Imagine having to extend your arm, rotate your wrist, and click the scanner about 3,000 times a day. That's how workers at warehouse companies assemble your online orders. Some have been treated for carpal tunnel syndrome.
For years, warehouse operators have been searching for new devices and experimenting with them. They want industrial scanner guns that help them select, pack and ship their orders amid a surge in online ordering (don't confuse commercial scanners with the small versions found in stores and supermarkets).
Retailers and others who sell online, as well as logistics companies, are all pursuing ways to increase efficiency, improve ergonomics, and reduce costs.
Zebra Technologies, of Lincolnshire, Ill., the largest maker of scanners, is betting on the new version of their gun. It's connected to a touch screen and camera, increases scanning speed and reduces stress on workers.
The new Zebra TC8000 lists for $2,800 and up. It runs software powered by Google's Android System and is controlled by a large touch screen, according to The Wall Street Journal.
The handle is the heaviest part, allowing easier wrist movement than with top-heavy scanner guns. The camera lets users see what they scan to prevent mistakes.
Competition from Amazon.com has forced warehouses to reduce delivery time and cut costs.
Sophisticated warehouse operators continually analyze worker moves and ergonomic scanner designs.
