There are a variety of technologies that effectively help the final process of the production lines. Innovative solutions to optimize the space help to control production lines, prevent accidents and losses as well as improve the quality of product handling.
Here we present effective innovative technologies for the end of your production line:
1.-Conveyors
We can describe conveyors as the arteries of a factory. Through these, the prime material flows, intermediate processes or finished goods; functions that go from one point to another (from the end-line and from there they can also be taken to storage reserve).
These conveyors are as varied as the same products that are handled. They have evolved and actually provide the same handling function, but with advantages that old days could not achieve; they can merge many lines into one, also order by themselves a mass flow to make it in line, including acting as a sorter. In addition, solutions are provided for sanitary environments that meet FDA requirements. All together with a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), a workstation and applications that will provide competitive advantages to your production line.
2.- Sorters
Sorters are classifiers that divert the product or SKUs to the stage/outbound area, an action that significantly increases productivity rates to the production line.
Depending on the characteristics of the product such as size and rate, it will determine what type of sorter is the one indicated for your processes, because each material requires special treatment.
The most used sorter is the Shoe Sorter, but if your industry is focused on logistics, analyze the options Tilt Tray and Cross Belt.
3.- Automated palletizing
Automatic palletizing gives a better care and control in product handling. Among its many benefits are: greater efficiency, speed, organization and reduction of errors and accidents at work. This operation is extremely useful for the generation of pallets, whether for boxes, bags, sacks, tubs, buckets, and so on. We can also find palletizing in various classifications:
- Dedicated to a single line: they handle one type of product.
- Multi-lines: a palletizer is used for different lines (simultaneously from 4 to 5), depending on the palletizing rate. Palletizers are usually designed for a low variety of references, as they are dedicated to more repetitive and high-flow tasks.
- Robotic palletizing: it allows to build pallets even of many medium-rate production lines. This classification is slower, but the product diversity is much higher. Frequently they help to classify the pallets, orders that are being supplied through a production line, they are very efficient and reliable.
These robots use a sensor or vision device, which allows robotic hands to carefully take products and sort them according to a pre-established sequence.
4.- AGV’s
Automatically Guided Vehicles (AGV's), provide support from the beginning, intermediate and end of line. Its biggest advantage is that it does not require fixed equipment, they generate product flow without the need of having stable infrastructure.
These tools reduce errors because automation governs the entire process. They are controlled under a WCS (Warehouse Control System) software module, which manages the flow of vehicles by recording the interaction and actions of each vehicle.
WCS makes them an intelligent implement, because it determines which vehicle is optimal and close to the area in which it is required. It also controls traffic and manages pending tasks; among many other functions.
The AGVs can help in the translation and various operations, both in low weights and at the platform level, from the unloading of trucks (inbound), the process, to the loading of trucks (outbound).
5.- Automated storage AS-RS
If you have the finished product but do not have enough space to put it together on pallets, the best option is a high storage warehouse: an Uniload automated warehouse (30 to 40 meters high). This tool, also called Trans-elevator, helps us to handle pallets or very large loads.
If your company is expanding and you do not have space, you have two options: invest in a new ship or implement and optimize an AS-RS, which in this case, besides solving the space problem, you generate an area of value by allowing proper inventory management and automatic assortment at the pallet level.
You will have more storage capacity, more productivity, more control of your inventories, instantly, order is increased and accidents are minimized. The system is coordinated with your WMS and directed from our WCS.
Remember that each implementation must be justified. Investing in innovative technologies must be profitable, however, you must create a balance and analyze the variables that will generate a quick return on your investment. Consider incidents such as quality, availability, elimination of errors, visibility, and productivity, among others.
At GIEICOM we focus our efforts on providing the latest technology to make your organization more productive and competitive. If you want one of our consultants to provide you with free assistance, contact us here.
