Modern Materials Handling articles from August 2005

Modern Materials Handling archives from August 2005

New power behind hydrogen fuel cells for lift trucks.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... Generating considerable excitement in the lift truck industry, hydrogen fuel cells may well be the energy of tomorrow. Cellex Power, a Canadian fuel cell provider, has been awarded a grant of nearly $10 million to develop hydrogen fuel cell...

First carousel safety standard.(Horizontal Carousel Material Handling and Associated Equipment)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... "MH24.1:Safety Standard for Horizontal Carousel Material Handling and Associated Equipment," is the first standard ever covering this type of storage and staging equipment. The standard was developed by the Carousel and Vertical Lift Module...

Real time goes virtual.(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... Following last month's special issue on the real-time plant and warehouse, Modern will present a virtual conference on the topic on September 8. Keynote speaker Jim Tompkins, Tompkins & Assoc., will discuss why the real-time plant and warehouse...

SAP acquires Lighthammer.(BREAKING NEWS YOU SHOULD KNOW)
August 1, 2005... IN A CONTINUING TREND OF SOFTWARE MERGERS and acquisitions, SAP (www.sap.com) has purchased Lighthammer Software Development Corp. A supplier of enterprise manufacturing intelligence and collaborative manufacturing software, Lighthammer...

Fast fact.(Overall logistics costs in the U.S)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... $1.015 trillion Overall logistics costs in the U.S. in 2004. Source: Annual State of Logistics Report

Having an impact.(MY VIEW)(Editorial)
August 1, 2005... SOME OF US READ MAGAZINES FRONT TO BACK. While others prefer back to front. In any case, I hope you aren't missing the last page in every issue. It's called "60 seconds with..." And each month it features one of your peers. [ILLUSTRATION...

Supply chain: making the shift to synchronization; ARC Forum touts synchronization as supply chain efficiency tool.(NEWS & TRENDS)
August 1, 2005... WITH TALK OF STREAMLINING PROCESSES in the supply chain, industry observers are constantly evaluating the most appropriate techniques for delivering the highest throughput for the fewest dollars. And now, synchronization has entered the...

Information systems: interoperability boosts visibility.(NEWS & TRENDS)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... When it comes to increasing supply chain visibility, interoperability may be the answer for many companies. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Interoperability is the ability of supply chain software applications to share information using...

Pallets: NWPCA opposes pallet standard.(NEWS & TRENDS)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... Despite a push toward pallet standardization by the World Bank, National Wooden Pallet and Container Association (NWPCA) members indicated overwhelmingly in a recent survey that standardization would have grave repercussions for many companies....

Real time: computing on the go.(NEWS & TRENDS)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... Increasingly a piece of necessary equipment in DCs and manufacturing centers, mobile tablet computers are getting more in tune with the needs of managers who need mobile access to real-time information. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] As...

Management: harnessing outsourcing potential.(NEWS & TRENDS)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... Looking for cost benefits from outsourcing? A new information resource hopes to provide a clear and concise look at the advantages and challenges associated with the burgeoning business proposition. Logistics and Manufacturing Outsourcing:...

Lift trucks: emissions standard hits snag.(NEWS & TRENDS)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... A stringent lift truck emissions standard in California, originally expected to be approved in June, has been set aside for further review. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) (www.arb.ca.gov) has tentatively rescheduled the vote to...

Logistics: IBM enters supply chain management.(NEWS & TRENDS)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... Known traditionally for its computing solutions, IBM has now entered the supply chain fray. In cooperation with IBM consulting, the new group, IBM Business Transformation Outsourcing, is offering to operate a client's supply chain,...

Event: personalizing Pack Expo.(NEWS & TRENDS)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... Registrants for the Pack Expo Las Vegas show, running September 26th to the 28th, can create a custom Web page for exhibits and conference program sessions of particular interest. The Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Institute (PMMI) is...

Appointments/promotions.(people to know)(Intelligrated promoted Eric Palotas as vice president)(Pflow industries appoints Mark Meyer as regional sales manager)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... Appointments/promotions: Intelligrated promotes Eric Palotas to vice president northeast operations; Etienne Puckett has been named vice president southeast operations; and Brad Bijonowski, has been named vice president southwest operations......

Company news.(people to know)(Kinaxis Corporation deploys Kinaxis RapidResponse)(Microsoft Partnership with Symbol Technologies)(Matthews International acquired Sparks Belting Company)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... Company news: Kinaxis Corporation, announces that Toshiba Europe GmbH has successfully deployed Kinaxis RapidResponse to manage volatile demand and supply to increase operational efficiency... Matthews International has acquired the...

