The RCD S⁺ product is used for the automated bulk detection of pallets with stackable containers of various designs, such as collapsible crates or returnable containers (RPCs).
Stacking containers and reusable containers are an integral part of logistics and sustainable supply chains. There are numerous areas of application: For example, they are used to gently transport food products such as fruit, vegetables, bread or meat, as well as components for the automotive supply industry or medicines for pharmacies.
On arrival, containers stacked on pallets are driven through the RCD S⁺, identified, recorded, counted and the results made available to the logistics depot for further processing in higher-level systems. More than 20 of these systems are now in use at pooling and logistics service providers across Europe.
The innovative, automated solution for the digital recording and counting of RPCs and stacking containers was developed at the Eckelmann Group headquarters in Wiesbaden and is being continuously optimized.
Eckelmann supplies the complete system development from a single source:
- Application software, image processing, ERP interfaces, control technology
- Application: Intuitive user interface for fast and uncomplicated operation
- Mapping of customer-specific workflows
- Camera system with AI-based image processing software
- Hardware from the Eckelmann Group: E°EXC 89 controller, including IO system for optional connection to conveyor technology
- Digitalization: Extensive KPI recording and evaluation
The image processing takes over:
Shape and color recognition of the packs and pallets
- Fully automatic image correction of packs that are not optimally stacked
- Detection of multiple stacked pallets
- 1D and 2D label detection — reading of product identifiers or additional information
- Detection of foreign containers
- Quantity recording of mixed container stacks by container type
- Quantity comparison with delivery bill details
Do you have questions?
Kathrin Klinker
Sales Manager Automation Projects
Email: k.klinker@eckelmann.de