IEN: How can this sector meet rising demand for greater automation and flexibility?
Curry: Implement 2D open source barcode standards and mark each and every part in the material workflow. Code stds such as Datamatrix can be encoded with some very useful downstream data that allows the handlers of this material to track it through the distribution and final point of consumption. Data is information and if available, it will enable handling efficiency to all that use it.
IEN: What innovations are in store for users of equipment, systems, components, materials, and software?
Curry: Smaller, faster, and less expensive barcode readers that can easily handle simple linear barcodes as well as complex 2 dimensional codes. Area imager barcode readers that can read barcodes and take pictures to streamline the data gathering process.
IEN: What advances do you see in plant floor connectivity? Web services?
Curry: Today''s barcode readers from HHP can connect to virtually any and all computer-based barcode and data collection systems.
IEN: Where are other R & D hot spots?
Curry: Direct part mark readers that can read very low contrast codes imbedded on the parts and read them from distances never achieved before.
IEN: Will wireless become more prevalent?
Curry: Yes. Low-cost RF-enabled handheld image readers will allow data collection in the warehouse without the restrictions of cables. Point-to-point and networked handheld imagers will become more commonplace in these applications.
IEN: How can downtime issues be resolved? Through RCM, web-based monitoring, embedded maintenance? Other solutions?
Curry: HHP handheld barcode imagers are a very reliable technology and failure rates on this technology are extremely low. Combined low failure rates and low cost of ownership have made problematic downtime issues due to the HH imager almost nonexistent.
IEN: What progress do you see in meeting safety and security goals?
Curry: Since barcodes help track goods, they will also help to track people. Many security-tracking applications implement barcodes as the fundamental identity-tracking medium.