Automation through Artificial Intelligence

By Eddie Amos, General Manager & VP Industrial Applications Software, GE Digital

What does the future hold for industrial organizations like those in manufacturing? Today’s digital transformation has established the foundation for what’s to come. Like the paved highway systems for cars to drive on, the increased connectivity of industrial assets has been foundational for the next wave of technological advancements.

While the physical machines that make up industrial infrastructure, such as power generators, turbines and locomotives, appear to be relatively unchanged compared to a decade ago, these assets have undergone significant changes to bring them into the digital age. That said, industrials have historically been the slowest to tap into the power of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). According to a recent report, industrial companies recognize the upsides to IIoT, but 79 percent say they do not have a mature plan in place to reap the benefits of this connected network.

With sensors and intelligent control systems in place across industrial facilities, organizations will now be able to leverage this next wave of technology for more efficient business processes and increased digital maturity. Over the next year and beyond, we can expect a few advancements to take us further than we ever have been before on this digital journey. 

 

Automation through Artificial Intelligence

Plant operators are already seeing the benefits of machine learning that powers artificial intelligence. These software algorithms in asset performance management drive the integration of historical data to help predict maintenance issues and equipment failures with more accuracy and more advanced warning. What will make AI even more valuable is the application of more sophisticated machine learning algorithms to real-time performance data. This will create smarter, more self-sufficient machines. Because many organizations are still in the digital transformation process, connecting all machines and assets across plants and fleets, various enterprise resource planning systems and disparate data hinder data analytics and decision-making. As machines deliver more data through connected sensors, artificial intelligence in asset performance management systems will not only organize and standardize data inputs, but it will also augment an organization’s ability to analyze it in different ways, resulting in more automated and accurate decision-making. Current manual processes, such as issuing work orders and scheduling inspections, will become automated, streamlining maintenance practices and improving machine performance.

 

Digital Twin Drives New Levels of Productivity

Digital twins are becoming more prevalent across industries, providing a key advantage for organizations that run a true digital ecosystem powered by asset performance management. The digital twin concept is based on the idea of having pre-defined content about how assets are operating and performing, and then leveraging that information to build a replica of the asset. With a virtual replica of every asset that informs operators about health status, equipment life and performance levels, organizations are fully equipped to optimize machines at all hours of the day to adjust for peak demand levels and optimize productivity as a result. For companies that operate active assets every second of the year, this saves millions of dollars by avoiding unplanned downtime.

Once organizations have a better understanding of their entire plant and fleet operations based on the digital replicas of their assets, they can identify any anomalies or poor performing equipment and take action as appropriate. Taking this one step further, this data can eventually be anonymized and shared industry-wide for a larger data sample and more accurate benchmarks. The power of statistics is limited for organizations running a set number of assets, but leveraging a broader dataset will provide better performance insights for asset management.

 

Augmented Reality

Not all industrial equipment is easily accessible. Some machines have thousands of parts, each embedded inside layers of the strongest materials, and other machines that operate within the world’s harshest environment. For decades, this has created time consuming, laborious inspection processes for routine checks or when an asset indicated an error. Inspection teams need to perform hands-on testing of the equipment or literally look “under the hood” to identify the problem, particularly for assets that are necessary for operations.

A medical technology manufacturer, for example, has to prioritize inspection for its critical healthcare systems. If there is an infection in a hospital, equipment used to test for infection is critical for immediate response. If a manufacturer’s microbiology machine has any performance issues, it would put the entire healthcare ecosystem at risk. This equipment requires regular monitoring and inspection.

Fortunately, technology is rapidly changing how inspection teams approach these processes. With advances in augmented reality for mobile devices and the help of digital twins, field workers can now perform in-depth inspections based on real-time information without having to take the equipment offline and physically analyze things. As more field service professionals are able to take advantage of augmented reality technology, organizations will minimize the risk that extreme environments can pose to workers - for instance, near pipelines or on oil rigs - as well as maximize efficiency by keeping equipment running online.

