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Glossary

Calibratability

Calibratability refers to the property of a measurement system to meet the legal and metrological requirements for official calibration. It is required when measurement results are used in business transactions for billing or contractual purposes.

A calibratable measurement system meets defined requirements for measurement accuracy, repeatability, tamper resistance, and documentation. It may only be used for billing-related measurements after successful calibration. In logistics, this applies in particular to systems for recording dimensions and weights, whose measured values serve as the basis for calculating transportation or storage costs.

Practical example:

A package delivery service uses only DWS systems capable of calibration for the automatic calculation of shipping costs, ensuring that all measurement values relevant to billing comply with legal requirements.

Calibratable system

A calibratable system is a measurement system that meets the legal requirements for use in commercial transactions and is prepared for official calibration. It enables the legally compliant recording of measurement values used for billing or contractual purposes.

Calibratable systems ensure that measurement values are precise, reproducible, and protected against unauthorized alterations. In logistics, they are used in particular for recording dimensions and weights when the measurement results serve as the basis for calculating shipping costs or other billing-related services. Depending on the country of use, the applicable legal regulations and measuring instrument guidelines must be complied with.

Practical example:

An express, courier, and parcel (ECP) service provider uses a calibratable DWS system to record package dimensions and weights in compliance with the law and to calculate shipping costs based on legally sound measurements.

Calibration

Calibration refers to the comparison of a measurement system with a traceable reference standard in order to verify its measurement accuracy. It serves to identify potential measurement deviations and to demonstrate the reliability of the measurement results.

Unlike verification or adjustment, calibration does not alter the measuring system but merely documents its measurement behavior. It is an important component of quality management and helps ensure the long-term accuracy of measuring systems. In logistics, dimensioning, weighing, and DWS systems are regularly calibrated to ensure reproducible measurement values and high process quality.

Practical example:

Before a new dimensioning system is put into operation, its measurement accuracy is verified and documented using calibrated reference objects.

Camera sensors

Camera sensors are optical sensors that capture images or video data and make them available for the automatic analysis of objects and processes. They are used for identification, measurement, quality inspection, and monitoring in industrial and logistics applications.

Modern camera sensors utilize high-resolution image processing and are often combined with artificial intelligence or deep learning. They detect barcodes, hazardous materials labels, contours, damage, or object positions and deliver the data in real time to higher-level systems. In logistics, camera sensors are a central component of automated automatic weight detection (DWS) systems and other solutions for master data capture and process control.

Practical example:

On an automated conveyor system, camera sensors capture each package, read the barcode, and simultaneously check the contours and for possible damage.

Cargo handling

Cargo handling refers to the loading, unloading, and transshipment of goods between different modes of transport or storage areas. It is a key process within transportation and intralogistics.

Efficient cargo handling requires transparent material flows and accurate master data. Automated identification, measurement, and weighing systems support rapid cargo registration, reduce manual steps, and increase process reliability at handling points.

Practical example:

In a logistics center, pallets are automatically identified, measured, and weighed during cargo handling before being loaded onto the next mode of transport.

CEP company

A CEP company is a service provider that offers courier, express, and parcel services for the domestic and international shipment of packages. It handles the pickup, transport, sorting, and delivery of packages and documents within defined time frames.

CEP companies operate highly automated logistics networks with sorting centers, conveyor systems, and digital information systems. Technologies such as DWS systems, barcode recognition, camera sensors, and automated sorting systems are used to ensure fast and error-free processing. The master data collected during this process forms the basis for shipment tracking, freight billing, and efficient management of the entire transport chain.

Practical example:

At a parcel center operated by an express, courier, and parcel (ECP) company, several thousand shipments per hour are automatically identified, measured, weighed, and assigned to the correct delivery route.

Certification

Certification involves the formal confirmation that a product, system, process, or organization meets defined requirements and standards. It is carried out through an independent audit and serves as proof of quality, safety, or compliance.

