Dematic Equips Weiss Technik with AutoStore Systems

Dematic has automated two locations of Weiss Technik GmbH with independent AutoStore^TM systems. The facility at the headquarters of the market leader in environmental simulation systems in Lindenstruth, Hesse, features nine mobile robots that handle the transport as well as the storage and retrieval of approximately 13,400 containers. The system at the site in Balingen, Baden-Württemberg, offers space for about 6,300 containers, also utilizing nine robots.

(Offenbach/Lindenstruth) Dematic’s compact piece-picking systems are particularly characterized by high storage density and automate both production supply and spare parts shipping at Weiss Technik. The energy-efficient systems are controlled and operated via the warehouse management software SAP WM, which Dematic has seamlessly integrated into the existing ERP systems. Both systems are already operational.

“Despite the severely disrupted global supply chains that every company relies on, we have managed to complete the double order for Weiss Technik on time and within budget, which is excellent given today’s challenges,” says Winnie Ahrens, Sales Director DACH at Dematic. The world leader in intelligent automation has installed two powerful AutoStore^TM systems that optimally utilize the available space and offer various storage and expansion options. Weiss Technik uses these for the small parts storage of components for the production of larger systems. With these systems, the leading company in heating, climate, and pharmaceutical technology automates its entire material flow, including spare parts shipping, thus ensuring the best possible supply for production.

The newly installed system in Lindenstruth has a storage capacity of approximately 13,400 containers. These are also divided into additional compartments to accommodate different items. On the surface, nine mobile robots automatically access the containers as soon as the goods contained within are requested. They then autonomously transport the items to the ports of the picking stations. A roller conveyor makes the picked items available for internal transport and subsequently transports them to the respective production areas. This way, unnecessary walking distances and ancillary activities of employees are avoided. Additionally, the need for restocking goods is eliminated, resulting in additional time savings.

Installation at the Balingen Site

At the Balingen site, Dematic has installed an AutoStore^TM with approximately 6,300 containers. Niko Hoffmann, project engineer at Weiss Technik, explains: “As a result, the systems are expected to lead to significantly higher picking performance with a simultaneously lower error rate.” Several stabilization towers ensure smooth operation in one of the highest earthquake zones in Germany. The stabilization towers are installed together with the AutoStore™ and the grid is fixed to them. Dematic takes on the role of the general contractor.

According to Hoffmann, an important criterion in the decision was that the solution is scalable and can be expanded without major restrictions even during ongoing operations. Additional container spaces can be easily realized through grid extensions. More robots can also be quickly integrated. “Our decision for Dematic was based on a long-term perspective. With the global network of engineering professionals and extensive experience in storage solutions, it was important for us to choose a reliable partner with the highest standards of quality and competence,” says Hoffmann.

The energy efficiency of the system was another plus point in the awarding of the contract, says Ahrens: “Thanks to the extremely compact storage and low energy consumption, the AutoStore^TM concept is very environmentally friendly and fits perfectly with Weiss Technik’s corporate philosophy.” This is largely due to the recovery of energy generated during the braking of the robots and the lowering of the containers. Energy costs are also reduced since the space requirement of the AutoStore™ is lower, thus requiring less building space to be maintained.

Collaboration to be Strengthened

According to Hoffmann, the collaboration is set to be further strengthened soon. A framework agreement has already been concluded with the Schunk Group, the holding company of Weiss Technik. AutoStore^TM solutions are also to be installed here. Ahrens: “We look forward to future collaboration with the Schunk Group and Weiss Technik and sincerely thank them for the previous cooperation.”

Photo: © Dematic