Dematic Signs Agreement with AutoStore

Dematic, a supplier of integrated automated technology, software and services to optimize the supply chain, has signed a global agreement with AutoStore. The agreement will enable Dematic to expand its omni-channel integrated solution offering with an ultra-high density storage and goods to person piece picking system to optimize order fulfillment and kitting.

As a qualified system integrator, Dematic will design, configure, engineer, install and support AutoStore as a sub-system within an overall Dematic solution or as a standalone piece picking system throughout the globe.

Dematic helps customers achieve operational excellence by offering the most appropriate solution for each application. Including the AutoStore system into the Dematic portfolio of solutions creates more choices for customers to optimize order fulfillment. For example, if storage density is the most important consideration, the AutoStore system may be the most effective option.

With the AutoStore partnership, Dematic has the ability to provide scalable solutions that work across all elements of the dynamic order profiles and SKU velocities associated with e-commerce and omni-channel solutions. In addition, the Dematic iQ Warehouse Execution System (WES) will manage all functional areas of the operation including piece picking and the AutoStore system. This Dematic one source, solution provider capability, insures production and distribution operations employ a holistic integrated solution that harmonizes information and material flow from receiving to shipping.

“The Dematic suite of solutions is comprehensive; adding AutoStore to the mix enables users to obtain the ideal storage, buffering and piece picking solution” according to Jeff Moss, CEO, Dematic International. “The ability to design and implement a wide variety of system configurations is critical to effectively accommodate the growing demands of omni-channel distribution in this age of acceleration.” Moss continued, “The Dematic expanded solution will be a sure way for our customers to serve their customers better and faster.”

Dematic helps customers achieve operational excellence by offering the most appropriate solution for each application.

AutoStore is a modular piece picking system. It consists of five standard modules: robot, port or workstation, grid, bin and controller. The robots drive on the top of the grid to access inventory stored in the bins below. The bins are put-away, retrieved and delivered to the ports or workstations as required.

When compared to conventional storage density, AutoStore can store up to 4X more inventory in the same space. The solution can be installed in oddly shaped buildings, around pillars or on several levels and fills out the warehouse space potential to its maximum. The AutoStore infrastructure is independent of the building structure; disassembly and re-location is feasible and cost effective.

AutoStore is an eco-friendly solution. Overall power consumption is low, energy recovery occurs during bin lowering and robot braking. Ceiling lighting is not needed. It requires less space due to the compact structure.

The AutoStore solution is built around the “goods-to-person” principle. The key benefits of goods-to-person include: eliminate worker travel time to pick locations, picking productivity, omit dedicated pick faces (no slotting, re-slotting, manual replenishment), product security/inventory accuracy, order processing speed, and order accuracy. Furthermore, the worker environment is ideal. AutoStore technology supports a quiet, clean environment with reduced fatigue factors. Workstations are designed for ergonomic operation.

Dematic, meanwhile, is a leading supplier of integrated automated technology, software and services to optimize the supply chain. Dematic employs over 6,000 skilled logistics professionals to serve its customers globally, with engineering centers and manufacturing facilities located across the globe. Dematic has implemented more than 4,500 integrated systems for a customer base that includes small, medium and large companies doing business in a variety of market sectors.

Headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Dematic is a member of KION Group, a global leader in industrial trucks, related services and supply chain solutions. Across more than 100 countries worldwide, the KION Group designs, builds and supports logistics solutions that optimize material and information flow within factories, warehouses and distribution centers. The company is the largest manufacturer of industrial trucks in Europe, the second-largest producer of forklifts globally and a leading provider of warehouse automation.