Category Archives: Processes

Multi Order Picking by LED Strips

At the LogiMAT 2019 we will be presenting our new solution "Multi-Order Picking with LED Strips" for the first time to the public.

Principle of Multi Order Picking

This solution provides a significant increase in efficiency over classic Pick by Light and Put to Light solutions. At the same time, costs can be reduced by using cheap LED strips.

Never again its necessary to rebuild anything on the shelf if the layout is changed as the LED strips cover the entire storage area. So the solution supports different sized bins by default.

Multiple workers can simultaneously take articles for different picking orders. LED strips of individually and separately controllable LEDs lead the respective worker to the storage location with the color of his "order" (Multi User Multi Order Picking).

A worker can also serve multiple jobs with different colors simultaneously (Single User Multi Order Picking).

The quantities to be withdrawn are displayed either on a tablet or handheld device. In doing so, only the data of his order appear for the registered user. Each worker has their own user master data record in which the order color is assigned for this worker.

Picking confirmation is also done on the tablet or handheld device.

This procedure can also be used for assembly processes "Multi Order Put by Light". Using a mobile scanner the filing order is entered. Then the associated storage location lights up in the orders color.

The comprehensive software on our ECU represents the complete logic. Through an open API. All processes can be remotely controlled via an external order system (such as SAP). Suitable SAP interfaces are available.

Pick-by-Light

Pick-by-Light

... is a process whereby the removal of parts is controlled by light signals. By this method, the error rate compared to a document-guided removal can be significantly reduced. At the same time, the picking speed is increased, since the removal compartments are easily detected even from a greater distance. This means that even low-qualified employees can be meaningfully integrated into a high-quality order picking process.

Variant: Order of component removal is relevant

  • Assembly order is started
  • A light signal indicates which component is needed first from which shelf compartment
  • Different quantities are displayed either in different colors or via a graphical display
  • The component is being picked
  • The removal is confirmed on the shelf compartment via the touch sensor
  • The component will be assembled or packed
  • Meanwhile, the light signal for the next required component lights up on the shelf
  • This one is picked, etc.
  • The order has been processed by confirmation of delivery of the last component

Variant: Order of component removal is irrelevant

  • Assembly order is started
  • Light signals indicate which components are required from which shelf compartments
  • Different quantities are displayed either in different colors or via a graphical display
  • The removal can be done for all components in a single shelf run
  • Confirmation of the removal takes place either via the touch sensors on the shelf or centrally for all components at the assembly or picking station
  • This completes the order

Put-to-Light

Put-to-Light ... is a process for material supply. Here, light signals show where material is missing or in which compartment the current material has to be stored. In particular, if the materials are marked with a barcode, an error-free and, at the same time, fast material replenishment process can be realized.

  • An order is started by e.g. the barcode of the material to be distributed is scanned
  • At the corresponding target containers, a light signal indicates where this component is to be stored
  • The job is completed by confirming the tray via the touch sensor

Assemble by Light

Assemble by Light®

... describes a process for system-guided assembly.
At trade fairs, we regularly demonstrate that even the most inexperienced visitors to the stand can properly assemble a vehicle (made of Lego) from the right components without a blueprint. Key to this is the pick-by-light system combined with software we call the "visual assembly plan".
Assemble-by-Light®
The system stores the parts lists of the various vehicle types as well as a photo of each component with the respective installation situation. By scanning the barcode of the relevant parts list, the removal of the first component is started. At the same time, the photo of the installation situation appears on the monitor.

The best way to see the process is through the video ...