manufacturing schedules in order to meet
consumer demand.
Q: How do I achieve compliance,
reduce risk and optimize produc-
tivity with warehouse automa-
tion?
A: In the event of a recall, connecting a
WES to external systems both upstream
and downstream in the supply chain allows
companies to respond to problems within
the manufacturing process more quickly.
This level of response prevents contami-
nated or malfunctioning products from
ever leaving the facility, saving the com-
pany both time and money. In addition
to preventing recalls, an integrated AS/RS
helps keep workers safe. There is no longer
a need for repetitive lifting, and forklifts
are not driving around in the same aisles
as people. An AS/RS is especially beneficial
for picking in cold and freezer environ-
ments where temperatures are often too
harsh for the human body. Also, with an
AS/RS there is no need to take precautions
by closing an aisle or area of the warehouse
to pick items from the top shelf, so opera-
tions can continue running smoothly and
accidents are significantly reduced.
Q: What is the ongoing mainte-
nance of an AS/RS?
A: Below is a general summary of mainte-
nance options for your AS/RS:
•
•
•
•
•
General inspection on horizontal,
vertical and Satellite® drive system
• Inspection of major wear items for all
S/RMs
Q: Can the system be expanded
in the future? Does it make
sense to invest in a very small
AS/RS to test if it fits in our
business and buy a bigger in
the future?
A: Layer pick systems are ideal for ware-
houses and distribution centers that move
more than 1,000 layers per day, with 50 to
500 SKUs picked in layer form. This is most
common among food/beverage and con-
sumer goods manufacturers who ship most
of their orders to a regional distribution
center. As a rule of thumb, automated layer
picking systems are justifiable when 25 to
40 percent of a manufacturer’s volume is
sold in full layer quantities. If less than 10
percent of the volume is in full layer quan-
tities, it may not be the best choice.
Avoid investing in a system you will
quickly outgrow by creating a five-year
plan. Look at your recent SKU growth and
project how much volume you’ll have in
the next few years. Next, define your design
year – how many years out do you want
your automated facility to serve you? This
will give you an idea of how to configure
your system to grow with your business.
General inspection of brakes and
speed monitoring system
Chain lubrication and alignment
S/RM and Satellite® chain tensioning
Visual inspection of bolted connec-
tions
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The Satellite Review
29