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Month: April 2020

Nord Drivesystems Develops Frequency inverters from 0.25 to 160 kW

Posted on by David Priestman

Nord Drivesystems has been developing drive electronics for more than 30 years and is one of the pioneers of innovative inverter technology. With the family of NORDAC frequency inverters, the drive technology specialist covers a wide range of services. This includes new control cabinet inverters as well as decentralised frequency inverters, which have proven themselves particularly in intralogistics.

Thanks to its practical advantages, decentralised drive technology, with frequency inverters that are installed close to the motor or mounted directly on the geared motor convince not just in conveyor technology and intralogistics. Other industries with large-scale systems and many drive motors increasingly use decentralised frequency inverters that allow for a cost-effective installation outside the control cabinet. Nord Drivesystems and the NORDAC range combine the complete spectrum of modern frequency inverters.

Full flexibility: decentralised frequency inverters
The robust NORDAC BASE frequency inverter has been designed as an economic variant for simple decentralised drive solutions, for example in parcel and logistics centres. The NORDAC FLEX offers larger functional ranges and can be flexibly tailored to any customer application by means of scalable functions. Extensive plug-in capability and easy parameter transfer allow for quick installation and maintenance. The NORDAC LINK Field Distribution System (FDS) raises functional ranges and interface options to a new level. These frequency inverters are available in three sizes (0.75 kW, 3.0 kW and 7.5 kW) and as motor starters. They are flexible in configuration and function, freely configurable according to requirements and applications, and compatible with all common bus systems. In combination with an energy-efficient synchronous motor and a 2-stage helical bevel gear unit they constitute the LogiDrive concept and the basis for efficient and tailor-made drive solutions in intralogistics applications.

Optimum performance in the control cabinet
Powerful control cabinet inverters are an important drive technology element, despite the trend towards decentralisation. It is exactly the frequency inverter for high power applications within limited spaces that are housed and protected in a control cabinet. NORD DRIVESYSTEMS provides the versatile and proven NORDAC PRO SK 500E frequency inverters for the control cabinet installation in 11 sizes for powers from 0.25 to 160 kW. With the new NORDAC PRO SK 500P product range, NORD has launched a new generation of frequency inverters. The range features ultimate levels of functionality (e.g. integrated positioning function and synchronous motor operation), connectivity (with USB port, universal Ethernet interface and others) and modularity. There are basic and advanced inverters with optional modules for interface extensions. In addition to improved characteristics and performance features, the new inverter generation uses the proven NORDAC parameter structure and is physically and functionally downward compatible.

Industry View: Secure Your Supply Chain Now to Beat Disruption

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Now that more and more countries are declaring national emergencies and shutting down businesses for lockdown, it’s become more important than ever to diversify your supply chain and mitigate the risk caused by disruption. So says Open Packaging Network CEO Sergei Ciachir.

Founded in 2018, the OPN Platform is a data-driven B2B online marketplace for the packaging industry.

According to research conducted by McKinsey and Company, trucking capacity to ship goods from factories to ports has decreased by 80% and product shipments from ports are facing huge delays. For packaging businesses unable to fulfill orders, finding alternative suppliers and vendors is crucial to survival.

A digital marketplace allows businesses to reach out to alternative connections to close the gap in their supply chains caused by disruption. By expanding networks in this way, businesses can also take advantage of new routes and channels in order to keep running.

The cloud-based OPN Platform has already facilitated over 10 000 deals across the globe and was included in the World Business Angels Investment Forum’s list of Top 100 most promising startups for industrial transformation.

“Our platform is the largest independent marketplace that uses emerging technologies to create an open ecosystem for various stakeholders to interact with each other seamlessly. The AI-driven digital platform connects buyers and sellers from across the global packaging industry quickly and conveniently. They transact directly on the online platform,” explains Sergei.

It’s not business as usual for the packaging industry. Adapting your operations to meet change and taking advantage of technology has become a crucial part of a successful survival strategy.

Industry View: Secure Your Supply Chain Now to Beat Disruption

Posted on by David Priestman

Now that more and more countries are declaring national emergencies and shutting down businesses for lockdown, it’s become more important than ever to diversify your supply chain and mitigate the risk caused by disruption. So says Open Packaging Network CEO Sergei Ciachir.

Founded in 2018, the OPN Platform is a data-driven B2B online marketplace for the packaging industry.

According to research conducted by McKinsey and Company, trucking capacity to ship goods from factories to ports has decreased by 80% and product shipments from ports are facing huge delays. For packaging businesses unable to fulfill orders, finding alternative suppliers and vendors is crucial to survival.