In logistics and industry, certifications are used, for example, for management systems, measuring instruments, software solutions, and technical equipment. They confirm compliance with standards, legal requirements, or industry-specific requirements. For DWS systems, scales, and dimensioning solutions, certifications can form an important basis for use in compliance with calibration regulations or for international use, and they build trust in the reliability of the technologies employed.

Practical example:

A manufacturer has a dimensioning system tested and certified so that the measured values can be used for defined logistics billing processes.

Computer vision

Computer vision refers to the automated processing and interpretation of image and video data by computer systems. It enables machines to recognize and analyze visual information and to independently derive decisions or actions from it.

In logistics, computer vision is used to automatically detect objects, contours, labels, and conditions. Camera systems combined with artificial intelligence and deep learning enable, for example, the detection of packages, quality deviations, or hazardous materials labels. The technology supports automated measurement, contour inspection, and process monitoring, and helps reduce manual inspections while making processes more efficient and transparent.

Practical example:

A camera system analyzes a pallet during transport and automatically detects protrusions, damage, or missing labels.

Concentricity

Concentricity refers to the uniform and continuous motion of a conveyed item or a mechanical system during an automated transport or measurement process. Stable concentricity is essential for reproducible measurement results and trouble-free system operation.

In dimensioning and DWS systems, concentricity significantly influences measurement accuracy. Unsteady conveyor movements, vibrations, or tilted packages can lead to measurement deviations, faulty scans, or process interruptions. Precisely calibrated conveyor technology therefore ensures a smooth material flow and reliable capture of dimensions, weight, and identification data.

Practical example:
An automatic weight-sorting (DWS) system can only measure packages with the highest accuracy if they are transported evenly and without vibrations along the conveyor line.

Condition monitoring

Condition monitoring involves the continuous or periodic recording and evaluation of the current condition of machines, equipment, or technical components. It serves to detect changes at an early stage and to support the safe and efficient operation of systems.

In logistics and automation, sensors, measurement systems, and digital analysis are used to monitor operating conditions, wear, or potential malfunctions. The data collected enables proactive planning of maintenance measures and helps prevent unplanned downtime. Condition monitoring contributes to higher availability and process reliability, particularly in automated systems, conveyor technology, and measurement systems.

Practical example:

Sensors monitor the condition of a conveyor system and report deviations early on, so that maintenance measures can be planned before a failure occurs.

Conformity assessment

Conformity assessment involves the systematic examination and evaluation of whether a product, system, or process meets the specified legal, normative, or technical requirements. It serves as proof of compliance with applicable regulations.

For measuring instruments, automation solutions, and technical systems, conformity assessment is a key component of approval and market launch. It may include tests, technical documentation, and evaluations conducted by manufacturers or independent bodies. In logistics, for example, this applies to scales, dimensioning systems, and DWS systems, whose measurement values are used for billing or other business processes. A successful conformity assessment builds confidence in the safety, quality, and compliant operation of a system.

Practical example:

Before a calibratable dimensioning system is put into service, it is verified that the technical requirements are met and that the necessary documentation for operation is available.

Container

A container is a standardized cargo container used for the transport and storage of goods. It enables the safe and efficient transfer of goods between different modes of transportation without the need to reload the cargo itself.

Containers are standardized worldwide and are used in road, rail, sea, and air transport. Their uniform dimensions facilitate automated handling, storage, and transport planning. To ensure optimal capacity utilization and legally compliant freight billing, containers and their cargo are often automatically measured and weighed.

Practical example:

Before loading, a container and its cargo are automatically measured and weighed to support transport planning and freight billing.

Contour inspection

Contour inspection refers to the automatic verification of the external shape and dimensions of packages, pallets, or loading units. Its purpose is to reliably detect protrusions, deformations, or other deviations from defined target contours.

Contour inspection utilizes 3D sensors, laser scanners, or camera-based image processing to capture objects non-contact and compare them with specified reference values. It helps prevent collisions in conveyor systems, increase process reliability, and ensure the quality of logistics operations. Modern AI-powered systems can also detect even complex contour deviations in real time.

