Freezer-ready handhelds underpin cold-chain operations

John McMeeking of Motorola Solutions explains how the Psion VH10 and Psion Omnii XT15f mobile handheld computers are helping warehouse and logistics managers to streamline the way they work and satisfy ever-increasing demand. 

 

Fuelled by rising consumer demand for everything from exotic vegetables through to frozen ready meals, the global cold storage and logistics market is growing rapidly. New opportunities are opening up in regions such as Latin America and the medical supplies sector is also a key growth area.

Year-on-year growth in the Asia-Pacific region alone is set to reach 17.5%. And with such rapid expansion, it is anticipated that between 2011 and 2017 the overall value of the market will have doubled from worldwide revenues of $75.57 billion (£49.74 billion) to $157.14 billion (£103.44 billion). 

Rugged mobile computers have revolutionised the way in which storage and logistics operators manage warehousing and distribution. Improved access to critical data can help staff to work more efficiently. For example, they can monitor ambient temperature remotely to ensure that optimum conditions are maintained at all times. And the ability for warehouse workers to update inventory information remotely improves accuracy and saves time.

“Mobile computing has helped warehousing and logistics companies to automate processes that were previously paper-based,” says John. “As a result, workers are more productive. This significantly improves operational efficiency, speeding up the time it takes to get products to customers.”

However, cold storage and distribution environments have always proved a challenge. “Cold environments are extremely unforgiving for computing hardware,” says John. “Low temperatures can slow down displays and drain batteries, while movement between cold storage areas and warmer loading bays can cause screens to mist up.”

In response to these challenges, Psion has developed a new generation of products that are specifically designed for operation in extreme-cold environments. These include the Psion Omnii XT15f handheld device and the Psion VH10 vehicle-mounted computer.

Combining resilient design with state-of-the-art functionality, the modular Psion Omnii XT15f is built to withstand sub-zero temperatures to -30˚ C. This handheld mobile computer is ideal for data capture and traceability applications in perishable food freezers and refrigerators used for storage and distribution of pharmaceutical products. 

A range of features support reliable operations in freezing conditions. For example, a heated scan window eliminates condensation caused by movement between cold and warm environments. “This automated defogging functionality ensures successful barcode scanning, whatever the temperature,” says John.

An optically-bonded screen display with an integrated heater prevents the internal build-up of condensation due to extreme temperature fluctuations. This means that the display remains clear so that it is easy for warehousing staff to read at all times.

In addition, the keyboard is designed to be frost-resistant with ice build-up removed simply by pressing the keys. The keys are positioned so workers can enter data with one hand, whether ungloved or gloved in conditions of extreme cold. And with single-touch function keys, workers can carry out complex tasks at the touch of a button.

Ideal for forklift trucks, straddle cranes and other vehicles used in warehouses, manufacturing plants and intermodal terminals, the rugged Psion VH10 vehicle-mounted mobile computer helps keep mobile workers connected. Using these devices, they can access delivery details, record stock movements and update inventory information.

Designed for use in extreme cold, the Psion VH10 clearly demonstrates Psion’s commitment to manufacturing 100% fit-for-purpose cold-store devices. A heated touchscreen ensures that workers can connect with ERP and warehouse management systems even in freezer environments. 

The device also has smart temperature sensors that automatically control heaters on the device to ensure frost- and condensation-free operation. In addition, drainage holes allow the natural build-up of condensation to drain away. 

With an ever-increasing focus on improving the speed with which high-quality produce reaches our supermarket shelves, cold-chain operators are under pressure as never before to increase productivity and streamline processes. It is clear that rugged mobile technology has a key role to play in driving efficiency improvements in cold-chain logistics and storage.

“Designed to function effectively in extreme-temperature conditions, our new specialist freezer-rated devices can help cold-chain operators to shave precious time and costs off their operations,” says John. “In this way, rugged mobile computing devices from Motorola deliver real competitive advantage.”