Increase Efficiency with RF Picking Technology
Order picking is the process of retrieving a set amount of products from warehouse inventory to fulfill customer orders. The vast majority of picking is done by human workers using paper-based picking lists. This increases the likelihood of errors which can be costly, wasting time and money.
As a result, Radio Frequency (RF) Scanners are gaining popularity to reduce the chance of costly errors in the fulfillment process. These scanners direct workers to the correct pick location and provides the quantity to pick and item location. These tools can be wearable or handheld devices.
Handheld Scanners for small businesses
How It Works
The radio frequency (RF) handheld scanner operates within a specific frequency range to read barcodes, transmit product information, and send location data to the wireless Warehouse Management System (WMS) network. This RF technology ensures that after scanning, the data is relayed to the RF terminal, where the warehouse operator (or picker) uses the RF device to navigate to the correct location and retrieve the item description and quantity to be collected.
RF scanners work similarly to mobile phones and microwave ovens, utilizing electromagnetic fields to function efficiently. By scanning barcodes and, if necessary, the pick-up location, the RF technology provides a reliable system that improves accuracy compared to traditional paper-based picking methods. It guides the picking process through barcode scanning and verification of product location before it is picked and shipped from the warehouse. The system also uses visual indicators, such as a light display, to direct workers to the appropriate location for pick-up.
The integration of RF-controlled systems into the WMS process eliminates the need for paper-based transactions and introduces a second pick transaction. This advancement significantly enhances efficiency; workers using RF scanners can complete tasks 15-35% faster compared to traditional methods. RF scanners are particularly effective in managing workflows in environments like warehouses, as they can capture detailed product and customer-specific information, such as batch numbers, serial numbers, and catch weights. This efficiency and precision are made possible by the RF technology’s ability to operate within the radiofrequency radiation spectrum, similar to other devices that utilize electromagnetic fields.
Why RF Picking is More Efficient Than Paper
The transition from paper-based systems to RF scanning can result in up to 20% productivity loss due to interaction with the device. Simple errors can occur when scanning the items including selecting the wrong product or scanning the wrong barcode label can occur. Errors can occur if the barcode is missing or damaged, the operator scans the wrong product, selects the wrong quantity, or misplaces the device.
Many distribution centers and warehouses use picking solutions that combine both voice and RF scanning. When it comes to order fulfillment technology, distribution center employees often have RF scanners, voice-controlled work systems or a combination of the two. Today, RF is widely used in integration with warehouse software and barcode networks.
Why RF Picking Technology is Becoming More Widespread
The widespread use of mobile devices in warehouses means that RF speed and accuracy can be leveraged across more activities, generating valuable information about your business, employees, and overall profitability. RFID technology is increasingly integrated into warehouse environments, with RF technology being used to enhance accuracy, boost productivity, and improve customer satisfaction.
Your Warehouse Management System (WMS) meticulously records the date, time, and RF scan in a specific order. With features like priority scan and “do not disturb,” you can configure the system so that channels are checked every 2 seconds, even if the scanner does not receive any transmissions. When in lock mode, you can set your scanner to bypass certain frequencies and channels during scanning or searching.
An RF pick-up system operates as a host server that communicates with higher levels of the WMS and Warehouse Execution System (WES) to manage and relay order information. The RF device, which scans radio frequencies and adjusts them to the desired frequency, functions similarly to a barcode scanner but utilizes RF energy within the electromagnetic spectrum for its operations.
In a warehouse setting, a radio frequency scanner, a handheld wireless device using a high-frequency wireless network, communicates with the WMS to transmit real-time information. This RF technology operates in specific frequency ranges to ensure efficient data transfer and management.
The device serves as an RFID reader, akin to an RF scanner, which reads the information embedded in RFID quick tags. According to Lucasware.com, “Voice-picked systems are used in 20-25% of warehouses and distribution centers, but the vast majority of warehouses rely on paper or mobile barcode scanning technology (also known as RF scanning systems) for picking and other material handling tasks.” Workers often position the device by clamping it under their arms, which allows them to keep their hands free for recording and handling tasks.
As RF technology continues to evolve, understanding RF safety and potential impacts on human health becomes increasingly important. The World Health Organization (WHO) monitors research on RF energy and its effects. While high levels of RF exposure can be associated with tissue damage and concerns about human health, such as potential risks from base stations and prolonged exposure to radio waves, the RF energy used in typical warehouse RF scanning applications is generally well within safe limits. Medical applications of RF and ongoing research continue to ensure that RF technology remains safe and effective for both industrial and personal use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Radio Frequency (RF) picking technology is revolutionizing warehouse operations by dramatically enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and productivity. By replacing outdated paper-based methods with advanced RF systems, warehouses can significantly reduce errors, streamline workflows, and boost overall profitability. As RF technology continues to evolve, integrating seamlessly with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and RFID applications, it offers an unprecedented level of precision and speed. With robust safety measures and ongoing research ensuring its reliability, RF picking technology not only supports operational excellence but also fosters a safer and more effective working environment. Embracing RF technology positions warehouses at the forefront of innovation, empowering them to meet the demands of modern logistics while paving the way for future advancements.
*content edited 8/21/2024 by Katie A.
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