Toyota Industries Corporation acquires viastore and opens up long-term international growth prospects for the intralogistics expert
As an internationally recognized system integrator in the field of intralogistics, viastore completes TICO’s range of products and services, enabling the company to offer an integrated range of intralogistics solutions in the future In the partnership with TICO, viastore creates new long-term potential for all three business areas – from automated solutions and software to the service business Both companies will benefit from their individual strengths e.g. in the fields of Warehouse Management Software, Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems, forklift trucks and Automated Guided Vehicles and create added value through a combined offering In future, viastore will be an independent unit under the roof of Toyota Advanced Logistics Group (TALG) – brand, business areas, locations and management will be maintained The shareholders of viastore GROUP (“viastore”), an international provider of intralogistics systems, intralogistics software and supporting services, have signed an agreement to sell all shares in the company to Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO). With its three business units, viastore completes TICO`’ range of products and services and will enable an integrated intralogistics offering and customer-specific solutions in the future – from forklifts to fully automatic sorting systems. Together with TICO, viastore will continue to actively pursue its growth strategy. The new partnership provides viastore with access to the customer portfolio of a leading global engineering group and long-term growth prospects for all three business areas. The parties have agreed not to disclose further details of the transaction, which is still subject to antitrust approval and is expected to close in the third quarter. Over the past 50 years, the viastore GROUP has developed into a leading international intralogistics expert. With its three business units Intralogistics Systems, Intralogistics Software and Supporting Services, viastore is a system integrator for the manufacturing industry and other industries and offers integrated, automated intralogistics solutions. In recent years, the company has embarked on a successful growth course and, as one of the few companies in the industry worldwide, has consistently relied on software services as an elementary part of its business model. Today, the material flow specialist is present in 17 countries with around 600 employees. For the 2021 financial year, the Group reported sales of around EUR 140 million. Dynamic growth prospects in automation TICO is a listed Japanese engineering company and a global leader in its field. It operates in three business areas: Automotive (manufacture of vehicles and components), Textile Machinery and Material Handling (Toyota Material Handling Group (TMHG) – forklifts, warehouse technology and lifting platforms and Toyota Advanced Logistics Group (TALG) – automated integration logistics). TICO has set itself the goal of further strengthening its global competitiveness and offering its customers a comprehensive range of products and services in the field of intralogistics. In 2017, TICO acquired Vanderlande (Netherlands), one of the world’s leading general contractors for airports, warehouse and parcel logistics process automation solutions, as well as Bastian Solutions (USA), a leading North-American system integrator. Under the roof of TALG viastore becomes part of an alliance of established, strong intralogistics brands. All three brands, Bastian, Vanderlande and viastore, are among the top 20 intralogistics brands worldwide. They have already successfully established themselves independently on the international market and are now pooling their know-how and innovative strength. Analysts expect significant growth in the global market for material handling solutions in the coming years. By 2026, they forecast a compound annual growth rate of around 8 percent and an increase in industry revenue to USD 354 billion, up from USD 195 billion in 2018. Against the background of a growing demand for integrated solutions in the field of material handling, viastore is tapping into long-term growth potential through the partnership with TICO and its cooperation with Toyota Material Handling Europe. Besides a broader approach to the market – especially in the area of small to mid-sized automation projects – both companies will benefit from their individual strengths e.g. in the fields of Warehouse Management Systems, Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems, forklift trucks and Automated Guided Vehicles and create added value through a combined offering. Partnership characterized by continuity The partnership with TICO is characterized by continuity. viastore will continue to actively pursue its strategic development and will operate as an independent unit under the roof of Toyota Advanced Logistics Group (TALG) in the future. Brand, business areas, locations and management will be maintained. The management team consisting of CEO Philipp Hahn-Woernle, CFO Anja Zschernig and the COOs Dr. Harald Goebel and Thomas Hibinger will continue to lead the company. Philipp Hahn-Woernle, CEO of viastore, said: “In the context of a growing demand for integrated solutions in the field of material handling, TICO has recognized the potential of viastore and presented a vision that is strategically compelling for both sides. In TICO, we have found a partner who appreciates the value of our brand and capabilities and will support the company in its long-term global growth trajectory. As an independent unit under the roof of Toyota Advanced Logistics, we will continue our successful course and open up new potential and long-term stability for our customers and employees by belonging to a successful group of companies.” Norio Wakabayashi, Senior Executive Officer of TICO, added: “The viastore GROUP is a successful company with an outstanding market position. Its complementary business areas make viastore a perfect match for TICO to be able to offer customers an integrated intralogistics solution in the future. I am very pleased to welcome the outstanding team of viastore, which strengthens our know-how in the market for intralogistics and expands our family of companies through the addition of another highly recognized intralogistics brand. “ www.viastore.com www.toyota-industries.com