Learning from the students: a system design competition for university students became an unexpected learning experience for this judge.(FOR DEALING WITH THE REAL WORLD)
August 1, 2005... EVERY YEAR THE MATERIAL HANDLING INSTITUTE and the College Industry Council on Material Handling Education (CICMHE) conduct a system design competition for university students. Cash awards totaling $4,500 are given by Modern Materials Handling...

Teaming up for career success: automated materials handling will be the focus of a special conference in October when two great educational organizations get together.(TIPS ON MANAGING)(Materials Handling & Management Society)
August 1, 2005... THE MATERIALS HANDLING & MANAGEMENT Society (MHMS) has always focused its energies on the career progression and education of its members--you and your peers. From professional certification to supporting regional seminars to chapter tours and...

New distribution prescription for CVS: the drug store chain spent $70 million on a DC and highly automated materials handling system in Ennis, Texas to reduce handling, labor and order cycle time.(warehousing/distribution)(Cover Story)
August 1, 2005... IT ISN'T OFTEN THAT A DISTRIBUTION system has a Latin name. But the one that CVS built in Ennis, Texas sure does. DeXma. That's short for Deus ex machina or a god from a machine. And Kevin Smith, senior vice president of supply chain and...

Sort with ease: new controls reduce maintenance and capture real-time information at Access Business Group.(controls update)
August 1, 2005... A HIGH-SPEED SHOE SORTER is the heart of the operations at Access Business Group's 650,000 square foot distribution center in Ada, Mich. The system routes up to 134 packages per minute to the right shipping lane. But after a decade of...

Integrate and grow: by upgrading an automated control system, Brightpoint set the stage for future growth.(controls update)
August 1, 2005... SOMETIMES, A COMPANY UPGRADES ITS CONTROL SYSTEM when the long-term maintenance costs exceed the cost of a new system. On other occasions, an upgrade lays the foundation for future growth. Growth is what convinced Brightpoint North America...

Upgrade for reliability: with new controls and a laser-guided position system, Delta speeds repair parts from storage to the runway.(controls update)
August 1, 2005... DOWNTIME IS A DIRTY WORD at Delta Airline's primary parts distribution center in Atlanta. And that especially applies to the automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) used to store repair parts for its planes. "If the AS/RS goes down,...

Efficient shipping starts with better flow: our makeover series continues with a look at how to improve shipping by maximizing flow elsewhere in the DC.(materials handling makeover)
August 1, 2005... "TO IMPROVE SHIPPING, you can't just focus on that department," says Patrick Sedlak, vice president of consulting firm Sedlak (216-206-4718, www.jasedlak.com). He explains that the die is already cast for poor shipping efficiencies if shipments...

Top 20 lift truck supplier: the 20 largest suppliers in the world had an even better year in 2004 with some posting revenue gains in excess of $600 million.(special report)
August 1, 2005... AS STRONG AS LIFT TRUCK SALES WERE worldwide in 2003, they proved to be even stronger in 2004. That's the top line of this year's special report on the world's 20 largest lift truck suppliers. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Looking just at...

Talk to me now ... everywhere: since first installing voice for picking, convenience store chain Kwik-Trip has expanded the technology to receiving, putaway, replenishment and transfers.(productivity solution)(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... KWIK-TRIP'S WAREHOUSE OPERATION was in need of a technology makeover. And the more the project team heard about voice, the closer it listened. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] "We started investigating [a technology solution] and we liked what...

RFID: after the mandates; what's really going on in RFID today?(Radio frequency Identification uses)
August 1, 2005... This past January, 100 or so suppliers began shipping cartons and pallets tagged with radio frequency identification tags (RFID) to a few Wal-Mart distribution centers in Texas. No one outside of Wal-Mart knows how many pallets and stock...

Smart RFID printing solutions.(Radio Frequency Identification)(Advertisement)
August 1, 2005... Printronix is a global leader enabling printing technologies for the industrial marketplace and supply chain. Expert at adapting new technologies to create innovative programs, the new 5r Multi-technology printing platform, including the...

Cubing solution accurate, portable.(FOCUSON Cubing and weighing)
August 1, 2005... The CubiScan 150 has a large maximum measurement range and a net weight capacity of 150 pounds. The unit is precise, and has a measurement resolution of 0.2 inches and weight resolution of 0.2 pounds. The system is mounted on locking casters,...

