PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Warehouse Wearables
From wearable barcode scanners like the Rufus Scan2 to exoskeletons that provide dynamic lift assistance, here are some warehouse solutions that can improve productivity and reduce strain.
← TeamViewer Frontline Pick: Utilizing augmented reality, this vision picking solution streamlines order picking, inventory checks, and sequencing with visual information, audio cues, and integrated verification. DHL recently implemented the smart glasses-based solution, which has resulted in a 15% increase in productivity and cut the warehouse training process from weeks to a few hours. About 1,500 operators at DHL’s U.S. sites use the hands-free TeamViewer Frontline Pick solution.
→ EPG LYDIA Live Translation: Voice-controlled order picking solution provider EPG (Ehrhardt Partner Group) launched LYDIA Live Translation, a real-time translation feature that works independently of specific hardware. Supporting a voice picking wearable solution, the AI-driven feature enables warehouse workers to overcome language barriers. It acts as a real-time translation assistant, enabling free-flowing conversations in more than 40 languages.
← Zebra WS5x Series: This small Android enterprise-class wearable mobile computer can be worn on a wrist, two fingers, or the back of the hand. Designed for warehouses, manufacturing plants, and retail stores, Zebra’s WS5x devices can capture barcodes or high-resolution photos, enable workforce-wide collaboration with push-to-talk, and automate workflows with programmable buttons.
→ ProGlove Index Trigger: The wearable from ProGlove features an ergonomic trigger position, field tested to limit fatigue and maximize dexterity. Workers can put on the Index Trigger in one motion and be ready to work in seconds. It is available in three sizes for right- and left-handed workers with an operating temperature range of 23°F to 122°F.
← HeroWear Apex 2: The Apex 2 reduces muscle fatigue and strain by 40% and takes off 20-40% of back strain with every lift. Made with abrasion-resistant fabrics, engineering-grade polymers, and aircraft-grade aluminum, the suit can hold up to warehouse environments. HeroWear offers Apex 2 at a low cost per user in bulk kits, as well as leases it or provides it as-a-service.
→ Exia Augmented AI Exoskeleton: German Bionic introduced its most advanced wearable, Exia, which is powered by Augmented AI. Informed by insights from billions of real-world motion data points collected across the logistics industry as well as manufacturing, retail, and healthcare, Exia can anticipate user needs and optimize support in real time. Providing up to 84 pounds of dynamic lift assistance, it interprets movement patterns, understands context, adjusts support, and learns with every movement.
← IX BACK VOLTON: SUITX by Ottobock unveiled the IX BACK VOLTON, a 10-pound battery-powered exoskeleton designed to reduce strain for workers in logistics and manufacturing. With real-time adaptive technology, the IX BACK VOLTON adjusts to different movement patterns—lifting, walking, bending, and carrying—to support order picking and loading/unloading. It provides up to 40 pounds of lifting relief per movement, reducing strain while maintaining mobility. Companies can now book guided pilot projects with the IX BACK VOLTON.
→ ErgoSanté HAPO UP Exoskeleton: The HAPO UP exoskeleton is the latest addition to the HAPO range. Developed to protect the shoulders and arms of workers who perform repetitive movements or put their arms up for prolonged periods, it offers protection to upper limbs when handling loads. Using a honeycomb structure, the HAPO UP is designed to provide strength with minimal material. Nuvo Exo is the U.S. distributor for ErgoSanté, a European designer and manufacturer of exoskeletons.
← Rufus Scan2 Wearable Barcode Scanner: Warehouse workers can wear the Rufus Scan2 with modular attachments like the Airglove, Palm, or Ring for hands-free scanning. The solution can scan barcodes up to 50 feet away. Rufus WorkHero Intelligence software tracks every scan and data point from the Scan2, helping warehouse management increase operational efficiency.