Fairbanks announces new FB9000 series conveyor belt scales
Fairbanks Scales Inc., the oldest scale company in the U.S. and leader in weighing equipment, announces its new FB9000 Series Conveyor Belt Scales, a reliable and easy-to-install weighing solution for idler-style in-motion conveying applications.. The Fairbanks belt scale is a simple field-assembled design that can be easily installed in the field without requiring large equipment to install. It is available in the most common configurations with the instrumentation and display to service most scale needs. With convenient options like the self-storing test weight assembly, Fairbanks’ belt scales prove to be user and service friendly and avoid the hassle of prefabricated modular systems. The FB9000’s self-aligning weighbridge accurately measures the force of material, without the use of levers, linage, or other mechanical apparatus known to product non-linearity. Its unique design is perfect for a number of applications: Stationary Plants – Accurate, repeatable tracking of product totals and ratios are a crucial element of plant management. The FB9000 Series scales offer high resolution weighing of all products, even low flow rate applications. Portable with Angle Sensor – The FB9000 Series scales are uniquely suited for all portable applications. Our modular design allows for installation on virtually any style conveyor, including low profile and spine conveyors. Catenary Idler – The FB9000 Series’ automatic angle compensation feature enables repeatable, accurate weighing on catenary style idlers, such as those used on track-mounted portable crushers and asphalt milling machines. Load Out – Rail, barge, truck, and ship load out requires high accuracy in the most rugged environments. The FB9000 Series is known for high accuracy at flow rates up to 10,000 tons per hour, and it has built-in load out controls for automated cutoff. www.fairbanks.com
Yellow Corporation Opens 17ᵗʰ Professional Truck Driving Academy
Aims to Train 1,000 New Drivers in 2022 U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh and Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf Join Ribbon Cutting in Carlisle, PA Yellow Corporation is enhancing its commitment to train safe, professional semi-truck drivers by opening the company’s 17th permanent truck driving academy as it expands its partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor. The latest school to open is in Carlisle, PA, a major freight crossroads for shipments from the Northeast to the Midwest and onward. On Tuesday, Yellow executives celebrated the launch of the company’s newest academy at a ribbon cutting ceremony with U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf, and International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 776 President Ed Thompson. “Our new academy will provide career opportunities for Americans while strengthening our partnership with the Department of Labor apprenticeship program,” said Darren Hawkins, CEO of Yellow. “We’re thrilled that our academies are receiving this recognition. Our commitment to safety and training is unparalleled in the industry, and we’re proud that government leaders are investing in these programs for new drivers.” For nearly five years, Yellow has participated in the Department of Labor’s apprenticeship program, a public-private partnership that enables companies to offset a portion of the costs associated with training new drivers. The federal program helps provide paid on-the-job training for student apprentices as they prepare to earn a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and launch a highly skilled career. The partnership is designed to address the nationwide shortage of qualified professional truck drivers. “The success of Yellow’s CDL Academy in producing some of the safest drivers on the road reflects the great power and promise of apprenticeship to be a proven workforce tool in the trucking industry,” Secretary of Labor Walsh said. “Apprenticeship programs prepare workers for success by equipping them with the skills to compete for good jobs that offer family-sustaining wages,” Governor Wolf said. “The investments we’re making in apprenticeships and other forms of hands-on and on-the-job training are already helping us get more Pennsylvanians into careers where they can succeed. This is more important than ever as Pennsylvania’s economy continues to rebound following the COVID-19 pandemic.” In 2021, Yellow announced its support for the Biden administration’s Trucking Action Plan, which intends to ease current supply chain constraints. The White House identified the expansion of apprenticeship programs as a key component of its plan. Earlier this month, Walsh launched the 90 Day Trucking Apprenticeship Challenge. Walsh added, “The 90-Day Trucking Apprenticeship Challenge has shown that joint labor management programs and public-private partnerships are critical, and that we succeed when we work together.” “We look forward to continuing this partnership with Secretary Walsh and Governor Wolf and are standing by to help other companies establish similar apprenticeship programs,” said Yellow’s Hawkins. With the addition of the Carlisle, PA facility, Yellow has 17 permanent driving academies nationwide; each is certified as a Department of Labor apprenticeship program. Other Yellow Corporation driving academies are located in Atlanta/Marietta, Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Denver, Fort Worth, TX, Hagerstown, MD, Indianapolis, Kansas City, KS, Memphis, Nashville, Pico Rivera, CA, Portland, Salt Lake City and South Bend, IN. The company plans to open additional locations throughout 2022.Learn more about the Yellow driving academies at https://www.myyellow.com/us/en/careers/driving-academy.
The future is electric…but we’ve been doing it for 53 years!
