Automated warehouses

Modern technologies used in logistics systems and processes enable users to dramatically improve the efficiency of storage, handling, preparation and dispatch of all types of goods. Automated warehouses and material handling systems give companies the advantage over their competitors, with respect to cost savings, improved productivity, range of products and superior customer care, just to mention a few. The automated applications are becoming more important than the traditional setups in warehouses and supply chain operations.

AUTOMATED STORAGE SOLUTIONS Advantages Productivity and availability n Highly productive goods receipt and dispatch processes. n Top performance, extend business hours, easy maintenance, etc. n Continuous workflows. Labour cost savings n Reduced numbers of forklift operators, order pickers and administrative staff. n Less material handling equipment needed. Lower maintenance costs n Reduce damage due to improper usage. n Stop wear and tear from misuse and mishandling n Paving, structures, etc., with fewer technical requirements. Total safety of personnel n Installations designed for low level...

ANALYSING SOLUTIONS AND PROJECT DEVELOPMENT Mecalux has developed its own method of designing automated solutions for customers, as shown in the following diagram: Stages of project development Data collection DATA COLLECTION Need identification: Reasons for automating Gathering the relevant data used to configure a logistics system is necessary to formulate a solution that meets the needs of the customer: The collection of data must be carried out correctly, taking into account the usefulness of the information to apply it appropriately in the project. The following points must be considered:...

ANALYSING SOLUTIONS AND PROJECT DEVELOPMENT Feasibility study Based on our experience in automated solutions for storage and material handling, Mecalux has developed a methodology which ensures a highlydetailed analysis of all a customer’s data, capacities and needs. A, B, C product rotation. Data analysis. n Determine flows and rotations. n Examine deciding factors. n Study procedures. n Return on investment. n n In the first stage, all potential technical solutions are studied which are able to meet the objectives of the installations. Each one of these designs is defined with variables and...

This study methodology is systematically applied to different variables, with the following benefits: n The customer can rest assured that Mecalux will always offer the right solution. It is possible to make changes to the proposed design of the logistics solution design, thanks to the systematic study of the initial proposal. In the case of future modifications and/or extensions of the installations, the study is much more straightforward and scalable. The proposed solutions always take into account the standard Mecalux products. In this way, once an installation has been defined and contracted,...

ANALYSING SOLUTIONS AND PROJECT DEVELOPMENT Developing a solution The solutions Mecalux provides for its customers allow them, within a set investment, to manage their warehouses and handling equipment, while still enjoying all the benefits of automated systems. An automated system requires a highly structured work philosophy, in which the warehouse is seen as an integrated distribution system. Adapting to the different operational systems, needs and capacities of its customers, Mecalux faces the challenge of managing and automating warehouses through a range of solutions, from basic automation...

Implementing the project Defining project specifications Assembly of the installation n Commissioning n Training n n This stage is complex as countless technological factors are involved, interacting with each other during the project implementation and in the same workplace. As a consequence, Mecalux implements its own work method for developing projects to complete the installation, to improve productivity on the site, to meet the development times and to limit unexpected problems. Firstly, Mecalux carries out 100% of its project’s engineering works using its own team of experts, specialised...

TURNKEY PROJECTS Mecalux offers turnkey projects for all installations getting automated solutions to provide a more comprehensive service. In these cases, Mecalux's involvement in the project more covers areas that are not strictly linked to material handling equipment. These include: Core project Project management n Construction work n Cladding n Temperature controlled cold-storage n Fire safety systems Core project An industrial project must be based around a core project, which defines the overall design of the solution. Its focus is a detailed technical description that is useful in managing...

The project management team coordinates the work tasks, ensuring the different elements run smoothly, that the progress of the installation is optimal and the goals of the projects are fulfilled. The team is also responsible for different legal and administrative issues applicable to the project in accordance with the regulations in force.

TURNKEY PROJECTS Construction work Construction work forms an important part of any turnkey project. The implementation of automated logistics generally consists of the following: Slab Structure n Additional building work n n Slab The slab is one of the most important construction elements of an industrial installation. A building's slab provides a stable base which is able to withstand the forces produced by all of the components of the warehouse and its contents. Therefore, before starting to building, it is necessary to know all forces that will be transmitted to the slab by the installation...

Structure In the case of clad-rack warehouses, the basic structure is formed by the racking itself which, in turn, functions as the warehouse. The structures of clad-rack buildings must be calculated applying the law of material resistance, using powerful and sophisticated programmes and calculation algorithms. The load being stored must always be taken into account (dimensions, weight, distribution), along with the dead weight of the structure and external actions, such as wind (pressure or suction), snow, earthquakes and other live loads. conventional pallet rack structures, rather than clad-rack...