Implementing batch size 1 efficiently

euroTECH expands its product portfolio with an order picking system to meet the challenge of batch size 1. The enhanced system picks from several pallet spaces onto a customer pallet. The system picks the products to be handled more safely and efficiently as well as in a healthier way for the employees.

With an order picking system, euroTECH is responding to the requirements of a constantly changing market. Individual production and fast delivery are increasingly desired and expected. Production and storage must keep pace. Ever smaller quantities require more efficient and cost-effective production and warehouse management. euroTECH develops customer-specific picking systems for handling panels and other flat products with different formats and surfaces.

It takes several employees to pick flat loads by hand. A fully automated picking system works more efficiently and safely for the goods and the quality is maintained. There is no physical strain for the employees. This helps to prevent health risks. The strain on employees' backs is significantly reduced and accidents at work are avoided.

For such systems, euroTECH relies on solutions from a single source. euroTECH carries out the entire development, production, assembly and commissioning according to customer requirements.

The system consists of several pallet spaces. A trolley with a suction frame picks the goods from the pallets provided and places them on the customer pallet. An employee uses the system's user interface to define the source and target stations and the quantities to be picked. In order to start fully automatic picking, the system requires information on which suction circuits are to be switched for the different loads. This data is stored in a database or can be registered via a barcode. Picking then takes place fully automatically. Various sensors are installed in the system to prevent errors. For example, the system compares the weight of the lifted panel with the previously registered data. If the weight matches, the system runs through. If there is a deviation, the system interrupts the process and issues an error message.

The problem of adhesion occurs when handling flat loads, especially with sheet goods. This is a physical condition in which two boundary surfaces adhere to each other and are difficult to separate. The solution is corner separation. Bellows suction cups are used at the corners of the suction frame.

It is possible to integrate the order picking system into an existing cantilever racking system. As the entire development and production is carried out by euroTECH, it is possible to take individual customer requirements into account. For example, in a further expansion stage of the picking system, it is possible to compensate for an offset of up to 50 millimetres with a floating suction frame. This is of interest to a customer in order to achieve a clean stacking pattern. Built-in linear drives align the floating suction frame with the corresponding abutting edges. Results of a maximum offset of two millimetres can be achieved. Precise alignment and stacking of the loads protects sensitive surfaces.

The fully automated picking system makes it possible to effectively pick small batches and individual items and therefore batch size 1. In addition, the reduced physical strain makes work safer and more pleasant for employees.

euroTECH has already designed efficient and customized order picking solutions for several well-known customers. The necessary safety is ensured by several safety and warning devices in accordance with the DIN EN 45014 standard to prevent operating errors and hazards.

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