Noblelift 4-Wheel Electric Forklift One of the best values on the market, the FE4P55N 5,500lb capacity electric forklift provides powerful performance with excellent turning capabilities, while the AC drive technology helps to keep operating and maintenance costs down. 4-Wheel Electric Forklift, Front Wheel Drive 5,500 lb. capacity 189” lift height Side shift Battery and charger INCLUDED
Rail Traffic for the Week Ending March 26, 2022
The Association of American Railroads (AAR) today reported U.S. rail traffic for the week ending March 26, 2022. For this week, total U.S. weekly rail traffic was 504,817 carloads and intermodal units, down 3.2 percent compared with the same week last year. Total carloads for the week ending March 26 were 233,555 carloads, up 0.5 percent compared with the same week in 2021, while U.S. weekly intermodal volume was 271,262 containers and trailers, down 6.2 percent compared to 2021. Four of the 10 carload commodity groups posted an increase compared with the same week in 2021. They included coal, up 5,140 carloads, to 66,504; chemicals, up 2,206 carloads, to 34,264; and motor vehicles and parts, up 826 carloads, to 14,341. Commodity groups that posted decreases compared with the same week in 2021 included petroleum and petroleum products, down 2,056 carloads, to 8,638; grain, down 1,999 carloads, to 22,516; and metallic ores and metals, down 1,449 carloads, to 20,492. For the first 12 weeks of 2022, U.S. railroads reported cumulative volume of 2,755,177 carloads, up 2.8 percent from the same point last year; and 3,099,667 intermodal units, down 7 percent from last year. Total combined U.S. traffic for the first 12 weeks of 2022 was 5,854,844 carloads and intermodal units, a decrease of 2.7 percent compared to last year. North American rail volume for the week ending March 26, 2022, on 12 reporting U.S., Canadian and Mexican railroads totaled 330,751 carloads, down 1.7 percent compared with the same week last year, and 352,549 intermodal units, down 6.9 percent compared with last year. Total combined weekly rail traffic in North America was 683,300 carloads and intermodal units, down 4.5 percent. North American rail volume for the first 12 weeks of 2022 was 7,932,641 carloads and intermodal units, down 4 percent compared with 2021. Canadian railroads reported 75,338 carloads for the week, down 10.5 percent, and 65,476 intermodal units, down 12.3 percent compared with the same week in 2021. For the first 12 weeks of 2022, Canadian railroads reported cumulative rail traffic volume of 1,628,488 carloads, containers and trailers, down 10.3 percent. Mexican railroads reported 21,858 carloads for the week, up 9 percent compared with the same week last year, and 15,811 intermodal units, up 5 percent. Cumulative volume on Mexican railroads for the first 12 weeks of 2022 was 449,309 carloads and intermodal containers and trailers, up 3.7 percent from the same point last year.
DESTACO Introduces Front-Mount-Base Manual Clamp Models
New design offers four new options for horizontal or vertical handle action DESTACO is pleased to announce that it is expanding the range of its horizontal and vertical toggle-lock Manual Clamp product line with the introduction of a front-mount-base model. The compact, space-saving front-mount base is designed to offer users additional flexibility in their workholding applications. “The clamp’s vertical foot provides for higher user flexibility. The position of the base leads to significant reduction in interfering contours,” explained Nina Wolleb, Application Engineering Manager, Europe for DESTACO. The front-mount option is available for inclusion on a total of four manual clamps that can be used with both vertical and horizontal handle action. The two vertical operating models – 2002-UF and 2007-UF – provide enlarged space for manual operations and increased safety. The horizontal versions – models 225-UF and 235-UF – have a flat design that creates space for larger hand clearance, which improves operational safety. The new models use the same connection-hole pattern as existing models, along with the same spindles, pin holders and bolt retainers. All models have hardened bushings at key pivot points and the design does not interfere with the mounting connections. www.destaco.com
Yale narrow aisle reach truck chalks up third award win for performance in high-intensity e-commerce warehousing
The Yale® narrow aisle reach truck, a lift truck designed for success in high-density warehousing applications, has been recognized with a 2021 GOOD DESIGN Award. The reach truck is also the winner of 2020 Product of the Year Awards from both Material Handling Product News and Plant Engineering, respectively. “If pressures from the proliferation of e-commerce weren’t enough, unprecedented supply chain challenges are driving warehouses to place an even greater emphasis on getting the most of existing space, making tall, tight storage configurations especially attractive,” says Brad Long, Brand Manager, Yale Materials Handling Corporation. “The Yale narrow aisle reach truck’s ergonomic design and productivity-enhancing features are built for performance in these environments, delivering the efficiency warehouses need and deserve.” The reach truck is engineered to deliver advantages over leading competitors in four key categories: Productivity – faster lift/lower speeds and greater energy efficiency can help warehouses to improve their productivity by as much as 7% per truck, per shift while using 20% less energy than leading competitors Operator comfort – ergonomic features such as a pedal-free floor design provide more freedom for operators to comfortably adjust stance, helping reduce fatigue and maximize performance all shift long Serviceability – easy access and reduced tool requirements help simplify service and dependence on scarce technicians, saving up to $2,500 per truck, per year in scheduled maintenance costs compared to leading competitors Visibility – the truck’s standard wide mast opening offers up to 33% greater visibility than leading competitors, while other features help to increase visibility and decrease product and equipment damage The NR/NDR-DC/EC reach truck series offers 3,000-to-4,500-pound load capacities and single or double reach capabilities. The truck is currently available for order and customers may take advantage of competitive lead times.
