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Day: 17 February 2021

Flexible Rental Model for Voice Tech

Posted on by David Priestman

Logistics companies around the world are facing tougher requirements each and every day. The global pandemic in particular has underlined how intralogistics processes are having to become faster and faster while at the same time keeping costs to a minimum. Voice solutions like Lydia® have proven to be the most successful option in this agile and demanding environment. However, despite offering a swift return on investment, introducing voice-assisted systems means making investments upfront, and this is something that companies often look to scale back during uncertain times. In a bid to markedly reduce this investment risk, EPG launched a flexible rental model for its Lydia® Voice system at the start of the year. The Lydia® Subscription makes it easy for companies to venture into the world of voice-controlled warehouse operations.

Lydia® Subscription gives clients access to the Lydia® voice solution, which can be used for a variety of voice-controlled applications in intralogistics, production, maintenance and quality assurance. The all-in-one package covers software usage, including all the required voice-application licences and integration into the overarching warehouse management or ERP system.
Users also gain access to comprehensive software support via a hotline, along with regular licence release upgrades. The bundle also come with the Voxter® Elite + voice client, including batteries, charger and maintenance services. Voxter® Scan +, the mobile handheld scanner, can also be included in the rental package if advanced data collection is required. Companies looking to work with voice-compatible mobile devices from other manufacturers have the option of limiting the rental model to just the software as the voice solution is hardware-independent, ensuring users can enjoy maximum flexibility. Lydia®-branded hygiene items, such as headsets, gloves or voicewear, need to be purchased separately for hygiene reasons.

Lydia® Subscription service – Optimising processes under a rental agreement

“The logistics sector operates in a dynamic market environment. Conditions are constantly changing – and the coronavirus pandemic is but one example. That is why logistics companies need to demonstrate maximum flexibility and agility. The Lydia® Subscription service provides a seamless and cost-efficient way for companies to begin optimising their logistics chain and gain access to cutting-edge voice technology. The rental model makes it easy for companies to calculate the total costs they will face,” explains Tim Just, CEO of Voice Solutions at EPG. For many companies, (software) rental models represent an appealing alternative to purchasing the products outright since they can avoid substantial outlays and prevent resources from being tied up for long periods of time. “Flexible subscription models do not require any overall capital expenditures, and therefore do not tie up capital within a company’s fixed assets. Companies therefore not only enjoy tax benefits, but also see a swifter return on investment,” Just says.

During the term of the contract, the system can be flexibly expanded for additional voice users at any time. Once the contact ends, so too does the company’s right to use the software and hardware. The customer can then decide whether to return the system or extend the rental agreement.

“We’re delighted to have come up with a way for companies to leverage major improvements in quality and performance in their picking operations within an incredibly short space of time – even during these challenging times,” Just explains.

Flexible Rental Model for Voice Tech

Posted on by David Priestman

Logistics companies around the world are facing tougher requirements each and every day. The global pandemic in particular has underlined how intralogistics processes are having to become faster and faster while at the same time keeping costs to a minimum. Voice solutions like Lydia® have proven to be the most successful option in this agile and demanding environment. However, despite offering a swift return on investment, introducing voice-assisted systems means making investments upfront, and this is something that companies often look to scale back during uncertain times. In a bid to markedly reduce this investment risk, EPG launched a flexible rental model for its Lydia® Voice system at the start of the year. The Lydia® Subscription makes it easy for companies to venture into the world of voice-controlled warehouse operations.

Lydia® Subscription gives clients access to the Lydia® voice solution, which can be used for a variety of voice-controlled applications in intralogistics, production, maintenance and quality assurance. The all-in-one package covers software usage, including all the required voice-application licences and integration into the overarching warehouse management or ERP system.
Users also gain access to comprehensive software support via a hotline, along with regular licence release upgrades. The bundle also come with the Voxter® Elite + voice client, including batteries, charger and maintenance services. Voxter® Scan +, the mobile handheld scanner, can also be included in the rental package if advanced data collection is required. Companies looking to work with voice-compatible mobile devices from other manufacturers have the option of limiting the rental model to just the software as the voice solution is hardware-independent, ensuring users can enjoy maximum flexibility. Lydia®-branded hygiene items, such as headsets, gloves or voicewear, need to be purchased separately for hygiene reasons.

