- Issues
- The volume of articles was set to nearly double, but it was difficult to hire more personnel, and the large volume could not be handled via current paper processing.
- Due to contract changes with clients, it became necessary to assort articles quickly the same day that they were delivered.
- It was difficult to physically place wired put-to-light systems for handling paper products and large objects like clothes-drying poles.
- Put-to-light systems for simultaneous work by several workers carry the risk of workers’ accidentally pushing a button of the wrong color.
- introduction
Because of an increased efficiency in assorting articles, it was possible to handle an increased amount of goods and decrease lead times without additional personnel.
- By utilizing the flexibility of Wireless Light Modules and adapting floor layouts, work planned in multiple batches could be finished as a single batch, increasing efficiency.
- Five-colored Multi-Work Light Modules allowed simultaneous task processing by five workers. Simultaneous tasks were carried out by multiple workers without color-coding mistakes, by checking goods via barcode scanners and without pressing a button on the Light Module after completion of each task.
- Because workers did not have to carry pencil and paper, they were able to work more quickly.
Solution
Wireless put-to-light systems for simultaneous assorting by multiple workers
Video of Case Study
- Wireless Light Modules are placed on racks, after which barcode scanners read the QR code of the Wireless Light Module’s ID and that of the branch KANBAN, linking them with the shipping destination. The worker then confirms that the shipping name shown on the Wireless Light Module is correct.
- The worker takes the barcode scanner corresponding to his or her assigned color from five available color-coded barcode scanners and hangs it from his or her neck.
- Then the worker scans the barcode of the delivered articles.
- The worker next carries articles to the location flashing his or her assigned color and deposits the displayed number of articles. Because different colors are displayed at the same time, different workers can supply the same location with articles at the same time and at different speeds.
- When a barcode scanner reads the KANBAN QR code, the Light Module’s indicated color disappears.
- At the final assorting location the worker checks the remaining stock of the given article and is shown the number remaining at hand. This confirmation verifies the assorted numbers.
- When all tasks are completed, a destination label is attached to each container, which is then packaged and shipped.
