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Jul 14, 2020 at 7:00 AMDB Schenker has completed the testing phase of the Picavi application of smart glasses for order picking. Relevant efficiency gains through the pick-by-vision system and large-scale implementation planned after successful application in Germany.
(Essen) The launch of Picavi smart glasses at DB Schenker has been successful – during a testing phase, the application was thoroughly examined at locations in Bremen and Rodgau, and an improved productivity was observed. The team in Rodgau also combined the solution with the ProGlove, which has an integrated scanner. This connected solution is now set to be introduced as a standard procedure across multiple locations.
Xavier Garijo, Board Member for Contract Logistics at DB Schenker: “Here at DB Schenker, we are constantly looking for ways to improve our processes through efficiency gains. The partnerships with Picavi and ProGlove are two of our latest success stories that drive innovation in contract logistics. By introducing smart glasses and intelligent gloves in our warehouses, we are investing in our future as the preferred partner for supply chains of companies worldwide.”
Free Hands for Picking
Picavi uses Google Glasses to project necessary information into the field of vision of warehouse employees. Hand scanners and paper documents no longer need to be held physically to read the information. This allows employees to have both hands free for their actual task, which is assembling goods. The innovative solution increases productivity while simultaneously reducing the error rate.
ProGlove is an intelligent scanning glove that can be easily activated by pressing a button on the glove. When in use, employees can use both hands for picking, further increasing productivity. The ProGlove is already in use at DB Schenker’s warehouse in Eching near Munich.
At the Bremen location, DB Schenker provides logistics services for the automotive industry. The use of Picavi glasses there has led to a measurable and economically relevant increase in efficiency compared to the use of previous handheld scanners. Employees praised the ergonomic advantages and ease of use.
Second Practical Test in Rodgau
The second practical test took place in Rodgau near Frankfurt, where Picavi glasses are used in combination with the ProGlove to further enhance efficiency.
Jens Harig, CEO of Picavi: “The fact that a company like DB Schenker, with almost 800 locations for contract logistics worldwide, has effectively implemented a proof-of-concept with us speaks to the capabilities of the Picavi smart glasses. The strong visual guidance and hands-free approach distinguish the pick-by-vision solution from other systems in order picking. Here we are setting standards for the market – and for the future of DB Schenker.”
The smart picking solution consists of two components – the glasses and optionally a scanning glove or a finger ring. The picking of an ordered item is captured by the scanner in the glove or ring. Immediately afterwards, the next order is displayed on the glasses lens. Since users only need to look slightly upwards for this, the normal field of vision is not impaired. The system is controlled via buttons on the battery set, which weighs only 200 grams and is worn by the employee on their belt.
The collaboration with Picavi is one of the latest projects in the field of digitalization and innovation that DB Schenker is currently working on to further develop warehouses for the future. Other examples include virtual reality training for operating forklifts and the use of wearable exoskeleton robots to healthily support warehouse employees when lifting heavy loads.
Photo: © DB Schenker