A digital marketplace allows businesses to reach out to alternative connections to close the gap in their supply chains caused by disruption. By expanding networks in this way, businesses can also take advantage of new routes and channels in order to keep running.

The cloud-based OPN Platform has already facilitated over 10 000 deals across the globe and was included in the World Business Angels Investment Forum’s list of Top 100 most promising startups for industrial transformation.

“Our platform is the largest independent marketplace that uses emerging technologies to create an open ecosystem for various stakeholders to interact with each other seamlessly. The AI-driven digital platform connects buyers and sellers from across the global packaging industry quickly and conveniently. They transact directly on the online platform,” explains Sergei.

It’s not business as usual for the packaging industry. Adapting your operations to meet change and taking advantage of technology has become a crucial part of a successful survival strategy.

Geodis Inventory Control Solution Employs Drone Technology

Posted on by David Priestman

GEODIS and DELTA DRONE have launched a warehouse-inventory solution. GEODIS Countbot is a stabilized automated system that includes a drone and is able to do inventory and inventory control. Inventory can be done in real time, without human intervention other than a supervising operator and without any special equipment.

“GEODIS Countbot” is the result of over three years of R&D and testing to create a reliable automated inventory service that does not require any additional stationary equipment inside the warehouse and is totally safe, protecting both people and property. Built by both DELTA DRONE, specialized in civilian drones for professional use, and GEODIS, international leader in transport and logistics, this new service revolutionizes warehouse inventory: “Inventory is a time-consuming activity and can be risky for humans, requiring operations to be shut down and the rental of personnel lifts. With “GEODIS Countbot,” inventory can now be carried out quickly, automatically and safely,” explains Romain Cauvet, global Engineering director, Supply Chain optimization, GEODIS. In terms of performance, the first assignments performed in real time, in a 10 000 m2 warehouse, allow us to estimate inventory time at under three hours instead of the one to two days it used to take.

The solution combines a robot, a telescopic mast that can reach up to 10 metres and a drone that ensures the stability and therefore the quality of the images collected. It has been the subject of several patent applications. 16 high-resolution cameras are positioned along the mast. The unit moves automatically through the aisles, following trajectories entered beforehand in the robot’s memory thanks to an initial full mapping of the site. As it moves, the cameras photograph the pallet barcodes end detect anomalies, if any. All the data are then reported to the WMS (Warehouse Management System).

From an operational and commercial standpoint, the partners plan to deploy the solution progressively to many warehouses throughout the world, whether or not they are GEODIS warehouses. In Europe, sales of the systems will benefit from the support and existing network of Ott Ventures, Delta Drone’s new reference shareholder, representing close to five million square meters in warehouse space and industrial sites located in various countries, in particular, the Czech Republic, Germany, the Netherlands and Russia.

Geodis Inventory Control Solution Employs Drone Technology

Posted on by David Priestman

GEODIS and DELTA DRONE have launched a warehouse-inventory solution. GEODIS Countbot is a stabilized automated system that includes a drone and is able to do inventory and inventory control. Inventory can be done in real time, without human intervention other than a supervising operator and without any special equipment.

“GEODIS Countbot” is the result of over three years of R&D and testing to create a reliable automated inventory service that does not require any additional stationary equipment inside the warehouse and is totally safe, protecting both people and property. Built by both DELTA DRONE, specialized in civilian drones for professional use, and GEODIS, international leader in transport and logistics, this new service revolutionizes warehouse inventory: “Inventory is a time-consuming activity and can be risky for humans, requiring operations to be shut down and the rental of personnel lifts. With “GEODIS Countbot,” inventory can now be carried out quickly, automatically and safely,” explains Romain Cauvet, global Engineering director, Supply Chain optimization, GEODIS. In terms of performance, the first assignments performed in real time, in a 10 000 m2 warehouse, allow us to estimate inventory time at under three hours instead of the one to two days it used to take.

The solution combines a robot, a telescopic mast that can reach up to 10 metres and a drone that ensures the stability and therefore the quality of the images collected. It has been the subject of several patent applications. 16 high-resolution cameras are positioned along the mast. The unit moves automatically through the aisles, following trajectories entered beforehand in the robot’s memory thanks to an initial full mapping of the site. As it moves, the cameras photograph the pallet barcodes end detect anomalies, if any. All the data are then reported to the WMS (Warehouse Management System).

