Storopack Service Software Adds Barcoding Feature to Packaging System

A new service software product launched for use with the foam padding system FOAMplus®  from Storopack allows selection of the right bag size and filling by barcode. All the packer needs to do is scan the marking on the transport packaging and press a button to dispense the specific foam bag required for the consignment in question. At the same time, photos or videos at a computer screen illustrate how to best position the packing material and goods in the package.

This radically simplifies the process of instructing new employees who may have language difficulties, practically eliminating the possibility of operating and application errors and increasing productivity at the packaging station.

Following initial confirmation, all the foam bags required for a particular package can be dispensed either manually (repeated pressing of the button) or automatically. Any optional time intervals can be selected for the automatic mode. If a follow-on consignment is the same type as the previous one, a simple click at the control display is enough, and FOAMplus® will repeat the last foam bag sequence. Otherwise, the operator uses the scanner again to read in the next barcode.

The FOAMplus® foam packaging device can be supplied complete with touchscreen PC and barcode scanner. Alternatively, the Storopack service technicians can install the necessary software on an existing PC and scanner, provided the specified system conditions are in place.

The equipment blends seamlessly into the intralogistical organisation of companies who use barcode technology in their shipping departments. When the FOAMplus® foam packaging system is introduced, the first step is to ensure that all the necessary foam padding equipment is defined for the relevant packaging assignment – for example four small bags in the corners for product A, but two large cushions for product B which completely enclose the packaged product. Similarly, the equipment can differ depending on the carton size or consignment type.

The data required for the type and number of foam pads can be stored using the software input mask and allocated, together with the photos, to the barcode for the relevant packaging assignment. Other combinations can be added or individual coefficients changed later at any time.

This concept is fully in tune with Storopack’s “working comfort” approach, which promotes user-friendly, ergonomically optimised equipment at the packaging station in the interests of improved results.