Episode 474: AI for warehousing with Powerhouse AI
In today’s episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, we are talking AI for Warehousing with Henrik Bergsager, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Powerhouse AI. Powerhouse AI is a vision AI technology company focusing on the warehouse and supply chain industries. This discussion delves into the problems Powerhouse AI addresses, its practical applications, and the significant benefits it offers to the industry. This episode is packed with insights into the transformative power of vision AI technology in the warehousing and supply chain sectors. Revolutionizing Inventory Management with AI The use cases and benefits of AI for warehousing continue to grow. Powerhouse AI’s approach to AI technology makes it more accessible to warehouses of all sizes. As Henrik explains, “Our goal is to make vision AI technology more accessible to all the players in the space, both big and small.” By transforming visual data into actionable insights, Powerhouse AI significantly reduces the manual effort required for tasks like cycle counting. Bergsager shares a vivid example: “You simply scan the location and you take a picture of the pallet and it tells you, okay, this many boxes on this pallet,” illustrating the simplicity and efficiency of their solution. How AI for Warehousing Enhances Accuracy and Efficiency Powerhouse AI’s technology streamlines processes and achieves remarkable accuracy levels that surpass traditional manual counts. Henrik notes, “Once it’s up and running, it’s highly accurate… we are hitting those benchmarks, which is exciting because it kind of goes beyond what would be normal human error.” This accuracy is pivotal in warehouses where precision is crucial and manual cycle counts are prone to error and other inefficiencies. Smart Label Scanning and WMS Integration Expanding beyond inventory counts, Powerhouse AI’s smart label scanning feature revolutionizes how inbound and outbound operations handle data. Bergsager explains, “Instead of you kind of reading and figuring out what’s written on a label, your system does that for you.” This capability streamlines data capture and facilitates seamless integration with existing Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), enhancing data quality and operational efficiency. Warehouses do not need the cleanest data for implementation, as Powerhouse AI fills in the gaps. Powerhouse AI provides a way to clean up your data on several criteria, including SKU number, pallet, supplier, and vendor. Henrik adds, “Over time, you will get a pretty good data set. You don’t need a baseline in order to do that, you will just contribute to what’s already in your WMS, and gradually by using the application, you will get better and better data.” Key Takeaways on AI for Warehousing Powerhouse AI democratizes access to vision AI technology, enabling companies of all sizes to enhance their operational efficiency. The platform significantly reduces manual effort in inventory management through innovative use of visual data, boasting higher accuracy rates than traditional methods. Smart label scanning and seamless WMS integration further extend the platform’s capabilities, making it a versatile tool for improving supply chain operations. The New Warehouse Podcast Episode 474: Building the Case for AI for Warehousing With Powerhouse AI
Global Shop Solutions Director achieves 20-Year Milestone
One of the most important aspects of ERP software for manufacturers is the stability of the software provider. Global Shop Solutions has recognized Chris Pinaire, MBA, Director of New Implementations, for his 20 years of dedicated service to the manufacturing industry. Pinaire began his career with Global Shop Solutions as a customer service representative. With his background in management information systems and keen problem-solving abilities, he was quickly promoted to helping manufacturers successfully implement ERP software and consulting with existing customers to simplify their manufacturing processes. After several years as a senior consultant, Pinaire was elevated to his current position where he has had a significant impact on the manufacturing industry. “Chris is smart, hardworking, and constantly looking for ways to make the implementation process faster and easier,” says Dusty Alexander, Global Shop Solutions President and CEO. “He manages a team of more than 70 implementation specialists, who average a 95% success rate for new implementations. His commitment to excellence makes us better every day.” Pinaire attributes his tenure at Global Shop Solutions to the work, the people, and the satisfaction of helping manufacturers solve problems and find the best solutions for their businesses. “The work is interesting and challenging,” says Pinaire. “There’s never a dull moment, and I love the people I work with. We operate as a unified team and always support each other to find the best solutions for our customers.” “I also admire the way Global Shop Solutions grows its people internally,” adds Pinaire. “Keeping people interested requires having a path for them to grow. Five, 10 or 15 years ago we didn’t have a lot of positions that exist today. Adding new positions as the business grew provided a path to keep our employees hungry and growing, playing a key role in the stability of our workforce.” For Pinaire, it’s ultimately all about helping the people associated with Global Shop Solutions achieve the results they want. “I’m motivated by helping our customers and my employees grow,” he says. “Transforming an inefficient, manual, paper-driven company into a lean, paperless manufacturing enterprise makes all the time, effort, and travel worthwhile. It is exceptionally rewarding to grow our new consultants into confident, independent experts.”
