"Product Classification Without Scanning Barcodes" Emart24 Introduces Automation System at Pyeongtaek Logistics Center

Emart24, interior view of Pyeongtaek Logistics Center (Photo by Emart24).

'Intelligent Automatic Sorting System' Analyzes Product Characteristics Without Barcode Recognition for Sorting
Improves Work Environment and Efficiency by Automating Simple Tasks and Handling of Heavy Products

[Asia Economy Reporter Yuri Kim] Emart24 announced on the 9th that it will improve logistics work efficiency by introducing a state-of-the-art intelligent automatic sorting system at the Pyeongtaek Logistics Center this year.

This system, developed independently by the automation equipment specialist company 'SFA', automatically classifies the type and quantity of products by AI without recognizing barcodes attached to the products.

Generally, logistics centers use scanners to recognize barcodes on products or separately attached labels. However, the distribution industry handles a wide variety of products, and due to differences in packaging conditions and methods, the barcode locations vary, requiring additional manpower and reducing sorting efficiency.

Emart24 explained that it partnered with SFA to go beyond the existing automation system by introducing an automatic sorting system. The AI-based Optical Character Recognition (OCR) system, first introduced in the industry at the Pyeongtaek Logistics Center, comprehensively analyzes characteristics such as text, shape, and color on the products themselves, enabling rapid and accurate sorting of all products by store without barcodes.

Additionally, instead of people moving to pick products, the system moves products to people (GTP), and through a system (DPS) that allows picking items without work slips using computers and digital displays, all logistics center tasks have been automated and systematized to realize a paperless logistics center. Emart24 stated, "By introducing automation equipment, unnecessary simple tasks have been reduced, and the automation of moving and sorting heavy products has improved the working environment for on-site workers." They added, "With the operation of a logistics center applying advanced technology, the occurrence of missed or incorrect shipments of products ordered by franchise stores has been greatly reduced, enabling timely delivery of accurate products to franchise stores, thereby increasing satisfaction for both business owners and customers."

They also explained that through the operation of a separate safety management organization, regular and occasional electrical and fire safety inspections are conducted, and efforts are being made in safety management, including conducting joint public-private fire drills with the Songtan Fire Station this month.

Emart24 plans to open two additional automated logistics centers in the northern Gyeonggi and Yeongnam regions by 2023, similar to the Pyeongtaek Logistics Center. Baek Jiho, Executive Director in charge of MD at Emart24, said, "We have introduced a state-of-the-art logistics system to improve logistics work efficiency and working conditions," and added, "We will continue to invest in logistics center automation and systems in preparation for the continuous increase in the number of stores and logistics volume."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.