The S1 integrates an M2 with a directly connected weight scale, an overhead dedicated 3D Color sensor, and an optional external USB barcode scanner to extend the capabilities of the M2.
By simply scanning the barcode of the item on the scale surface, the M2 senses the weight, position, dimension and shape of the item automatically and immediately. The M2 can also be detached at any time for mobile dimensioning, or for items too large for the scale surface.
The S1 is even easier to use than the M2, only requiring the operator to take one action: barcode scan the item. The M2 works with the S1 sensors (weight and dim) to simultaneously and immediately capture, save and upload the scan results immediately, achieving high item scan throughput.
Place item on scale surface. The S1 software will sense the item is present and prepare to scan.
Scan the desired barcode, and the S1 will simultaneously and automatically capture weight, dimensions and shape of the item, without any operator interaction.
Remove the item from the scale surface, and Item Dim, Barcode, Shape, Raw and Background Subtracted Image are saved to local flash or sent in real-time via WiFi to networked server (JSON). The workflow is automatically reset and waiting for the next item to be placed on the scale.
The S1 achieves a high throughput rate for capture of weight and dimension while minimizing operator interaction and fatigue.
The S1 software running on the M2 uses both computer vision perception of the scene on the S1 scale surface, as well as real time streaming weight data from the scale, to detect the placement, presence and removal of items.
The S1 uses this perception capability to automate the start and end of an item scan sequence, pushing scan results to the desired host, and resetting the workflow for the next item, without any action required by the operator.
To reduce cost, complexity and maintenance, the S1 reuses the handheld M2 platform for software processing as well as for the touchscreen UI/UX .
The S1 uses the same proven 3D computer vision sensor as the M2, in a fixed overhead configuration looking down at the weight scale surface.
M2 image processing algorithms leverage the overhead sensor, the RGB LED light, and the scale surface to scan more item types.
The operator has four customizable metadata keys on the M2 UI, should the need arise to add qualitative data to each scan.
Dimension analysis is generated in 1/10th of a second on the M2 by our highly optimized ARM algorithm running on a Qualcomm 660 processor.
The S1 system calibrates itself and the scene automatically, in the background, during the operators natural workflow.
When the M2 plugs into the S1, it automatically switches software modes and turns into the S1 system controller and processor, while retaining the UI/UX of the M2 handheld. The S1 app running on the M2 controls the RGB LED light ring, the weight scale, and the overhead 3D color sensor, working together to provide a minimal cycle time per weight/dim scan task.
Whether the M2 is being used standalone or plugged into the S1, the UI/UX operation remains consistent. An operator can operate both systems with minimal training.
The operator need only to scan an item once placed on the scale surface, and the S1 will automatically and simultaneously capture the weight, dimensions, and shape type as well as save the results to the sdcard and upload to a server via WiFi with no operator action. Upon removing the item from the scale surface, the S1 software automatically resets the system to be ready for the next item.
All the same customizations available with the M2 are available in the S1 mode of operation. Units of dimension, rounding options, soft button text/state, barcode symbology, WiFi real time data syncing, power saving options and more are configurable.
The S1 software is constantly calibrating the scale zero and the 3D computer vision perception of the system, so as to reduce any effects should the S1 Cart be moved around to environments within the warehouse.
The 3D computer vision and automation software stack will gain new capabilities in the future, taking advantage of the unique properties of the S1, such as the fully programmable LED light ring and the fixed overhead 3D color sensor. We expect to be able to scan new materials and thinner items.
| Parameter | Specification | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Max Object Size | L < 32″ W< 24″ |
Max H will depend on L and W of item. Verify item in M2 UI preview. |
| Min Object Size | Smallest dimension > 0.5″ | Some features > 0.25” can be scanned if the item is smaller and the M2 is closer to the item |
| Error to Ground Truth | < 0.5″ for cuboidal < 1.0″ for irregulars |
Place item in middle of scale surface for best results |
| Max Weight | 50 lbs | Place item in middle of scale surface for best results |
| S1 system weight | 150 lbs | Not including portable power kits |
| Power consumption | < 25W | Assuming LED and M2 duty cycle is 100%, which shouldn’t be the case |
| Ambient Operating Temperature | 5-35C° |
The S1 will be available in either a table top or a movable Cart based configuration. The upper portion (from scale surface on up) of the S1 will remain unchanged in either configuration.
Otherwise, the following options/accessories are being planned:
Q: Does the scale come calibrated?
A: The scale is factory calibrated, and a calibration procedure will be available through the S1 software, though you’ll need specific NIST certified weights, available on Amazon. A NIST certified calibration for the scale is in the works.
Q: Is the S1 dimensioning capability certified legal for trade?
A: As with the M2, we plan to submit the S1 for NTEP certification later in 2022.
Q: Can the S1 be moved around?
A: The S1 Cart configuration is easily moved around the warehouse, thought not recommended to move across rough or bumpy flooring, as it may throw (any) the weight scale out of calibration.
Q: How is the S1 powered?
A: Currently the S1 requires 120VAC, but a UPS/inverter can be easily used for a portable or movable solution. Contact us for specifications on the inverter if you go this way. The S1 system is relatively low power and be thrifty with any reasonable size battery.
S1 beta units have been in testing and deployment since 2021, working with the M1 (predecessor to the M2). Since then, we have upgraded to a second generation S1 design to take advantage of new hardware capabilities in the M2. The new S1’s should be available for purchase in Q1 of 2025 direct from QBOID and through authorized resellers in North America only. Inquire for shipment to outside of the continental USA.
