Sucess Story – Nordic Flow Control Ensures 24/7 Availability at World’s Busiest Port with Stratus Technologies
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NORDIC FLOW CONTROL Systems integration solutions provider turns to ftStratus Server for uninterrupted 24x7x365 availability vital to serving the world’s busiest port Nordic Flow Control prides itself as a global systems integration solutions specialist serving the marine, offshore, and oil and gas sectors. Incorporated in 1998 with its headquarters based in Singapore, Nordic Flow Control is a subsidiary of Nordic Group Limited which has been listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX) main board since 2010.
The company offers a comprehensive suite of solutions and services that span flow systems, automation solutions, navigation products, engineering and project management services which are tailored to suit the varying needs of customers worldwide.
The Challenge
Being the hub and focal point for some 200 shipping lines with links to over 600 ports worldwide, Singapore is home to the busiest port in the world in terms of shipping tonnage, with an average of 140,000 vessels calling at the port yearly. In today’s always-on global economy, organizations cannot afford business downtime as it not only leads to both lost revenue and reputation, but also harbors latent economic, security and legal repercussions. One of Nordic Flow Control customers – a leading cargo ground handling agent in the Southeast Asian region – understood how critical it was for its operations to stay uninterrupted 24x7x365 in order to uphold its reputation in the industry and keep up with increasing demands.
The customer needed a robust and scalable solution to address several requirements which included continuous availability, simple deployment and maintenance, zero data corruption and loss, as well as lower total cost of ownership. The customer was looking into the possibility of using a conventional redundant or backup server, consisting of two standalone servers installed with mission-critical applications for switching over when any of the servers were down, for cost-effectiveness.
The Solution
Working closely with integration partner HoST working closely with integration partner HoST, the Stratus ftServer platform was selected by Nordic Flow Control as the best fully integrated continuously available platform to deploy to address the needs of the customer. FactoryTalk, a SCADA software suite developed by Rockwell Automation to help provide visualization and control of manufacturing processes, was also implemented. Designed and built to run mission-critical applications without downtime or data loss, Stratus ftServer enabled the customer to accelerate the modernization of its IT infrastructure with optimal reliability and efficiency while minimizing risk.
As a fault-tolerant computing platform, Stratus ftServer features a hardware-based, fully- redundant architecture that comprises two identical customer replaceable units (CRUs), each with their own processors, memory, storage and power. This approach does not require any development overhead deployment which simplify management significantly, and allows the servicing and maintenance of the platform while in operation, without downtime or disruption.
The Results
Since the implementation of Stratus ftServer, the customer has not experienced any service downtown or disruption to its business operations which run 24x7x365. With Stratus’ Automated Uptime Layer (AUL) software in place, continuous availability is assured, even in the event of a hardware component failure. The seamless combination of performance, computing power, reliability and serviceability afforded by Stratus ftServer, alongside the productivity software suite from Rockwell Automation, empowers the customer to not only improve its overall efficiency and with the capability to meet increasing demands but also enable it to future-proof its IT architectures to realize edge-core-cloud data strategies that are critical to turning data into actionable insight.
“Stratus ftServer not only enables us to run a 24x7x365 enterprise effortlessly but also paves the way for future-proofing our infrastructure to take advantage of the compelling features of both on-premises and cloud deployment options. The platform was easy to deploy and is even easier to maintain and manage on a day-to-day basis.”
Nordic Flow Control Pte Ltd
Stratus® ftServer®
A continuously available computing platform uniquely engineered to run mission-critical applications without downtime or data loss—for the enterprise data centre, control room, or edge location.
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The case story brochure is downloaded here.
In the dynamic world of aviation, where every second counts and precision is paramount, maintaining optimal conditions within aircraft components is not just a matter of convenience, but a necessity. This is where PG Technologies, a joint venture between Praxair Surface Technologies and GE Aviation, steps in, with a mission to revolutionize aviation maintenance through innovative solutions tailored for the industry’s unique demands.
Meet Louis Lim, the Maintenance Manager, and Ken Siang, the Control Engineer, both instrumental figures at PG Technologies. Their recent triumph over a series of challenges in maintaining panel air conditioning units is a testament to their dedication and the effectiveness of their strategic approach.
