Voice-Directed Computing

Logistics Insight Asia - Technology & Market Trends, 10/1/2008

Developed in Australia by Dematic (formerly the Distribution and Industry Division of Siemens Logistics & Assembly Systems), Voice-Directed Computing is a new, low cost concept in order fulfillment software.

Created using the latest interface and configuration technologies, Voice-Directed Computing integrates with most leading WMS and ERP systems, as well as in-house legacy systems, using either standard flat file exchange or modern XML-based interfaces.

Because it is based on widely-familiar Microsoft products, such as Microsoft SQL Server and Windows, and displays information via browser-based GUIs, employees can work with tools they are likely to be already familiar with, lowering training costs and simplifying the implementation process.
Exclusive new features within Voice-Directed Computing, which further increase its cost-effectiveness, include built-in label templates and a print engine for generating a variety of management reports.

However, Voice-Directed Computing doesn’t just substantially cut the cost of implementing Voice-Directed Computing, it also features a number of new operational features that greatly enhance functionality, especially in small to medium sized order picking operations.

These include the ability to utilize Voice-Directed Computing as a low cost manual sortation system.

Voice-Directed Computing enables the goods for multiple orders to be batch picked, and then simply put to individual order quantities, significantly improving order picking productivity.

Voice-Directed Computing is suitable for order fulfillment in a wide range of applications including 3PL, Pharmaceuticals, Office Supplies, Fresh and Frozen Food, General Merchandise, Books and Magazine Distribution, Spare Parts and many others.

It can be seamlessly integrated with other material handling technologies and solutions, like Put and Pick-To-Light, RF and Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems.


The Benefits of Voice-Directed Computing
Millions of cartons and products are picked each day in order fulfillment applications using Voice-Directed Computing.

The hands-free, eyes free approach to order picking has quickly become a preferred order fulfillment solution for distributors around the world, saving thousands of dollars through enhanced order picking productivity and in the costs associated with rectifying picking errors every day.

Voice-directed computing prompts the operator through a series of tasks with clear, verbal commands. These are transmitted in real-time by a radio frequency (RF) system that interfaces with the user’s host platform, typically a WMS or ERP system.


Accuracy Without the Need for Scanning
To verify they have reached the correct location, pickers are often asked to read a randomly assigned check digit on the slot. This makes the system virtually foolproof, eliminating costly picking errors and improving customer service levels.

Barcodes and scanners are not needed.

The response from operators and management at sites where Voice-Directed Computing has been implemented is very positive.

Users typically comments that their operators love the fact that they don’t need to juggle paperwork or labels, and have their hands and eyes free to do the job.

A major benefit with Voice-Directed Computing compared to conventional RF technology, is that it requires very little training. The operator simply slips on the headset and voice-computer, spends around 15 minutes familiarizing the computer with their voice, and they can begin work almost immediately. This is very attractive in distribution operations, where a large number of casual staff are often required during peak periods.

Dematic, www.logisticsasiapacific.com