New to our offer. SmartPicking System – automated sheet metal picking
We are introducing an automated system for picking metal sheets – the SmartPicking System. Observing the increasing importance of automation of internal logistics processes in sheet metal processing and information flow, we have created a solution that fits the needs of many companies. This is demonstrated by the example of the implementation of the SmartPicking System at our customer KA4.
The SmartPicking System consists of two main components – an automated storage in a customised configuration and a picking module that delivers the metal sheets to a designated point.
The picking module is the key element of the system, which enables the smooth transport of metal sheets from the automated storage system shelf to a designated point. This component uses technology that has been proven time and time again in our laser cutting machine automation systems. The module is equipped with a set of vacuum suction pads and a system for separating and controlling the thickness of the sheet metal, thanks to which the safety of the entire process is increased. The SmartPicking System can be integrated into any of the storage systems in our range – it all depends on storage needs and available space.
System configurations:
SmartPicking System eliminates a number of problems in picking processes
Implementing a system that automates the sheet metal picking process solves a number of problems that arise in steel processing companies. The main ones are:
- The labour-intensity of the picking process – without automation, in order to complete a specific order, forklift trucks are most often used and the process of separating and picking the sheet metal itself has to be done manually. This requires a high level of physical involvement of the employees, which reduces the efficiency of the picking process and reduces occupational safety.
- Sheet surface scratches during picking – automated picking standardises the sheet handling process – the process is repeatable and predictable, thus eliminating the risk of scratches occurring, for example, during manual picking. This minimises the material return rate, which is particularly important for steel wholesalers.
- Picking errors – the diverse range of metal sheets in terms of grades, formats or thicknesses requires operators to be constantly focused and correctly identify the goods during order picking. With dozens of picking orders consisting of many items, it is very easy to make a mistake
Information flow – Smart WMS Picking software
In the era of Industry 4.0, information flow is a key value. To this purpose, we have equipped the SmartPicking System with dedicated Smart WMS Picking software, which makes it possible to plan the picking process and to integrate the entire system with the ERP/WMS systems from which the system uses orders for execution.
The software facilitates the picking process by automating and integrating processes. At the same time, the operation of the system has been simplified, with the operator having the role of overseeing the entire process, with no physical work required.
Example of implementation – sheet metal picking at KA4
The first SmartPicking System was implemented at KA4, a Polish distributor of steel products. The implementation of the SmartPicking System represented a major improvement in storage processes. The storage of large quantities of sheet metal was stored on the warehouse floor or on static racks, which require the continuous use of forklifts to operate. The implementation of the TwinTower automated storage system made it possible to unlock more warehouse space. By storing sheets in a storage system as high as 12.3 metres, it is possible to store as much as 309 tonnes of metal sheets in a small area.
The addition of a picking module to the automated storage system, integrated with the Smart WMS Picking software, made it possible to efficiently plan and manage the entire picking process. Orders are realised on the basis of orders received from the integrated ERP system.
SmartPicking System – photo gallery:
What has the implementation of the Smart Picking System at KA4 resulted in?
- Release of time spent on picking using forklift trucks and manual labour
- Information flow on orders carried out in real time
- Release of space thanks to high storage in the automated storage system
- Possibility of buffer zone storage
- Possibility of expansion – either by adding more storage columns or another picking module.
More about the implementation: https://baumalog.pl/realizacje/system-kompletacji-blach-w-hurtowni-stali/
Offer information: https://www.baumalog.eu/products/automation/smartpicking-system/
Contact our sales dept. for more specific offer information: https://www.baumalog.eu/contact/
