The use of MEMS-based technology offers the first major revolution in laser-based data collection in 20 years, making it possible to produce laser data collection scanners that are significantly faster, smaller, lighter and more efficient than today's legacy scanners.
This new era in laser scanning capability, highlights Intermec’s commitment to on-going research & development in the data collection industry.
Traditional lasers use a motor-driven mirror (or mirrors) to direct the laser light. The mechanical mirror & motor are a leading source of failure and are a limiting factor on scanner durability, speed & size. In the Intermec EL10 MEMS scanner, the mirror is etched directly on silicon and uses a unique method of oscillation that requires less power and offers increased speed, as well as 2-D matrix scanning capability.
MEMS and Improved Scanning
The EL10 can operate at 500 scans per second, with the potential to go to 4,000 scans per second, compared to standard laser scan rates of less than 50 scans per second. Its micro-mirror and associated drive motor are 1/66th the size of the mirrors used in traditional laser scanner designs, adding to its durability and compact size. In addition to increased speed and smaller size, the new MEMS-based scanning technology from Intermec allows laser scanners to read more sophisticated types of bar codes, such as stacked bar codes and linear codes.
How can MEMS help my supply chain operation?
The use of MEMS in supply chain applications promises similar behind-the-scenes improvement to a company's supply chain operations. Because MEMS-based laser scanners are capable of reading barcodes up to 40 times as fast as today’s legacy equipment, workers are able to collect information more rapidly and efficiently, speeding the flow of information through a supply chain and improving supply chain visibility.
MEMS Technology
MEMS (Micro Electro-Mechanical System) is created by using micro fabrication technology to integrate mechanical elements into high speed, rugged and reliable micro sized “engines”. The tiny engines collect data and have decision making capability. They can be built to react to light, biological, chemical, optical, movement and other environmental situations.
MEMS is the underlying technology behind anti lock brakes and vehicle airbags, and is used in numerous industrial and commercial products. MEMS promises to revolutionise nearly every product category, making possible the realisation of complete “systems-on-a-chip.”
About Gamma Solutions
Gamma Solutions Pty Ltd (www.gammasolutions.com) is an Australian owned company,
based in Melbourne, with offices in Sydney, Brisbane & Adelaide, Australia.
Founded in 1992, the company provides all the components of a mobile computing, RFID and data collection systems such as portable terminals, scanners, printers, wireless networks, middleware software and implementation services. Gamma Solutions is a company committed to providing quality, practical and flexible solutions to suit the needs of its customers
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Resources
Intermec Technologies Corporation,”Intermec introduces MEMS Nanotechnology to Supply Chain Laser Scanning”. 2006. http.intermec.com (06/03/2006)
Burnell,John. ”Small Feats”, Realtime, 2005.
