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AI-Based Robotic Depalletizing vs. Robotic Layer Depalletizing

November 20, 2024
Manually unloading pallets is a time-intensive, repetitive process that can lead to physical strains for operators and job dissatisfaction. Moreso, unintentional human errors can result in miscounts, misplacement and bottlenecks. The process of removing product from a pallet can be automated through the use of industrial robotics, in a process is called robotic depalletizing.

Planning for Warehouse Automation: Where to Begin?

November 13, 2024
“Let’s look at this thing from a standpoint of status. What do we got on the spacecraft that’s good? “ –Gene Kranz (Ed Harris), “Apollo 13.” There’s a lot of genius in that simple question. If you haven’t watched the movie, it’s worth a few hours of your time. The quick summary is that the mission was in serious trouble, Gene Kranz had just put on the flight director vest, and he was beginning the process of recovering not just the equipment, but most importantly, the crew of the Apollo 13 spacecraft. The genius in the question is recognizing that you have no ability to reach an endpoint if you don’t know where you are at the beginning.

3 Key Technologies to Automate Inbound Pallet Handling

November 06, 2024
Building, storing and moving pallets is often what most people think of when they hear the word “warehouse.” And they’re not entirely wrong, pallet handling operations are critical to the effective flow and performance of many manufacturing and distribution facilities. Outbound pallet handling is often the focus of most companies in this space, as these processes appear to be most impactful to the end-customer. However, inbound pallet handling operations can be equally important to the overall production and fulfillment process. Manual palletizing and movement of inbound product in distribution and manufacturing centers often presents challenges due to labor-intensive processes, ergonomic concerns and safety risks. To address these issues, automation can be implemented to streamline operations and improve efficiency.

Applying Theory of Constraints Principles: A Case Study

October 30, 2024
In today's dynamic business landscape, companies face numerous external challenges such as ever-expanding competitive landscapes, supply chain issues and changing customer demands. To overcome these and improve their internal processes, businesses are increasingly adopting TOC (Theory of Constraints) principles. This blog presents a compelling real-world application of TOC at one of the world's leading home appliance suppliers. This case study not only underscores the effectiveness of TOC but also provides practical insights on how these principles can significantly boost operational efficiency.

The Efficiency Power of AutoStore Systems

October 23, 2024
Is your warehouse struggling with inefficiencies, space constraints or the need for faster fulfillment? The AutoStore system, an innovative goods-to-person storage solution, is designed to tackle these challenges head-on. With its unique cube storage design and robotic automation, AutoStore offers configurability, flexibility, and efficiency for modern warehouses. AutoStore is an excellent solution for companies that need to maximize the storage space within their facility. Partnering with a skilled integrator like Bastian Solutions ensures seamless implementation and optimization of the AutoStore system, revolutionizing your warehouse operations.

Pallet Shuttle Systems: The Silent Engine of your Warehouse

October 09, 2024
Pallet storage is the silent engine of any warehouse or manufacturing facility. It’s the backbone that keeps everything else running smoothly—from intake and storage to inventory management or preparation for shipping. While often overlooked, efficient pallet management ensures operations flow seamlessly.

Driving Economic Growth: Honoring Our Manufacturing Team on Manufacturing Day

October 02, 2024
This coming Friday, October 4, we celebrate Manufacturing Day, it's a perfect time to pause and recognize the remarkable efforts of our manufacturing team members. Each day, their skills and dedication drive our success, and this celebration is a reflection of the vital role they play in shaping the future of our industry.

Automation Success Starts with the End Goal: Why System-Wide Thinking Matters in Material Handling

September 25, 2024
Automation solves many operational challenges in today’s forward-thinking warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing facilities. From reducing labor costs to increasing order accuracy and throughput, material handling automation has become essential to modern operations. But while it’s tempting to look at automating specific tasks, the real value comes from considering how each solution fits into the overall system.

Maximizing Efficiency: The Critical Role of Robotic Simulations in System Design

September 18, 2024
In today's fast-paced, technology-driven world, businesses are increasingly relying on automation to meet customer demands, especially during peak seasons. Whether you're in manufacturing, logistics or any other industry that relies on automated systems, the ability to handle spikes in demand efficiently can make or break your operation. One essential step in ensuring your system can perform under pressure is conducting thorough robotic simulations before installation.