Lydia® Subscription service – Optimising processes under a rental agreement

“The logistics sector operates in a dynamic market environment. Conditions are constantly changing – and the coronavirus pandemic is but one example. That is why logistics companies need to demonstrate maximum flexibility and agility. The Lydia® Subscription service provides a seamless and cost-efficient way for companies to begin optimising their logistics chain and gain access to cutting-edge voice technology. The rental model makes it easy for companies to calculate the total costs they will face,” explains Tim Just, CEO of Voice Solutions at EPG. For many companies, (software) rental models represent an appealing alternative to purchasing the products outright since they can avoid substantial outlays and prevent resources from being tied up for long periods of time. “Flexible subscription models do not require any overall capital expenditures, and therefore do not tie up capital within a company’s fixed assets. Companies therefore not only enjoy tax benefits, but also see a swifter return on investment,” Just says.

During the term of the contract, the system can be flexibly expanded for additional voice users at any time. Once the contact ends, so too does the company’s right to use the software and hardware. The customer can then decide whether to return the system or extend the rental agreement.

“We’re delighted to have come up with a way for companies to leverage major improvements in quality and performance in their picking operations within an incredibly short space of time – even during these challenging times,” Just explains.

New Rack protection Sensor to Prevent Damage

Posted on by David Priestman

A rack protection sensor that prevents collision damage to racking and a multifunction lever that combines efficient control of driving, reach travel and lifting functions into a single joystick control: These two new options are now available for reach trucks from Linde Material Handling. Fleet managers will benefit from cost savings and productivity gains, while forklift operators can devote their full attention to load handling.

Collision damage to racking systems can be a significant cost for warehouse managers because it entails considerable expenditure of time and money. Damaged end frames and beams primarily result from reach truck operators manoeuvering in front of the racking with their attention focused upward as the load is stored and retrieved. “What’s happening on the ground can be easily overlooked,” says Alexander Schmidt, Senior Product Manager Reach Trucks at Linde Material Handling, adding that market studies have shown that damage is caused primarily by the reach legs while the load, forks or chassis are less frequently involved.

“Even minor carelessness can lead to major disruption of warehouse operations,” Schmidt says.“If a rack end-frame suffers a six millimeter dent over a length of one meter, up to one-third of it’s load-carrying capacity can be lost. This results in a number of rack locations that can no longer be used reducing the capacity of the warehouse. Repairing the damage and replacing the racking components is time-consuming because all areas to either side of the damaged rack frame must be emptied and the goods temporarily stored elsewhere. This takes up working time and additional storage space, disrupts operations and thus reduces productivity in the warehouse,” the Senior Product Manager says, outlining the negative consequences.

Linde Material Handling is addressing this problem by means of its Rack Protection Sensor (RPS). Two special light sensors, which are installed on top of the reach legs in a protected housing, detect objects in front of them. When an obstacle is detected, the assistance system automatically brakes the truck, thus avoiding damage. The sensors only become active at a traction speed of less than five kilometers per hour – which is the usual speed when maneuvering in front of a rack. As operator accelerate beyond this set limit, for example to cover longer distances, the patented system is switched off. The technology used is perfectly suited to typical warehouse conditions because it can work in artificial light as well as natural daylight or sunlight, explains Schmidt.

The rack protection sensor has proven particularly beneficial to companies whohave a high staff turnover or who regularly employ agency operators. “New or agency staff often lack experience and can misjudge the dimensions of the reach truck,” states the Linde product manager. Here, as an “extra pair of eyes”, the rack protection sensor provides valuable support for the fast yet safe maneuvering of heavy equipment.

The RPS assistance system is available as optional equipment on the high-performance models of Linde reach trucks series R14 – R25 with a load capacity of 1.4 to 2.5 tons and will soon also be offered as a retrofit solution for these trucks.