Jesse Dean promoted to Vice President of Business Development for MAC Group
Jesse Dean, Vice President of the Audio Division at MAC Group USA, is taking charge of New Business Development at MAC Group and has been promoted to Vice President of Business Development. With nearly two decades of experience in sales, marketing, manufacturing, and distribution, Jesse will now be applying his knowledge to expanding current partnerships and developing new business opportunities for MAC Group. In his new role, Jesse will be leading the expansion of select MAC Group brands beyond the Photo/Video Market. Already working with Amazon, Sweetwater Sound, Guitar Center, Best Buy, Target, Walmart, and others, he will continue to be a driving force in introducing MAC Group brands to larger worldwide audiences through retail partnerships globally. He will also continue to oversee the Audio Division within MAC Group. “I am extremely happy to take on this new role within MAC Group. Since my start here, I have maintained a macro perspective on the amazing possibilities of having all these quality brands working together in a global expansion. I will continue to work with our current and new partners in educating and fulfilling all of their audio needs, but this opportunity allows me to work more freely in uniting the other brands to achieve a much larger objective.” – Jesse Dean, Vice President of Business Development for MAC Group Before joining MAC Group in 2018, Jesse worked as National Sales Manager at Rode Microphones and was with them for over five years. He has been involved in manufacturing and distribution of audio and consumer electronic items for nearly two decades. Beginning his career in manufacturing while still a student at Hofstra University on Long Island, NY. His background as a musician, editor, artist, and performer has helped to develop his skills as an industry educator. He continues to teach audio, audio for video, and common practices and techniques in recording and live sound. In the role of business development manager, he will be educating many new clients on the quality products available through MAC Group. “At MAC Group, we pride ourselves on helping our diverse range of brands define what’s next. A crucially important component of that is identifying new and non-traditional sales venues and opportunities. Jesse has the perfect range of skills, business acumen, and thoughtfulness for his role leading our expanding Business Development team. We couldn’t be happier and can’t wait to see all that Jesse accomplishes.” – Jan Lederman, MAC Group President
Trew® Expands Canadian Operations – Trew North
Trew’s Canadian-operations – Trew North – is expanding with the opening of a location near the University of Guelph. Trew North, located in greater Toronto Ontario, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Trew, LLC, a North American automated material handling solutions provider for integrators and end-users. The new physical location serves as the Canadian headquarters for client collaboration and automated material handling solutions delivery coast to coast.
Trew® Reinvents Fulfillment Transportation Conveyor
Reinvented Modular Belt Conveyor Reliably Takes What You Give It, Reduces Spare Parts Trew, LL, a provider of automated material handling solutions for integrators and end-users, launched reinvented Series K Belt Conveyor that gives operations the confidence that they have the right technology to make product flow. The conveyor product brings together reliability, robustness, and design aspects for worry-free handling of cases, totes, jiffies, and polybags.
EP 267: SpaceGuard and the ProGMA
In this episode, I was joined by VP of Sales and Marketing at SpaceGuard Products Ray Niemeyer. SpaceGuard provides protective guarding for multiple different applications in the material handling industry. We discuss their product offerings and the ProGMA. Key Takeaways SpaceGuard Products offers multiple different types of protective guarding for our industry. With the increasing presence of equipment, robots, and automation there is an ever-increasing need to have protective measures not only for the people around this equipment but also to protect the investments in these things. Ray explains the importance of these and how SpaceGuard is keeping up with these things in order to be able to provide the proper guarding. One way that SpaceGuard keeps up is by being a part of the ProGMA which is the Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association. The association is focused on working together to ensure that end-users are getting the best quality protection. Even though members might be considered competitors in the industry, Ray explains how they are able to work together so that they can all benefit and most importantly the end-user benefits. Their work together helps to create standards and ensure that the quality of guarding that is being delivered to the industry is up to that standard. If this was not the case then you would see inferior guarding that would not withstand impacts. Listen to the episode below and leave your thoughts in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 267: SpaceGuard and the ProGMA
Xeneta appoints two new executives to key sales leadership positions
Xeneta, a provider in the ocean and air freight rate benchmarking, market analytics platform, and container shipping index, has announced the appointment of two new sales executives. Scott Irvine joins Xeneta as VP of Freight Forwarding and Laura Finbow will serve as Director of Sales Enablement. The announcement comes shortly after the fast-growing company acquired Amsterdam-based air freight data analysts CLIVE Data Services. “Scott and Laura are dynamic and experienced professionals joining us at an exciting time, and I’m pleased to welcome them to Xeneta’s leadership team,” said Xeneta CRO Paul Mullins. “Scott brings a wealth of global freight forwarding experience with him and he will play a critical role in building this category for us. And as we continue to innovate and streamline our revenue operations, Laura will lead initiatives across sales and other business units that drive revenue and improve productivity.” Scott Irvine has worked in the logistics industry for over two decades holding senior leadership roles across both shippers and freight forwarders. Most recently Scott was the VP of Air & Ocean for Zencargo, a leading digital freight forwarder. At Xeneta, Scott will spearhead freight forwarding initiatives and help grow the company’s business within the segment. “The pandemic and its disruption to the global supply chain has accelerated the need for freight forwarders to digitally transform their operations,” said Scott Irvine. “But success is not just about technology. Xeneta is taking things further by offering advanced data solutions that give ocean and air freight stakeholders a true competitive advantage. It’s an exciting time for Xeneta and I am proud to be joining the team.” As Xeneta’s Director of Sales Enablement, Laura Finbow will lead initiatives that transform the company’s revenue operations. Finbow’s knowledge and experience will play a critical role in guiding the organization as it scales systems and processes across sales, marketing, and other departments. Before joining Xeneta, Finbow served as Managing Director EMEA at digital freight platform Magaya. Finbow has also held management roles at INTTRA and Safmarine. “Xeneta is well-positioned to solve the data and analytics challenges freight companies face,” said Laura Finbow. “I am excited to be joining at such an important time in the company’s journey and can’t wait to help the team achieve its next stage of growth.” Today’s ocean and air freight markets are more dynamic now than at any time in recent history, and that’s why businesses need access to reliable, real-time data. Companies need to make informed decisions based on the latest trends and fluctuations in the market, which Xeneta tracks daily. Xeneta makes it easy for companies to make the smarter ocean and air freight decisions by providing them with a single, integrated platform. Xeneta offers intelligence gleaned from over 300 million ocean and air freight rates, covering more than 160,000 port-port pairs and over 40,000 airport-airport connections. Xeneta is one of the fastest-growing ocean and air freight rate benchmarking, market analytics platforms and container shipping indexes on the market and these new executive appointments will help the company accelerate its growth trajectory. Xeneta’s customers include General Mills, Volvo, PUMA, John Deere, Amer Sports, Rockwell Automation and CEVA Logistics, ABB, Electrolux, Continental, Unilever, Nestle, L’Oréal, Thyssenkrupp, and more.