High accuracy scale.(FOCUSON Cubing and weighing)
August 1, 2005... An industrial checkweigher uses variable capacitance technology, making it ideal for inventory control, packaging and materials handling applications requiring high accuracy and resolution. The system offers a full range of capacities and a...

Overhead scale.(FOCUSON Cubing and weighing)
August 1, 2005... The 0990 monorail scale is a complete weighing assembly that can be installed as part of a new or existing transport system. The overhead track scale is ideal for operations that use an overhead rail to transport product. The weighing unit is a...

Light industrial scale.(FOCUSON Cubing and weighing)
August 1, 2005... The DIGI Summit 3000 is designed for light industrial applications. It employs a rugged, low profile design to deliver efficient installation and operation. A top-access junction box is housed in a durable ABS enclosure and is protected from...

Weigh on the go.(FOCUSON Cubing and weighing)
August 1, 2005... Designed for in-motion weighing of discrete packaged product weighing from a few grams up to 20 pounds, the TSC 350 checkweigher operates at conveyor speeds up to 300 feet per minute, and production rates as high as 350 units per minute. The...

Customized weighing.(FOCUSON Cubing and weighing)
August 1, 2005... Capacities range from 30 to 500 pounds while deck sizes of 14, 18, 20 and 24 inches are available for the Diamond Series bench scales. The scales are available in either stainless or carbon steel and are rugged with overload stops to protect...

Lift trucks as mobile checkweighers.(focus on cubing and weighing)( SkidWeigh Plus )(Brief Article)
August 1, 2005... The LFC Series SkidWeigh Plus can be installed on any large capacity life truck in order to convert it into a mobile check weighing scale. When the operator activates the "W" key and the load is picked up, the hydraulic pressure on the lift...

Harsh environment checkweigher.(FOCUSON Cubing and weighing)
August 1, 2005... The FS series of checkweighing scales provides extensive weighing features in a robust, waterproof and dustproof construction. The scales are versatile and portable, and include advanced software for three weighing modes. System features...

Light-weight lift truck scale.(FOCUSON Cubing and weighing)
August 1, 2005... While other models rely on sheer bulk for strength, the MSI-3700 Magnum Plus lift truck scale uses advanced design to deliver a unique set of benefits. Magnum Plus reduces lift truck lifting capacity loss with an attachment that is lighter and...

Palletizer alternative.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... Designed to stack products on pallets in various configurations, the Pendu 4600 Stacker works with virtually any product that is 1/4 X 2 X 24 inches through 6 X 8 X 96 inches. It palletizes products in configurations up to 48 inches wide X 50...

Guard against pallet damage.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... The Pallet Dawg pallet guard can be used for all lift trucks with Class 2 fork carriages. The unit virtually eliminates damaged pallets, related costly repairs and wood splinters cluttering warehouses and loading docks. By directing a lift...

All-in-one RFID system.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... All the components and services required to deploy a targeted or enterprise-wide RFID initiative is available in one package. The comprehensive RFID pilot package enhances existing business systems, eliminating the guesswork, integration issues...

Voice-directed WMS.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... A fully voice-enabled warehouse management system (WMS) takes advantage of the productivity gains of voice technology. Unlike most other solutions, which are dependent on interfaces between the WMS and external voice system software, the ELITE...

Lifter adjusts to indirect positioning.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... The LC30 lifting device with level compensator allows for flexible movement of inventory with suction cups. Designed to adjust to level differences in lifting devices that are fitted with several suction cups, the unit's vacuum decreases demand...

Sensors for safety.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... Programmable, long-range ultrasonic proximity sensors in 12 mm and 18 mm cylindrical and 20 mm and 30 mm square body styles provide a safety field around equipment and employees. With sensing distances up to two meters, the sensors deliver...

Rugged housing for computers.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... A resilient computer cabinet is manufactured with interior reinforcements in the housing. The unit features a fan equipped with a filtration screen that reduces dust infiltration while cooling the cabinet. A back panel provides easy...

Mounted computer offers connection.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... The GX-1200 rugged computer is capable of a direct connection to 12 VDC vehicles. The system features a 12.1-inch color display, rugged touchscreen, 1.1 GHz Pentium III processor, wireless options and multiple I/O. Housed in a rugged enclosure,...

Handle goods with a VLM.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... The Towermat heavy-duty vertical lift module (VLM) is a tray delivery system for bar goods, sheet storage, pallet storage and other heavy items like molds and tool dies. Divisible carriers allow diverse materials to be stored within the same...