Manhattan Associates wins Global Partner of the Year – SMG3 scoops the North American Award
StayLinked announces winners of 2023 Partner of the Year Awards StayLinked Corporation, an innovative terminal emulation solutions for the supply chain industry, has announced the winners of its ‘2023 Partner of the Year Awards’. “2023 was a very exciting year for StayLinked as once again we saw a significant increase in our market share across all of our worldwide territories,” said Ron Caines, StayLinked’s President of Sales. “This continued momentum is driven by the outstanding efforts of our partner community. Their hard work and commitment to selling StayLinked’s enterprise grade terminal emulation software, SmartTE, and our no-code new technology adoption platform, Evolve, is vital to our success. “The entire StayLinked team joins me in thanking every one of our partners for their support and in offering our congratulations to the award winners. Together we will work to ensure continued success!” added Caines. StayLinked 2023 Award Winners: Global Partner of Year – Manhattan Associates For the second year running Atlanta, GA based Manhattan Associates, a global technology leader in supply chain and omnichannel commerce, wins this category. North American Partner of the Year – SMG3 Strategic Mobility Group (SMG3), an innovative technology provider that designs and integrates mobile solutions for enterprises, is another winner of the same category in consecutive years. Latin America Partner of the Year – Mobilis Located in the western area of Mexico City, Mobilis, with its SmartTE expertise, takes organizations’ data collection operations to the next level with intelligent telnet connectivity software. Asia Pacific Partner of the Year – Gamma Solutions Pty. Ltd Gamma Solutions, located in Victoria, Australia specializes in data capture hardware and software and designs systems varying in complexity from simple programs for barcode readers in a batch mode to sophisticated implementations involving wireless infrastructure. European Partner of the Year – DatAction Since 1989, DatAction has been a reliable partner for the digitization and automation of business-critical logistics processes. With offices in Belgium and the Netherlands, it serves the Benelux market and brings to life innovative projects across Europe. TekTerm for Android Partner of the Year – PIINK TEKNOLOGY Another winner of the same category two years in a row, PIINK Technology based in Toulouse, France, was founded in 2017. The company develops innovative and mobile solutions, based mainly on artificial intelligence and computer vision technologies. Solution Partner of the Year – The Barcode Warehouse The Barcode Warehouse is the UK’s leading specialist provider of barcode technology, RFID, labeling, and enterprise mobility solutions. It is a UK family business with 35 years of experience and a reputation for exceptional customer service.
Andy Recard joins KPI Solutions as VP of Sales
Brings 20+ years’ experience working with clients to assess, design, and deploy world-class automation and robotic solutions that boost operational productivity and enable growth KPI Solutions (KPI) has announced that Andy Recard has joined the company as Vice President of sales. In this role, Andy will provide strategic leadership and work directly with clients to drive successful distribution solutions using innovative engineered designs, intelligent software, and best-of-breed technologies. “I’m happy to join the KPI Solutions sales team at this exciting time in the warehouse automation industry,“ said Andy. “KPI is in a unique position to combine operational expertise with labor-saving technologies to deliver a customized, total solution for our clients that boosts productivity while building resilience and agility.” “Andy’s experience and approach will strengthen our capabilities as we continue to design and deliver solutions that blend high-performing automation technologies and drive value for our clients,” said Roger Counihan, Senior Vice President of Sales. “His proven track record of partnering with clients to drive successful business transformations, coupled with his strategic leadership, is vital as KPI Solutions escalates to the next level.” Andy joins KPI Solutions from The Numina Group where he served as COO/CFO. Prior experience includes executive management at TZA, a provider of labor management systems, as well as direct industry experience at Medline Industries, where he served as Senior Director of operations Excellence. He holds a Bachelor, of Architectural Engineering degree from the Milwaukee School of Engineering and resides in the Chicago area.
Loftware unveils enhanced cloud labeling platform at LogiMat 2024
Loftware Cloud enables companies to conquer supply chain complexities, ensure supplier compliance, and improve traceability Loftware has unveiled Loftware Cloud at LogiMAT 2024. The cloud-based labeling platform harnesses the power of the company’s state-of-the-art technologies and is designed to help businesses of all sizes conquer diverse supply chain complexities, ensure supplier compliance, and improve traceability. The powerful and intuitive solution empowers organizations to adapt to changing demands across the global supply chain by providing users with the ability to easily design, manage, and print millions of accurate labels per day. This level of standardization and automation transforms legacy manual error-prone processes, facilitating high-performance supply chain label printing and enabling scale. Loftware Cloud is a robust and secure platform designed to meet the needs of all businesses no matter their size or industry focus. With fast deployment times, lower upfront costs, easy access, high availability, unmatched scalability, and impressive flexibility, the innovative solution helps companies meet a full range of business challenges. This includes addressing increasing customer requirements and evolving regulatory compliance. “2024 marks a pivotal point for global supply chains as automation becomes increasingly prevalent. Many organizations have historically struggled to keep up with this pace of change, risking lost opportunities and revenue,” said Michelle Northey, Loftware EVP Product. “However, for companies looking to transform their digital supply chain, Loftware Cloud offers a powerful, versatile, and cutting-edge solution that adheres to critical regulatory and customer standards while saving companies time, money, and resources.” Evolving customer demands, industry standards, and regulations define how products are developed, shipped, and disposed of across the global supply chain. Maintaining supplier compliance is a vital part of ensuring this is done seamlessly and accurately. Using Loftware Cloud, suppliers and co-packers can seamlessly print labels using pre-approved templates and data. Businesses can regulate access to the platform, gaining a meticulous record of each label printed and guaranteeing that labels meet compliance and brand standards. By doing so, companies can eliminate relabeling, save time, and reduce costs. In a bid to foster a sustainable enterprise, Loftware Cloud also brings unprecedented visibility and transparency across the global supply chain network by supporting track and trace and serialization initiatives. The benefits are varied – from minimizing costs and enhancing operational efficiency to improving agility and eliminating redundancies. Organizations leveraging Loftware’s solution also experience reduced rework, lower scrap rates, and a decreased need for relabeling, resulting in significant inventory loss prevention, and removing the need for costly product recalls. Additionally, Loftware’s certified SAP labeling solutions – designed to integrate with any SAP landscape – allow companies to drive their labeling seamlessly no matter where they are on their journey to S/4HANA. Loftware Cloud offers market-leading integration with SAP, S/4HANA, SAP Business Suite on HANA, and SAP ECC, allowing businesses to reduce costs, improve agility, and minimize costly errors. Existing Loftware customers, regardless of their current Loftware platform, will enjoy a seamless transition to a more powerful and integrated solution that delivers on our promise of innovation and excellence.
