At nearly every step in the supply chain, workers are generating and collecting data that can be used to enhance end-to-end operational efficiency and productivity. To continue to meet the high expectations of e-commerce consumers who demand real-time access to information about the location of their package and its delivery schedule, businesses are turning to powerful mobility solutions to help them capture and relay data across a variety of supply chain touchpoints.

The CT47 is an ultra-rugged mobile computer built on the Mobility Edge™ platform, a unified mobile device platform from Honeywell that offers enhanced lifespan, durability and security. The CT47 is designed for the diverse needs of the entire supply chain, allowing users to scan products and update order and inventory statuses in real-time at any stage, from manufacturing to transport and logistics to delivery.

CT47 can deliver operational advantages for businesses and individuals throughout the supply chain.

Supply Chain Applications

Manufacturing

For manufacturers throughout the world, tracking and tracing materials through real-time data is vital for quality control and to keep production on schedule.  Data can greatly improve how manufacturers identify quality issues, find root causes in production lines, and rectify problems quickly. The CT47 mobile computer empowers manufacturers to gain access to real-time data to help them become more efficient with inventory control of both raw materials and finished products. But manufacturing facilities can be noisy places full of vibrating machinery, and they can be dusty and dirty with moisture in the air. The ruggedized CT47 excels in these harsh environments, with an integrated exoskeleton and a hi-vis protective boot offering superb protection. Fast and accurate authentication through fingerprint and facial recognition and capacitive touchscreens means workers can access their devices quickly and use them in nearly any condition, knowing they will operate to the same high level, time and again.

Warehousing and distribution

Workflows in warehousing and distribution centers cover receiving, picking, putting away, and replenishment. Each workflow has critical touchpoints where data capture is essential to make the product location visible to the entire organization. Accurate barcode scanning plays a vital role in this data capture. The CT47 mobile computer has a powerful FlexRange XLR scan engine, that enables users to scan near or far, high or low, and is capable of successfully scanning hard-to-read or damaged bar codes. Warehouses and distribution centers also often cover sprawling footprints, with varying lighting conditions, and with work activities taking place both inside and outside. These factors put great demands on handheld devices. The CT47 meets these requirements with advanced connectivity such as 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, private cellular and CBRS options and a bright 5.5-inch screen that can be read in most ambient conditions. The scanner uses a green laser for ultimate visibility even in outdoor conditions.>

Transport and Logistics

The eCommerce boom and customer expectation of next-day, even same-day, delivery has put immense pressure on transportation and logistics companies. With drivers constantly on the move, they need a device that is going to help them provide accurate and timely updates on each product they handle, from pickup to delivery. With much of their day spent away from base and charging docks, they need a device that offers long-lasting battery life. And they are constantly in and out of their vehicles, which risks the chance of dropping and damaging the device. Here, again, CT47 has the answers: high capacity 4775-mAh batteries that reduce the need for timely recharging or replacement while on a shift, while 8-foot concrete drop tests in development means 99% of devices are predicted to survive 2,000 tumbles.

 Optional features provide extra benefits to end users:

• Operational Intelligence is a software add-on that provides data analytics in real-time so that users can predict device issues and minimize device downtime.
• Honeywell Smart Talk unifies the fragmented communications channels frontline workers use to stay in touch and collaborate. The solution includes voice calls, text and media messaging, video, and user preferences<.
• Honeywell Voice-Guided Work Solutions frees up hands and eyes by providing users with voice-guided workflows, which can help save time, increase productivity, and reduce risks.

Conclusion

Supply chain companies are pursuing digital transformation to improve productivity and workflow efficiency. The high expectations of modern e-commerce consumers drive this trend. While the workflow challenges at successive stages of the supply chain differ, CT47 provides a multi-purpose mobile device solution that can meet these needs in a single device.

Learn how the CT47 mobile computer can create workflow optimization opportunities by contacting a Honeywell solutions expert today.