Customers are finding inserts to be much more relevant in recent years because catalogue publishers have detailed customer data and catalogue distribution companies are using this information to send targeted supplements. Sigloch Distribution, located in Germany, uses a sophisticated automation system that links the customer database with the logistics automation system ensuring customers receive inserts that are relevant to their interests. Data Matrix codes are used as the link between the database and the automation system. They provide the individual identifying feature in the selection process based on the customer data. A Cognex DataMan ID reader decodes them in a fraction of a second and forwards the customer-specific information to the supplement control system.
Sigloch delivers approximately 30 million catalogues per year or 100,000-200,000 catalogues per day and up to 13 supplements, which are inserted specifically for each customer. Production rates of 5,000-6,000 catalogues per hour can only be achieved with highly reliable machines and well-honed processes. Action and information interact in just a few milliseconds Johannes Braun, technical director of Sigloch says: “The bundling of information in 1D or 2D codes and the reliable reading with image-based ID readers like the DataMan fixed-mount readers make our logistics processes fast and flexible.”
The address cover sheet, to which the small 10 x 10mm 2D Data Matrix codes are applied with inkjet printers, can be of varying thickness and quality. Not every ID reader can then detect the codes reliably or quickly with the variances that are seen in the codes from the printing process. The previous ID reader used wasn’t capable of meeting the increased demands for speed and precision. After extensive research, Sigloch Distribution chose DataMan because the image-based ID reader stood out with its combination of innovative technology and more robust construction. The DataMan reader has built-in illumination, a camera, a processor and an Ethernet port for real-time tracking, data download, data transfer and easy system integration.
A fast, software-controlled autofocus without manual intervention or moving parts is possible thanks to the liquid lens technology. This allows significantly improved flexibility in depth of field and facilitates installation, setup and maintenance.
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