Victory Voice™ Next Generation Voice Solution at Modex 2022 by Numina Group
Numina Group, an independent systems integrator, announces the release of Victory Voice, its advanced solution for creating the fully voice-enabled automated warehouse, optimizing pick, pack, and ship operations. It is the true definition of multi-modal voice, guiding workers with voice, product location, and visual images on the operators’ wearable computer color graphical display. It is a key work performance accelerator for warehouse picking and order fulfillment process improvements. Victory Voice helps companies achieve greater customer satisfaction levels by increasing fulfillment accuracy and speed while reducing labor. By equipping warehouse workers with Victory Voice software and wearable mobile Wi-Fi computers, distribution centers can guide workers in a step-by-step, optimized picking process. Victory Voice increases warehouse workers’ productivity by 30 to 50% or more and delivers order fulfillment accuracy of 99.9% or higher. Numina Group is an early innovator in voice picking technology, adopting its use over 12 years ago. “We continually strive to develop solutions to optimize order fulfillment and material handling operations, and Victory Voice dramatically advances the versatility of voice technology in the warehouse,” explains Dan Hanrahan. “Numina’s pick by voice technology can have an ROI of as little as nine months, stated Matt Cameron, Senior Solutions Engineer for Numina. “It enables our customers to manage people and warehouse order fulfillment procedures in a paperless process, which reduces wasted time and increases worker productivity and accuracy while reducing the cost to fulfill a customer order.” Victory Voice outperforms traditional industry voice systems by 10-15% due to its superior multi-modal voice recognition technology, built upon a Deep Learning Neural Networks AI recognizer that delivers best-in-class natural language recognition. Its performance is superior to today’s legacy voice systems and can even outperform Alexa, Google, and Siri’s voice recognition capabilities. Victory Voice can be deployed on-premise or in the cloud, as a standalone application or with Numina’s RDS WCS-WCS warehouse automation platform. In either use-case, Victory Voice enables faster, more accurate warehouse operations, lowers labor requirements, reduces costs, and increases productivity and profitability.
Tompkins Robotics Announces RaaS Model through Its Partnership with Global Robotics Services
Tompkins Robotics, a leader in the robotic automation of distribution and fulfillment operations, has partnered with Global Robotics Services (GRS), a GLP backed platform that provides financial backing for collaborative robots as a service (RaaS) solutions. The Tompkins Robotics – GRS RaaS solution provides customers with the ability to pay for what they consume including equipment, installation, commissioning, and support costs, all of which are included in the service level agreement (SLA). This innovative model gives customers the flexibility of a subscription-based pricing and service option instead of traditional capital equipment purchase and support model. This conserves capital, converts investment to an operating cost, and allows a customer to “pay as they go” for the use of the system. RaaS also provides customers with the ability to scale up and down rapidly and easily in response to changing market conditions or seasonal demand such as the Holiday season, Back to School, January returns, and other seasonal events. Tompkins Robotics and their tSort robotic solution have developed a reputation for execution of projects, rapid deployment, scalable layout design, understanding of US building codes, and knowledge of logistics operations. GRS brings the financial strength and resources of a global logistics real estate investor, developer, and operator. Together, Tompkins Robotics and GRS will bring new opportunities for US companies easy entry into automation and robotics. Mike Futch, CEO of Tompkins Robotics, said, “The asset services support from our partnership with GRS will position Tompkins Robotics to implement a RaaS deployment for customers that prefer this model versus our existing capital procurement business model. In addition, our solutions have always had a reputation for being flexible, now we have the opportunity to allow financial flexibility as well.” Hongming Chen, CEO of GRS, added, “Our vision is to accelerate the adoption of automation while lowering the barrier to entry for businesses when it comes to robotics technology. The subscription-based model of RaaS creates lower upfront capital requirements, reduced fixed costs and flexible lease terms which helps bridge the automation gap for many small to mid-size enterprises. A full package of services including consulting, implementation, maintenance, systems and robotics upgrading can all be provided as part of this service. With both parties expertise and resources, we look forward to expanding our cooperation with Tompkins in greater depth and breadth to provide a more holistic solution to our customers.” Tompkins Robotics will have our tSort solution at the MODEX Booth B7240 from March 28-31. Register for MODEX for free and come see how Tompkins Robotics and GRS can help your company reach your goals!