A Glimpse into the Future of Engineering

September 11, 2024
In today’s rapidly evolving world, the role of engineers is more critical than ever. As technology advances and industries transform, the next generation of engineers must be equipped with both technical expertise and practical skills to navigate the many challenges posed by employers, customers and technology. My recent experience teaching an Introduction to Sales Engineering class for the Industrial Systems Engineering department at the University of Missouri (Mizzou) provided insight into the next cohort of engineers and how they are prepared to make an impact in the future.

Navigating Fire Suppression Requirements in Canada for Material Handling Automation Equipment

September 04, 2024
Fire safety is a critical concern in warehouse, manufacturing, and distribution facilities due to the potential for significant damage and loss. In Canada, stringent regulations around fire suppression systems often surprise customers looking to install material handling automation equipment. These regulations particularly impact facilities handling flammable products such as textiles, fragrances, and aerosols.

Articulated Robots and Gantry Robots: A Comprehensive Comparison

August 28, 2024
In the ever-evolving world of automation, selecting the right robotic system for your application can significantly impact efficiency, precision and overall productivity. Among the multitude of options available, articulated robots and gantry robots are two popular choices. While both have their unique advantages, there are several compelling reasons why articulated robots often stand out as the superior choice for many industrial applications.

Conveyor Control Reimagined

August 07, 2024
In modern material handling warehouses, efficient product transport through conveyor systems plays a pivotal role. While conveyor systems are pretty straightforward, there are various elements that help to achieve that efficiency. A key facet of any conveyor solution is the control card, which manages the flow of goods through conveyor zones. These cards provide users complete control over product singulation and release, ensuring products are moved precisely when and where they are needed to optimize the entire automated material handling system.

Unlocking the True Potential of Your Material Handling Automation Investment with Technical Training

July 31, 2024
You've invested in a material handling automation system, eagerly anticipating its transformative impact on your warehouse operations. You're ready to see your processes streamlined, your efficiency skyrocket, and your bottom line soar. But the truth is, while automation is a game-changer, it's not a magic wand that can be waved to solve all your operational challenges instantly. To fully unlock the potential of these cutting-edge technologies and realize the maximum return on your investment, ensuring that your team has the knowledge and skills to leverage them effectively is essential. Even the most advanced automation systems may fail to deliver the expected results without proper training.

Robotic Bag Palletizing: Making Light of Heavy, Difficult Lifting

July 24, 2024
Most manufacturers are well aware that manual palletizing is no easy job. Awkward movements, repetitive motions and production requirements make for a challenging process that is difficult to keep staffed. Throw in the requirement that handled products are +50lb bags – which can be unwieldly and hard to hold and balance – and a difficult job to staff becomes a close to impossible. This is a well-known challenge for any manufacturers that handle bags, totes or oddly shaped items like tires. The geometry of an item can pose a challenge just like weight and size. Robotic bag palletizing is a tried-and-true automation solution that allows for the reallocation of your staff to avoid costly on-the-job injuries and increased job satisfaction. The automation will also result in higher line uptimes and greater throughputs to be handled.

Strategic Operations in Warehouses: Enhancing Efficiency Through Automation

July 17, 2024
“The first rule of any technology used in a business is that automation applied to an efficient operation will magnify the efficiency. The second is that automation applied to an inefficient operation will magnify the inefficiency.” Bill Gates This quote highlights a fundamental truth: the success of automation hinges not just on the technology itself but on the underlying efficiency of the processes it aims to enhance. This means that strategic planning and process optimization are essential prerequisites for reaping the full benefits of automation in warehouse operations.

A Deep Dive Into Revolutionizing India’s Ecommerce Warehouse Operations

July 10, 2024
Ecommerce warehousing involves storing, organizing, and managing goods in the supply chain for online retail. India is becoming one of the fastest-growing ecommerce markets in the world, so efficient warehousing solutions are essential. The Indian ecommerce warehousing market is growing rapidly now with no sign of slowing down. If you are an online retailer looking to gain a competitive edge in your market, read more to find out which technologies will benefit you as you start to plan your next warehouse operation upgrade.