Practical example:

Before loading an air freight shipment, an automated contour inspection system checks whether the loading unit complies with the permissible contours of the Unit Load Device (ULD) and can be loaded onto the cargo aircraft without restrictions.

Control technology

Control technology encompasses technical systems and components for monitoring, regulating, and controlling machines, plants, and automated processes. It processes input signals and uses them to generate defined control commands for connected components.

In logistics and automation, control technology serves as the link between sensor technology, software, and mechanical systems. It is used, for example, in conveyor systems, sorting systems, measurement systems, and automated warehouse solutions. Control systems process data from sensors, coordinate motion sequences, and ensure the reliable operation of equipment. In conjunction with system integration and digital interfaces, it enables efficient and flexible process flows.

Practical example:
A control system processes signals from sensors on a conveyor system and coordinates the transport of pallets between the goods receiving area, the measurement station, and the storage area.

Control tower

A control tower is a central platform for monitoring, controlling, and analyzing logistics processes throughout the supply chain. It aggregates data from various systems and makes it available in real time to support transparent decision-making.

A control tower links information from warehouse, transportation, and ERP systems, as well as from sensors and other data sources. Through the continuous analysis of process and master data, deviations can be detected early, bottlenecks identified, and logistics processes specifically optimized. This increases transparency, responsiveness, and process reliability throughout the entire supply chain.

Practical example:

In the control center of a logistics company, a control tower monitors all transport and warehouse movements in real time and automatically reports delays to the scheduling department.

Conveyor speed

Conveyor speed refers to the speed at which packages, pallets, or other load units are transported within a conveyor system. It is a key parameter for the performance and design of automated material flows.

Conveyor speed influences throughput, cycle times, and the requirements for sensors and measurement systems. Modern dimensioning and DWS systems are designed to precisely capture objects even at high conveyor speeds without interrupting the material flow. The optimal speed depends on factors such as conveyor technology, product characteristics, and the requirements for measurement accuracy and process reliability.

Practical example:

In a sorting center, packages are transported at high conveyor speeds while a DWS system captures their dimensions, weight, and barcode in a single pass.

Conveyor technology

Conveyor technology encompasses all technical equipment and systems used for the automated or manual transport of goods, merchandise, and load units within logistics and industrial processes. It enables an efficient, continuous, and safe flow of materials.

Conveyor technology includes, among other things, roller conveyors, belt conveyors, chain conveyors, lifting and lowering devices, and automatic transport systems. In modern logistics facilities, material handling technology is closely integrated with sensor technology, control systems, and digital systems such as WMS, TMS, and DWS. This enables goods to be automatically detected, measured, sorted, and routed to their destinations. An optimally designed material handling system increases throughput and enhances process reliability.

Practical example:

In a parcel center, a conveyor system automatically transports shipments through the measuring station, where dimensions, weight, and identification data are recorded before sorting takes place.

Cross-docking

Cross-docking is a logistics process in which goods are prepared for onward transport immediately after receipt, with little or no interim storage. The goal is to minimize storage time and accelerate the flow of goods.

In cross-docking, shipments are identified, sorted, and immediately assigned to the appropriate outbound routes. This requires accurate master data as well as close coordination between receiving, warehouse management, and transportation planning. This helps shorten turnaround times, reduce storage costs, and optimize material flows.

Practical example:

In the receiving area, incoming packages are automatically identified, measured, and assigned directly to the appropriate loading area without interim storage.

CubiScan

CubiScan is a product family of measurement systems designed for the automatic capture of dimensions and weight of packages, containers, and other loading units. The systems provide precise master data for logistics, operational, and billing-related processes.

CubiScan systems are used in receiving, warehousing, shipping, and production and are available in various configurations for static measurement tasks. Depending on the model, they capture length, width, height, and weight and transmit the measurement data directly to warehouse management, transportation management, or ERP systems. This reduces manual measurement processes and ensures high data quality.

