Article by Dario Gozzi
Vertical storage warehouses offer numerous benefits to companies on their path to automation. Among the main advantages are space optimization, precision in code management and safety. An example is the Vertimag solution by Ferretto. This system was designed with the primary objective of ensuring maximum ergonomics in picking operations. Besides it guarantees a wide operational flexibility in the management of materials to be stored.
Warehouse automation
The Vertimag system uses the Ergo–Tech Bay. Thanks to its technology, it allows operators to work on a surface that is always at the same height. This with concrete advantages in terms of speed, efficiency, safety and storage potential. The use of the alphanumeric bar allows you to identify the product to be picked. And it indicates the code, description and quantity of the goods to be moved.
The laser pointer is an automatic luminous device. It is used on the central part of the picking bay and indicates the position of the product sought. The position is given by the intersection of a continuous green line, which runs along the X axis (width), and a red luminous point on the Y axis (depth).
The efficiency of operations can be further increased through the use of devices such as barcode readers, label printers and counting scales. These tools are all managed by the WMS EjLog software, which is part of Vertimag’s standard equipment.
Besides, the WMS EjLog software can be implemented with additional modules such as the connection to the company ERP and the management of material outside the vertical warehouse, stored on shelves or floor areas.
AGVs and cobots: automation in production
Cobots and AGVs are among the main robotic solutions supporting production.
In particular, the latest generation of robotic development is due to the giant steps made in motor control electronics and the high efficiency of the sensors with which the robots are equipped. The movement control algorithms constantly supervise each operating parameter. They allow intervention in fractions of a second to stop or divert the robot if it encounters an obstacle.
Cobots are industrial robots designed to work together with humans, side by side in complete safety. They do not require physical barriers or cages, there are no cables and mechanical components exposed. The perception of the surrounding space by cobots and AGVs is fundamental for the safety of those who work next to them and for the performance of the machine itself.
Besides, automated material handling using AGVs means fewer operators are needed to manage the flow of electronic components and semi-finished products to and from production lines. This leads to improved process through optimized material flow, which in turn reduces operating costs. It also reduces material handling errors, such as picking the wrong part number from the warehouse.
Cobot gripping and positioning ends
To interact with objects and artifacts, cobots must necessarily use a tool or gripping device, mounted on the end of the arm. The cobot must be able to mount both standard and customized tools that, for specific applications, are custom-made, sometimes using 3D printers.
In detail, there are gripping devices made by specialized companies on the market, perfectly compatible with the different cobot manufacturers. They have suitable characteristics for handling both fragile and less delicate objects, covering all production application needs.
Finally, a wide range of gripping devices is available, ranging from suction cups to grippers with two or more fingers; it is possible to mount screwdrivers, welders or fluid dispensers.
Cobots are not systems dedicated to a specific task, but when properly equipped and programmed they must be interchangeable.