The Issues: PG Tech faced many issues with their panel air conditioning units, ranging from non-functionality to excessive condensation drainage. The situation was exacerbated by the outdated nature of the units, making finding spare parts a daunting task. The urgency of the matter demanded swift action to minimize downtime and ensure the uninterrupted operation of critical systems.
The Challenges: One of PG Tech’s primary challenges was finding a solution provider capable of accommodating their tight schedules and offering flexible payment terms. With scheduled downtime often confirmed on short notice, finding a partner who could deliver promptly was crucial to their operations.
The Solution: In the face of adversity, PG Tech turned to Rittal and HoST Solutions for their expertise and reliability. Rittal’s Cooling Panel Solution offered a quick and effective fix to the existing issues and promised enhanced connectivity and energy efficiency, aligning perfectly with PG Tech’s long-term goals. HoST Solutions, known for their flexibility and proficiency in industrial automation, proved to be the perfect complement, ensuring a seamless implementation process.
The Results: The implementation of Rittal’s Cooling Panels brought about a remarkable transformation. The once-troubled units now maintain an ideal temperature, with issues related to condensation effectively resolved. Incorporating smart cooling solutions reduced energy consumption and facilitated predictive maintenance, further enhancing PG Tech’s operational efficiency.
Rittal Cooling units: Cooling units keep the enclosure’s internal temperature constant, independent of the ambient temperature. The air routing meets individual requirements. Two separate circuits prevent dust from ingressing into the enclosure. Boost your efficiency and protect the environment at the same time with our energy-saving, eco-friendly climate control solutions for enclosures and machines.
The Conclusion: For PG Technologies, this success story is just the beginning. Their commitment to modernization and connectivity remains unwavering as they continue to explore innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry. With a firm focus on leveraging IoT monitoring and embracing cutting-edge technologies, PG Tech is poised to redefine aviation maintenance standards. The journey of PG Technologies exemplifies the power of collaboration, innovation, and unwavering determination to overcome challenges and achieve success. Through strategic partnerships and a relentless pursuit of excellence, they have resolved immediate issues and set a precedent for future endeavours in aviation maintenance. As they continue to push the boundaries of possibility, PG Tech stands as a beacon of inspiration for the industry, showcasing the transformative impact of vision and perseverance in pursuing excellence.
Take the first step towards achieving efficient cooling for your control cabinet by contacting us today to learn more about the air deflection feature available for our Blue e+ cooling units.
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The case story brochure is downloaded here.
Meet Chong, the Director of Macro Integration, a system integrator focusing on their core vision: control, visualisation, and orchestration. With a commitment to prioritising customer needs, Macro Integration has successfully served and impacted customers, with a team of over 70 dedicated members across Singapore, Malaysia, and India. Their impressive portfolio of projects recently added a significant US-based semiconductor company in the midst.
The Challenge: In the world of system integration, one often encounters the challenge of clients, consultants, or end-users having distinct preferences and pre-existing solutions that they are comfortable with. Adapting to new solutions can be complex, even when solutions from Rockwell Automation who are leaders in the global control technology market. This is where Macro Integration steps in, offering their expertise to ensure feasible solutions can be deployed effectively.
The Decision: Macro Integration forged a crucial partnership with HoST, the exclusive local distributor of Rockwell Automation products, to address this challenge. This partnership facilitated the adoption of Rockwell solutions and instilled trust in customers due to Rockwell’s long-standing reputation in control technology. With a promising project opportunity on the horizon, Chong and his team embarked on a journey to collaborate with a general contractor and consultants to develop a robust control architecture.
The Solution: The collaboration with HoST provided invaluable support. They offered insights into specifications, aided in creating architectural drawings, and even facilitated pre-orders for project essentials. The result? A seamless project flow and a shortened lead time. Rockwell’s Integrated Architecture Builder significantly accelerated the process as Macro Integration began developing the control program. This tool, seamlessly integrated with Studio 5000, streamlined the creation of various controllers and IO. It even automatically assigned IP addresses, reducing complexity and saving valuable time.