These technologies - artificial intelligence, digital twins and augmented reality - are available today, but they will only continue to advance and will become fundamental components of industrial operations. The key to taking full advantage of these newer capabilities is to have the right digital infrastructure in place today, including connected assets that feed information through a centralized asset management system. As more equipment enables data analytics and drives intelligent asset strategies, industrial organizations will have the level of digital maturity they need to optimize asset performance in real-time. 

An interesting and eye opening article with more and more to come and Kuecker Logistics Group will be in the forefront to guide our customers.

Kuecker Logistics Group (KLG) next April for MODEX 2018.

Please join Kuecker Logistics Group (KLG) next April for MODEX 2018. We will be demonstrating our world-class systems and meeting prospective new customers.

MODEX 2018 will be held April 9-12, 2018, at Atlanta's Georgia World Congress Center. We will be demonstrating at Booth # B3638. 

At MODEX:

CONNECT

with over 850 of the leading providers and see in-person, in-action how their efficiency-enhancing and cost-cutting equipment and technology solutions can futureproof your supply chain.

LEARN

from the industry's best minds how key industry trends and innovations can transform your manufacturing and supply chain operations during 100+ free education sessions and four powerful keynotes.

MEET FACE-TO-FACE

with your industry peers from the U.S. and over 110 countries across the globe.

Whatever manufacturing and supply chain solutions or insights you need to FUTUREPROOF your business, you'll find them at MODEX 2018.

For more information or to register for MODEX 2018, please visit their website HERE:  https://www.modexshow.com/

How about an AS/RS system?

Did you know:

AS/RS systems are designed for automated storage and retrieval of parts and items in manufacturing, distribution, retail, wholesale and institutions.^[3] They first originated in the 1960s, initially focusing on heavy pallet loads but with the evolution of the technology the handled loads have become smaller.^[4] The systems operate under computerized control, maintaining an inventory of stored items. Retrieval of items is accomplished by specifying the item type and quantity to be retrieved. The computer determines where in the storage area the item can be retrieved from and schedules the retrieval. It directs the proper automated storage and retrieval machine (SRM) to the location where the item is stored and directs the machine to deposit the item at a location where it is to be picked up. A system of conveyors and or automated guided vehicles is sometimes part of the AS/RS system. These take loads into and out of the storage area and move them to the manufacturing floor or loading docks. To store items, the pallet or tray is placed at an input station for the system, the information for inventory is entered into a computer terminal and the AS/RS system moves the load to the storage area, determines a suitable location for the item, and stores the load. As items are stored into or retrieved from the racks, the computer updates its inventory accordingly.

The benefits of an AS/RS system include reduced labor for transporting items into and out of inventory, reduced inventory levels, more accurate tracking of inventory, and space savings. Items are often stored more densely than in systems where items are stored and retrieved manually.^[5]

Within the storage, items can be placed on trays or hang from bars, which are attached to chains/drives in order to move up and down. The equipment required for an AS/RS include a storage & retrieval machine (SRM) that is used for rapid storage and retrieval of material. SRMs are used to move loads vertically or horizontally, and can also move laterally to place objects in the correct storage location.^[6]

The trend towards Just In Time production often requires sub-pallet level availability of production inputs, and AS/RS is a much faster way of organizing the storage of smaller items next to production lines.

Rather than selecting a manufacturer who is only going to recommend the best solution that “they” can provide you with, why not go to a systems integrator with experience in all types of AS/RS who has access to many of the best products on the market and all types of AS/RS? This is just one of the advantages that you will benefit from when choosing Kuecker Logistics Group to assist you in the implementation of an automated storage and retrieval system that is custom designed to meet all of your specific and unique requirements.

Visit: http://kuecker.com/automated_storage_retrieval.php.

More to come soon!

Palletizers

A bit about palletizers:

A palletizer or palletiser is a machine which provides automatic means for stacking cases of goods or products onto a pallet.

Manually placing boxes on pallets can be time consuming and expensive; it can also put unusual stress on workers.^[1] The first mechanized palletizer was designed, built, and installed in 1948 by a company formerly known as Lamson Corp. Lamson is currently owned by ARPAC (.com) who provides both robotic and mechanical palletizers with complete end of line packaging equipment systems.