From an operational and commercial standpoint, the partners plan to deploy the solution progressively to many warehouses throughout the world, whether or not they are GEODIS warehouses. In Europe, sales of the systems will benefit from the support and existing network of Ott Ventures, Delta Drone’s new reference shareholder, representing close to five million square meters in warehouse space and industrial sites located in various countries, in particular, the Czech Republic, Germany, the Netherlands and Russia.

Rhenus Acquires Irish Chemical Specialist C+G Logistics

Posted on by David Priestman

Rhenus Logistics has acquired Irish chemical logistics specialist C+G Logistics.

Headquartered in Mulhuddart, Dublin, the chemical storage and transportation specialist has more than 40 years’ experience in handling raw materials, ingredients and chemicals. The C+G facility also provides full Seveso capabilities with 5,000 square metres of dedicated hazardous goods storage.

The addition of C+G Logistics coupled with the recent rebrand of Avant Air & Sea (acquired by Rhenus in October 2018) to Rhenus Air & Ocean “illustrates the company’s ability to embrace the continued growth and demand increase across Ireland’s logistics sector,” it said.

C+G has built a strong reputation on its ‘customer-centric’ approach.

Rhenus Acquires Irish Chemical Specialist C+G Logistics

Posted on by David Priestman

Rhenus Logistics has acquired Irish chemical logistics specialist C+G Logistics.

Headquartered in Mulhuddart, Dublin, the chemical storage and transportation specialist has more than 40 years’ experience in handling raw materials, ingredients and chemicals. The C+G facility also provides full Seveso capabilities with 5,000 square metres of dedicated hazardous goods storage.

The addition of C+G Logistics coupled with the recent rebrand of Avant Air & Sea (acquired by Rhenus in October 2018) to Rhenus Air & Ocean “illustrates the company’s ability to embrace the continued growth and demand increase across Ireland’s logistics sector,” it said.

C+G has built a strong reputation on its ‘customer-centric’ approach.

Industry View: Maintaining Efficiencies and Cutting Stockpiling Pressure

Posted on by David Priestman

By SnapFulfil’s CEO, UK & Europe, Tony Dobson:

The global impact of Covid-19 is going to be felt for years, long after the virus has been brought under control, with governments and economies struggling to get back on their feet.

But what this crisis has already revealed is the true spirit of human inventiveness as many businesses have adjusted their game plans overnight – whether introducing direct to consumer e-commerce or new lines to meet changing demand.

For many this is going to be a permanent change too, with the need to switch suppliers, invest in automation, reinforce online operations and identify risk mitigation strategies.

At the heart of this is advanced cloud-based WMS technology, such as SnapFulfil, that is key to ensuring the smooth flow in and out of goods, even when having staff on the ground is compromised due to sickness and there is a need to stockpile products.

Here are five ways WMS can maintain efficiency and reduce the pressure of stockpiling:

1. Location, Location, Location: WMS automates your putaway process and helps you to identify the best ‘location’ to store your goods based on the frequency items will be picked and whether they have special storage requirements. The aim should be that every item has a location, so pickers know exactly where to find things and a reference when it’s time to get it out the door.

2. Pick Planning: A WMS like SnapFulfil will use data from the day’s orders to generate electronic ‘pick lists’ based on product locations. A pick list will offer pickers the most efficient routes to take, which can improve efficiency and productivity by up to 30 per cent, which is welcomed when operatives are in short supply!

3. First In, First Out: By using the first in first out principles, a WMS will manage stock rotations based on a product’s shelf life, reducing waste and making sure products are as fresh as possible for your customers. This will also minimise shrink as all stock movements are accurately recorded and will let you know exactly when you need to re-order items.

4. Quality Control: A cloud-based WMS brings control to a warehouse, which can be a complex and chaotic environment. It removes piles of paperwork by automating processes, helping to maintain efficiency and identify any issues within the warehouse. This could be a picker who is consistently slower than average at pulling orders, allowing you to address the situation appropriately.

5. Realtime Data: Data is a key feature of WMS, giving you access to a plethora of reports and trend analysis. These reports allow you to make better forecasting decisions based on solid fact and paint a detailed picture of a product’s lifecycle across the supply chain – from what you’ve sold to where you’ve sold it and frequency.

In Summary:
While we are all absorbed by Covid-19, investing in a WMS might seem the furthest thought from your mind. But now is the ideal time, as downtime is the best time to get your warehouse in order to manage the brave new world.

The truth is, it’s possible to have a cloud-based WMS, such as SnapFulfil, up and running remotely in 45 days or less and it’s not expensive to set in motion, or difficult to realign across multiple locations.

With our unique low cost monthly payments, including equipment lease, the financial barriers are lifted giving you the opportunity to have a world class WMS with no major capital investment.

