What is Automation?

 In our last post, we discussed automated data collection. But did you know that the warehouse automation goes beyond just mobile barcode scanning? The world of automation is full of imagination – the sky is the limit. Automation customers have implemented everything from a simply conveyor belt to drones that fly over the warehouse to count inventory. In this post, we will cover what automation is, common uses of automation, and how to integrate automation with your ERP.

Perceptions of Automation

Some customers think that automation is synonymous with “automatic.” While some forms of automation do automatically trigger tasks to be done or labels to be printed, others simply follow the dictionary.com definition of “reducing human intervention.” At it’s core, automation is about working smarter and not harder. By that definition, WMS is a form of automation. Let’s look at some other ways automation customers are using technology in their warehouse.

Warehouse Control System (WCS) & Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)

A WCS is a software application for orchestrating activity flow within the warehouse. They are used in conjunction with a WMS. These are commonly associated with warehouse automation, such as a conveyor system. A PLC is an industrial digital computer which has been ruggedized and adapted for the control of manufacturing processes, such as an assembly line or robotic device.

Conveyor Systems

Conveyor systems are mechanical devices that transport materials. There are many different types of conveyor systems, but they usually consists of a frame, rollers, wheels, and a belt. Conveyor systems are an efficient way to move materials or even pallets of finished goods from place to place. One major benefit of this technology is that it can reduce injuries caused by lifting or manually transporting inventory. When used in tandem with a WMS, scanners can be placed on the conveyor system that scan the inventory and automatically update the ERP in real time – saving time and increasing inventory accuracy.

Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS)

An ASRS is a type of warehouse automation specifically designed to store and retrieve product and inventory on demand. ASRS is a blanket term that can consist of equipment like picking cranes, carousels, or vertical lifts. The benefits of ASRS include more efficient use of floor space (since the automation typically stores inventory vertically), reduced labor costs, and increased order picking accuracy. When used with a WMS, ASRS can be optimized to pick efficiently. Essentially, the WMS will determine the picking tasks and most efficient picking paths for the ASRS to deliver inventory to the picker.