 

The second new option from goods handling specialist Linde MH is a new type of multifunction lever. It makes operating the Linde reach truck even more comfortable and is designed to help maintain the concentration and comfort of operators as well as increase productivity. Based on an ergonomic study, this innovative human-machine interface was developed in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute (IAO) and Porsche Industriedesign. The result is a joystick that can be easily operated in all four directions, with the operator’s hand resting comfortably in a natural position. A wing extended laterally to the right provides additional support for larger hands. Traction, reach travel and lifting functions can all be controlled intuitively with minimal effort from the wrist and fingers. All hydraulic functions are combined in a single control element and there is no need to move the hand up and down. This results in increased productivity and enables intuitive operation. The entire lever is moved back or forward to raise or lower the lift mast. Movements to the left and right direct the reach travel of the mast. Repositioned from the armrest to the center of the large joystick, two butterfly levers control the fork carriage tilt and sideshift functions and now combine two additional operations as they also control the tilt and horizontal leveling of the fork carriage as well as the alignment and centering of the sideshift, respectively. The horn and the direction lever are located on the left side of the multifunction lever. A major advantage of the conveniently positioned components is that all control commands can be made intuitively, even when wearing gloves, so that the operator’s attention remains focused on load handling at all times.

New Rack protection Sensor to Prevent Damage

Posted on by David Priestman

A rack protection sensor that prevents collision damage to racking and a multifunction lever that combines efficient control of driving, reach travel and lifting functions into a single joystick control: These two new options are now available for reach trucks from Linde Material Handling. Fleet managers will benefit from cost savings and productivity gains, while forklift operators can devote their full attention to load handling.

Collision damage to racking systems can be a significant cost for warehouse managers because it entails considerable expenditure of time and money. Damaged end frames and beams primarily result from reach truck operators manoeuvering in front of the racking with their attention focused upward as the load is stored and retrieved. “What’s happening on the ground can be easily overlooked,” says Alexander Schmidt, Senior Product Manager Reach Trucks at Linde Material Handling, adding that market studies have shown that damage is caused primarily by the reach legs while the load, forks or chassis are less frequently involved.

“Even minor carelessness can lead to major disruption of warehouse operations,” Schmidt says.“If a rack end-frame suffers a six millimeter dent over a length of one meter, up to one-third of it’s load-carrying capacity can be lost. This results in a number of rack locations that can no longer be used reducing the capacity of the warehouse. Repairing the damage and replacing the racking components is time-consuming because all areas to either side of the damaged rack frame must be emptied and the goods temporarily stored elsewhere. This takes up working time and additional storage space, disrupts operations and thus reduces productivity in the warehouse,” the Senior Product Manager says, outlining the negative consequences.

Linde Material Handling is addressing this problem by means of its Rack Protection Sensor (RPS). Two special light sensors, which are installed on top of the reach legs in a protected housing, detect objects in front of them. When an obstacle is detected, the assistance system automatically brakes the truck, thus avoiding damage. The sensors only become active at a traction speed of less than five kilometers per hour – which is the usual speed when maneuvering in front of a rack. As operator accelerate beyond this set limit, for example to cover longer distances, the patented system is switched off. The technology used is perfectly suited to typical warehouse conditions because it can work in artificial light as well as natural daylight or sunlight, explains Schmidt.

The rack protection sensor has proven particularly beneficial to companies whohave a high staff turnover or who regularly employ agency operators. “New or agency staff often lack experience and can misjudge the dimensions of the reach truck,” states the Linde product manager. Here, as an “extra pair of eyes”, the rack protection sensor provides valuable support for the fast yet safe maneuvering of heavy equipment.

The RPS assistance system is available as optional equipment on the high-performance models of Linde reach trucks series R14 – R25 with a load capacity of 1.4 to 2.5 tons and will soon also be offered as a retrofit solution for these trucks.

 

The second new option from goods handling specialist Linde MH is a new type of multifunction lever. It makes operating the Linde reach truck even more comfortable and is designed to help maintain the concentration and comfort of operators as well as increase productivity. Based on an ergonomic study, this innovative human-machine interface was developed in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute (IAO) and Porsche Industriedesign. The result is a joystick that can be easily operated in all four directions, with the operator’s hand resting comfortably in a natural position. A wing extended laterally to the right provides additional support for larger hands. Traction, reach travel and lifting functions can all be controlled intuitively with minimal effort from the wrist and fingers. All hydraulic functions are combined in a single control element and there is no need to move the hand up and down. This results in increased productivity and enables intuitive operation. The entire lever is moved back or forward to raise or lower the lift mast. Movements to the left and right direct the reach travel of the mast. Repositioned from the armrest to the center of the large joystick, two butterfly levers control the fork carriage tilt and sideshift functions and now combine two additional operations as they also control the tilt and horizontal leveling of the fork carriage as well as the alignment and centering of the sideshift, respectively. The horn and the direction lever are located on the left side of the multifunction lever. A major advantage of the conveniently positioned components is that all control commands can be made intuitively, even when wearing gloves, so that the operator’s attention remains focused on load handling at all times.

