SICK partnership creates indoor warehouse, dock security system

Smart sensor supplier SICK (Booth S3622) offers a new interior facility security system. The package uses a combination of SICK’s Laser Guardian intrusion detection device, Sentry360 high-definition overhead cameras that record 360-degree views from overhead, and software from The HawkEye Effect that ties the two together.

“It’s an opportunity to bring the world of exterior security cameras to solve operational challenges within the four walls of a facility,” explained HawkEye CEO Jeffrey Blair. “Applications include protection against theft and pilferage, but also verification of when a pick occurred or the condition or quantity of items loaded into a trailer.”

SICK’s device creates a laser curtain across a dock door opening or pallet rack face. When the laser’s beam is broken by a forklift retrieving or placing a load, the event is date stamped by the software and matched to the digital recording.

“What’s unique is that it logs each break of the laser with a specific, searchable notation for easy retrieval at a later time,” Blair continued. “If a customer rejects a shipment for being damaged or short, it’s easy to pull up the digital file based on search parameters such as loading date to visually verify what actually happened.”

For operations handling larger goods, just a few cameras will likely provide full facility coverage; warehouses handling smaller items can select higher resolution cameras in greater numbers for more precise, zoomable views.