Configura wins best IT Innovation Award at MODEX 2024
Recognition underscores the platform’s ability to help users design, envision, and implement the future warehouse. Configura, a design-oriented software solutions, was honored with the MHI Innovation Award for Best IT Innovation for its CET Material Handling product. This prestigious award was announced at MODEX 2024, North America’s largest material handling and supply chain conference, with more than 1,200 exhibitors in Atlanta, Georgia. The MHI Innovation Awards educate MODEX attendees and provide valuable insights on the latest manufacturing and supply chain products and services. Out of nearly 200 submissions for this year’s awards, MHI recognized Configura for its dedication to creating revolutionary software for intralogistics, warehousing, and distribution center design. CET Material Handling sets a new standard in material handling system design. CET operates seamlessly in 2D and 3D and utilizes Parametric Graphical Configuration (PGC) technology to eliminate errors, improve efficiency and streamline the design process. Real-time Bill of Materials, pricing, and comprehensive documentation creation contribute to error reduction and overall project success. “I’m so proud and happy to be a part of this great team and the work we have accomplished to position Configura at the forefront of the material handling industry,” said Stefan Persson, CEO of Configura. “After more than 30 years, we continue to produce innovative products and services for the global design community and remain committed to listening to our customers and developing our products to best suit their needs.” MODEX 2024 exhibitors were invited to submit a new product, product line, technology, service or new application of existing products or technology that creates quantifiable and sustainable results regarding ROI, cost savings, customer satisfaction, etc. The event brought together thousands of industry experts, professionals, and businesses from around the world to showcase the latest technologies, products, and solutions in the field of automation and material handling. Conference attendees witnessed live demonstrations of CET Material Handling to see how easy it can be to design a full-blown warehouse, including anything from racking to conveyors, with instant visualization and an automatic bill of materials. “We’re grateful for this recognition from the material handling community and appreciate MHI for putting together such a fantastic event,” said Rich Trahey, VP of Sales and Marketing at Configura. “We’re excited to keep pushing boundaries in the industry and continuing to be a resource for all material handling design needs.”
FORTNA launches OptiSweep robotic solution to automate post-sorting process in high-volume distribution centers
Mobile robots and software integration automate labor-intensive sorter destination changeover tasks in eCommerce and sortation facilities FORTNA, an automation and software company for the full logistics value chain, has announced the launch of FORTNA OptiSweep, a robotic solution to automate the consolidation and transportation of small orders away from sortation systems in high-volume eCommerce and sortation distribution centers. This innovative solution automates what is typically a labor-intensive process by using Geek+ robots to collect orders from sorter divert locations and bring them to specially designed goods-to-person locations to deposit orders for bulk consolidation and outbound processes. FORTNA WCS™ software and its proprietary algorithms seamlessly orchestrate the workflow, managing the mobile robots and communicating with the sorter and consolidation stations to maximize efficiency and balance product flow. FORTNA OptiSweep brings an innovative, proven, and flexible robotic technology to the sorter close-out process, replacing both manual operations and legacy technologies such as the bombay sorter. Traditionally, high-volume distribution centers use large linear and loop sorters to organize packages into categories, diverting them down appropriate chutes into destination-specific bags. These processes often have workers assigned to monitor specific destinations, physically remove items, and walk them to a consolidation station for downstream processes. The FORTNA OptiSweep solution significantly reduces these labor requirements and provides ergonomic improvements. It eliminates the need for workers to bend and reach into bags to move items and substantially cuts the distance and time spent walking in the warehouse. “Labor challenges are ubiquitous across supply chains, and this post-sorting process is a prime example, marked by frequent over- or understaffing,” stated Rob McKeel, CEO, FORTNA. “Businesses need automation solutions that provide consistent outcomes and can scale to match the spikes and dips of eCommerce. OptiSweep exhibits how FORTNA is merging robotic proficiency with unmatched design and implementation capabilities to effectively address issues related to labor dependency, variable throughput demands, capacity constraints, and more.” FORTNA OptiSweep easily integrates with sorter systems and can match a range of throughput requirements, offering processing flexibility from 4,000 to more than 34,000 pieces per hour. This throughput does not come at the price of reliability, as the solution also minimizes the recirculation rate in high-volume distribution centers. By mitigating the need for excess labor to accommodate demand fluctuations, OptiSweep enables businesses to maintain prolonged runtime without disruption, scale effectively, and optimize facility-wide efficiency.
Ignition Gold Certified Integrator Patti Engineering announces further credentials, elevating expertise in industrial control solutions
Ignition Gold Certified Integrator Patti Engineering’s Akash Agarwal has earned the Ignition Core Certification by Inductive Automation, providing certified expertise in SCADA, MES, and IIoT applications. Patti Engineering, Inc., an Ignition Gold Certified Integrator and control system integration company with offices in Michigan, Texas, and Indiana, has announced that Controls Engineer Akash Agarwal achieved Ignition Core Certification by Inductive Automation, joining six additional team members holding specialized certifications on the Ignition platform. Agarwal has completed Core Certification competency exams for Inductive Automation’s Ignition, a powerful web-based industrial software platform for SCADA, MES, and IIoT applications. Additional employees certified for Ignition at Patti Engineering are Jeffrey Watts, who recently achieved Gold Certification, along with Abigail Engle, Cassandra Boman, Daniel Ragozzino, John Shipley, PE, CAP, and Scott Grunwald, all having attained Core Certifications. These certifications demonstrate advanced proficiency in the design, development, and implementation of tailored control solutions that optimize efficiency, productivity, and operational visibility using Ignition. “As a Gold-level partner in our Integrator Program, Patti Engineering has an advanced capability with Ignition,” said Chris Fischer, Integrator Program Manager at Inductive Automation. “The solutions that companies like Patti Engineering create are among the best in the industry because their knowledge and experience with Ignition enables them to create innovative solutions for clients. Patti Engineering’s Ignition certifications provide them with a competitive advantage in the integration industry, giving clients confidence in the robustness of their tailored solutions.” As an Ignition Gold Certified Integrator, Patti Engineering specializes in control system integration and digitalization services in the manufacturing and industrial sectors. The company’s demonstrated expertise ensures the smooth implementation of industrial automation software and hardware in a wide range of areas such as HMI, PLC, edge computing, data analytics, cybersecurity, asset management, and remote monitoring. The recent achievement of Ignition Core Certification by Agarwal, along with several other team members, illustrates Patti Engineering’s commitment to providing specialized expertise to meet the diverse needs of manufacturing and industrial clients. “We commend our engineers for helping Patti Engineering achieve and maintain Ignition Gold Certified Integrator status,” remarked Patti Engineering CEO Sam Hoff. “Our team’s dedication to training and best practices is pivotal in maintaining our ability to deliver the quality solutions our clients need in the industries we serve.”
