SSI Schafer 2STACK

Ahead of the announcement of the winners of the 2017 IFOY awards, we continue to share the judges' evaluations of the finalists. This week, we look at the 2STACK + ID.ADD.

This AGV is a combination of FTS (SSI Schäfer/Motum) and intelligent, moving, dynamic shelving systems (IdentyTEC). The two components communicate via radio frequency with each other and with the corresponding order system in the production hall.

If supplies in the production process fall below a predefined minimum level, the system is automatically sent a replenishment signal. This signal is triggered and transmitted by radio as soon as the last container is removed from the shelf. This renders a scan order in the production hall unnecessary.

The order data are transmitted to the central software, which then forwards the replenishment order to the AGV.

A large screen and put-to-light technology show which stock-keeping units (SKUs) need to be laid in which position in the dynamic shelves. The shelves can be subdivided with a high degree of flexibility and can also accept different container sizes and SKUs.

The sequence of the bins in the shelf is based on the order in which they are needed in the production process. As soon as the shelves have been filled, this is confirmed via the touchscreen. This confirmation simultaneously triggers the collection order to the AGV.

The combination of AGV and mobile shelf follows its route along different stations in the production hall and delivers the ordered bins to the target location fully automatically. Staff no longer need to do anything by hand.

This concept calls for a high level of precision, and this is why laser technology is used for positioning. Fine positioning in the production zone is achieved with the help of - among things - sensors, ensuring that the shelves are lifted with millimetric precision.

The solution can also be used for the return transport of empty bins, thereby creating a fully automatic cycle. In addition, the partners offer the same technology for replenishment control using larger load carriers such as pallets. In this case, the replenishment order is triggered as soon as the weight on the pallet falls below a predefined value.

IFOY Test verdict:
2STACK + ID.ADD is a unique concept that permits fully automatic supply operations to the production process.