Studio 5000 Design Software – The Studio 5000® environment combines design elements into one standard framework that optimises productivity and reduces time to commission. This intuitive integrated design environment focuses on rapid design, re-use, collaboration and virtual design. The updated user interface provides a standard, modern user experience across all Studio 5000 applications. When you leverage the power of Studio 5000, you will experience faster time to market, reduce your risk and build a competitive advantage. Watch this video to take a closer look.
The Impact: The collaboration with Rockwell Automation and HoST has been highly fruitful. Chong’s team has extensive experience in working with Rockwell Automation controls and software, which is reflected in their proficiency. Whether it’s about consultation, execution, or system commissioning, Chong affirms that the experience of working with the whole team has been nothing short of pleasant.
Conclusion: Macro Integration’s journey with a US-based semiconductor company is a testament to the power of expertise, collaboration, and efficient solutions. By partnering with HoST and embracing Rockwell Automation’s technology, Macro Integration successfully tackled challenges, reduced lead times, and delivered impeccable control solutions. The story of Chong and his team showcases the transformative impact that dedication and strategic alliances can have in the dynamic world of system integration.
Transform Your Workforce with Design Software for Simplification, Integration, and Efficiency. Discover the Benefits of the Studio 5000 Design Environment to Outpace Your Competitors.Download Now!
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The case story brouchuere
The Impact: The adoption of the smart cabinet has ushered in a transformative wave of impact, creating ripples of positive change throughout the operational landscape. Its integration doesn’t just mark an upgrade; it stands as a testament to the tangible benefits reaped by embracing cutting-edge technology. One of the most notable impacts is the substantial improvement in operational efficiency. The smart cabinet’s advanced features, including ID readers and barcode scanners, facilitate a streamlined and error-free workflow. This not only accelerates the pace of operations but also reduces the likelihood of human errors, ensuring a level of precision that was previously challenging to achieve.
Moreover, the enhanced item traceability offered by the smart cabinet has become a cornerstone in overcoming challenges faced by hospitals. In the realm of healthcare services, where the timely and secure delivery of medications, surgical instruments, and other critical items is paramount, the smart cabinet provides a reliable and efficient mechanism. It brings a new level of security and accountability to the delivery process, contributing to improved patient care outcomes.
The impact extends beyond mere technological integration; it translates into a tangible improvement in the day-to-day functioning of critical services. The smart cabinet is not just a piece of equipment; it is a catalyst for positive change, offering a solution that transcends challenges and enhances the overall efficiency and reliability of essential operations. In the broader context, this impact signifies a shift towards a future where technology not only meets industry demands but sets new standards for excellence. Techfox’s commitment to innovation, coupled with the strategic collaboration with HoST and the implementation of the smart cabinet, reflects a paradigm shift in the way industries navigate challenges and embrace opportunities for growth.
Conclusion: Techfox stands as a beacon of innovation and adaptability in the realm of system integration. The journey undertaken, from recognizing multifaceted challenges to implementing the smart cabinet solution, is a testament to Techfox’s commitment to providing holistic and customizable solutions tailored to diverse operational landscapes.
As a stalwart system integrator, Techfox doesn’t merely offer a product; it presents a transformative approach to addressing industry challenges. The implemented solution is not just a piece of technology; it’s a key that unlocks the latent potential within operational processes. It signifies a profound shift in the paradigm of utilizing robotic
“HoST premier solutions partner, ensuring consistent top-tier recommendations for enduring success.” – Mr Zhu Wan Jing Founder & CTO Techfox Pte Ltd
Smart Cabinet is in the news, let’s check out the news channel below.
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Additional Resources:
About HoST
HoST, founded back in 1990, operates in the industrial automation market across Singapore and parts of South East Asia. HoST’s vision is to be a company that delivers customer-centric values to address evolving business needs. HoST has been mainly recognised as the sole authorised distributor of Allen-Bradley Company in Singapore. Over the years, HoST has not only established strong ties with its various business partners but has continued to build new and successful business relationships to provide its customers with the best-in-class solutions that are available in this competitive market. HoST ever-expanding portfolio of solutions makes up the three core pillars of its business, specifically in Asset Management, Digital Factory Transformation and Industrial Internet of Things ( IIOT ), which reflects its commitment to embracing innovation and sustainable growth.
