Two SICK systems unveiled
By Staff -- Modern Materials Handling, 3/30/2006
SICK (Booth 2408) premiered two products: a volume measurement system, the VMS410, and the Pick2Light bin control system.
The VMS410 determines the volume of in-motion, cuboidal-shaped objects or packages on flat conveyor belts, enabling users to calculate precise shipping charges and maximize loads. Many companies doing international shipping are looking for volume measurement instead of weight measurement—the current system in Europe. "The marketplace is moving more toward volume shipping—what fits on a truck versus how much it weighs—so this technology will become more and more valuable," said Kris Zabel, vertical market manager at SICK. In many cases, she said, shippers offer discounts if companies can provide them with volume measurements. The volume measurement system is non-contact and can calculate real volume and smallest box to enclose an object (box volume) using a single scanner head. "The single scanner head is embedded with all of the 'smarts' to make the calculations instead of an external PC," said Zabel. The second showcased product, the Pick2Light system, offers hand detection and a 360-degree visible job LED. The single-sided, retro-reflective light grid aims to cut parts and labor costs with its external T-slot frame mounting feature. Each bin only requires one light grid and the rugged metal housing simplifies installation and adjustments. "The external mounting configuration makes it flexible: bin size is not restricted and can be adjusted later if needs change," said Paul Heine, program manager.
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