ple of an advanced warehouse automation
technology that utilises islands of automation
to deliver mixed-case, store-ready pallets for
end customers.
The ACPaQ technology analyses and processed
data and optimises the best stacking
pattern, to ensure stability. The system can
also build the pallet in reverse drop sequence
for replenishment at store level.
“This is a perfect example of an end-to-end
supply chain that optimises how product
moves through the system while maintaining
reliability and traceability throughout,” says Mr
D’Souza.
Human-robot collaboration
Another example that’s changing the way
companies are thinking about automation is
human-robot collaboration.
“When we think of robots, we typically think of
repeatable tasks being automated with a robot
in a fenced off cell. This thinking is being completely
shifted by human-robot collaboration,
which allows humans to continue doing what
they’re best at, and the robots assisting where
possible,” says Mr D’Souza.
“For example, in the automotive industry, a robot
can be carefully positioned in just the right
area by an operator, then the robot performs a
torque screwing application,” he says.
Coca-Cola Amatil
is one of the global
recognised companies
using Swisslog’s
ACPaQ mixed pallet
robot-based order
picking system
Real world benefits
The pharmaceutical industry is one example
where there can be real world benefits to innovative
new supply chain models, particularly when
dealing with lifesaving medicines or drugs.
Mr D’Souza says a great example of this is the
Consolidated Service Centre model for hospitals,
which Swisslog has implemented in the US and
Italy.
“Rather than each department and ward managing
and ordering inventory from their own hospital’s
central pharmacy – and doctors and nurses
using their valuable time for something they aren’t
trained in – a consolidated service centre model
involves building a central distribution centre to
service all hospitals within an 80km radius.”
The benefits across the supply chain include:
• Reduction in overall stock holding through
consolidation
• Reliable service level from central DC
• Elimination of administration to manage stock
within the hospital
• End to end traceability and visibility across the
supply chain
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