How wearable electronics are conquering the factory?

Wearable devices are in great demand right now, whether they are smartwatches, fitness wristbands or data glasses. For individuals, these devices offer a number of ways of accessing data. For example, they can detect distance travelled, sleep patterns or body temperature. In the enterprise, the technology has the same potential for application, particularly in optimising processes and increasing efficiency.

The term "wearable devices" encompasses all electronic devices that can be worn directly on the body. Strictly speaking, pacemakers and quartz watches should also be included. However, first and foremost, wearables are generally understood as devices that can be connected to the internet and controlled via a smart terminal ERP or app. Interconnection with other technologies is therefore a key feature of wearable devices.

Access to fitness data for individuals

Many people like to wear smartwatches and fitness bracelets. The smart electronics in them can be used to read the wearer's running speed and position, or to measure their pulse and heart rate. Users use them to collect data and get a more detailed picture of their body and health as well as their exercise habits. In some cases, these devices can even make an important contribution to preventing disease and providing an early diagnosis.

Optimising business processes

This new technology can also bring many benefits to professional environments. In the medical world, doctors can wear data glasses to assist each other during complex operations.

In production and logistics, smart glasses can assist with machine maintenance. They allow employees to quickly spot faulty procedures and give precise instructions on how to carry out repairs. The work can also be automatically recorded and archived once it has been completed, so there is no longer any need to fill in forms.

Unimes has been laying outsmart wearable products for a long time, the more mature ones being our Bluetooth finger ring scanners, which can be expanded in the future to support more forms, such as glove wear scanning. It now enables real-time data interconnection with advanced PDAs, including watch-style smart data terminals.

Smart ring scanner in use

In the logistics warehouse of a clothing e-commerce giant in Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province, China, staff have started using Unimes' Bluetooth finger ring scanners to take stock of goods.

This allows them to work much faster than with the additional aid of a handheld scanner. The work process is also more ergonomic, as workers have their hands free to lift and carry boxes of goods and operate other equipment such as forklifts.

In the future, smart wearable devices are also expected to be used in other areas, such as goods receiving or packaging.