Results are in on Dematic Multishuttle

Dematic has announced it has recently completed numerous integrated system implementations utilizing the new Multishuttle staging buffer. The results are in. According to Multishuttle users, the performance attributes that provide the most significant impact to operations include:

* Increased throughput: 4-7 times greater than conventional storage systems

* High utilization: Feeds workstations with high rates to keep workers fully utilized

* Smaller footprint: Fewer aisles required to obtain same rate

* More layout options: Fits into overhead spaces, under/over obstructions, best cube utilization

* Precise sequencing: Presents loads to pick stations or palletizers in precise sequence

* Range of load types: Flex option accommodates multiple load sizes

* Energy efficient: Low voltage (24 volts) carrier uses less energy; quiet operating

* Redundancy with back-up: Identical carriers provide duplicate service; carriers are interchangeable

* Access to stock: Work platforms in the rack aisles allow manual back up picking

* Scalability: Add more carriers in future to provide more throughput; captive Multishuttle for high rates (one Multishuttle per level) or roaming Multishuttle for low rates

Multishuttle is a flexible staging solution for applications that require dynamic product sequencing to support "goods to person" order fulfillment, pick face replenishment, palletizing and production buffers. The Multishuttle system consists of multiple levels of rack structure, carrier vehicles, conveyor and software. Each level of the rack structure includes input/output conveyor and a carrier vehicle that travels horizontally to access loads stored in the rack structure, typically totes or trays. An extraction device on each carrier vehicle accesses the loads in the rack.

Ken Ruehrdanz, Distribution & Warehousing Marketing Manager, stated, "The Multishuttle solution is an all new way to assemble orders. It is the highly efficient engine that provides precise load sequencing at higher rates, in less space, with more operational flexibility". Multishuttle is ideal for supplying product to piece pick order fulfillment modules or mixed pallet building operations and can also be applied as a short term buffer storage system or as a parts support systems for production operations. The simplicity of the modular carrier vehicles allows high system uptime, system redundancy, low power consumption and quiet operation.