There are specific types of palletizers including the row-forming which were introduced in the early 1950s. In row-forming palletizing applications loads are arranged on a row forming area and then moved onto a different area where layer forming takes place. This process repeats until a full layer of goods and products are configured to be placed on a pallet.

The in-line palletizer was developed in the 1970s when higher speeds were needed for palletizing. This palletizer type utilizes a continuous motion flow divider that guides the goods into the desired area on the layer forming platform.

Robotic palletizers were introduced in the early 1980s and have an end of arm tool (end effector) to grab the product from a conveyor or layer table and position it onto a pallet.^[2] Both conventional and robotic palletizers can receive product at a high elevation (typically between 84” - 2.13m to 124” - 3.15m) or low “floor level” elevation (typically at 30” - 0.76m to 36” - 0.91m).

At Kuecker Logistics Group, we can provide your company with the right palletizing equipment and palletizing solutions that meets the specific requirements of your project. Whether you are in need of one of the fastest and most durable models in the industry or a unique robotic application, we have the right palletizing system for your operations.

Our services don’t have to stop there, though. As an expert integrator of palletizing equipment, conveyor systems, AS/RS and multiple material handling solutions, many times the palletizer is simply one facet of the entire project scope that we provide. Our team analyzes your businesses needs and creates a palletizing solution that can make it run more smoothly.

More to come soon!

Warehouse Automation Solutions to Streamline Distribution Center Operations

Achieve Optimal Operations With Warehouse Automation

Streamline your processes with warehouse automation from KLG. Our team aims to make your operation as efficient as possible and will do everything we can to help you expand your business by providing warehouse automation and distribution systems.

From handling greater amounts of products to allowing for quicker turnaround times, warehouse automation has been assisting the biggest names in a variety of industries. Consider making your business smarter with warehouse automation from KLG.

Learn more about our custom warehouse automation systems by reading more below or calling (816) 348-3100 today.

Warehouse Automation Solutions

We offer comprehensive warehouse automation solutions for your distribution centers. Here are some of the services we provide:

Put-to-Light

With put-to-light warehouse automation, operators can easily replenish stock thanks to light displays that provide allocation instruction and packing quantities. Operators pick more efficiently thanks to this warehouse automation system.

Omni-Channel Distribution Systems

The convergence of mobile technology, e-commerce websites, and wireless networks have enabled consumers to make purchases almost anywhere -- and they expect prompt delivery. Our warehouse automation solutions include omni channel distribution strategies, including inventory and distributed order management systems.

Supply Chain Automation

Still relying on outdated manual entry, invoicing, printing, processing, mailing, order status updating, and more? Not only does this waste paper, it also takes time. Pair your warehouse automation system with supply chain automation to streamline your processes.

Goods to Man

Our warehouse automation solutions include goods-to-man (also called goods-to-person) systems designed to cut labor costs and cycle times, plus increase order accuracy and employee productivity. Integrate these systems with our other warehouse automation, like put-to-light and pick-to-light systems, to further optimize distribution systems.

Distribution Center Design

Our warehouse automation services include distribution center design. We’ll tour your current facilities and discuss strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in order to design a distribution plan that meets your needs and corrects any inefficiencies. Then, our warehouse automation team can provide integration, installation, training, and more.

Warehouse Control Software

Without good control software, warehouse automation won’t be as effective and time-saving. KLG will connect you with the software your distribution and fulfillment center needs for streamlined operations.

Contact Kuecker Logistics Group Today for Warehouse Automation Solutions

If you're ready for your operations to run more efficiently, contact us today. KLG is happy to provide you with more information about our comprehensive warehouse automation technology.

Call (816) 348-3100 to discuss your warehouse automation options with our expert team. Talk to Jim tell him Joe sent you!

Third Party Logistics & Warehouse Management Solutions

Third Party Logistics & Warehouse Management Solutions

Third party logistics - It's just one piece of the logistics, distribution, and supply management industry. This is when a company uses a third party business to outsource some or all of the distribution and fulfillment of their own products and is sometimes abbreviated as 3PL or TPL. Kuecker helps small and large businesses alike achieve efficient, dynamic logistics management solutions.

