Even in highly automated warehouses, one thing is often missing: visual context. Without it, tracing faults is slow, incomplete, or simply impossible. Pepperl+Fuchs, sensing technology manufacturer, introduces a ‘dash cam’ for industry, able to record relevant situations for analysis and optimisation.
Automated high-bay warehouses with stacker cranes are a cornerstone of modern intralogistics. They enable rapid storage and retrieval while making optimal use of available space. In deep-freeze environments, their components must withstand extreme conditions down to –30°C. The cold chain must remain uninterrupted throughout every stage of goods handling. Even a few minutes of downtime in cold storage can lead to lost throughput and rising operational costs. When this happens, there’s often no apparent trace of what went wrong or why. What if you could replay exactly what happened, with no guesswork and no delay?
The Solution
Mount anindustrial event camera directly onto the stacker crane to monitor storage and retrieval operations. It continuously records the last 60 seconds of live video into an integrated circular buffer. When a fault or predefined event occurs, the camera automatically transfers this buffered footage, and 60 seconds after the trigger, it is stored permanently on an SD card.
The camera only records relevant scenarios, helping maintenance teams quickly identify root causes and understand subsequent system behaviour. These targeted image sequences are invaluable for immediate fault analysis and long-term process optimisation.
- HD livestream via Real-Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP)
- Digital hardware input for a trigger sensor or signal
- Internal circular buffer for 60 seconds before and after each event
- SD card capacity for up to 10,000 video sequences
- Quick, intuitive classification of relevant recordings
- REST API for seamless integration into IT systems
- Operating temperature: –30°C to +50°C
- IP65-rated enclosure for protection against dust and water jets[OB1]
The Benefits
Event-based storage offers a more innovative alternative to continuous video recording, reducing data overhead while providing instant access to critical footage. Each video includes a text overlay showing the date, time, and relevant error messages. Trigger signals can be captured directly from the control system via a digital input.
The password-protected user interface is accessible via any web browser and allows live HD monitoring and straightforward configuration. No additional PC hardware is required for integration or storage. The REST API also enables the development of custom user interfaces and full integration into existing IT infrastructure.
An optional integrated heating system supports reliable operation in deep-freeze and outdoor environments, maintaining full functionality from -30 °C to +50°C. The event camera’s IP65 protection rating ensures durability in harsh industrial conditions.
Event Camera at a glance
A rugged industrial camera that stores video sequences of relevant events, recording targeted footage for efficient fault analysis and process optimisation. The camera can be easily integrated into existing systems without need of additional PC hardware. What’s more, it can be accessed via a web browser or custom-programmed interface.
Unlike standard video systems, the VOC records only what matters — before and after an event — and thrives in the harshest environments. Paired with the R2000 for precise collision avoidance, it creates a resilient, fully integrated automation solution.
Advanced LiDAR technology
The R2000 LiDAR sensor for obstacle detection provides unmatched precision with 360° performance.
A stable scanning axis and an angular resolution of up to 0.071 degrees enable the R2000 to detect objects as small as 1 mm. The resulting monitoring field begins right below the pallet base, allowing it to reliably detect even the smallest objects. The setup is simple; with user-friendly PACTware software, the four user-configurable detection fields can be set in just a few minutes.
R2000 at a glance
Offering the highest angular resolution of any digital I/O scanner on the market—0.071°— the R2000 enables detection of extremely small objects, while providing great all-round visibility due to its 360° measurement capabilities. In addition, the R2000’s stable scanning axis ensures precise monitoring of the scan surface, while its four user-configurable detection fields can be linked to the outputs in a few steps, making it incredibly easy to configure. Also available, is an infrared laser version, which offers a range of up to 30 m.
Visit the company’s website to discover the Powerful 2-D Laser Scanner (2-D LiDAR Sensor) of the R2000 Series and more warehouse solutions.
[OB1]Would it be possible to have this as a breakout box, please?
