In warehousing, time and efficiency are critical. Ideally, you want an intuitive warehouse that operates with maximum productivity and minimal disruptions. The best way to achieve this is with a fully automated warehouse. From specialized inventory management software to automated warehouse robots, these technologies can help to streamline a complex workflow.
There are many advantages to an automated warehouse. Since the machines can work continuously for an extended period, they are able to process a high volume of goods in the warehouse. Using a variety of warehouse automation solutions, you can easily optimize your workflow operations and reduce the costs involved in material handling.
Do you want to learn more about the inner workings of a fully automated warehouse? Check out these six warehouse automation solutions and their advantages:
1. Direct Trailer Loading & Unloading Conveyors
In your daily warehouse operations, a considerable amount of time is spent on prepping equipment for loading and unloading. For each instance of manual labour, the wasted minutes will add up to many hours lost in the process flow. Fortunately, the loading and unloading process can be expedited with the use of warehouse automation technologies.
The automated trailer conveyor is designed to reduce the time spent unloading from trucks. The system automatically transports materials from the trailer to the production starting point in the warehouse. The conveyors can also function inversely and help with the loading process. Due to the amount of time saved in loading goods, you benefit from shorter vehicle turnaround times and faster delivery.
This is a popular warehouse automation technology mainly due to its efficiency, but also because it increases the safety of your operations. By using the conveyor system, you can minimize accidents, product damages, or ergonomic injuries that may result from manual loading and unloading.
2. Warehouse Sequencing and Picking Systems
Sequencing is the process of picking and presenting proper parts for inclusion during assembly. In a warehouse, the sequencing systems are used to automatically deliver the relevant parts to the manufacturing line. Using an organized and orderly queuing system, each part is delivered in the correct sequence.
Fully automated warehouses make use of sophisticated sequencing systems to transport materials across multiple locations. The advantages of an automated warehouse sequencing system include improved material flow and safety, as well as reduced traffic and congestion.
The sequencing systems help to optimize the material delivery routes and flow path, which makes the picking process simpler. Thanks to this automation technology, employees can pick more orders within a short time, increasing their productivity rates.
4. Over/Under Automated Warehouse Systems
An over/under machine incorporates two lanes, one over the other, and features a vertical lift. The dual cycle forklift operation reduces rack handling time in warehouses. The typical cycle time of this machine is 32 seconds, but faster cycle times are also available.
The over/under machine has the capability of automatically accumulating empty racks back to the aisle, which reduces the need for forklift travel. Other notable features of the over/under machines include turntables and tilts, floor flush walk-in capabilities, and variable pick height. Also, the automated warehouse racking system can help with inventory management by indexing large groups of containers together.
5. Side-by-Side Warehouse Conveyors
A side-by-side conveyor system describes a pair of conveyors, which are designed to move cargo or baggage simultaneously. These material handling conveyor systems move at the same elevation, but in opposite directions. They link to each other through an endless belt, which directs from one exit of the conveyor to the entrance of the second one. It is also connected from the exit of the second conveyor to the entrance of the first.
When required, the side-by-side conveyor system can transfer products from one conveyor line to another. These conveyors are especially useful in multiple stacked arrangements, such as those found within airport tunnels.
The side-by-side conveyors are versatile with lots of opportunities for customization based on the warehouse’s needs. By installing staggered idler rollers beneath the two conveyors, you can reduce the vibrations caused by belt travel. You can also implement twist assemblies to change the direction required on an endless belt.
6. Custom-Designed Warehouse Automation Equipment
As the warehouse automation technology continues to develop, many companies prefer to have their material handling equipment custom designed. The tailor-made approach ensures that the automation solutions integrate seamlessly with the warehouse processes. Since the equipment is specifically engineered based on your warehouse’s specifications, you often achieve peak operational efficiency.
There is so much design potential for custom automation equipment, including intelligent racking solutions, fully functional robots, and automated storage systems in warehouses. Contact Mainway Handling Systems today to learn more about our collection of automatic material handling solutions.
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