Safe and efficient sizing of pallets with GPC Systems

Accurate pallet measurements are essential for efficient and smart warehouse management. Errors mean inefficient use of space, inaccurate estimation of freight costs and shipping fines. Which, in turn, can ultimately lead to dissatisfied customers.

Manual sizing of pallets takes time, is error-prone and can create safety problems. It is time-consuming and not harmless if an operator has to get out of the forklift. Moreover, this is not always possible due to safety measures.

With their latest application, GPC Systems devised a solution to these challenges. GPC Systems is an award-winning software company with more than 25 years of experience in developing advanced 3D imaging and AI solutions to current problems.

Freight Measure Solution from GPC Systems

Their software solution for goods sizing was designed to quickly provide accurate and complete freight measurements. To collect the 3D dimension data for their software solution, they needed to work with integrated cameras that have stereo depth sensing.

GPC Systems worked with Intel® to develop software that works seamlessly with the RealSense™ Depth Cameras. The cameras mount directly to the forklift mast and the system is able to accurately calculate not only length, width and height, but also volume. This can all be done without the operator having to leave the forklift.

An advanced solution requires an advanced computing platform

Regarding computer platform that had to support the cameras and software, GPC had a long list of requirements. The system had to be able to withstand a warehouse environment. That means temperature fluctuations, as well as dust and other suspended particles. In addition, like the cameras, the computer also had to be mounted directly on a forklift for sizing while driving.

That meant the ideal system had to be small and fully solid-state to withstand vibration and sporadic jerking. Of course, it had to have industrial I/O connections, wireless connectivity and powerful processing capabilities.

The Karbon 410 has it all

GPC Systems worked with their customers to choose the rugged and compact OnLogic Karbon 410 (K410). Built for the challenges of the IoT edge, the K410 combines innovative fanless cooling and flexible configuration options with advanced Intel Atom® x6000E processing.

"As we went through our requirements and those of our customer, it became clear that we needed a system that could withstand the shocks and vibrations that occur while loading a forklift. The computer we needed had to be attached to and integrated into the forklift. So we needed CAN bus and programmable ignition detection for customized power control. Finally, we were looking for a system with optional 4G connectivity and GPS functionality to future-proof the system. The Karbon 410 has it all. We were impressed with OnLogic's quick communication and appreciated the fact that we could customize the solution until we had exactly the processing power and features we needed. Finally, delivery was quick - in just a few weeks, not months."- HUW MORGAN, CTO, GPC SYSTEMS

In collaboration with Intel® and OnLogic, GPC Systems has created an efficient, accurate and fast application. In fact, obtaining dimensions, so-called "dims," can be fully automated. Thus, this does not have to be activated by the forklift driver. This means that the driver can fully focus his attention on safe warehouse operations and safe material transport. Once measurements are obtained, the pallet can proceed to the next part of the supply chain. This leads to streamlined operations where safety is guaranteed.

"GPC's Freight Measure Software Solution uses Intel® Realsense™ 3D technology and OnLogic's x6000-based PC platform. It is a fantastic end-to-end solution that helps logistics companies move loads more easily. It is a great example of business process automation.It contributes to higher productivity, lower operating costs and a higher level of safety for employees. This means a hassle-free overall experience for logistics companies when it comes to transporting goods."- SYAMAK NAZARY, INTEL DIRECTOR FOR TRANSPORTATION

What does the future hold for GPC Systems?

According to Acumen Research the global warehouse automation market was about $20 billion in 2021. This is expected to rise above $60 billion by 2030. GPC Systems intends to continue to innovate their warehouse operations to help operational teams increase efficiency and reduce costs. Supported by OnLogic hardware and Intel technology, GPC Systems' customers will continue to benefit from continuous improvements in the way they transport, store and deliver products.