

The Pick-to-Light can be used for many purposes. These include Order picking, sorting, assembly, packing, etc. Orders are often activated by reading the barcode or RFID tag. Delivery bills, invoices, articles or assembly instructions are very suitable for this. The order number, article number, production number or delivery note number is stored in the barcode or RFID tag.

The scanners or RFID readers deliver the read data directly to the LUCA-Server server, which is then responsible for activating the orders. The server prepares the data and then controls the individual Pick-to-Light displays.

Recording serial numbers and batches

Especially in order picking, the recording of serial numbers or batch control is very common. Mobile hand-held scanners are often used here.

In this case, the serial number of the devices or parts is recorded for each removal from the storage compartment and forwarded to the warehouse management system with confirmation of the removal. The forwarding of batches or even the comparison of the specified batches is also carried out during picking with Pick-to-Light .

Weight control in order picking

For perfect quality assurance, a weight check of the picked items can also be carried out directly during picking. At the start of picking, the tare weight of the carton or container is recorded first. The system checks the weight increase of the consignment with each item. If the weight is correct, the next item can be picked.

However, the articles must be stable in weight and the master data must be correct. Checking the weight directly during picking increases quality, but has a disadvantage. It reduces picking performance. Find out more about this extension in a separate article on Pick-by-Weight.

Label printer

Small label printers can also be connected to a Pick-to-Light system. Depending on the process and mode of operation, the system controls the direct creation of labels.

This can be used, for example, for labeling articles or cartons. The order picker can also label them directly when manually folding the cartons.

Connecting the expansion devices to the Pick-to-Light system

Depending on the device type, we have various options for connecting to the Pick-to-Light system.

Connection of the wired hand-held scanners

The wired scanners are very often connected directly to the LUCA-Server via a workstation PC or network. USB interfaces are often used on the PC. A direct connection of the wired scanners to the network is often achieved by using ComServer. In this case, however, the RS232 interface is used.

The USB and RS232 devices can also be connected directly via the controllers of the Pick-to-Light system. A PC or ComServer is therefore not absolutely necessary for this.

Use of radio scanners

Radio scanners are often used with stationary Pick-to-Light systems. These mobile devices give employees more freedom of movement and flexibility at their workstations.

Modern wireless scanners have a direct WiFi connection to the network. Some models are equipped with charging stations with LAN, USB or RS232, which in turn are connected to the Pick-to-Light system (as described above) in the same way as wired scanners.

RFID reader

Simple RFID readers are connected in a similar way to wired scanners. Instead of a barcode, the RFID readers read the information from the RFID tags. Depending on the type of use and solution, the articles, picking trolleys or other labels can be read here.

The interesting thing about RFID is that the tags can also be written to. This means that information is also transported directly with the tag. This application is particularly useful in production.

There are many models on the market that are suitable for this application. If you have any questions, please contact us. We will help you.

Connecting the scales

The scales are often very precise and are used stationary. This means that the connection of the scales via PC, LAN or ComServer is best realized.

Integration of label printers

Label printers are usually connected to the Pick-to-Light via Pick-to-Light controller, PC or LAN. The use of mobile label printers (WiFi) is possible without any problems. The label printers are always controlled by the LUCA-Server.

Conclusion

The Pick-to-Light system can be expanded to include various other devices. Depending on the process and function, scanners, RFID readers, scales and label printers can be connected. If required, we can also develop interfaces to special devices for you if we do not already have them. Talk to us about this.

Many years of experience in paperless picking

Pick-to-Light

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