Vanderlande commits to Climate Pledge

Posted on by David Priestman

Vanderlande is delighted to be joining Amazon and Global Optimism in signing The Climate Pledge, showcasing its ambition on sustainability and commitment to achieving a net-zero carbon footprint by 2040 – ten years ahead of The Paris Agreement. With this in mind, Vanderlande will routinely report on its greenhouse gas emissions, implement decarbonisation strategies, and act to offset any remaining emissions.

Vanderlande is committed to a vision of becoming the worldwide leader in sustainable automated logistics solutions and has made great strides towards this commitment. In terms of the solutions it delivers to customers, the company has been a pioneer of circular economy principles and energy efficient technology since 2010.

More recently, it has been exploring new business models that help to reduce the carbon footprints of its customers. One such example is FLEET, a flexible solution for handling baggage at airports and based on autonomous vehicle technology. Through this solution, Vanderlande takes full responsibility for the operational and sustainable performance of the vehicles, as well as closing the materials loop.

In 2018, Vanderlande joined the Capital Equipment Coalition of the Platform for Accelerating the Circular Economy (PACE). By actively defining an action agenda with concrete steps for the capital equipment industry to implement circular practices, Vanderlande is expanding its impact beyond its own organisation.

Through the Global Forest Programme, Vanderlande is engaging with local forestry companies to plant trees to offset its carbon emissions. Furthermore, many of the company’s international offices comply to the highest sustainability assessment standards. For example, Vanderlande’s buildings at its HQ in The Netherlands will be home to 2,600 solar panels by mid-2021 (with the capacity to generate 871,760 kWh annually).

“Through our commitment to sustainability, we intend to reduce the carbon footprint of our operations, those of our customers and suppliers, and of society as a whole,” says Vanderlande’s CEO Remo Brunschwiler (pictured above). “As a signatory of The Climate Pledge, Vanderlande is excited to be joining a community that will share knowledge, ideas, and best practices to address the most critical climate challenges. We look forward to cooperating closely with Amazon, Global Optimism, and the other signatories on this important mission.”

Vanderlande commits to Climate Pledge

Posted on by David Priestman

Vanderlande is delighted to be joining Amazon and Global Optimism in signing The Climate Pledge, showcasing its ambition on sustainability and commitment to achieving a net-zero carbon footprint by 2040 – ten years ahead of The Paris Agreement. With this in mind, Vanderlande will routinely report on its greenhouse gas emissions, implement decarbonisation strategies, and act to offset any remaining emissions.

Vanderlande is committed to a vision of becoming the worldwide leader in sustainable automated logistics solutions and has made great strides towards this commitment. In terms of the solutions it delivers to customers, the company has been a pioneer of circular economy principles and energy efficient technology since 2010.

More recently, it has been exploring new business models that help to reduce the carbon footprints of its customers. One such example is FLEET, a flexible solution for handling baggage at airports and based on autonomous vehicle technology. Through this solution, Vanderlande takes full responsibility for the operational and sustainable performance of the vehicles, as well as closing the materials loop.

In 2018, Vanderlande joined the Capital Equipment Coalition of the Platform for Accelerating the Circular Economy (PACE). By actively defining an action agenda with concrete steps for the capital equipment industry to implement circular practices, Vanderlande is expanding its impact beyond its own organisation.

Through the Global Forest Programme, Vanderlande is engaging with local forestry companies to plant trees to offset its carbon emissions. Furthermore, many of the company’s international offices comply to the highest sustainability assessment standards. For example, Vanderlande’s buildings at its HQ in The Netherlands will be home to 2,600 solar panels by mid-2021 (with the capacity to generate 871,760 kWh annually).

“Through our commitment to sustainability, we intend to reduce the carbon footprint of our operations, those of our customers and suppliers, and of society as a whole,” says Vanderlande’s CEO Remo Brunschwiler (pictured above). “As a signatory of The Climate Pledge, Vanderlande is excited to be joining a community that will share knowledge, ideas, and best practices to address the most critical climate challenges. We look forward to cooperating closely with Amazon, Global Optimism, and the other signatories on this important mission.”

