Summary of Innovation
Ricoh’s latest innovation integrates automation and sustainability, the two most significant requirements in the material handling industry nowadays. The Laser Rewritable Labeling System realizes labor cost optimization with improved operational efficiency by delivering a fully automated and groundbreaking labeling process for circular distribution labeling applications. In a circular distribution environment, it is necessary to attach an adhesive paper label containing the shipping address and delivery requirements onto a reusable container such as a plastic tote. Each time the tote is used, a user must dispose of the old label. This leads to a build-up of adhesive and torn label residue on the tote or multiple labels that can lead to confusion and error.
The Ricoh Laser Rewritable Labeling System utilizes a dedicated label that can be rewritten, erased, and then rewritten at high speed while permanently attached to the reusable tote. This innovation eliminates the need for label replacement and label disposal work plus the procurement of label stock. The effect is an improvement in work efficiency and reducing the environmental burden of paper waste and disposal at the same time. In addition, this label is durable which allows it to be used for a long period of time even under the harsh outdoor conditions required by the logistics industry. Utilizing Ricoh’s thermal imaging technology, the new Laser Rewritable Labeling System, allows both human- and machine-readable real-time information to be rewritten and erased without removing the label. Instead of consuming a lot of single-use labels, this solution offers both automation and sustainability results immediately.
Innovation Statement
The Laser Rewritable Labeling System makes it possible to print, erase, and reprint human-readable information as well as a variety of barcodes and characters onto pre-applied labels affixed to plastic totes. This system incorporates a fully automated, labor and cost-saving labeling process, with multiple sustainability benefits by eliminating paper labels and their inherent issues from reusable containers used in distribution centers, manufacturing plants, and food distribution centers.
Applicability
Automation and sustainability are at the forefront of companies around the world and the Laser Rewritable Labeling System will free up employees' time to be spent on more complicated tasks other than attaching and removing labels while saving tons of paper and printing supplies affecting the environment.
| Posted Date | 1/12/23 |
| Contact | Kevin Sikes |
| Contact Email | Kevin_Sikes[at]rei.ricoh.com |
| Category | Best New Innovation |
Submitted by Ricoh Electronics.
Booth(s): S3284