 As a company in the distribution and supply chain business, we know the difficulty in predicting what type of material handling solution your operation may need now and how your current operation can grow in that direction. You want a solution that works for their current client base, but possesses the flexibility to serve future customers.

When you need an expert with understanding and vision of how you can meet the ever-evolving needs of your clients,  let Kuecker Logistics Group fulfill that role.

Third Party Logistics Management Solutions

Kuecker Logistics Group represents and implements a wide variety of third-party logistics management products and solutions. We are an integrator, taking the best products and solutions from our diverse pool of sources and resources, and integrating them together in a custom designed solution for your company's unique needs. We can help identify the solution that makes your operation more efficient and flexible, leaving you free to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Advantages of Using Kuecker for Your 3PL Needs

1. Saving Time & Money

KLG is an experienced material handling integrator. When you use us as a 3PL to manage your distribution and supply chain demands, you get the benefit of our vast experience and ability to pull together numerous efficiencies. This translates into cost and time savings for you. We are experts in logistic solutions, warehouse management, and much more.

Our third party logistics management solutions result in a lower capital commitment when engaging a 3PL. And because of our ready adaptability, you can more quickly and cost-effectively adjust to meet customer and supplier needs on an ongoing basis.

2. Allowing You to Focus

Let us do what we do best -- logistics management, material handling, warehouse automation, and more -- while you do what you do best.

3. Flexible Logistic Solutions

Our experience and expertise in designing and building solutions for every type of business operation gives us an advantage and a range of flexibility that you cannot match with in-house direct handling of your company's logistics challenges. We specialize in an array of third party logistics services that you may not be able to offer in-house.

A Trusted Provider of Third Party Logistic Solutions

We are knowledgeable in providing warehouse logistics, material handling and management solutions to third party logistics companies, including the organizations listed below.

Warehouse information

Automation and the Warehouse Enviroment

Some warehouses are completely automated, and require only operators to work and handle all the tasks. Pallets and product move on a system of automated conveyors, cranes and automated storage and retrieval systems coordinated by programmable logic controllers and computers running logistics automation software. These systems are often installed in refrigerated warehouses where temperatures are kept very cold to keep the product from spoiling, especially in electronics warehouses that require specific temperatures to avoid damaging parts, and also where land is expensive, as automated storage systems can use vertical space efficiently. These high-bay storage areas are often more than 10 meters (33 feet) high, with some over 20 meters (65 feet) high. Automated storage systems can be built up to 40m high.

For a warehouse to function efficiently, the facility must be properly slotted. Slotting addresses which storage medium a product is picked from (pallet rack or carton flow), and how they are picked (pick-to-light, pick-to-voice, or pick-to-paper). With a proper slotting plan, a warehouse can improve its inventory rotation requirements—such as first in, first out (FIFO) and last in, first out (LIFO)—to control labor costs and increase productivity.^[19]

Pallet racks are commonly used to organize a warehouse. It is important to know the dimensions of racking and the number of bays needed as well as the dimensions of the product to be stored.^[Clearance should be accounted for if using a forklift or pallet mover to move inventory.

Warehouses have changed accordingly as the economy and the internet shopping has thrived around the world increasing the demand for quick delivery of products. Amazon has changed warehousing and automated warehousing and the expection of same-day delivery. We are seeing older warehouses in inner cities standing abandoned for being too small for retrofitting by companies to compete and deliver goods quickly. All Of these warehouses have similar problems: how do you staff, and quickly train,  a warehouse worker? This is where automation comes in and it is this automation that is now critical for companies to compete. Automated picking systems, automated robots, racking systems and more are now becoming the norm as demands for quick shipping increase. With companies experimenting with drone pickup and delivery, we may soon see drone landing ports on top of warehouses or next to warehouses with operators all over the world flying or controlling these drones.

Where does it leave us in today's environment? I believe that you must have your warehouse designed  by a professional company, and that company then needs to be able to implement or suggest a solution to guide your company into this new and exciting age. Kuecker Logistics Group has the experience and the knowledge to guide you and implement the new products and services that will lead you to success and to profits.

Written by Joe Rossini 
Some information provided by 
Wikipedia