Latest research report reveals Key Drive for ‘Accuracy’ Amongst Warehouse Operations
The importance of accuracy has doubled in two years; drive to adopt new technology in the warehouse to improve accuracy also increasing The latest report from StayLinked, independently conducted by VDC Research, shows that the focus on accuracy within warehouse operations has reached new heights. The drive for accuracy, to achieve the ‘perfect order rate’, has almost doubled since StayLinked’s 2022 survey. Provided with a list of ten different areas of improvement, accuracy was listed as the most important area by 15.1% of respondents, rising from 8.7%. “As market conditions continue to be volatile and unpredictable, this latest survey shows the importance of building accuracy into warehouse operations to drive resilience, flexibility and agility through accurate visibility of warehouse operations,” said Justin Griffith, StayLinked’s chief technology officer. The latest research from StayLinked, conducted by VDC Research, is published here: Making Supply Chain Resilience Work: Keeping Up with Ever-Demanding Warehouse Operations. The research of warehouse operations technology decision makers, across multiple industries including retail, manufacturing, transportation/logistics, retail, and wholesale organizations was conducted in 2023 and the report is being published now. “The 2022 survey was all about speed, with the focus being on-time shipments and getting orders out the door as quickly as possible,” continued Griffith. “That is still relevant now, but the focus on accuracy has leaped up.” Increased accuracy is not a pipe dream as emerging technologies can dramatically improve the accuracy of warehouse operations. Technologies also exist that can meet the survey’s other top improvement initiatives: continuing to ensure that goods are shipped quickly and helping to significantly improve the warehouse worker’s experience. However, to be adopted in the warehouse, these new technologies need to integrate with and ‘talk to’ the organizations’ warehouse management systems (WMS). This latest report highlights the link between the age of the underlying enterprise applications underpinning supply chain and warehouse operation and the ability to successfully deploy new technology. The report states: “There is a strong correlation between the age and flexibility of the underlying enterprise applications supporting logistics operations – be it WMS, ERP, WCS or others – and the ability for organizations to streamline logistics technology evaluation and integration. Maximum system flexibility is required to be able to integrate the planned, growth-defined future adjustments in warehousing and to control them in a coordinated manner.” The survey data showed that there has been an increased emphasis on the WMS – 61.1% of organizations were on the most current WMS or running just one or two years behind – a significant increase from 45% in 2022. This has seen a comparative increase in new technologies introduced into the warehouse. Warehouses that haven’t been able to move to the latest WMS will fear that they are in danger of permanently losing ground on their competitors. That fear is often combined with frustration at the impossible task ahead of them to replace the WMS. However, for those running an older WMS, it’s not true that a complex, risky, and expensive ‘rip and replace’ option is always required. “It’s like renovating your house. For most of us, we have to do it bit by bit, prioritizing different rooms as we go,” explained Griffith. “StayLinked can help warehouse operators similarly introduce new technologies. They don’t need to knock down the house – or rip out the WMS – in one go. They can simply adopt the new technology they need when they need it.” StayLinked’s enterprise-grade terminal emulation (TE) software SmartTE and its no-code technology adoption platform, Evolve, allow warehouse operators to modernize their existing WMS so that they can deploy a mixture of new technologies. One emerging technology will not rule them all, so it is crucial that multiple new technologies can be integrated into the warehouse operations’ workflows where they best fit and can deliver the most benefit, and at a pace that works for the warehouse operator. The research highlighted some of the emerging technologies that are most likely to be adopted by warehouses: Over 97% of warehouses plan to be using Locationing Systems and Predictive Analytics by 2027. Currently only in use by 20% of warehouses, nearly 85% of all warehouses plan to have deployed Person-to-Goods AMRs by 2027. Drones are the least popular of the emerging warehouse technologies. 36% of all surveyed said they had no plans to use drones at all. StayLinked can help warehouses quickly and easily integrate all of these new technologies into their existing warehouse management system to help them improve productivity, increase efficiencies, and most importantly, according to the research, improve accuracy. Download a copy of the report from StayLinked’s website: Making Supply Chain Resilience Work: Keeping Up with Ever-Demanding Warehouse Operations.