RedLore Launches High-Accuracy, Wire-Free, On-Site Positioning Solution
RedLore, today at MODEX 2022 in Atlanta, GA, launched a high-resolution version of Locus Site, a patented solution for high-accuracy on-site positioning, or real-time location system (RTLS), down to ½ foot or 15 cm, without requiring any wiring throughout the facility. Locus Site, high-resolution, makes high-accuracy tracking possible for companies and facilities where existing solutions were either to expensive or where installing wires was previously not possible. Its wire-free nature means a 200,000 sq. ft facility can be equipped with positioning capability in just one day, saving up to 90% in installation cost and time when compared to other solutions. “The world’s logistical processes are today stretched to the breaking point,” said RedLore CEO, Niek Van Dierdonck. “Keeping track, in real-time, of the location and condition of assets on-site and during (un)loading provides an immediate improvement in efficiencies. Locus Site offers exactly that at a fraction of the cost and burden of other systems.” RedLore’s Locus is available as Locus Site for on-site tracking and Locus Automate for “touchless” distribution operations: Locus Site is used by manufacturers, healthcare service providers, construction companies, logistics companies and others to track everything in their facility without manual intervention. Locus Automate is used by distributors and 3PLs to track the (un)loading of assets in trucks, eliminating the need for barcode and RFID scanning. Locus Automate is unique in alerting in real-time about problems such as loading errors, delivery errors and risk of damage. Visit RedLore at MODEX 2022, March 28-31, Booth #C5098, for a live demonstration of Locus Site and to learn more.
New AGV Lineup by Murata Machinery’s USA
Murata Machinery USA, Inc. expands its logistics & automation product offerings with an extensive line of automated guided vehicles (AGVs). The A-Series adds seven standard base models to their existing Muratec Premex Series that are customizable for a wide range of load capacities, lift heights, navigation methods, temperature ratings, and software applications. From their Charlotte headquarters, Murata Machinery will take over and lead all North American operations in partnership with the AGVE Group, directing day-to-day North American sales, installation, service, and marketing operations. As a member of the Murata Machinery Group, AGVE is the leading Swedish manufacturer of AGV systems and controls, producing more than 4,000 vehicles and 160 unique tailor-made vehicles installed worldwide since 1985. The partnership will further build on Murata Machinery’s long track record of integrating automation and solving customer challenges. “Combining our AGV sales and service operations in North America into a single-unified front enables us to offer customers exceptional storage and transport solutions and creates tremendous value for stakeholders,” said Jörgen Lindgren, President of AGVE Group, Sweden. A-Series standard forklift to roller and lift deck vehicles can transport payloads from a few pounds to 65 tons, lift heights up to 36 feet, and operate in extreme temperatures ranging from -10 degree/F to 104 degrees/F. All navigations systems are available and multiple layers of safety features are equipped in this series, complying with ANSI/ITSDF safety and ISO 3691-4 manufacturing standards as well as Class 1 for clean factory environments. System features offer active and passive characteristics to protect people and property in the facility and effectively integrate with the existing systems. “We approach each customer as a partner, helping to solve problems and increase productivity by safely automating manual handling and transportation,” said Scott Matlock, Murata Machinery, General Manager, L&A Division. “AGVs are common in Industry 4.0 settings, a high-value, easy-to-implement first step in automation. This partnership strengthens our integrated, value-added approach and expands our capabilities as a system integrator,” added Matlock. Driverless vehicles automate a wide variety of repetitive transport and material handling tasks within manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, and logistics facilities—tasks that traditionally require manual labor. Automated vehicles move single or multiple loads and transport material between processes or to and from storage. Typically, AGVs are used to replace manual forklifts for all types of loads—pallets, totes, bins, auto body parts, and coils. Vehicles can be customized to move unique load types and are quick to reroute, resulting in less downtime for the facility. Looking at the big picture, AGVs reduce labor needs, remove opportunities for human error and product damage, and improve working conditions. They help preserve margins and increase output, paving the way for continued productivity and growth. Muratec will conduct live demos of both Muratec A-Series and Premex AGVs at MODEX 2022 in Atlanta, GA from March 28-31, Booth # B7632b.
