The two most important things to achieve that efficiency are the warehouse layout and the tools that support the work. We have specialized in this matter for the past 25 years.
We evaluate the layout in the warehouse, where the products are stored and how the goods flow through the warehouse.
We then look at how that classification can be improved and which techniques are best suited to execute the warehouse tasks correctly and quickly. Barcode scanning, Voice Picking, Pick to Light: each has its own specific advantages and disadvantages.
The defined solution is equipped with our warehouse management system Optima WMS that distributes, monitors and controls the work to be executed. The result is a logical environment in which activities run smoothly and quickly.
In the logistic chain, the performance of the warehouse is crucial.
Stored goods must be delivered to the customer quickly and without errors. Warehouse space is expensive and must be used to the maximum.
Numerous movements are carried out in a warehouse every day. Received goods to be stored, organizing replenishments, delivering ordered goods on time. Urgent matters must be given priority and problem situations must be dealt with in no time.
Dividing that work, assigning it to the operators, checking and monitoring its correct implementation requires deployment of a solution that controls the total overview, but which can also intervene at a detailed level. Like a conductor leading and watching over his orchestra and the right accents.
Optima WMS is designed to take on the role of conductor. Customer orders and supplier orders are translated by Optima WMS into warehouse tasks. Optima WMS divides the tasks among the available contractors and directs their execution.
Orders are assigned to an operator and Optima WMS guides the employee during their execution and checks that no mistakes are made.
Depending on what is most suitable for your project, we integrate the following tools:
mobile terminals with barcode reader
The specific features of the various options are explained below.
Terminals are very popular due to their wide range of applications. The operator receives his orders via the screen on the terminal. The operator can adjust actions himself with the touch screen and/or keypad.
Carriers and/or locations are registered via the integrated barcode scanner. Optima WMS also checks via scanning whether the operator isn't making any mistakes.
The variants can be divided into two types: hand terminals and (permanently mounted) truck terminals
The advantages of using mobile terminals are the great flexibility and lower cost price compared to other techniques.
Voice picking is popular when a large number of picks have to be taken within a relatively short distance.
With a hand terminal, the operator must read the order on the screen and put the terminal in the holster when taking the goods. With voice picking, he has both hands free and he gets the assignments during execution.
Verification of correct execution is done by reading a verification code that is located on the location or on the carrier. Sometimes an arm, hand or ring scanner is added, for example for registering lot numbers and/or serial numbers.
The operator does not wear any aid himself. He looks at which light on the rack turns on and takes the indicated amount. He then confirms the picking via the push button integrated in the display. The light at the next requested location will then automatically turn on.
By linking the color of the light to the operator, several operators can be set up in the same zone.
Pick-To-Light is the simplest form of picking for the operator. It's also the fastest. However, the investment in equipment is higher than with terminals and voice, which means that this method is usually only applied at higher picking rates.
Optima WMS provides the control of automatic transport and storage systems. The corresponding storage locations are included in the warehouse management. The moving systems are controlled via a real-time interface.
In this way, automatic cranes and AGVs, mobile storage systems, sorting machines and complete PLC-controlled installations become part of the entire system controlled and controlled by Optima WMS.
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