Slamcore Aware brings the power of vision to Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS)
Slamcore launches Visual Intelligence Localization solution for manually driven intralogistics vehicles at Modex Slamcore Aware combines the power of the Slamcore SDK with industrial-grade hardware Simple and quick to commission, scales with the fleet irrespective of the size of the facility to deliver more accurate and robust spatial data for RTLS Visual Spatial Intelligence identifies people and other vehicles for enhanced safety and efficiency Slamcore, a visual-spatial intelligence, launches Slamcore Aware. This easy-to-commission hardware and software solution improves the accuracy, robustness, and scalability of 3D localization data for tracking intralogistics vehicles. Collecting and processing visual data, Slamcore Aware provides rich, real-time information on the exact position and orientation of manually driven vehicles. Unlike existing solutions, Slamcore Aware scales easily across large and complex, ever-changing industrial and warehouse sites. Slamcore Aware combines the power of the Slamcore SDK with industrial-grade hardware, providing an all-in-one solution for fast installation on intralogistics vehicles and seamless integration with new and existing Real Time Location Systems (RTLS). Incorporating Slamcore’s advanced AI, Slamcore Aware perceives and classifies people and other vehicles. RTLS applications can use this enhanced data to significantly improve the efficiency and safety of operations. Commenting on the new product, Owen Nicholson, CEO of Slamcore, said: “Prospective customers tell us that they are looking for a fast-to-deploy and scalable method that will provide the location data they desperately need to optimize warehouse and factory intralogistics for speed and safety. Slamcore Aware marks a significant leap forward in intralogistics management bringing the power of visual-spatial awareness to almost any vehicle in a way that is scalable and can cope with the highly dynamic and complex environments inside today’s factories and warehouses.” See us at MODEX 2024 at booth #A13918
Seeq announces generative AI capabilities with Seeq AI assistant
Seeq, industrial analytics, and AI have announced the Seeq AI Assistant, a generative AI (GenAI) resource embedded across its industrial analytics platform. The Seeq AI Assistant provides real-time assistance to users across the enterprise, empowering them to accelerate mastery of the Seeq platform, build advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI skills and knowledge, and accelerate insights to improve decision-making in pursuit of operational excellence and sustainability. In a recent study by Deloitte, 93% of industrial companies believe AI will be a game changer for driving growth and innovation in the industrial sector. The analytical insights required to bolster operational excellence continue encountering roadblocks due to a shortage of skills, siloed capabilities within organizations, and untapped stockpiles of time series data. Seeq has over a decade of experience working with some of the most recognizable names in the oil & gas, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial sectors to remove or mitigate these roadblocks. The Seeq AI Assistant provides organizations with the opportunity to further debottleneck their most precious resource – the people at the frontlines of their processes and decisions. GenAI is a type of artificial intelligence capable of generating new content, such as text, images, and code in response to prompts entered by a user. GenAI models are trained with existing data to learn patterns that enable the creation of new content. While GenAI is a powerful technology, it isn’t innately capable of generating information and guidance applicable to the complexity and context of an industrial production environment. Seeq is uniquely positioned to drive industrial innovation with GenAI, given the company’s expertise in industrial data and its open and extensible analytics platform that was developed to leverage and serve subject matter experts and their enterprise decisions. Seeq provides on-demand access to critical time series data, data contextualization capabilities, and established intellectual property. Utilizing the extensive body of advanced analytics, data science, machine learning, and coding knowledge held in Seeq technical documentation and its knowledge base, Seeq is operationalizing the power of GenAI for its customers. Combining these competencies with prompt engineering curated by the world-class analytics and learning engineers at Seeq, the Seeq AI assistant generates accurate and actionable suggestions for analytical approaches and techniques, code generation, and more. Seeq also supports multiple providers and LLMs for organizational flexibility. “With the Seeq AI Assistant, we expect to decrease our process experts’ learning curve for advanced analytics and machine learning by 50% or possibly more,” said Brian Scallan, Director of Continuous Improvement at Ascend Performance Materials. “For our extensive user base, this translates into immediate enhancements in process quality and yields, significantly elevating efficiency and value across the organization.” “By combining GenAI with advanced industrial analytics, organizations can unlock new levels of efficiency, accuracy, and innovation that deliver measurable business impact,” said Dustin Johnson, Chief Technology Officer at Seeq. “Integrating the Seeq AI Assistant across the Seeq platform enables team members across industrial organizations to harness the power of GenAI to drive favorable operational excellence, profitability, workforce upskilling, and sustainability outcomes and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive landscape.” In short, the Seeq AI Assistant empowers frontline experts in process engineering, data science, and operations to rapidly bridge process, analytics, and coding knowledge gaps, unlocking workflows and results that were previously time and effort-prohibitive or impossible. “GenAI capabilities are a powerful inclusion in analytics software as a way to democratize AI and machine learning,” said Jonathan Lang, Research Director for IDC Industry Operations. “Based on conversations with industrial enterprises, GenAI offers a more natural interface to lower the barriers to data analytics, and Seeq has included features to alleviate one of the top concerns companies have about trust by including explainability to ensure the GenAI ‘shows its work.’” Seeq is available worldwide through a global partner network of system integrators, which provides training, services, and resale support for Seeq in over 40 countries, in addition to its global direct sales organization.
Trew unveils new technology and education center
Trew, LLC has introduced its Technology and Education Center (TEC). Located in the company’s Fairfield facility, the TEC serves as a proving ground for research, development, and application testing as well as a training and collaboration space. It enables the company to showcase technologies and engage in discussions with clients and other organizations interested in warehouse and fulfillment automation solutions. Trew’s TEC started limited operations in July of 2023 and has already proven a valuable addition to the company’s portfolio. “The TEC enables us to engage in conversations about the challenges our clients face, opportunities to improve and rethink solutions, and the approaches we can take to win together with clients,” said Trew CEO, Alfred Rebello. The TEC is part of the outcomes of the previously announced R&D Grant from the state of Ohio’s private economic development corporation, JobsOhio: Trew (2023, January 4). Trew Investing in New Technology Center at Southwest Ohio Headquarters [Press release] “Our clients need innovations that fit their business and bring together process, technology, software, and people in a way that helps them thrive. The market is evolving quickly, and we are grateful for the state of Ohio’s economic assistance to accelerate our plans for this center,” continued Rebello. During the first six months of operation, the TEC has been used for application and accelerated product life cycle testing, with millions stress testing cycles. “In addition to collaborating on solutions, the TEC gives us the ability to harden technology and explore innovation ideas,” added Rebello. The TEC is open for client and industry visits. The company plans to continue expanding the TEC with emerging software and partner technologies.