The benefits are clear with total control over your warehouse logistics – from stock and where to find it, storage space optimisation, improved pick efficiency, despatch accuracy and most significantly, a quick return on investment.

Finding a solution that has the flexibility to not only integrate with other technology platforms but also grow with your business are other important considerations when looking for a WMS partner.

Industry View: Maintaining Efficiencies and Cutting Stockpiling Pressure

Posted on by David Priestman

By SnapFulfil’s CEO, UK & Europe, Tony Dobson:

The global impact of Covid-19 is going to be felt for years, long after the virus has been brought under control, with governments and economies struggling to get back on their feet.

But what this crisis has already revealed is the true spirit of human inventiveness as many businesses have adjusted their game plans overnight – whether introducing direct to consumer e-commerce or new lines to meet changing demand.

For many this is going to be a permanent change too, with the need to switch suppliers, invest in automation, reinforce online operations and identify risk mitigation strategies.

At the heart of this is advanced cloud-based WMS technology, such as SnapFulfil, that is key to ensuring the smooth flow in and out of goods, even when having staff on the ground is compromised due to sickness and there is a need to stockpile products.

Here are five ways WMS can maintain efficiency and reduce the pressure of stockpiling:

1. Location, Location, Location: WMS automates your putaway process and helps you to identify the best ‘location’ to store your goods based on the frequency items will be picked and whether they have special storage requirements. The aim should be that every item has a location, so pickers know exactly where to find things and a reference when it’s time to get it out the door.

2. Pick Planning: A WMS like SnapFulfil will use data from the day’s orders to generate electronic ‘pick lists’ based on product locations. A pick list will offer pickers the most efficient routes to take, which can improve efficiency and productivity by up to 30 per cent, which is welcomed when operatives are in short supply!

3. First In, First Out: By using the first in first out principles, a WMS will manage stock rotations based on a product’s shelf life, reducing waste and making sure products are as fresh as possible for your customers. This will also minimise shrink as all stock movements are accurately recorded and will let you know exactly when you need to re-order items.

4. Quality Control: A cloud-based WMS brings control to a warehouse, which can be a complex and chaotic environment. It removes piles of paperwork by automating processes, helping to maintain efficiency and identify any issues within the warehouse. This could be a picker who is consistently slower than average at pulling orders, allowing you to address the situation appropriately.

5. Realtime Data: Data is a key feature of WMS, giving you access to a plethora of reports and trend analysis. These reports allow you to make better forecasting decisions based on solid fact and paint a detailed picture of a product’s lifecycle across the supply chain – from what you’ve sold to where you’ve sold it and frequency.

In Summary:
While we are all absorbed by Covid-19, investing in a WMS might seem the furthest thought from your mind. But now is the ideal time, as downtime is the best time to get your warehouse in order to manage the brave new world.

The truth is, it’s possible to have a cloud-based WMS, such as SnapFulfil, up and running remotely in 45 days or less and it’s not expensive to set in motion, or difficult to realign across multiple locations.

With our unique low cost monthly payments, including equipment lease, the financial barriers are lifted giving you the opportunity to have a world class WMS with no major capital investment.

The benefits are clear with total control over your warehouse logistics – from stock and where to find it, storage space optimisation, improved pick efficiency, despatch accuracy and most significantly, a quick return on investment.

Finding a solution that has the flexibility to not only integrate with other technology platforms but also grow with your business are other important considerations when looking for a WMS partner.

Start-Up Synfioo Offers Free Transparency for Truck Monitoring

Posted on by David Priestman

Potsdam-based start-up Synfioo is offering its OnTime Navigator for three months free of charge during the current international crisis. The tour management application allows the retrieval of ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) predictions as well as movement and disruption data from any computer. The OnTime Navigator data thus enables the people involved to better react to unexpected developments in the transport process in the wake of the corona crisis.

“Security of supply is currently a very important commodity. With our decision to make the use of OnTime Navigator available free of charge to potential interested parties, we want to play our part in optimizing road freight transport processes during the corona crisis,” emphasizes Marian Pufahl, CEO of Synfioo. “Because only those who have correct data on the position of the trucks and the disruptions ahead can make the right decisions for the further course of the transports. The same applies to precise arrival time predictions for raw materials and semi-finished materials, which have a major influence on the demand-oriented design of production processes.”

Find out more at the English landing page: https://ontimenavigator.de/en/ too. Customers can register until 30.04.2020 and can cancel the tour management application within the three free months. Otherwise, the registration of users would then be transferred to a regular payment service.

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