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MiR Successful Proof of Concept in Healthcare Environment
To transport supplies to and fro in the Healthcare Industry
Currently, this task of transporting supplies to and fro from the supply store and healthcare environment is done by nurses. The supplies will be packed according to the operations scheduled for the day, and wheeled to the Healthcare Industry accordingly during different times of the day. Per day, the nurses must take multiple trips to complete this task. It takes up the nurses’ time which can be utilized more efficiently.
The safety of the nurses is also in consideration as they will require to push heavy carts to and fro many times a day. This might cause fatigue to the nurses.
Furthermore, as the ageing population increases, more healthcare facilities are built. There is an upcoming shortage of healthcare professionals to run these facilities.
Understanding these pain points of the healthcare industry, we work with authorities to allow us to do a proof of concept on how this can be done. The robots pick up the supplies from the supply stores, allocated for which healthcare industry, and the robot will transport them to the doorstep of the location. It can also integrate with auto doors and elevators to reach its final destination.
If there are ad-hoc requirements, healthcare industry nurses will also be able to put in an urgent request on their tablet, and the robots will prioritize this mission to deliver the supplies to the location.
These will free up the nurses’ time to attend to other, more critical tasks and relieve them of manual work.
With this, we expect more healthcare facilities to automate manual and repetitive work through similar robotics solutions. This will overall increase the efficiency of all healthcare facilities.
To know more, Contact us to find out how our expert team can help you!
Robot moving in to pick up the cart.
Able to roam freely in the healthcare environment.
Can coexist with healthcare workers
Able to evade random obstacles
Go into tight spaces
Rittal has continuously evolved into the world’s leading system provider since 1961. Within a few years of their inception, Rittal enclosures had established a global standard. They have maintained to this day, offering innovative and comprehensive solutions to various industries.
Overview:
Our customer in the marine industries frequently outsource their design installation and panel integration to third-party vendors to maintain a lean workforce. They will look for single contact points, such as system integrators, who installs PLC to the enclosure with testing and commissioning functions. Rittal provides HoST with top-of-the-line enclosures. It brings up the portfolio of HoST to the next level.
The TS 8 freestanding enclosure with baying systems and mounting plate is one of the most sought-after products. It dominates the market with an IP 55 rating (NEMA 12) and construction of a stainless steel 1.4404 (AISI 316L).
The Solution:
HoST was an excellent project partner, providing PLC hardware, panel and integration services, as well as final documentation and customer testing. By selecting HoST for this project, the customer obtains the peace of mind necessary to concentrate on other aspects of the endeavour.
HoST will manage the logistical challenges of coordinating multiple suppliers with varying lead times. Because the end user’s design has not been finalised, the challenge of building the customised enclosure will be extremely tough with an extended lead time. Without HoST’s involvement, managing the project’s schedule and timeline will be difficult.
Why Choose Rittal? The Rittal TS8 is the premier modular enclosure available in the world today. Engineered with the challenges of real-world applications in mind, the TS8 can protect critical equipment in even the most demanding environments.
Patented 16-fold frame profile increases strength and maximizes flexibility Engineered to handle large load capacities of up to 3,200 lb Frame-based, modular design
—exterior surfaces can be easily removed for modifications saving time and money Depth-adjustable, zinc-plated mounting panel Full-sized for increased mounting surface area
—up to 30% more than that typically found in unibody enclosures Easily slides in and out for greater usability Instant grounding without scraping paint saves time and money Enables more components to fit inside a smaller enclosure
— reducing cabinet footprints and preserving valuable floor space Doors with multi-point, captive hinges Can hold up to 200 lb and be removed in as little as 30 seconds
—98% faster than piano-hinged doors Seamless foamed-in-place gasket Provides tight and secure seal against contaminates and ensures protection ratings Mid-level EMC shielding out of the box Standard side and rear wall brackets are ground-ready
— no need for grounding straps Wide variety of accessories.