Emerson’s new compact, rugged PC built to connect industrial floor to Cloud
PACSystems IPC 2010, pre-loaded with Movicon software and PACEdge IIoT platform, delivers high-performance computing for industrial edge data visualization applications Emerson has announced the new PACSystems™ IPC 2010 Compact Industrial PC (IPC), a rugged industrial computer designed to handle a wide range of machine and discrete part manufacturing automation applications. The new solution is designed to serve manufacturing sites and OEM machine builders who need a ruggedized, compact, durable IPC to cost-effectively support their Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and other digital transformation initiatives. The IPC 2010 addresses this by pre-loading the PACEdge™ industrial edge platform and elements of Movicon.NExT™ SCADA software, helping users run applications quickly using browser-based configuration. Provisions are included for keeping the software platform current and passively maintained, minimizing user effort, while maximizing reliability. Running an industrial version of Linux, and including serial and Ethernet connectivity, the IPC 2010 can be used as a communications gateway in a variety of topologies, and simultaneously or separately as an edge computing device. Users can implement the IPC 2010 as a flexible protocol converter—and for many other computing functions—in many IIoT, edge, OT/IT convergence, HMI visualization, SCADA connectivity, and digital transformation roles. Both the hardware and software are designed to be adaptable, universal, and scalable, providing a standardized and unified user experience that is easy to use, powerful, and supported by Emerson’s lifecycle services. The compact form factor IPC 2010 features the widest operating temperature range of any passively cooled IPC, with a low power consumption of just four watts, and tough packaging so it can be installed virtually anywhere. The IPC 2010 offers an advantageous price/performance ratio, with no ongoing annual licensing costs, or charges for general and cybersecurity updates. Additional features, such as Movicon Connext© or WebHMI, can be activated or added at any time. “Many customers undergoing a digital transformation want to start small and earn trust as they seek out value from edge-enabled applications,” said William Paczkowski, product manager for the IPC 2010 for Emerson’s discrete automation business. “The IPC 2010 is specifically designed as a pre-packaged and economical solution so they can get running quickly and cost effectively.” Emerson is already building the IPC 2010 into a range of larger offerings for leak detection, compressed air monitoring, batching systems, cloud enablement services, and other packaged solutions. This flexible industrial technology will enable customers of all types to benefit from their advanced capabilities.
Kardex FulfillX for AutoStore at MODEX 2024
Kardex, a manufacturer of automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), is presenting Kardex FulfillX, an innovative warehouse execution system designed specifically for AutoStore empowered by Kardex systems, at MODEX 2024. Kardex FulfillX takes the surprises out of go-live and allows new AutoStore systems to ramp up faster and meet or exceed business cases in as little as 6 months. Showcasing its latest developments in automation software, MODEX visitors will experience a new way to maximize automation and robotics potential in Atlanta, March 11 – 14, in booth B6410. In addition to new developments in warehouse software, visitors will also be able to experience live demonstrations of Kardex’s Intuitive Pick Assistant which projects relevant picking information directly onto the surface of the access opening for both Kardex Remstar and AutoStore ports. This user-friendly picking display responds to movements and enables ergonomic, fast, and error-free picking. Kardex will present two live on-floor seminars and hold a media event during the exhibition: ‘Maximizing Space & Optimizing Labor: Transforming Your Warehouse with ASRS Automation’ on Tuesday, March 12 at 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM in Theater F ‘Transformational Robotics and Software: How AutoStore Empowered by Kardex Helped Cutter & Buck Reinvent Their Omnichannel Business’ on Wednesday, March 13 at 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM in Theater D A media event presenting FulfillX to members of the press on Tuesday, March 12 at 10 – 10:30 AM in the MODEX Press Conference Room, Building B, Level 2, Room B217
LOGiQ combines yard management and weighing technology fully automatically
Schenck Process, a process-critical bulk materials application, offers the LOGiQ yard management system, a cloud-based software solution that combines smooth and efficient truck loading operations with fully automated weighing of bulk materials – supported by log-on terminals, which are also part of the LOGiQ product family. LOGiQ is a proven system in the cement and steel industry. However, the solution is also suitable for yard management in other segments of industrial production. LOGiQ handles all logistical steps from the entry of an authorized truck onto the company premises to the exit in a seamless process. The software system monitors and controls access, supports weighing processes, ensures correct loading and records all relevant data without delays. Multilingual terminals included in the LOGiQ complete package Access is controlled via LOGiQ registration terminals, which are intuitive to use and available in several languages on request. The truck drivers operate these terminals themselves and record their weighing processes and all steps during loading and unloading. The processes run automatically without the need for manual intervention by staff: “zero-touch fulfillment”. This reduces the susceptibility to errors in the process and increases safety. The basic need for personnel on the factory premises is also noticeably reduced thanks to automation. In addition, the responsible employees and support staff at Schenck Process can access and support all data in real time, regardless of location, if required.
