DC Velocity - March 2012

Goods-to-person fulfillment solution: Dematic has extended the functionality of its RapidPick System, a goods-to-person order fulfillment solution for piece-pick applications.

RapidPick consists of a workstation that automatically brings containers of SKUs to the operator so that he or she can perform order-fulfillment tasks. While the initial release of RapidPick only allows workers to pick from one “donor tote” into one order tote, the latest version of RapidPick enables the operator to pick and put items from that donor container into multiple order containers. Typical configurations include putting product into six, 12, or 24 containers at a time, for example.

The RapidPick System can now handle cartons in addition to totes. Similarly, the inven-tory-staging engine that supports the RapidPick station with inventory can now accommodate a variety of load types. The RapidPick System is typically supplied with SKU totes from the Dematic Multishuttle or Dematic RapidStore sub-system. Both the Multishuttle and RapidStore staging buffer can accommodate a variety of load sizes and types. (Dematic, www.dematic.us/rapidpick)

Onboard vehicle telematics: Ryder System Inc. has launched RydeSmart 3.0, the next generation of its onboard telematics system. RydeSmart has been enhanced to provide greater usability and vehicle intelligence to fleet-management end users. The new RydeSmart 3.0 is a software-as-a-service (SaaS) product, which makes it easy for customers to access and monitor their fleets anytime, anywhere.

RydeSmart is a full-featured GPS fleet location, tracking, and vehicle performance management system offered to Ryder’s full-serv-ice lease customers. Consisting of a compact hardware and software unit that is installed in the truck, RydeSmart connects to the vehicle’s existing computer and diagnostics systems and communicates wirelessly via a dedicated and secure connection to a Web-based application.

The new version of RydeSmart includes an improved look and feel that allows for easier navigation around the system with fewer mouse clicks. A new map engine provides faster transitions between maps, improved detail, and a bird’s-eye view of tracked vehicles with the ability to obtain a street-level perspective.

RydeSmart 3.0 can follow multiple vehicles simultaneously and show their routes on the map. A history playback capability shows a vehicle’s 48-hour history. (Ryder System Inc., www.rydesmart.ryder.com)

Transload operations at Charleston: Logistics service provider Performance Team is opening a container transloading facility at the Port of Charleston, S.C. Performance Team will operate out of the Wando Welch Terminal’s container freight station. There, the company will transload cargo from oceangoing shipping containers onto trucks traveling to its customers throughout the Southeast.

The Wando site is expected to handle both imports and exports. Transloading the goods on-site will improve turn times and allow for faster speed to market for retail imports, according to Performance Team. (Performance Team, www.ptgt.net)

SOLID

For over 60 years, American Baler Company has engineered some of the industry’s most advanced baling equipment. As we continue to innovate customer-driven baling solutions, we will continue to influence the way balers should be made.

Engineered specifically for distribution centers to handle setup boxes, our low-volume to high-production balers have the ability to process materials efficiently and provide the most optimal results for your your productivity. Each machine caters to a specific industry’s needs. All balers are built with a standard 10 year structural warranty.