FMCG

Elevating Logistics Efficiency: Codemonk's Breakthrough for in Label Processing with AI-Powered OCR

97%+

Mean Accuracy

Types of Labels Recognizable

INTRODUCTION

Codemonk's AI-powered OCR solution revolutionized label processing in warehousing, enhancing efficiency and accuracy. Trained on diverse labels and equipped with image enhancement, the system streamlines operations, reduces errors, and enables global scalability.

Industry

FMCG

Time Frame

4 Months

Services we offered

AI/ML, Mobile App Development

https://content.codemonk.inGroup 21771.avif

The Challenges

Label Diversity

Labels are as diverse as the different geological regions they come from. Beyond linguistic differences, the design, layout, and placement of vital information varied widely. Some labels were minimalist, while others were filled with colors and graphics. This vast diversity meant our solution had to be adaptable, understanding a broad spectrum of label designs.

Varied Parcel Shapes

Packages come in all shapes and sizes, but cylindrical ones posed a unique challenge. When labels are wrapped around a cylindrical shape, the text and graphics often appear warped, making it particularly tricky for standard OCR systems to interpret. This distortion required a more nuanced approach, ensuring that even on these challenging shapes, vital information could be accurately captured and processed.

Label Imperfections

Labels are often far from perfect. Whether it's due to ink smudges, faded print, or outright missing information, these imperfections can throw a wrench in the automation process. Such flawed labels meant that parcels had to be set aside for manual verification, leading to significant delays and increased manual intervention. Addressing these imperfections was crucial, not just for the accuracy of the OCR system, but to ensure a streamlined workflow without unnecessary bottlenecks.

Data Ambiguities

Occasionally, data on labels wasn't presented in a standard format. Our system had to be adept at capturing and correctly interpreting such irregularities, ensuring accurate data extraction despite the inconsistencies.

Codemonk’s Approach

Our initial step was a deep dive into the heart of the problem. Through extensive discussions with the client's team, we gained a comprehensive understanding of their daily operations and the challenges they faced. We meticulously studied the labels, grasping their nuances, variations, and the common imperfections. Additionally, we analyzed the diverse shapes and sizes of the parcels, especially understanding the intricacies of different shapes of packages and the way the labels were placed on them. We also delved into the intricacies of their current system, identifying bottlenecks and areas of potential improvement.

The Solution

With this rich knowledge in hand, our team brainstormed multiple solutions. Recognizing that a traditional OCR system wouldn't cut it, we leaned towards the capabilities of AI. The outcome was a bespoke AI-powered OCR system, meticulously tailored to address each specific challenge. This advanced solution not only interpreted data from imperfect labels but also ensured a seamless automation process, drastically reducing manual interventions and associated errors.

Label Understanding - The diversity and complexity of labels required a deep dive. Our team meticulously studied the myriad of labels, understanding not just their physical attributes like shapes and sizes, but also the nuances in how information was presented. This foundational understanding was pivotal in ensuring our system could seamlessly interpret even the most obscure or imperfectly written details.
AI-Driven Model Training - The backbone of our solution was the AI model, and its efficacy was determined by the quality of its training. We fed the model with over 1000 annotated images, each carefully chosen to represent the vast diversity of labels. This rigorous training enabled the model to adeptly handle different package shapes, discern multiple languages, and even decipher obscured or faded information with impressive accuracy.
Image Enhancement - Recognizing that the quality of input often determines the quality of output, we implemented an image enhancement phase. Each image, before being processed, underwent refinement to ensure clarity. This step was especially crucial for labels with imperfections, ensuring that even faded texts or obscured details were brought to the forefront, ready for extraction.

Advanced OCR with AI Integration

Our solution centered around an OCR system enhanced with AI capabilities. Beyond just reading, it comprehended the context. It localized and extracted label information, and when confronted with obscured or missing data, it intelligently filled in the gaps. This blend of OCR and AI allowed the system to interpret nuances, especially in ambiguous scenarios. Through adaptive learning, its accuracy evolved, discerning intricate patterns. Its multilingual capabilities ensured diverse labels from various regions were interpreted with precision. In essence, we transformed a standard extraction tool into a dynamic, context-aware powerhouse.

Impact

The transformation brought about by our solution was profound and multifaceted:

Operational Efficiency

The manual process, once riddled with errors and inefficiencies, was now fully automated. This led to a significant reduction in operational overheads and manual interventions. The time saved here could be redirected to more strategic tasks.

Accuracy Boost

The AI-enhanced OCR system ensured that data extraction was not only faster but also far more accurate. The error rate plummeted, ensuring that the information fed into the system was reliable and trustworthy.

Cost Savings

With the reduction in manual labor and the near-elimination of errors, the company witnessed substantial cost savings. Fewer errors meant fewer delays and less rework, leading to a more streamlined operation.

Adaptive Learning

As the system encountered more labels and faced varied challenges, it learned and adapted. This meant that with time, the system only got better, refining its accuracy and understanding.

Global Scalability

Given the system's multilingual capabilities and its ability to understand diverse label formats, it was primed for scalability. The company could now confidently expand its operations across different regions, knowing their label processing system could handle the diversity.

In essence, the ripple effect of this solution was felt across the organization. It wasn't just about automating a process; it was about transforming an entire operational paradigm, setting the stage for growth, efficiency, and innovation.

Outcome

Through Codemonk's AI-powered OCR solution, the client experienced a transformative shift in their label processing operations. The system's efficiency and accuracy prepared them to confidently make the project live. This project not only streamlined their current processes but also set the stage for ambitious global expansion. It epitomizes Codemonk's dedication to crafting solutions that catalyze growth and innovation for our partners.

97%+

Mean Accuracy

Types of Labels Recognizable