SUN Automation Group® announces Amit Nayak as new Product Manager
SUN Automation Group, providing innovative solutions to the global corrugated industry, has announced that Amit Nayak has been hired as the new Product Manager for SUN’s IIoT solution, Helios. Amit brings a wealth of expertise in business analytics and product management, positioning him to significantly expand Helios’ market presence and enhance its offerings to meet the evolving demands of box plants worldwide. Amit comes to SUN with a robust background in business intelligence and identifying customer needs through research and analytics. Amit earned his Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics and Master of Science in Business Analytics from George Washington University. Before joining SUN, Amit was instrumental in developing strategic product initiatives at MicroStrategy in Virginia, where he excelled in optimizing gateway solutions. “Amit’s exceptional skills in data analytics and product management make him a valuable addition to our team,” said Gokul Gopakumar, Vice President of Technology and Business Development at SUN. “His insights will be pivotal as we continue to advance Helios and better serve the needs of the corrugated sector.” In his new role, Amit will focus on optimizing the capabilities of Helios, SUN’s OEM-agonistic technology which is designed to minimize unplanned downtime and maximize output through advanced machine learning. In addition, Amit will work to drive sales and marketing strategies to expand SUN’s reach across the corrugated industry. “Amit’s ability to navigate and interpret business intelligence data, coupled with a keen understanding of customer needs, positions us for continued success in expanding Helios’ reach and capabilities,” says Greg Jones, Executive Vice President at SUN. “We look forward to Amit’s leadership as we elevate our IIoT solutions to meet the evolving demands of box plants globally.” Amit’s arrival marks a significant step in SUN’s ongoing effort to enrich its knowledge base and team, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions to its customers. As the corrugated industry increasingly embraces artificial intelligence, SUN remains dedicated to leading the charge in equipping clients with the tools necessary for their operational success.
Episode 463: Insights into the heart of fulfillment with Jeff Kaiden from Capacity
In this episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, we had the privilege of visiting Capacity’s headquarters in North Brunswick, New Jersey, where we were warmly welcomed by Jeff Kaiden, Capacity’s founder and CEO. Capacity, known for its omnichannel fulfillment services, has grown remarkably under Jeff’s leadership, servicing an array of significant brands with a keen focus on e-commerce and B2B fulfillment. The episode delves into Jeff’s fascinating journey in the fulfillment industry, the inception of Capacity, and the innovative technologies that have propelled the company to the forefront of warehousing and logistics. A Deep Dive into Capacity’s Innovative Edge The company’s investment in a bespoke, engineering-based approach and in-house IT solutions has enabled it to stay agile and responsive to customer needs. Jeff shares, “We have our own software development team… constantly adding value.” he adds, “To be in control of your own IT destiny is super important.” This strategy highlights Capacity’s commitment to leveraging technology for operational efficiency and agility. With a robust team of in-house developers, Capacity can swiftly adapt to the ever-evolving needs of its clients, ensuring that solutions are nimble and cost-effective. The team of approximately 20 developers is constantly “adding value” through process improvements and custom integrations, demonstrating a proactive stance in leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiencies. The Human Element in Fulfillment Capacity’s technological evolution is not merely about adopting new tools; it’s a holistic strategy encompassing data analysis, engineering excellence, and a profound understanding of the human element. “The most important people in this company are the ones who are doing the work,” Jeff Kaiden remarked, emphasizing the value of human capital in the logistics sector. By maintaining a close-knit environment and fostering a sense of community, Capacity ensures high levels of employee satisfaction and operational excellence. Moreover, Jeff’s anticipation of scalability challenges, particularly highlighted by the fluctuations between regular operation days and peak times like Black Friday, underlines the significance of scalable technology. “Our people are the key to all this,” Jeff asserts, acknowledging that while technology provides the framework, the human element within Capacity propels its success. This blend of cutting-edge technology and human ingenuity ensures that Capacity remains at the forefront of the fulfillment industry, ready to handle any volume surge with grace and efficiency. Mastering Data for Inventory Excellence Kaiden emphasizes the essential role of data management in precisely navigating the complexities of inventory and SKU management. Data First: It is essential to have detailed product data (dimensions, weight, hazard status) for efficient logistics. Inventory Readiness: Ensure ample stock before retail expansion to avoid fulfillment failures. Navigate Retail Complexities: Prepare for retailer-specific requirements and potential deductions. Balance Inventory: Avoid overstock and stockouts through careful planning and SKU management. SKU Strategy: Manage SKU proliferation to keep operations and inventory manageable. These insights offer a concise roadmap for brands to effectively manage their inventory and SKU portfolio, emphasizing the critical role of data management, preparation for retail expansion, and the strategic balance needed in inventory planning. Key Takeaways: Jeff believes automated put walls on the hardware side, along with AI and planning on the software side, provide the most bang for the buck in warehouse technology. The company places a high value on its workforce, fostering a culture of respect and teamwork to drive operational efficiency. Despite the rapid evolution of the e-commerce landscape, Capacity has adapted by focusing on customer service, scalable technology, and efficient inventory management. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 463: Insights into the Heart of Fulfillment with Jeff Kaiden from Capacity
Motion enters into definitive agreement to purchase two fluid power companies
Motion’s Canadian hydraulic/pneumatic footprint to expand Motion Industries, Inc., a distributor of maintenance, repair, and operation replacement parts, and a provider of industrial technology solutions, signed a definitive purchase agreement to acquire the operating assets of Perfetto Manufacturing and SER Hydraulics. Subject to customary closing conditions, the transaction is expected to be finalized at the end of February. The affiliated organizations are well-established, with Perfetto in business since 1986 and SER Hydraulics since 1978. Located in Sudbury, Canada, each has grown to provide engineered solutions, service, and equipment for hydraulic/pneumatic cylinders, complex power units, and other assets used in fluid power systems throughout the area, which is central to the mining, agricultural, and forestry industries. The dual acquisition will expand and improve Motion’s services to these and other heavy-industry customers. “After more than 30 successful years in business, we want to thank our loyal customers and employees for contributing to our success,” said Gerald Perfetto Sr., Owner. “The Motion team is committed to continued investment in the business, which will bring great opportunities for our customers, employees, and the communities in which we work and live. We couldn’t be more pleased with the interest that Motion has taken in our business and wish everyone continued success.” “We look forward to welcoming these two terrific organizations, especially the talented employees,” said Randy Breaux, President of GPC North America. “These world-class experts will be key to our market growth strategy, and we look forward to extending our position together as a premier leader in industrial solutions.”