Seegrid Begins Taking Pre-Orders for Palion Lift AMR
Seegrid Corporation today announced that its newest autonomous lift truck, Seegrid Palion™ Lift, is now available for pre-order. Manufacturing, e-commerce, and logistics companies have the opportunity to lock in priority access to the highly anticipated lift truck AMR, which begins initial customer shipments in April 2022. Equipped with the most advanced generation of Seegrid’s proprietary autonomy technology, Palion Lift is the company’s newest AMR model and the only lift truck in the market with industry-leading 3D perception. The AMR makes its global debut this week with live demonstrations at MODEX, the world’s largest manufacturing and supply chain trade event. Palion Lift AMR brings together Seegrid’s breakthrough 3D vision-based navigation technology with best-in-class situational awareness capabilities. Seegrid IQ autonomy technology fuses data from cameras, LiDAR, and machine learning models to enable Seegrid’s autonomous forklift to excel in complex environments, moving material safely, accurately, and reliably in dynamic facilities. “Our highly-reliable and proven 3D vision-based navigation system is now augmented with additional sensing modalities to create the latest generation of Seegrid IQ,” said Chief Technology Officer Todd Graves. “This advances our perception, localization, planning, and safety systems—increasing the human-like situational awareness and agility of our AMRs, a critical capability for the extremely demanding conditions in which they reliably operate every day.” With advanced Smart Path sensing capabilities and 360° safety coverage, Palion Lift automates the transport of material up to 3,500 pounds throughout customer operations, precisely and securely retrieving and placing palletized goods at heights of up to six feet for a complete, end-to-end solution. “As supply chain pressures continue to compound, our customers need a solution with the highest levels of safety and reliability to be both productive and resilient,” said Jim Rock, Seegrid’s Chief Executive Officer. “Our outstanding team of material handling experts and roboticists developed an autonomous lift truck with intelligence that is unmatched in the market.” The company’s Palion AMR fleet has driven seven million autonomous miles in customer production environments without a single safety incident. This week at MODEX, Palion Lift will demonstrate end-to-end automation, showcasing lane staging, table and conveyor picking and placing, and interaction with other Seegrid IQ-powered AMRs. Booth visitors will also have the opportunity to see how Seegrid’s Fleet Central enterprise software solutions orchestrate material flow. For more information about Seegrid’s next-level automation solutions at MODEX, visit seegrid.com/modex2022.
New Battery Electrolyte Sensor Outpaces Competition by Flow-Rite
Maintaining electrolyte levels is critical to lead-acid battery performance and longevity, but this routine monitoring becomes difficult if the battery is not readily accessible. With the new Eagle Eye Essential IV Level Sensor from Flow-Rite, it’s as simple as seeing the bright green LED glowing to know water levels are correct. Plus, because the device doesn’t require drilling or cutting into the battery housing, it’s far safer and faster to install. The Eagle Eye Essential IV Level Sensor debuts at MODEX, March 28–31, Atlanta, booth B7122. The Eagle Eye Essential IV Level Sensor features an engineered alloy probe for a long service life. Due to its unique design, it doesn’t need to be trimmed to fit. The LED Flow-Rite uses is the brightest in its class—up to six times that of the competition—to make visual inspections from a distance easy. Because the Eagle Eye Essential IV Level Sensor doesn’t require modifying the battery, installation time is dramatically reduced. Plus, there’s no dangerous lead exposure or scrap to contend with. RoHS-compliant, the Eagle Eye Essential IV Level Sensor functions in temperature extremes of -40° to 185° F. Pre-wired with 24″ leads, it operates on 4V–12V DC and has a low current draw of 0.015 amps. Ring terminal and wire are covered with adhesive sealed heat shrink to prevent corrosion. Flow-Rite’s Eagle Eye Essential IV Level Sensor comes with a two-year warranty. www.flow-rite.com
MHS exhibits fully automated order fulfillment solution in collaboration with HAI ROBOTICS and Mujin
At MODEX 2022 in Atlanta this week, MHS (www.mhsglobal.com), a provider of material handling automation and software solutions, unveils a robotic order fulfillment solution developed in tandem with Mujin and HAI ROBOTICS. At MODEX booth #B7255, the demonstration models automation strategies that can be applied to many common storage, picking and order kitting workflows in e-commerce fulfillment and other distribution settings. The goods-to-robot solution on display offers rapid deployment, low total cost of operation, operational efficiency gains of up to 400% and increased product storage density by picking product out of double-deep storage. The project leverages the combined strengths of MHS as an integrator and the specialized robotic technology of HAI ROBOTICS and Mujin. In addition to design, installation and validation by MHS, the solution is powered by MHS Helix, a warehouse execution system (WES) that integrates the various automated components and robotics technology together to work as a smart, efficient system. A zero-pressure accumulation conveyor from MHS feeds totes to and from the order fill station. HAI autonomous case-handling robots (ACRs) transport totes between storage and a Mujin piece-picking robot. The Mujin robot picks each item for the order from a source tote, packs it and signals to Helix that the conveyor can move the completed order to the outbound location. The robotic arm uses product dimensions, weight and grasping data to autonomously pick items cleanly and consistently – no colliding with the tote or inability to pick all items in the tote. “While goods-to-person workflows can help warehouses make more efficient use of workers, goods-to-robot solutions go a step further to alleviate the intense labor challenges facing warehouses,” says Rob Schmit, senior vice president, distribution and fulfillment, MHS. “By bringing together these different automation technologies to work together as a cohesive system, we can help customers not only address labor challenges in workflows like order picking, but improve overall efficiency and consistency, too.” Visit MHS at booth #B7255 of the Georgia World Congress Center from March 28-31 for a live demonstration of the solution and to learn more about the company’s global reach, broad lineup of automation and software technologies, and robust lifecycle performance services.
