Snapshot
Noventi Consulting, a leading technology solutions provider, partnered with Dynamsoft to enhance tool tracking and management for their clients specializing in milling machine tool maintenance, sharpening, and refurbishment. Their goal was to replace manual tracking methods with an automated system that improves operational efficiency, reduces human error, and enhances traceability.
By integrating the Dynamsoft Barcode Reader (DBR) SDK using Flutter framework, Noventi Consulting enabled seamless scanning of laser-engraved DataMatrix codes on milling tools. The solution performed efficiently under low-light conditions, ensuring accurate identification and retrieval of tool information. As a result, Noventi Consulting successfully streamlined tool lifecycle management, benefiting both their client and end-users.
Introduction
In the industrial manufacturing and machining industry, precise tool tracking is crucial for maintaining efficiency and ensuring proper maintenance. However, traditional methods such as paper records, spreadsheets, and labeled photos are inefficient, error-prone, and time-consuming.
Noventi Consulting aimed to develop a DataMatrix scanning application to provide technicians and customers with instant access to tool maintenance history. They required a reliable, accurate, and efficient barcode scanning solution that could handle curved, low-contrast, and reflective DataMatrix codes on metal surfaces.
Challenge
Before implementing Dynamsoft Barcode Reader, Noventi Consulting’s client faced several issues:
- Manual tracking methods led to inefficiencies and human errors.
- Engraved DataMatrix codes on curved metal surfaces were difficult to scan.
- Poor lighting conditions in workshops and factories created scanning challenges.
- The lack of a real-time tool tracking solution impacted operational productivity.
To overcome these challenges, they sought a barcode scanning SDK that could offer high precision, instant recognition, and robust performance under variable conditions.
Dynamsoft Barcode Reader helped us build a fast, accurate, and automated solution for scanning DataMatrix codes on tools. The users can now instantly access relevant data, streamline tool management, and improve operational efficiency. “
– Maxence, Engineering Manager
Solution
Instead of developing a barcode scanner from scratch, Noventi Consulting evaluated multiple SDKs, including ZXing, ZBar, and ML Kit. However, only Dynamsoft Barcode Reader met all their requirements, offering:
- Accurate scanning of engraved DataMatrix codes, even on curved and reflective surfaces.
- Seamless performance in low-light environments.
- Fast and reliable decoding, ensuring technicians and customers could instantly access tool data.
Implementation
The application, built with Flutter, was successfully deployed on both iOS and Android platforms. Users can scan one image at a time to retrieve maintenance history and track tool usage effectively. Additionally, the application’s camera settings were optimized to automatically adjust exposure based on varying lighting conditions, ensuring clear and accurate scans.
Integration and Development
Noventi Consulting’s development team consisted of four professionals, including two developers, a UX/UI designer, and a technical expert. The application was designed for compatibility with existing mobile platforms and focused on providing a user-friendly experience.
Development Timeline
The project progressed from planning to full production deployment in just two months, showcasing an efficient development timeline. It featured smooth integration with Flutter, necessitating only minor adjustments to the native components. Looking ahead, there are plans to incorporate database integration and implement predictive maintenance analytics to enhance the application's functionality further.
Impact
The integration of Dynamsoft Barcode Reader has significantly improved tool tracking and operational efficiency:
- 30-50% reduction in time spent managing tools.
- Elimination of manual errors, ensuring accurate tracking.
- Faster access to tool history, improving maintenance workflows.
- Better user experience for technicians and customers.
Future Plans
Noventi Consulting plans to enhance the application by:
- Implementing predictive analytics to estimate tool maintenance schedules.
- Automating maintenance reminders based on scanning frequency.
- Integrating with existing databases for comprehensive tool management.
About Dynamsoft Barcode Reader
Dynamsoft Barcode Reader is an enterprise-grade barcode scanning SDK that delivers exceptional accuracy and speed. Designed to handle even the most challenging barcode conditions, it enables developers to build solutions that efficiently capture barcode data, optimize workflows, and enhance operational efficiency.