The Satellite Review Magazine 2017 Satellite Review Magazine_pages hi res | Page 23

of a series of codes, the time it takes to recover from a fault and
the time needed to train operators on the use of the system is sig-
nificantly reduced. These time savings translate directly into cost
savings. Firefly also runs on multiple platforms (e.g. Windows,
Android, etc.), giving companies the ability to view and manage
their inventories from nearly anywhere in the world.
Seeing the opportunity to evolve its automation technology,
Westfalia launched Westfalia Parking Solutions in late-2016 to
meet the demand for an environmentally friendly parking system.
Westfalia’s parking solutions use Savanna.NET® Parking Control
System (PCS) software to manage the movement of vehicles with-
in the garage.
Similar to Westfalia’s AS/RS solutions, these parking solutions
increase parking capacity while using less square footage than a
conventional parking garage. Westfalia manufactures both pallet
and non-pallet parking systems, although non-pallet, or “pal-
letless,” systems are gaining popularity due to the elimination of
empty pallet handling and the reliability of the technology. The
palletless parking system uses technology to adjust to the length
of the car’s wheelbase, allowing the system to handle multiple
car sizes. Unlike pallet-supported systems, the palletless system
transports the vehicle into the parking garage and positions it on
a concrete slab or deck. Palletless parking systems have the flexi-
bility to be constructed using either concrete or steel, depending
on the location, which may result in lower construction costs.
Looking to the future—increased connectivity
and traceability
As the warehousing automation industry continues to evolve,
AS/RS and WES solutions will advance to include sophisticated
track-and-trace capabilities, as well as supply chain connectivity.
In addition, more warehouses will begin using barcode scanners
and RFID to monitor the flow of products. Connecting a sophis-
ticated WES to external systems, both upstream and downstream
in the supply chain, will enable companies to gather valuable
supply chain data in real time.
With the ability to gain insight into its operations in real time,
companies will be able to quickly respond to problems within the
manufacturing process as well as improve operations efficien-
cy—saving both time and money. As this occurs, Westfalia will
continue to find ways to make sure its solutions meet this need
and any future need within the automated materials handling
industry.
Unparalleled Solutions
in Parking Automation
Westfalia has over 40 years of
experience in automated storage
solutions. Using the same proven
technology, we’ve re-imagined
automated parking systems.
Learn more about Westfalia
Parking Solutions and contact us to
learn more about automated
parking at:
www.WestfaliaParking.com
www.WestfaliaUSA.com
The Satellite Review
23