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Automation is 'the way forward'
Automation in distribution has matured in the past three years with new concepts, better technology and system integration compatibility. Yet many companies still consider automation to be non-beneficial, but for all the wrong reasons. So why do you need automation?
"If you want faster reaction/cycle times, on-time delivery, same-day delivery, high picking accuracy, order fulfilment, manpower savings, store friendly picking, RFID, tracking, tracing, information transparency and visibility with a signi- ficant reduction in damaged stock then automation is the only way forward," says David Hibbett, SSI Schaefer's Business Development Manager.
Time and again SSI Schaefer is faced with the same responses — 'it's not economical', 'we've no resources or time', or quite simply 'we don't need it'. So Schaefer is urging companies to think 'outside the box' and to look at the range of proven concepts that are available and search for opportunities to handle today's supply chain challenges.Of course project requirements are paramount when considering switching from manual to automated, with many pointers to consider including; economic justification, reviewing overall business processes and validating cost implications, including manpower and cost per unit.
Ultimately, when benchmarked, automation solutions are more cost beneficial than traditional solutions. Automation, says Schaefer, is proven to optimise the supply chain beyond the walls of the warehouse itself.Perhaps the most visual change to follow the implementation of an automated picking machine is the reduction in manpower. Automation replaces staff for replenishment, handling and indirect staffing such as inventory control and cycle counting, while the uncoupling of work areas for receiving, replenishment, picking and shipping allows sustained, standard performance.
A workstation concept for receiving, replenishment and picking allows each individual operator to work independently (systems balanced and workload driven).Schaefer's picking stations offer higher picking rates per picker per hour, low error rate during picking and support to the picker by means of technological devices such as radio frequency, hand-held scanners and light sensors.Stations available range from Zone/Parallel picking systems of 200-300 picks/hr and Integrated Storage/Picking systems for 250-350 picks/hr with automated storage and replenishment integrated, to Pick to Tote stations of 500-1000 picks/hr and Pallet Case and Tray Case Picking-to- Pallet at 450-600 cases/hr.
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