At MODEX 2022 Raymond showcases Innovations in Technology and Automation
The Raymond Corporation, a Toyota Industries Company, will showcase innovative intralogistics solutions at MODEX 2022 held March 28 to 31 at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. Attendees can visit Raymond at Booth B6008 to view the latest intelligent warehouse, material handling and facility solutions in action. Raymond will be highlighting the next generation of material handling solutions to improve efficiency and optimize customers’ operations, including connected technologies and innovative automated solutions. Additionally, the newest version of Raymond’s Virtual Reality (VR) Simulator will be on display and available for demonstration. “Our goal at Raymond is to continually evolve our products and introduce intelligent solutions to address our customers’ challenges and enable them to achieve maximum productivity, efficiency and visibility,” said Michael Field, president and CEO, The Raymond Corporation. “We are excited to build on our 100-year history of innovation as we continue to help our customers optimize, connect and automate their operations with our end-to-end intralogistics solutions.” At MODEX 2022, Raymond will showcase numerous products and intralogistics solutions surrounding material handling equipment, connected technologies and automation, including: Education Raymond’s VR Simulator is a unique, engaging tool that can simplify everything from hiring to teaching to developing employees for enhanced performance and efficiency. The recently updated simulator features a new wireless headset with improved graphics, making training simulations feel more immersive. The new version also has a smaller footprint, allowing for easier transport between training sessions. Energy Solutions Through proven research and testing, Raymond Energy Solutions are engineered to specifically meet the rigors of the toughest material handling applications. Raymond Energy Solutions, including lead-free and lithium-ion batteries, are integrated for greater synergies to optimize energy efficiencies, productivity and lift truck performance. Lithium-ion batteries can last longer than traditional lead-acid battery packs, do not require routine maintenance and are completely sealed, providing you with an overall lower cost of ownership. Material Handling Equipment Raymond designs and manufactures the best lift trucks in the industry that pair with its technologies, systems and solutions to bring day-to-day warehouse and distribution operations to a new level of performance. Raymond continues to develop and release advanced technology options that can layer onto traditional base truck offerings, providing unparalleled operating efficiencies and tools to assist operator productivity and security. Raymond® 8910 End Rider Pallet Jack with Lithium-ion Battery Technology: ideal for long hauls and congested work areas; features a roomy operator compartment for enhanced comfort and security, and intuitive, easy-to-use controls; and offers exceptional maneuverability with low-effort electric steering and electronic braking. Raymond® 8210 Motorized Pallet Jack with Thin Plate Pure Lead Battery Technology: provides unparalleled maneuverability to navigate in tight spaces — congested store aisles, busy docks and pinwheeling in the back of trailers. Raymond® 5000 Series Order Pickers: capable of integrating with advanced operator assist technology options; designed to meet the rapid growth and expansion of e-commerce; and create integrated systems that can further increase operator proficiency, accuracy and productivity. Connected Technologies Raymond continues to develop and release advanced technology options that you are able to layer onto its traditional base lift truck offerings, providing unparalleled operating efficiencies and tools to assist operator productivity and security. iWAREHOUSE® Fleet and Warehouse Optimization System: a comprehensive suite of management solutions that allows managers to identify inefficiencies through real-time telematics data, ultimately increasing overall efficiency. iWAREHOUSE Real-Time Location System: lets you manage your operation more easily and effectively by monitoring and identifying the movements of lift trucks, personnel and assets in your warehouse for enhanced security, efficiency and productivity. Raymond® 8510 Center Rider Pallet Truck: delivers outstanding operator comfort and control with optimum performance for heavy-duty order picking applications and long-distance horizontal transport tasks. The 8510 center rider pallet truck can be paired with additional technologies, including: Pick2Pallet™ LED Light System: increases productivity and accuracy by directing an operator on pick placement for increased accuracy and faster fulfillment. Raymond Advance™ Operator Assist Technology: enables selectors to request tractor-first lift truck travel by pressing and holding the motive button on the remote control; and navigates and detects objects from pick to pick while the selector remains in optimum picking position, enhancing overall productivity and workflow efficiency. Automation Raymond demonstrates the synergy of traditional material handling products with cutting-edge advances in automation technology through an automated, integrated systems solution. Raymond will showcase a variety of automated material handling solutions, including: Raymond Automated Swing-Reach® Truck: stores, retrieves and transports pallets — reliably, accurately and autonomously — to free up lift truck operators to focus on more value-added tasks. Radioshuttle®: offers an innovative pallet storage and retrieval system designed to maximize warehouse space by offering ultra-high-density storage with access to individual storage lanes. Raymond Courier™ 3030 Automated Stacker: an operator-optional automated lift truck featuring a 72-inch reach capability and 2,500-pound capacity that provides greater flexibility, as it can be scheduled to perform on its own or operated manually. Raymond will showcase its expertise around intralogistics solutions during the following seminars that are open to all MODEX 2022 attendees: Gain Complete Operational Visibility With Smart, Connected Warehouses Monday, March 28 (10:30 to 11:15 a.m.), Theater J Increase Energy Efficiency and Maximize Uptime With Energy Solutions Beyond the Battery Monday, March 28 (1:30 to 2:15 p.m.), Theater F Maximize Labor Productivity With Complete Intralogistics Solutions for Your Operation Tuesday, March 29 (3 to 3:45 p.m.), Theater F