iFD is implementing an automated sequencing warehouse

Another project in the field of automated systems was launched as early as late autumn last year. The scope of supply included a complete warehouse and material flow control system for a transport, storage and sorting facility. The end customer, an internationally active automotive supplier based in Slovakia, placed particular emphasis on fast and smooth project execution. This was achieved through a comprehensive material flow simulation at the start of the project, as the insights gained regarding function, throughput and control strategies were incorporated into the agile project management at an early stage.

The system, which supplies several assembly lines in a three-shift operation, achieves up to 20% higher performance than predicted by static dimensioning, thanks to sophisticated scheduling and control strategies. This provides the end customer with additional assurance that performance losses following technical faults can be quickly recovered. Furthermore, the detailed and informative visualisation and the associated proactive alarm system provide powerful diagnostic tools for identifying and addressing issues at an early stage. This means the extensive plant can be operated and maintained with a minimum of technical staff.

The software system used is intelligent, self-learning and extremely user-friendly. The exceptionally short training period is achieved through easily customisable multilingual support and integrated emulators, which enable the customer to conduct training entirely in a simulation environment and to run through emergency procedures without physical disruption.

Thanks to a 24/6 maintenance and on-call contract, the end customer can access support from iFD around the clock whenever required.

Following an extensive testing phase, the system was commissioned in January 2018 over a single weekend and went straight into live operation. Since then, performance has been continuously increased and reached its target level at the beginning of March.