Anyline unveils autonomous drone scanning technology for enhanced warehouse inventory management
Anyline and Mondi collaboration leads to groundbreaking solution capable of scanning entire inventory storage and distribution centers Anyline, a mobile data capture and data insights, has introduced a new autonomous drone inventory management software that can scan an entire warehouse efficiently. Anyline worked with Mondi to develop this autonomous drone barcode scanning solution. Seeking to improve its inventory management process across multiple, large warehouse locations, Mondi tested several technology options including handheld RFID and camera scanners. A breakthrough was achieved when the company engaged Anyline to apply its mobile data capture technology to DJI Mini 3 Pro drones. “Taking inventory in a warehouse using autonomous drones was an exciting challenge and we were happy to partner with Anyline to make it a reality,” says Rainer Steffl, CIO at Mondi. “After several months of testing, problem-solving, and integrating with our backend systems, we have successfully counted our first full warehouse, proving the technology a success.” Before using barcode scanning drones, multiple workers used forklifts to manually lift two people at a time to scan inventory across large warehouses, sometimes only once per year. This process involves working at heights and, due to the need for space and extra safety measures, had to be done with overtime outside of warehouse operating hours. Now, a single drone operator can scan all the inventory aisle-by-isle in a warehouse during operating hours. The new modern process is safer, very accurate and alleviates a mandatory after-hours full warehouse count all at once. “Both Anyline and Mondi are passionate about innovation,” says Lukas Kinigadner, CEO and co-founder at Anyline. “We are proud to be a part of this project, which is redefining what is technologically possible in inventory management but can also be applied across other industries. We look forward to continuing to work with Mondi and other organizations redefining expectations and inspiring others to innovate and transform the way they work.” For more information or to explore similar collaboration opportunities with Anyline, interested parties can visit Anyline’s website or contact its customer support team directly.
Antares Vision Group to showcase automatic inspection machines for vials and more at INTERPHEX
Company also will emphasize its recently launched DIAMIND ecosystem, a portfolio of interconnected software and hardware systems for comprehensive traceability. Antares Vision Group will showcase a variety of its latest, state-of-the-art inspection equipment at INTERPHEX NYC, April 16-18. At Booth 2821, the company also will emphasize its recently launched DIAMIND, a series of interconnected software and hardware systems providing physical products with the digital identities necessary to meet traceability mandates and streamline production and supply chain operations. Among the DIAMIND Line solutions showcased at INTERPHEX will be an automatic visual inspection machine for prefilled syringes. Antares Vision Group’s Visual Rotating Inspection (VRI) unit can handle up to 400 pieces per minute. The module can process SVP glass and plastic prefilled syringes up to 24mm in diameter, and inspect liquids with a wide range of viscosities – from water-like products to emulsions and gels. Like each of the company’s VRI systems, an additional camera mounted on a secondary carousel yields 100% inspection of the syringe surface. Fast, smooth single-point handling minimizes the risk of product breakages and scratches, thanks to individually motorized grippers and guideless conveying with vacuum-operated starwheels. Antares Vision Group also specializes in precise, high-speed vial inspection. At INTERPHEX, the company will showcase a module from its Visual Rotating Inspection (VRI) series capable of inspecting up to 400 liquid-filled glass containers per minute. The machine combines sophisticated particle and cosmetic detection with technology-driven closure integrity verification at an exceptionally rapid production pace. The VRI unit can inspect liquids in a wide variety of viscosities, including water-like, oily, suspension, gel, emulsion, lyophilized, and powder products. Vials are also inspected for cosmetic defects such as crimping quality, flip-off color, neck-shoulder sidewalls, and stopper position. Molded glass and plastic containers also can be inspected. Antares Vision Group will also display its CT, which automatically inspects vials and cartridges at speeds up to 200 pieces per minute. The unit is designed for accurate cosmetic and particle detection of small-volume containers up to 36mm in diameter. Compact and reliable, the CT features three stations for particle inspection equipped with both backlight and bottom light, and is configurable for reflecting and non-reflecting particles. Optional inspection stations include tip/cap and vial sealing, as well as CCIT-high voltage leak detection. DIAMIND integrated ecosystem for comprehensive production management Also, at INTERPHEX, traceability experts from Antares Vision Group will be on hand to discuss the company’s recently launched DIAMIND, an integrated ecosystem of solutions offering holistic transparency, production optimization and supply chain streamlining. DIAMIND operates at the line, factory, warehouse, enterprise, and supply chain levels, guaranteeing everything from product quality through sophisticated inspection systems to end-to-end traceability via integrated, cloud-based data management. DIAMIND’s integrated setup provides a single reference point for substantially simplified project management and centralized support services. The result Is heightened and interconnected quality assurance extending from raw materials and line production to warehouses, store shelves, and end users. All totaled, DIAMIND comprises multiple production and supply chain suites, making them applicable to manufacturers, distributors, wholesales and even government organizations.