Readily configurable to meet your unique needs The strength and flexibility of the TS8 come from its robust 16-fold, tubular frame that features a 25 mm hole pattern that allows components and accessories to be mounted horizontally or vertically and can support loads of up to 3,200 lb. Combined with the included, zinc plated mounting panel, the TS8 provides 15% more interior mounting space than unibody, NEMA-style enclosures. Due to its modular design, the TS8 is easily adaptable to your unique requirements. Offered in powder-coated carbon and 304 or 316L stainless steel, the TS8 delivers the protection and durability you need while a wide variety of standard accessories ensures your ability to craft your ideal enclosure solution.
The Impact:
HoST took the initiative to contact Rittal in advance to discuss the enclosure’s specified requirements, which saved time waiting for end-user approval. HoST increased efficiency while decreasing costs. The solution addressed operational and expansion challenges while remaining adaptable to future expectations or developments.
About HoST
HoST, founded back in 1990, operates in the industrial automation market across Singapore and parts of South East Asia. HoST’s vision is to be a company that delivers customer-centric values to address evolving business needs. HoST has been mainly recognised as the sole authorised distributor of Allen-Bradley Company in Singapore. Over the years, HoST has not only established strong ties with its various business partners but have continued to build new and successful business relationships to provide its customers with the best-in-class solutions that are available in this competitive market. HoST ever-expanding portfolio of solutions makes up the three core pillars of its business, specifically in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT), Industrial Network and Security, as well as Carbon Footprint Reduction, which reflect HoST’s commitment to innovation and sustainable growth.
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Based in Switzerland, the powder processing solutions provider has a long history of manufacturing machines that are used by pharmaceutical and food and beverage companies to blend, mix and convey fine powdery products. Its Asia-Pacific operations serve customers from the region, leveraging the powder processing technology that the company is renowned for.
Food and beverage companies rely on the company’s machines to produce coffee powder, for example. Also available are machines for pharmaceutical customers, which help them meet stringent requirements in cleaning and processing their products.
High Availability for the Digital Future
To ensure that its operations run unhindered, the powder processing technology company knew it had to seek a replacement for its existing solution, which could not fulfil its business continuity goals.
It had relied only on a cold backup, running on a regular workstation, to keep the operations at the company going should a disruption occur. This, it knew, was not enough.
The backup had to be carried out manually and synchronization was not always error-proof. More importantly, the snapshots may not always work for a full or fast recovery should things in the production system go wrong.
The company knew that high availability was a must for the mission-critical equipment used to manufacture the powder processing machines that its customers trust. Unplanned downtime poses the risk of lost revenue. It also requires a disproportionate amount of resources to get things up and running again.
Finding a Solution That Was Easy to Deploy
The powder processing provider at first sought to set up a warm backup system. However, this did not solve the challenge of business continuity. The company still required a way to quickly recover the data should an unplanned disruption occur.
Its technology partner, Winsys Technology, proposed a high-availability system built on the Stratus ztC Edge server.By placing it at an important part of its operations — at the edge of the network controlling and monitoring the manufacturing process — the powder processing provider was able to gain an improved understanding of the real-time situation.
With this, the staff could remotely monitor the machines without actually stepping onto the factory floor. It could be more proactive in managing any emergent issue with a manufacturing machine.
Building a Foundation for the Future With the Stratus ztC Edge Server
Key to the decision was the ruggedized Stratus design that makes the ztC Edge server built for industrial use. The high availability it offers is critical, because all data written to disk is mirrored automatically.
The Intel-based ztC Edge platform also delivered high performance. A single unit enabled the powder processing provider to monitor and control its manufacturing machines at its premises, running multiple workloads concurrently. This is because the ztC Edge server comes with built-in virtualization to allow customers to consolidate multiple applications onto a single platform. This means reducing cost and boosting agility.
Fast Deployment and Ease of Maintenance
At the same time, the ztC Edge server comes with the ease of installation and maintenance that Stratus is renowned for. With rugged hot-swappable nodes and automated data protection and local site recovery, it helps reduce the complexity of a company’s IT infrastructure.