Rhenus announces BLG Freight Forwarding Sites Acquisition

Posted on by David Priestman

The BLG Logistics Group has made a strategic decision to focus on its domestic and international business in its Contract, Automobile and Container divisions in future. Rhenus Air & Ocean is consolidating its position in Germany with the planned takeover of the freight forwarding business of the logistics company, BLG International Forwarding GmbH & Co KG.

Rhenus is using the BLG acquisition to tap into new business fields and is making its global network available to the BLG Group. Provided that the cartel authorities approve the development, Rhenus will acquire nine air and sea freight sites on 1 April 2021.

The nine freight forwarding sites operated by BLG International Forwarding with about 100 employees are due to be integrated within the existing network of Rhenus Air & Ocean in Germany, which currently has twelve branches, from the beginning of April onwards. They include business sites in Hamburg and Bremerhaven, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Stuttgart as well as Munich. This will enable the company to handle greater volumes through its LCL gateway in Hilden and its air freight hub at Frankfurt, for example.

“We’ve gained a strong partner in Rhenus Air & Ocean and it’s making available its extensive network to our customers thanks to its global presence,” says Jens Wollesen, the Contract Board Member at BLG LOGISTICS. “BLG is strategically adapting to changes in market conditions through the sale of our freight forwarding business. Even if we’ll no longer be represented right across Germany in terms of freight forwarding in future, we’ll continue to provide extensive international services in our Contract, Automobile and Container divisions.”

“We’ve paved the way for the continual expansion of our air and sea freight activities during the last few years. Thanks to the additional business sites, employees and business activities, we’re consolidating our network in the Air & Ocean division in Germany. We’d also like to develop new lines of business like transporting food using reefer containers and activities in the trade fair and eventlogistics sector,” says Stefan Schwind, Managing Director of Rhenus Air & Ocean Deutschland.

The BLG freight forwarding site in Bremen, which focuses on overland traffic, transporting heavy goods, project business and sea freight, is excluded from the takeover.

Last year Rhenus Logistics announced the opening of a new hub in Liege Airport.

 

 

Rhenus announces BLG Freight Forwarding Sites Acquisition

Posted on by David Priestman

The BLG Logistics Group has made a strategic decision to focus on its domestic and international business in its Contract, Automobile and Container divisions in future. Rhenus Air & Ocean is consolidating its position in Germany with the planned takeover of the freight forwarding business of the logistics company, BLG International Forwarding GmbH & Co KG.

Rhenus is using the BLG acquisition to tap into new business fields and is making its global network available to the BLG Group. Provided that the cartel authorities approve the development, Rhenus will acquire nine air and sea freight sites on 1 April 2021.

The nine freight forwarding sites operated by BLG International Forwarding with about 100 employees are due to be integrated within the existing network of Rhenus Air & Ocean in Germany, which currently has twelve branches, from the beginning of April onwards. They include business sites in Hamburg and Bremerhaven, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Stuttgart as well as Munich. This will enable the company to handle greater volumes through its LCL gateway in Hilden and its air freight hub at Frankfurt, for example.

“We’ve gained a strong partner in Rhenus Air & Ocean and it’s making available its extensive network to our customers thanks to its global presence,” says Jens Wollesen, the Contract Board Member at BLG LOGISTICS. “BLG is strategically adapting to changes in market conditions through the sale of our freight forwarding business. Even if we’ll no longer be represented right across Germany in terms of freight forwarding in future, we’ll continue to provide extensive international services in our Contract, Automobile and Container divisions.”

“We’ve paved the way for the continual expansion of our air and sea freight activities during the last few years. Thanks to the additional business sites, employees and business activities, we’re consolidating our network in the Air & Ocean division in Germany. We’d also like to develop new lines of business like transporting food using reefer containers and activities in the trade fair and eventlogistics sector,” says Stefan Schwind, Managing Director of Rhenus Air & Ocean Deutschland.

The BLG freight forwarding site in Bremen, which focuses on overland traffic, transporting heavy goods, project business and sea freight, is excluded from the takeover.

Last year Rhenus Logistics announced the opening of a new hub in Liege Airport.

 

 

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