Intelligent trailer loading at Zebra increases visibility, boosts performance

The SmartPack Trailer solution from Zebra Technologies (Booth S2459) creates an intelligent loading environment that increases both outbound load densities and lightens the load for dock managers, said Brent Elstron, product manager.

“It’s the first platform that adds advanced analytics and increased visibility to the trailer loading process,” he explained. The solution uses 3D sensors and camera technology in a compact overhead device mounted overhead and just inside the dock door; 5,000 units are already in use, Elstron added.

The system captures operational data such as load density, trailer fullness, images of loads in progress and number of packages scanned and loaded per hour. The information gives on-site and corporate managers greater insight into the effectiveness of their trailer loading operations.

Camera views from every location, both on-site and at different facilities, are accessible from a dashboard view displayed on a desktop computer kiosk or tablet. Images can be used to verify shipment loading and space maximization, theft prevention, document damages, and validate that employees are lifting properly. If they aren’t, the images can be used for ergonomic training purposes.

“The system hardware, software and analytics integrate with various enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems to track volumetric efficiency, load rate and when a load is almost complete. Drivers can be alerted in advance when a trailer is about to be closed out, resulting in lower dwell time and freeing up the dock so a new load can begin,” he concluded.

Also on display, Network Connect for Automation seamlessly links Zebra’s ultra-rugged scanners and printers to industrial programmable logic controller (PLC), Ethernet protocols and other standard networks without additional PC gateways or third-party hardware. This reduces cost and complexity, as more printers and scanners are being connected to traditionally controlled hardware.

Finally, Zebra announced LifeGuard for Android, a security lifecycle offering that extends the service life of Android-based mobile computers with enterprise-critical support. It includes regular operating system security updates to extend device lifecycle and lower total cost of ownership.