For a systems integrator such as Winsys, which has experience integrating IT and operational technology (OT), the ztC Edge server demonstrated its ease of use quickly.
It could easily prepare a virtual machine (VM) remotely and have it duplicated on another ztC Edge machine, which saves it a lot of time in terms of the basic installation. For each machine installed, it could save a day of manpower.
This was a key benefit for the powder processing provider, as the company did not have a full-time IT team to take care of the Edge Computing unit. In Addition, with the ztC Edge server’s ease of use, the company could focus less on the infrastructure and more on its applications. This modernization of the company’s equipment also provides peace of mind for their critical infrastructure, allowing them to concentrate on improving their solutions and focusing more on their customers in the long term.
Conclusion
The Stratus ztC Edge server has helped the powder processing provider to reduce unplanned downtime, thus improving the reliability and productivity of its production line. This has been critical in enabling
it to forge ahead and build trust with its own customers.
The ease of use of the ztC Edge server also means that there is no need to hire a dedicated IT team to be on-station all the time. By being easy to maintain and operate, the system has enabled the company to focus on its core business.
To know more download the Case story Brochure here
Source from Stratus Technologies
Additional Resources:
About HoST
HoST, founded back in 1990, operates in the industrial automation market across Singapore and parts of South East Asia. HoST’s vision is to be a company that delivers customer-centric values to address evolving business needs. HoST has been mainly recognised as the sole authorised distributor of Allen-Bradley Company in Singapore. Over the years, HoST has not only established strong ties with its various business partners but have continued to build new and successful business relationships to provide its customers with the best-in-class solutions that are available in this competitive market. HoST ever-expanding portfolio of solutions makes up the three core pillars of its business, specifically in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT), Industrial Network and Security, as well as Carbon Footprint Reduction, which reflect HoST’s commitment to innovation and sustainable growth.
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The Overview
A beverage company wanted to replace its outdated warehouse lighting systems with a more efficient and manageable design. Low-voltage Dialight® LED High-Bay installation was required. Employee grievances were regularly received because the existing high bay lights are dim.
Instead of LEDs, existing high bay lights use halogen bulbs, which use a lot of electricity and produce mediocre light. Users commonly forget to switch off the lights after leaving the warehouse, wasting electricity.
The Solution
The research aimed to improve efficiency. Using our new software, we redesigned Dialight High Bay. It can also calculate projected Lumens. We had to find a way to improve energy efficiency and durability in a variety of industrial applications.
As a result, we installed Dialight High Bay lighting. We made a mockup for the customer. After multiple rounds of discussion and adjustments with the customer, we finished the solution and measured its potential. The project took a few months to complete.
The Impact
This solution improves lighting coverage for our customers. LED has a longer lifespan and requires less maintenance. A ten-year warranty is provided to alleviate our customers’ concerns about the product’s dependability. Toxic elements such as mercury or UV radiation are not present in Dialight LED lighting.
One notable transition is the use of LED lights that emit less CO2 while using less electricity. LED lighting is now 75% more efficient than conventional lighting technologies in terms of energy savings and low maintenance. There was a significant cost saving calculated because the existing maintenance costs and products were higher when compared to the more convenient DiaLight High Bay solution.
Furthermore, the intelligent LED system reduced carbon emissions. Users benefited from the new DiaLight solution, which provided better lighting coverage. This also ensured the users’ safety on the premises. The solution addressed both operational challenges while also allowing for future expectations or expansions.
Additional resources:
About HoST
HoST, founded back in 1990, operates in the industrial automation market across Singapore and parts of South East Asia. HoST’s vision is to be a company that delivers customer-centric values to address evolving business needs. HoST has been mainly recognised as the sole authorised distributor of Allen-Bradley Company in Singapore. Over the years, HoST has not only established strong ties with its various business partners but have continued to build new and successful business relationships to provide its customers with the best-in-class solutions that are available in this competitive market. HoST ever-expanding portfolio of solutions makes up the three core pillars of its business, specifically in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT), Industrial Network and Security, as well as Carbon Footprint Reduction, which reflect HoST’s commitment to innovation and sustainable growth.
