Barcode reading made easy News | 24.01.2024

Optical Factors Influencing Automated Barcode Data Capture

In industrial logistics and material tracking, the first-time read rate of barcodes is a critical success factor for smooth operations. When the material flow stalls, the root cause is frequently not a faulty encoding, but rather the physical properties of the label surface. Especially in outdoor applications, such as stillage yards in the steel industry or automotive supplier premises, shifting light conditions and direct sunlight cause extreme reflections. High-gloss materials dazzle the optical sensor of the scanner, mechanically neutralising the contrast between the black bars and the white background.

While the whiteness of the substrate determines the theoretical contrast, it is the reflection performance that dictates practical usability under real-world conditions. S+P Samson GmbH has analyzed various specialized varnishes and surface structures in extensive testing to develop a process-secure solution for harsh industrial environments.

Satin-Matt Surfaces for Maximum Process Reliability

The result of this development work is a new satin-matt surface conditioning for industrial barcode labels. The targeted matting of the coating diffuses incident light and prevents specular reflections, guaranteeing optimal reading results even in strong, angled outdoor sunlight. The dirt-repellent protective properties of the base material remain fully intact, ensuring that oils, dust, or moisture cannot render the labelling illegible.

In addition to improved optical performance, the physical structure of the matt surface provides a substantial advantage during the printing stage: it optimises the anchoring and fixation of the ribbon during the thermal transfer printing process. The printed image becomes exceptionally scratch- and smudge-resistant. This combination of high whiteness, minimised reflection, and excellent ink adhesion ensures error-free automated data capture, driving efficiency across the entire internal supply chain.