Design and analyze intralogistics zones with pickEXPLORER from nextLAP

pickEXPLORER is used to design and optimize logistics zones, with no IT knowledge required, based on the data collected from picking processes by nextLAP’s product smartRACK (e.g. part numbers, shaft, number of picks). smartRACK digitises and automates all kinds of picking processes and includes IIoT smartBUTTONs with LED display, the smartCONTROLLER and a screen or tablet. Standard storage racks in all areas are equipped with these IIoT components and connected to nextLAP’s IP/1 platform. Here, all data is collected centrally and processed in real time.

The new pickEXPLORER uses this data to evaluate the picks, for example in terms of pick frequency, walking distances and routes, throughput times and ergonomics. The picking zone is presented visually in a way that allows easy understanding of the process flow. An optimized layout can be generated at the touch of a button and subsequently adopted as the new configuration.

“Relocating logistics zones in particular is immensely time-consuming and cost-intensive. In most factories, data is still collected using Excel and paper and then used to plan processes. This is an extremely laborious task. With the help of our pickEXPLORER, using the real time data collected by smartRACK and the appropriate algorithms, logistics zones can be easily built graphically. Subsequently, they can also be optimized digitally, for example in terms of walking distances and ergonomics”, explains André Ziemke, Managing Director of nextLAP GmbH. He continues: “This creates significant potential for savings. Using pickEXPLORER, an automotive OEM was able to reduce walking distances by up to 50 per cent, for example.”