Bar code data collection system implementation and laboratory exercise

Abstract

Bar coding is an alternative to manual data collection systems, and it provides the means to collect and report information quickly and accurately. Bar coding is widely used in manufacturing environments to track work-in-process, inventory, time and attendance, documents, capital assets, and product quality. In this project, an integrated data collection system using bar code technology is designed and installed in the Automatic Data Collection System Laboratory (ADCSL), at Virginia Tech. In addition, a series of lab exercises and technology demonstrations are developed to better introduce the technology into the Industrial and Systems Engineering curricula. This can provide engineers choosing this major, the necessary background for making meaningful use of bar coding technology once they graduate.