Battery monitor keeps trucks charged.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... The enhanced Blinky battery watering monitor has the same standard features as the original, but offers an improved design and special features. Improvements include a larger and brighter green indicator light, more compact top designed to fit...

Trailer safety comes first.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... The TS-2000 trailer stand is designed to prevent trailer landing gear collapse and trailer up-ending. The stand fits under the nose of "spotted" trailers to help support and prevent loading dock accidents. The 5 1/2-inch tubular steel structure...

RFID goes international.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... Version 7.7 of the BarTender label and RFID software now features full-system Unicode support. Unicode is an international computer data standard for representing any character from most of the written languages of the world. BarTender can read...

Get a grip on safety.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... The new BG 400-12 BoaGrip tool is 18 inches shorter than its predecessor, simplifying handling of compressed gas cylinders in space constrained areas. The new model has a unique inner surface of polymer grippers that provide a safe, efficient...

Gentle, clean conveyor.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... A unique conveyor chain is gentle to soft products and offers increased efficiency and service life, even in environments where dust is a problem. The chain features very smooth surfaces and link interfaces for improved gentleness and minimum...

Powerful handheld streamlines operations.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... The MC1000 is a new enterprise mobility handheld computer that improves operational efficiency in manufacturing and warehousing. The system enables organizations to automate processes and efficiently capture data. It provides flexibility for...

Simple Ethernet connectivity.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... The Series 90-30 programmable logic controller family with a new Ethernet network interface unit (ENIU) connects series 90-30 I/O over Ethernet to a master controller through a single point of connect. This saves configuration time and overall...

Versatile labeling software.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... An all-purpose labeling software program supports the full range of labeling requirements and applications. Capabilities include basic bar-coded label design, thermal transfer label printing and RFID compliance labeling in network or standalone...

More stable lift table.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... More precise positioning of air spring lift tables is accomplished with a water glycol injection--reducing air expansion and compression for added stability. Traditional air spring operated lift tables operate on air only. Table movement can be...

WMS, RFID in one.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... An enhanced version of collaborative supply chain management software provides RFID functionality and warehouse management system (WMS) capabilities. It provides a full function warehouse solution including voice technology, yard management and...

Containers for all applications.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... Attached lid containers are now available in 106 standard sizes and a variety of colors. Most are made from heavy duty polyethylene and have hinges for long life, improved worker safety and recyclability. The lid containers feature an anti-jam...

Track assets almost anywhere.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... An RFID-based tracking and management system, the Wireless Asset Net, has been enhanced with greater location tracking accuracy. The system can now pinpoint the location of mobile assets to within 20 feet--indoors as well as outdoors--to...

Easy-to-use palletizing software.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... PalletTech palletizing software version 3.3 meets increasing needs for flexibility and ease-of-use in complex robotic palletizing applications. The software is a suite of application development and run time tools that reduces engineering and...

Stockpicker truck.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... The SP 3400 series stockpicker offers a frame and mast design for extra stability at extended height. The unit offers heightened visibility and rapid performance, enhanced ergonomic design and reliability. Knowing how sudden stops or lurches...

Modular drawer.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)
August 1, 2005... A 36-inch wide modular drawer cabinet fills a size niche between standard 30 inches wide and 45 inches extra wide cabinets. By combining various width cabinets, any space can be filled in 3-inch increments. More than 50 pre-engineered cabinet...

Meet RFID mandates for lower cost.(PRODUCTSHOWCASE)(Buyers Guide)
August 1, 2005... Scalable, pre-configured compliance solutions to support clients in addressing various retailer RFID mandates provide total capabilities from simple slap-and-ship to highly automated encode-on-the-fly functionality. The pre-configured solutions...

60 seconds with ... Jim Hawkins on successfully changing course well into a new DC design.(one-on-one interview)(Interview)
August 1, 2005... EARLY THIS YEAR, we started planning for our new DC. Everything was based on shipping full pallet loads directly to stores. But we started to rethink that approach about the same time as we got into the final design stages. Which wasn't great...

What's old is new again: uptime and reliability of an old automated storage system at Pratt & Whitney increased significantly with upgraded controls and software.(automated storage and retrieval systems)
August 1, 2005... VIRTUALLY ALL AUTOMATED STORAGE & retrieval systems (AS/RS) installed before 1990 can benefit from modernization. That was certainly the case with a 20-year-old mini-load automated storage and retrieval (AS/RS) system at Pratt & Whitney's...