The Material Handling and Supply Chain Blog

ASAP Automation India was recently recognized for Excellent Support in Development and Installation by NRC Corporation, manufacturer of automated teller machines (ATMs). Mr. Khaiser, Manager Assembly and Vendor Development, was in Puducherry to receive the award on behalf of ASAP. ASAP India provided NRC a solution using Hytrol roller conveyor to transport pallets of work in process down the assembly line.

It’s the age old question for anyone considering automating their distribution or manufacturing process… Should I work with a material handling equipment integrator that can provide a blend of equipment to fit the unique automation solution, or buy a system from an equipment manufacturer that will provide a turnkey solution utilizing the products they manufacture? [...]

For years, logistics consultants, material handling engineers, and supply chain execution providers have been slicing-and-dicing warehouse statistics in a quest to enhance employee performance for the ultimate purpose of bringing profitable dollars to the bottom-line. While having tangible statistics and historical records of warehouse operation is important, I suggest that these benchmarks alone will not drive peak employee or warehouse performance.

Let’s assume that you have a supply chain execution product, such as ASAP Automation’s Warehouse Management System (WMS), to monitor, collect, and report employee productivity. How do you use this information? Better yet, how do you get your warehouse employees to exceed the standard of expected performance? You must find a way to effectively relate company goals with personal performance standards. Bringing clarity to how each person’s efforts bring value to the company is very important. Therefore, building a team of high achievers has a lot to do with how you manage several human factors, such as employee morale, work conditions, and recognition.

Here are a few ideas to consider…

Bastian Robotics recently donated several pieces of powered conveyor, gravity conveyor, electric controls, hydraulic and pneumatic hardware for Vincennes University to use in their Indiana Center for Applied Technology building (ICAT).

The University recently purchased 28 ABB robots for their workforce redevelopment program and needed ancillary equipment to present the robots in a meaningful setting for the students…

There has been much discussion lately within the project management community on the “value” of project management certification – i.e. becoming a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) from the Project Management Institute. At one time several years ago, having a PMP was a distinguishing mark usually obtained and held by the most senior project managers. Recently however, PMI has realized the fruits of its successful marketing campaign to push the PMP credential – to the point where the credential no longer makes the PM stand out more than the next. So what’s more important in implementing complex material handling systems – PMP certification or experience?

Robotic End of Arm Tool (EoAT) or end effector design can often define the success of a robotic system. Although it seems like only a small portion of the project, in reality it will drive the performance of the robot. Robotic EoAT design can range from a very simple vacuum cup to a very complex array of technologies used to support the product on multiple sides. As the complexity of the EoAT increases, the design considerations and specifications will be magnified. It is paramount for the success of the project that the specifications are clearly defined and the appropriate technology is implemented.

With the advances in technology, Robotic End of Arm Tools have become increasing flexible. They have the ability to mimic a human hand and grasp objects in the same manner as an operator. The following video highlights how far technology has come:

When it comes to making a decision regarding the purchase of material handling equipment, everyone talks about Return on Investment, or ROI. While ROI is important, there are also many other critical factors to consider. To make the best decision for your company, you need to fully research the manufacturer and integrator you will be partnering with. And in return, the manufacturer / integrator team needs to fully understand your company and your unique business challenge.

Below is a list of 20 questions that buyers should ask themselves when getting ready to purchase an expensive piece of equipment or sizeable system…

I’ve seen lists like this which seem to be an accumulation of ideas without relative value. Automating with robots is an economic decision with value associated with it. I wanted to develop a list that is cohesive and direct and paints a story when viewed collectively. How ironic I start with a reason with no value…

Astra Logistics recently hosted an open house/dedication ceremony for their new facility in Greer, South Carolina. The new facility is where they assemble the tire and wheels for BMW’s new F25 which is the next generation model of the BMW Sports Activity Series X3. Astra put together a first-class ceremony with Tom Przybojewski (Astra President) leading the way and with the Governor of South Carolina Mark Sanford and other state and local dignitaries in attendance. Tom Przybojewski specifically mentioned ASAP Automation and how pleased he was with our long-term partnership and success.

Bastian Material Handling is a proud sponsor of the 2010 LogistXGames. We hosted the first round in Cincinnati on June 17th and it was a huge success! You can watch video of that event below.

The Games are now coming to Indianapolis! Join us on August 5th, 2010 at the Prologis 96th Street Distribution Center from 10am-1pm and cheer on your favorite team.