Pick-by-Vision, Pick-by-Light, Pick-by-Voice and Picking Lists
A comparison of information systems:
Order picking is at the heart of logistics, especially in the booming e-commerce sector. Here, it is important to remove goods from the warehouse quickly and without errors. To achieve this, the pickers must always know where to pick which goods and in what quantity. There are various methods for transferring the information from the system to the person, which differ greatly in terms of speed, susceptibility to errors and ergonomics. The classic pick list is still widely used, but modern technologies are opening up new, much more efficient possibilities. Data goggles and headsets allow pickers to have both hands free and access real-time information at the same time. This noticeably increases picking performance and significantly reduces errors. The pick-by-vision method, for example, uses smart glasses to give pickers visual instructions. This increases freedom of movement and speed. Pick-by-voice relies on voice control via headset instead. This is practical when barcodes are difficult to read. Pick-by-light, on the other hand, facilitates picking by means of light signals at the storage locations.
By carefully describing the various picking systems and their strengths and weaknesses, we would like to provide you with a valuable decision-making aid in this detailed blog post. With a detailed comparison of the different approaches, you can find the picking system that perfectly suits your individual needs. Regardless of whether it's about efficiency in the warehouse, the accuracy of stock tracking or other important criteria. With clear descriptions and a holistic comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of each solution, you can make an informed decision that will bring decisive added value to your warehouse processes.
The use of classic picking lists and scanners is still widespread in modern logistics systems.Pick-by-Vision: Efficient Picking through Augmented Reality
The pick-by-vision system (also known as smart glasses) is a pioneering solution for the efficient picking of goods in modern warehouses. This picking method uses data glasses that provide the picker with direct feedback on the storage location and pick list. This technology makes it possible to significantly increase productivity during picking, as the mobile data capture takes place in real time. By using augmented reality, employees are visually guided, which simplifies the removal of items from the shelf and minimizes errors.
Similar to pick-by-voice and pick-by-light, data glasses offer the great advantage that intuitive and unhindered work is possible due to the free hands when wearing the glasses. In contrast to the other systems, however, the glasses can not only display the next location and article, but also guide the way there using arrows in the environment. Overall, there is great potential for improvement in basic and dead times, for example in information acquisition and processing as well as in search and control processes.
Pick-by-Voice: Efficient Order Picking through Voice Control
The pick-by-voice system is an innovative picking method that is widely used in modern logistics centers. It enables pickers to work paperless by using voice commands to receive and pass on the relevant information. Compared to traditional picking systems such as pick-by-light or pick-by-scan, pick-by-voice offers greater flexibility and ergonomics.
With pick-by-voice, pickers are guided by voice prompts that tell them which items are to be picked and where they are located. The announcements can be adapted to individual requirements and translated into different languages to ensure high picking speed.
Pick-by-voice can be particularly beneficial when it comes to increasing efficiency, as pickers have their hands free to pick and transport goods. As with pick-by-voice and pick-by-light, ergonomics are improved by the free hands, as pickers can always use both hands to pick without having to put the device down first. Unlike with pick-by-light, no complex adjustments to the system are necessary, as only the check digits for confirming the storage location need to be attached to the bins.
Usage of Pick Lists in Logistics
The use of pick lists is usually the starting point for controlled picking. The information is provided on a slip of paper. However, paper-based picking lists usually have the challenge that no direct return flow of information (e.g. confirmation of picking) can take place to the system.
By integrating mobile data capture devices (MDC), such as hand scanners or mobile touch devices, the transfer of information can also be digitized. These devices enable immediate data capture and transfer, which increases the traceability and accuracy of picking. The pick list is then no longer shown on paper but on a display. Data is entered using a scanner or on the display.
Pick-by-Light
With pick-by-light technology, order information is displayed by means of visual signals on small displays located either above or below the storage compartments. At the start of a picking tour, the corresponding storage compartment is marked by a signal lamp lighting up on the display panel. Most pick-by-light systems are also equipped with a display that shows the required article quantity. Once the storage compartment has been accessed and the correct number of items has been picked, the process is confirmed by pressing an acknowledgement button. The picking information is then transferred to the warehouse management system.
In contrast to the other solutions, Pick-by-Light is particularly suitable for small systems, as the next picking position can be identified at a glance. However, as the entire system needs to be equipped with additional technology, pick-by-light is only suitable for large and complex systems to a limited extent.
When selecting a picking system, it is important to consider the specific requirements of your own company, as these can vary greatly depending on the industry and product range. A comparison of picking systems shows that there are several solutions that differ in terms of cost, user-friendliness and adaptability. The right choice can not only improve ergonomics in logistics, but also increase employee satisfaction as they can work more efficiently with modern technologies.
Comparison of picking solutions:
Choosing the right picking system depends heavily on the specific requirements and areas of application.
- Pick-by-vision offers innovative, visual guidance through data glasses that increases productivity and minimizes errors.
- Pick-by-voice enables flexible and ergonomic picking through voice control, ideal for environments where barcodes are difficult to read.
- Pick-by-light uses visual signals for fast and error-free picking, particularly suitable for environments with high picking performance.
- Pick lists in conjunction with MDE devices a proven method for efficient and precise data collection and transmission.
If you need further assistance in choosing the right solution, please do not hesitate to contact us!
