Systematic and efficient material flows - SICK presents its new sensor solutions at CeMAT 2016

At CeMAT 2016 SICK was presenting the entire range of sensor technology, especially designed for intralogistics with a clear focus on Industry 4.0. Data collection and networking are real hot topics when it comes to reliable identification and data processing applications. SICK’s systems enable comprehensive real-time monitoring of system performance by automatic logistics systems. Workers in distribution centers with large handling volumes are able to make quick decisions – even under time pressure – to maximize the quality, precision, and efficiency of incoming goods, sorting, and shipping processes.

Going forward, object information will be collected in large data centers, which, coupled with the ability to process significant volumes of data in real time will give rise to entirely new concepts. These are sure to allow companies to strike a steady balance between efficient material flow systems on one hand and maximum flexibility on the other at an affordable price.

SICK’s “track and trace systems” offer a variety of system solutions designed to facilitate automatic detection, validation, and storage of product master data and object properties. These includes both static and dynamic solutions for use in applications such as manual and automated goods receipt processes. SICK calls upon the latest technologies, including bar code scanners, RFID, vision sensors, and multi-dimensional laser measurement technology, designed not only to identify objects, but also determine geometries, contours, overruns, and weights.

All systems are designed to offer plug-and-play functionality, straightforward operation, high reliability and availability, and easy maintenance. The solutions vary in several respects, including the minimum and maximum detectable object sizes and weights. Different sensor technologies are available depending on the surface properties of the objects. Some systems are even capable of providing detailed 2D-image or 3D-object information to perform logistics and handling-based analyses relating to the optimal gripping points for robots, for example. Other analyses may relate to the centers of gravity for containers, suitability for conveyor systems, occurrence of bulging, number of containers, and even optical character recognition, to name just a few examples. This information can then be used to update the key logistical master data in the ERP, MES, and warehouse management systems. As a result, companies can benefit from improved processes throughout their logistics chains, such as for determining the storage location, proposing types of packaging, or forecasting shipping costs.

The range is completed by the specially designed logistics sensors for the mechanical engineering industry, whose main features include integrability, ruggedness, detection capacity, and diagnostics options. The products on show at the SICK trade fair stand represent sustainable and economically successful logistics solutions that are capable of living up to today’s increasingly specific customer requirements: Highly dynamic and energy-efficient storage and retrieval systems, state-of-the-art shuttle technology and automated guided vehicles, and all-new safety laser scanners, which are extremely adaptable and attuned to a wide range of different ambient conditions.

SICK is one of the world’s leading producers of sensors and sensor solutions for industrial applications. Founded in 1946 by Dr.-Ing. e. h. Erwin Sick, the company with headquarters in Waldkirch im Breisgau near Freiburg ranks among the technological market leaders. With more than 50 subsidiaries and equity investments as well as numerous representative offices, SICK maintains a presence around the globe. In the 2014 fiscal year, SICK had about 7,000 employees worldwide and achieved Group sales of EUR 1,099.8 million.