DC Velocity - October 2009

Take your Pic: The FastPic inventory management software from FastPic Systems helps organizations integrate slotting techniques into their ordering and processing operations to improve space utilization, reduce parts handling, increase productivity, and improve inventory and picking accuracy.

Slotting is the assignment of items to a particular location in a storage and retrieval system to maximize system capacity and improve overall system efficiency. FastPic software uses advanced routines to collect and categorize inventory data, allowing users to store and retrieve parts in appropriate distribution quantities or to group them in families or by common usage for a specific application. (FastPic Systems, www.FastPicSystems.com)

On board with this scale: For shipping, receiving, and inventory management operations, weighing can be an extra step that slows the process down. The Mettler Toledo

VFS220 on-board forklift scale changes that, enabling users to obtain accurate weight readings without transporting every load to and from a scale.

The VFS220 is designed as an aftermarket add-on to any ITA Class II carriage fork lift. It consists of two components: a scale carriage assembly that is installed between the forklift truck’s lift bracket and forks, and a scale controller that is mounted on the forklift truck’s head guard.

Mounting the VFS220 scale carriage on a forklift truck is as easy as installing forks. Just hang the scale on the lift bracket, adjust the locating tab, and tighten two clamps. No welding or shimming is required. The moving scale carriage communicates with the controller by radio signal.

The scale is designed for improved safety and productivity. The center of the carriage is open, providing a high-visibility window that allows the forklift operator to see loads and position forks for lifting. A user-friendly touch screen additionally makes the scale controller easy to operate and allows the forklift operator to complete a variety of weighing transactions in a few simple steps. Administrators have access to setup screens for customizing weighing operations.

With a wireless network adapter, the scale controller can transmit data instantly to a wireless local area network. The PC card adapter uses standard Wi-Fi protocol for compatibility with any network. Because the controller utilizes Flash Memory, it will not lose data if the network goes down. The controller is compatible with peripheral equipment such as printers, bar-code scanners, and RFID tag readers. (Mettler Toledo, www.mt.com/us)

Rolling out the carpet: The new Oil Eater Tuff Rug from Kafko International provides the long-wearing durability needed for high-traffic areas, including forklift aisles and walkways. The absorbent pad has the strength and absorbency to quickly suck up oil leaks, dirt, and grime.

Made of 100 percent recycled materials, Tuff Rug is underside fused through a heat and pressure process to produce a high level of absorbency while also retaining the tear resistance required. The product is available in 36-inch by 150-foot rolls. (Kafko International, (800) 528-0334, www.oileater.com)

On a Quest: Questa Web has released a new Web-based module designed to help companies comply with the Importer Security Filing (ISF) regulation, better known as 10+ 2. Questa Web’s 10+ 2 (ISF) module facilitates information gathering and data submission and supports use in either a manual or an automated mode. Extensive built-in communication capabilities maintain bidirectional information flow, assuring current information as worldwide trade conditions change.

Advanced functionality allows users to build ISFs automatically from purchase orders and commercial invoices. The module then electronically ties the final entry information back to the ISF filing for efficient recall when needed. Questa Web’s 10+ 2 (ISF) module eliminates transaction fees for both filing and amending ISFs. (Questa Web Inc., www.questaweb.com)

Positively charged: AeroVironment introduces a new turnkey program for delivering the benefits of its PosiCharge solution to customers operating electric material handling fleets in multishift operations. The Total Power Solution (ToPS) includes a selection of services, such as customized charger and battery configuration, asset leasing, guaranteed service and maintenance, and asset disposal—all in a one-stop program.

Instead of working with multiple entities for chargers, batteries, and support services, customers can now make a single monthly payment and have a single point of contact for all their electric material handling motive energy needs. (AeroVironment/PosiCharge, www.posicharge.com)