DB Schenker Embraces Smart Picking: A Game-Changer in Logistics Efficiency

Introduction: A New Era in Warehouse Operations

In the ever-evolving world of logistics, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. DB Schenker, a global leader in logistics services, has taken a giant leap forward by successfully implementing Picavi's smart glasses in their order-picking operations. This move signifies a major shift towards more efficient and technologically advanced warehouse management. The successful trial run in Bremen and Rodgau, Germany, has paved the way for a large-scale rollout across multiple locations, promising to set new standards in the industry.

Key highlights of this groundbreaking implementation include:

• Successful completion of the Picavi smart picking solution test phase
• Plans for large-scale implementation following successful local trials in Germany
• Significant efficiency gains observed from the pick-by-vision solution
• Combination of smart glasses with ProGlove for enhanced productivity

The Smart Picking Revolution: Picavi and ProGlove

At the heart of this innovation are two cutting-edge technologies: Picavi's smart glasses and ProGlove's intelligent scanning glove. Let's delve into how these technologies are transforming warehouse operations:

Picavi Smart Glasses: Hands-Free Efficiency

Picavi's solution utilizes Google Glasses to project essential information directly into the user's field of vision. This revolutionary approach allows warehouse workers to have both hands free for their primary task of picking goods, eliminating the need for hand-held scanners and paper documents. The result? Maximized productivity and minimized error rates.

ProGlove: The Intelligent Scanning Solution

Complementing the smart glasses is ProGlove, an intelligent scanning glove activated by a simple button press. This innovative device further enhances productivity by allowing employees to use both hands for picking while still maintaining scanning capabilities.

The combination of these technologies creates a synergy that significantly boosts operational efficiency. By freeing up workers' hands and streamlining the picking process, DB Schenker is setting new benchmarks in warehouse productivity.

Implementation Success Stories

Bremen: Automotive Logistics Transformed

DB Schenker's location in Bremen, which supplies contract logistics solutions for the automotive industry, saw immediate benefits from the Picavi glasses implementation. The smart glasses led to a measurable and direct increase in efficiency compared to the previously used hand-held scanners. Employees praised the ergonomic advantages and ease of use, highlighting the user-friendly nature of this advanced technology.

Rodgau: The Power of Combination

In Rodgau, near Frankfurt, DB Schenker took the innovation a step further by combining Picavi glasses with ProGlove. This powerful combination resulted in even greater efficiency gains, showcasing the potential of integrating multiple smart technologies in warehouse operations.

These successful implementations demonstrate the versatility and effectiveness of smart picking solutions across different warehouse environments and industry sectors.

The Technology Behind the Revolution

The smart-picking solution consists of two main components:

1. Smart Glasses: Providing visual guidance and information display
2. Scanning Device: Either a finger ring or scanning glove for item recording

The process is elegantly simple yet highly effective:

1. The worker picks the ordered item
2. The pick is recorded by the ring or glove scanner
3. The next order is immediately displayed on the lens of the glasses

The system's design prioritizes user comfort and efficiency. The glasses require only a slight upward glance to view information, ensuring that the normal field of vision remains uncompromised. Control of the system is managed through buttons on a lightweight battery pack (weighing just 200 grams) attached to the employee's belt, further enhancing mobility and ease of use.

Industry Impact and Future Implications

The successful implementation of these smart picking solutions at DB Schenker is more than just a local success story; it's a glimpse into the future of logistics and warehouse management. As Jens Harig, CEO of Picavi, notes, "The fact that a company like DB Schenker, with almost 800 contract logistics locations worldwide, has effectively implemented a proof of concept with us testifies to the performance of the Picavi smart glasses."

This move by DB Schenker sets new standards for the market and signals a shift towards more technologically advanced and efficient warehouse operations across the industry. The strong visual guidance and hands-free approach of the pick-by-vision solution distinguish it from traditional picking systems, offering a competitive edge in an increasingly demanding logistics landscape.

DB Schenker's Vision for the Future

The collaboration with Picavi and ProGlove is just the latest step in DB Schenker's journey towards creating the warehouse of the future. Xavier Garijo, Board Member for Contract Logistics at DB Schenker, emphasizes the company's commitment to continuous improvement: "Here at DB Schenker, we are continuously searching for ways to improve our operations by efficiency gains. Our partnerships with Picavi and ProGlove are two of our latest success stories as we drive innovations in contract logistics."

This forward-thinking approach extends beyond smart picking solutions. DB Schenker is also exploring other innovative technologies to enhance warehouse operations, including:

• Virtual reality training for forklift drivers
• Implementation of exoskeletons to relieve warehouse employees of heavy loads

These initiatives demonstrate DB Schenker's holistic approach to warehouse innovation, addressing not only efficiency but also employee training and workplace ergonomics.

The Role of Digital Logistics Platforms in Supporting Smart Warehouse Solutions

As logistics companies like DB Schenker embrace smart warehouse solutions, the role of Digital Logistics Platforms becomes increasingly crucial. These platforms serve as the backbone for integrating and managing the data generated by smart picking solutions and other advanced warehouse technologies.

At FreightAmigo, we understand the importance of supporting such innovations. Our Digital Logistics Platform is designed to seamlessly integrate with various warehouse management systems, including those utilizing smart glasses and intelligent scanning devices. Here's how we can support businesses adopting these advanced solutions:

1. Data Integration and Management

Our platform can aggregate and process data from smart picking solutions, providing a comprehensive view of warehouse operations. This integration allows for real-time monitoring of picking efficiency, inventory levels, and overall warehouse performance.

2. Enhanced Visibility and Tracking

By connecting smart warehouse solutions with our tracking capabilities, we offer end-to-end visibility of goods from the moment they're picked to their final destination. This seamless flow of information enhances overall supply chain transparency.

3. Optimization Algorithms

Our AI-powered algorithms can analyze data from smart picking solutions to identify patterns and suggest optimizations in warehouse layouts, picking routes, and inventory management.

4. Customizable Reporting

We provide customizable reporting tools that can incorporate data from smart glasses and gloves, allowing logistics managers to gain deeper insights into their warehouse operations and make data-driven decisions.

5. Scalability and Flexibility

As companies like DB Schenker expand their smart picking solutions to more locations, our platform scales accordingly, ensuring consistent performance and integration across multiple warehouses.

Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Logistics

The successful implementation of Picavi's smart glasses and ProGlove at DB Schenker marks a significant milestone in the evolution of warehouse operations. This innovative approach to order picking not only enhances efficiency and accuracy but also improves ergonomics and employee satisfaction. As the logistics industry continues to evolve, such smart solutions will likely become the norm rather than the exception.

For logistics companies looking to stay competitive in this rapidly changing landscape, embracing these technologies is crucial. However, it's equally important to have a robust Digital Logistics Platform that can support and enhance these smart warehouse solutions.

At FreightAmigo, we're committed to providing the Digital Logistics Solutions that will help our clients seamlessly integrate and maximize the benefits of smart warehouse technologies. Whether you're just starting to explore smart picking solutions or looking to expand your existing implementation, our platform is designed to support your journey towards creating the warehouse of the future.

As we move forward, the combination of smart warehouse technologies and advanced Digital Logistics Platforms will undoubtedly shape the future of logistics, driving efficiency, accuracy, and innovation across the entire supply chain. The future of logistics is here, and it's smarter than ever before.