For more information, please visit www.host.sg or follow on LinkedIn and Facebook
Since its inception in 1990, Host Pte Ltd, a Sonepar Company, has been a trusted and reliable distributor of automation solutions in Singapore and South East Asia. Over the years, we have built strong ties with our business partners to provide solutions to address our clients ever-changing needs. Our competence in material management allows developers to develop innovative logistics and automatic systems in the warehouse to enhance material motion, from incoming materials to outgoing shipments and on-line deliveries, in the warehouse and factory.
So, once this customer walked into Sonepar looking for a solution to their perpetual struggle of throughput and efficiency for storage and delivery of their items in their warehouses. They provide demand chain logistics and aftermarket logistics for their customers. For their clients, they have requested chain logistics and aftermarket logistics. Aftermarket logistics include service Parts Logistics (4S Solution), which includes service management, strategic inventory, storage management, and shipment management. Along with that, Reverse Logistics (4R Solution), which includes return management, refurbishment, remarketing, and recycling monitoring. These services require extensive storage space and manpower to manage the entire operation.
To keep up with the customers’ requirement, the warehouse stores approximately 20.000 items, be they compact or bulky. Not only that, the number of products and type of items in their warehouse is altering every day as well as we speak. They have approximately 220 incoming and outgoing orders for a 2-man key customer every single day. As such, they require a robust system and processes to handle such flexible and vast operation. It was important to keep in mind that space for warehouses in Singapore is pretty expensive. Due to this, they wanted us to focus on providing innovative solutions for storage maximizing and increase overall efficiency.
To meet our client’s unique needs, we have provided an integrated solution with Modula (Automated Storage Solution) and MiR (Automated Mobile Robot) which works together with their WMS (Warehouse Management System).
This system allows the customer to save about 70% of their floor space through auto height detection of the items stored compared to traditional racking. The operators are located at their Modula stations and the outgoing items are automatically transferred to them and placed in a mobile cart. After the cart is complete, a mobile robot comes and collects the cart in the exit area. The operator does not have to walk around searching for components, saving them an immense amount of time. In addition to that, it decreases the risk to the operators, since there is no need for a ladder or stool to collect items. The greatest part about it is that all items are accessible and within reach, ensuring ergonomics and utmost safety.
Delving deeper into the mobile robot from MiR, it has a hook that can hook carts to pull them around, making it super helpful. On top of that, it has two security laser scanners at each end of a robot, which can cover 360 degrees and two front 3D cameras. These features make the mobile robot insanely impressive. To ensure further safety, the mobile robot has two safety-rated laser scanners enabling them to be able to locate themselves, detect overhanging objects and also safely pull a cart up to 500 kilograms. You can be assured about not encountering any hazardous situation. As it is an Autonomous Mobile Robot, there are no localization requirements for magnetic stripes or QR codes. These smart robots are also capable of finding the best route to their desired destination.
Last but not the least, leveraging from this method in conjunction with the WMS system, satisfies the customer’s desire to maximize throughput with higher efficiency.
Written by Zen Tan, Solution Sales Manager – HoST Pte Ltd
Zen leads HoST’s solution team on strategic and sales activities, focusing on establishing an ecosystem of partnerships while engaging in robotics, cyber-security and IIOT consultation in many industrial verticals. Together with HoST management, he devised a 5-year vision plan to move HoST from not only a distributor but to a consultative company in the industry.
About HoST
HoST, founded back in 1990, operates in the industrial automation market across Singapore and parts of South East Asia. HoST’s vision is to be a company that delivers customer-centric values to address evolving business needs. HoST has been mainly recognised as the sole authorised distributor of Allen-Bradley Company in Singapore. Over the years, HoST has not only established strong ties with its various business partners but have continued to build new and successful business relationships to provide its customers with the best-in-class solutions that are available in this competitive market. HoST ever-expanding portfolio of solutions makes up the three core pillars of its business, specifically in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT), Industrial Network and Security, as well as Carbon Footprint Reduction, which reflect HoST’s commitment to innovation and sustainable growth.
For more information, please visit www.host.sg or follow on LinkedIn and Facebook