Practical example:

In the receiving area, a CubiScan system automatically captures the dimensions and weight of a package and transmits the data to the warehouse management system.

Customs clearance

Customs clearance refers to all processes and formalities required for the import, export, or transit of goods across customs borders. It ensures that legal requirements are met, goods are properly declared, and duties are settled in accordance with regulations.

Customs clearance includes, among other things, the preparation of customs documents, the classification of goods, the determination of customs values, and communication with customs authorities. Digital systems and automated data capture help ensure that relevant information—such as item numbers, origin data, weight, and dimensions—is reliably provided. An accurate database speeds up clearance, reduces errors, and ensures transparent international flows of goods.

Practical example:

For an international air freight shipment, the automatically captured dimensions and weight data are used together with the goods data to prepare customs documents.

Customs declaration

A customs declaration is a formal notification to customs authorities regarding goods that are to be imported into, exported from, or transited through a customs territory. It contains all the necessary information to determine the customs treatment of a shipment.

A customs declaration includes, for example, information on the type of goods, quantity, value, origin, consignee, and related transport operations. Digital customs systems and interfaces with ERP, TMS, and document management solutions support the automated transmission and processing of this data. A correct customs declaration is essential for smooth clearance and helps prevent delays, errors, and additional costs in international trade.

Practical example:

For an international air freight shipment, goods and freight data are digitally consolidated and transmitted to the customs authority for electronic customs declaration.

Customs system

The customs system is a digital system for capturing, processing, and managing customs-related information and transactions in the international movement of goods. It supports the electronic handling of customs processes and communication with customs authorities.

Customs systems process data on goods, shipments, origins, tariff classifications, and transport operations. They are often integrated with ERP, TMS, and document management solutions to automatically exchange information and efficiently manage customs operations. Digital processing reduces manual data entry, improves data quality, and prevents delays in the import and export of goods. Customs systems are a key component of an end-to-end logistics process chain, particularly in international supply chains.

Practical example:

For an international air freight shipment, a customs system retrieves the relevant goods and transport data and supports the electronic processing of the import declaration.

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity encompasses all measures, technologies, and processes designed to protect digital systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, tampering, or failures. It ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.

In modern logistics and automation environments, cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important as machines, sensors, control systems, and IT systems are interconnected. Protective measures such as access controls, authentication, encryption, and regular security audits help to reliably secure production and logistics processes. Robust cybersecurity is a vital foundation for the secure operation of automated systems and digital supply chains.

Practical example:

An automated DWS system is protected against unauthorized access through user permissions, secure network connections, and regular software updates.

Cycle time

Cycle time is the available time period during which a specific quantity of products, shipments, or work steps must be processed in order to meet a specified demand or process output. It is a key metric for planning and designing automated processes.

In logistics and production, cycle time is used to optimally coordinate workflows, conveyor systems, and automation systems. It influences throughput, equipment capacity, and process reliability. In DWS systems or automated conveyor systems, the measurement and processing speed must be designed so that every item can be reliably captured and processed within the available cycle time.

Practical example:

In a parcel sorting center, an automatic sorting system must measure, weigh, and identify each package within the specified cycle time so that the continuous sorting process runs without interruption.

Cyclical

Cyclical refers to recurring sequences or processes that are carried out at regular intervals according to a defined pattern. In technical and logistical applications, the term often describes continuously repeated work or measurement operations.

Cyclical processes can be found, for example, in automated conveyor systems, test sequences, maintenance intervals, or production processes. In logistics, they enable predictable and reproducible process execution, thereby improving system performance, quality, and process reliability. In measurement and testing systems, cyclical processes can be used to regularly collect data, check system status, or automatically execute defined process steps.

Practical example:

An automated measurement system performs cyclic functional tests to ensure the reliable measurement of dimensions and weight during ongoing operation.