Project Description
The goal is to develop a robust Windows Forms application in VB.NET that streamlines barcode scanning, label printing, and production traceability across our automobile manufacturing lines.
Core workflow
• Operators will scan components through handheld barcode readers connected over both serial and TCP. Every scan must be validated against a local SQLite database in real time, blocking duplicates instantly and raising an audible/visual alert.
• Once validated, the system will trigger ZPL commands to a networked Zebra printer, producing both QR Code and Code128 labels according to predefined templates.
• All transactions feed a production-tracking module that updates three key dashboards: real-time production metrics, workstation-based tracking, and shift performance analysis. A consolidated view should refresh automatically without manual page reloads.
Key functional blocks
1. Authentication & roles – simple login with admin rights to manage users, shift timings, workstation IDs, label templates, and master data.
2. Scan engine – supports COM ports and TCP sockets, parses variable-length data, prevents duplicate barcodes, logs success/fail with timestamps.
3. Label designer/dispatcher – stores ZPL templates in SQLite, merges dynamic fields, sends to selected Zebra printers, and records print history.
4. Production dashboard – live counters (OK / NG), hourly and shift-wise charts, and export to Excel or CSV at any granularity.
5. Reporting – generate daily, shift, and workstation summary PDFs or spreadsheets; filter by date, part number, or operator.
6. Administration – backup/restore database, purge old logs, configure scanner ports and printer IPs, and set threshold alerts.
Deliverables
• Complete VB.NET source code, solution files, and compiled installer
• SQLite database schema with seed data
• Sample ZPL templates for QR Code and Code128 labels
• Documentation covering setup, configuration, and deployment steps
• A short video or remote demo proving duplicate-prevention logic, live dashboard refresh, and label print cycle under both serial and TCP scanner modes
Acceptance criteria
– Duplicate barcodes cannot be re-scanned within the same production order
– Dashboards update within two seconds of each scan
– Labels match provided template samples with accurate QR/Code128 content
– Exported CSV/Excel files open without formatting issues in MS Excel 2016+
Experience with MES environments, barcode standards, and Zebra printers will help you move quickly; however, concise, well-documented code and a smooth operator interface are what matter most.