FAQ

What is an end-of-line solution?

In the materials handling world, an end-of-line solution refers to the equipment and processes used to automate the packaging processes at each end of a production line, i.e. the beginning and the end.

What kind of end-of-line solutions does PHS Innovate offer?

We offer a range of end-of-line solutions including depalletizing; conveyors; palletizing through to Automated Warehousing.

What industries do you serve?

Our solutions are suitable for various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals and consumer goods. In fact, we offer solutions for any industry where products are shipped on pallets.

How can I determine which solution is best for my business?

Our team of experts can help you to identify the best automated materials handling solution for your business. They do this by understanding your specific production needs and requirements, then proposing the best option.

When should we start talking to you about our need for an end-of-line solution?

It’s never too early for our team to get involved. Early consultation can save time, reduce costs and help to minimise disruption during changeover. Whether you want to replace an ageing automated solution or move to automation for the first time, talk to us at the earliest opportunity.

Do you offer custom end-of-line solutions?

Yes, we offer custom solutions to meet our client’s unique requirements. More than 90% of our customers enjoy bespoke solutions tailored to their specific requirements

What is the lead time for your automated materials handling solutions?

Lead time varies depending on the complexity of the solution. Our team will provide an estimated lead time during the consultation process.

Once a solution has been designed and built, do you offer installation and maintenance services?

Yes, our team provides both mechanical and electrical installation and maintenance services for all our solutions. Additionally, we can advise and assist your staff or preferred contractor to ensure many years of reliable service.

What is your warranty policy?

Our materials handling solutions come with a standard warranty, which will be explained during the consultation process.

Warehouse Automation FAQs

When should we start talking to you about our warehouse automation project?

It’s never too early for our team to get involved. Early consultation can save time, money and frustration. It also helps to optimise handling efficiency. Our input can assist with defining space requirements, ceiling heights, line layout optimisation and other important aspects of warehouse design.

What is warehouse automation?

Warehouse automation refers to the use of technology to streamline and automate various processes in a warehouse, such as inventory management, picking and packing, and storage and retrieval of goods within the warehouse.

What benefits does warehouse automation provide?

Here’s what you can expect when you move up to an automated warehouse:

  • Increased efficiency and productivity: Automated systems can perform repetitive tasks faster and more accurately than humans, leading to faster processing times and increased throughput.
  • Improved inventory management: Automated systems can provide real-time inventory data, making it easier to track stock levels, monitor expiration dates and identify discrepancies.
  • Space efficiency: Warehouse automation allows you to make more use of every cubic metre of warehouse space.
  • Safer for workers: Warehouse automation removes the need for regular human interaction inside the warehouse, so it’s suitable for harsh environments such as sub-0 temperatures and hypoxic environments.
  • Reduced labour costs: Automation can reduce the need for manual labour, which can lower labour costs and free up employees to focus on higher-value tasks.
  • Increased accuracy and reliability: Automated systems can perform tasks with a high degree of accuracy and consistency, reducing the risk of errors and improving overall reliability.
  • Reduced workplace accidents: Automated systems can reduce the risk of workplace accidents and injuries by taking over hazardous or physically demanding tasks.
  • Improved customer service: Faster and more accurate order processing can lead to improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Scalability: Automated systems can be scaled up or down as needed to accommodate changing business needs, making it easier to manage growth or contraction.

What type of warehouse operations can be automated?

Any repetitive, time-consuming or hazardous task that involves moving, processing or managing materials or data can potentially be automated in a warehouse. For example:

  • Inventory management: Automated systems can manage inventory levels, monitor stock movements and track expiration dates.
  • Order processing: Automated systems can receive and process orders, pick and pack products, and prepare shipments for delivery.
  • Material handling: Automated systems can move products, materials and equipment within the warehouse using conveyor belts, AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) or robots.,
  • Data collection and analysis: Automated systems can collect data from various sources – such as sensors, barcodes or RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags – and analyse it in real time.
  • Security and access control: Automated systems can manage access to restricted areas, monitor security cameras and alert staff to potential security breaches.

How does warehouse automation improve efficiency?

Automation eliminates manual labour and reduces errors, leading to increased productivity and efficiency. It also often maximises footprint utilisation, so you can store a lot more product on the same building footprint.

Can an existing warehouse be automated?

Yes, an existing warehouse can be automated. The level of automation that can be achieved will depend on several factors, such as the size and layout of the warehouse, the types of products being handled and the available budget.

What types of technology are used in warehouse automation?

Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS): AS/RS systems are used for the automated storage and retrieval of goods in a warehouse. They typically use aisle cranes or robots to move goods to and from high-density storage racks. Storage of pallet loads can utilise single-deep; double-deep and multi-deep storage bays. For high-speed applications with deep storage bays, aisle cranes can be replaced with mover shuttles on each level of the aisle, allowing simultaneous missions. Deep lane storage can also be semi-automated utilising forklifts for storing and retrieval.

Conveyor Systems: Conveyor systems are used to move goods around the warehouse. They can be used to transport goods between different parts of the warehouse or to load and unload trucks.

Robotics: Robots are used for a variety of tasks in warehouse automation, including picking, packing and shipping. They can be programmed to perform repetitive tasks quickly and efficiently.

Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): WMS software is used to manage the day-to-day operations of a warehouse. It can be used to track inventory, optimize picking and shipping processes, and manage staffing and resources.

RFID Technology: RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology is used to track inventory in a warehouse. RFID tags can be attached to individual items, allowing them to be scanned and tracked automatically.

Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs): AGVs can replace forklifts to transport goods around the warehouse. They can be programmed to follow a specific path, and can be equipped with sensors to avoid collisions with other vehicles or objects in the warehouse. When integrated with mover shuttles, the entire system can be automated.

How long does it take to implement warehouse automation?

Depending on the size and complexity of the warehouse, implementation time can range from several months to a year.

What is the cost of implementing warehouse automation?

The cost depends on the size, scope and complexity of your project. When we’re proposing solutions, we will offer a range of semi and full-automated options – from cheapest to most expensive – that would work for your situation. If you have a current system, we can explore options for improving and updating it.

Is training required for warehouse automation?

Yes, your employees will need to be trained on the new technology and processes. We provide full training as part of the implementation process. Once your automated warehouse is operating smoothly, online remote monitoring can assist with identifying and resolving issues.

Is warehouse automation maintenance-free?

No, regular maintenance and upgrades are necessary to keep all systems running smoothly. As part of installation and implementation, we provide manuals and recommended maintenance schedules. We can provide maintenance services or assist with upskilling your staff to carry out maintenance in-house.

Get in touch with the PHS Innovate team for support with your next automation project.

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