The Impact of Material Handling Automation on McDougall & Sons' Cherry Production

June 27, 2024
From orchard to market: See how advanced automation and data analytics from RH Brown, now proudly part of Bastian Solutions, transformed a fourth-generation family business. Wenatchee, Washington, may be known as the "Apple Capital of the World," but is also renowned for its bountiful sweet cherry orchards. McDougall & Sons, a fourth-generation family-owned business, has been growing, processing, and distributing cherries and other tree fruits for decades. With Washington state producing millions of pounds of cherries annually, meeting the demand for fresh and high-quality sweet cherries is no small achievement. McDougall & Sons faced the challenge of increasing processing rates, managing peak capacity, and balancing production across multiple lines. To meet the demand for customers in both domestic and export markets, they partnered with RH Brown. Their collaboration led to significant improvements through advanced material handling automation, warehouse control software, and data analytics, transforming McDougall & Sons' operations and efficiency.

5 Benefits of Effective Warehouse Mechanical, Software and Automation Solutions Training

June 12, 2024
We’ve seen it time and time again with various customers, across industries. Your automated warehouse system is integrated, tested and is meeting expectations, but to further unlock the potential of your material handling automation investment, a thorough and effective technical training goes a long way Bastian Solutions' approach to training our customers incorporates both classroom sessions and hands-on learning, fostering an environment where trainees engage in day-in-the life scenarios of operational and maintenance procedures, becoming personally invested in their own learning.

Driving Efficiency and Growth Through Warehouse Automation and a Customer-Focused Approach

June 05, 2024
How do companies navigate the complexities of material handling and warehouse automation to meet today's demands and anticipate tomorrow's challenges? The answer lies not just in automation technology but in the partnerships that bring these solutions to life. Our cornerstone is a commitment to being customer focused. This core value shapes every aspect of our automation and system integration approach, ensuring that we provide meaningful solutions and foster enduring relationships that empower our clients to achieve and exceed their operational objectives. Our philosophy is to understand each client's unique needs and challenges, provide personalized service and stand beside them as they evolve and grow.

How Accessible Automation Can Optimize Distribution Amid Seasonal Fluctuations

May 29, 2024
Distribution centers are increasingly at the mercy of fluctuating demand, a challenge amplified by clear seasonal and ecommerce trends. As consumer behavior shifts and online shopping events gain traction, these facilities must adjust to significant peaks and valleys in product flow. This unpredictability can strain resources and complicate warehouse logistics.

Maximizing Efficiency: Eliminating Space Constraints with Material Handling Automation Solutions

May 22, 2024
Picture this: your organization is set for growth, but you're trapped in what feels like a life-size Rubik’s Cube, always moving pieces around to navigate your way through the space constraints of your warehouse. How do you optimize your operations when every inch of floor space counts?

When is Standardized Software a Good Fit for Your Warehouse Automation

May 15, 2024
Historically, intralogistics software providers have been known for providing very customized solutions to meet the unique needs of their various manufacturing and distribution center clients. Being in the industry for over 70 years, Bastian Solutions has identified various universal industry processes and created a standardized product suite with offerings in addition to providing customized solutions all under our proprietary software brand, Exacta®.

The Whole Picture: Full Warehouse Scope Needed for Effective WES Integration

May 08, 2024
It’s easy to think of a WES (warehouse execution system) as a “plug-and-play” software solution for islands of automation within a larger overall warehouse system. Just take orders in from the WMS (warehouse management system) or host system, run some logic to sequence those orders in an optimal way and ensure those orders are picked at the right time and place to be shipped on-time. While, at a high level, this essential functionality is at the core of a WES, operations in all other areas of the warehouse must be understood to guarantee a successful implementation and optimize all interconnected processes at a specific site.

Bastian Solutions at Intralogistics & Warehousing Expo

May 01, 2024
The economic market landscape is a whirlwind of change, driven by an expanding population and evolving local and global demands. Amidst this flux, businesses grapple with the challenges of adapting to shifting consumer expectations, soaring rental costs, intensifying competition and the quest for optimal storage solutions, particularly in India's bustling market. Navigating these complexities demands more than just traditional approaches—it requires a strategic embrace of automation. What was once considered a luxury has now become a business imperative. The question is no longer “Should I automate?” it is now “When and how much should I automate?” Recognizing this shift is crucial for companies aiming not just to survive, but to thrive in this dynamic environment.

Continuous Improvement with Goods to Person Technology

April 24, 2024
When new material handling automation equipment is introduced to a manufacturing or distribution center, it is easy to lose focus on continuous improvement efforts. Often it is assumed that technology and automation have created a process which completely maximizes efficiencies and therefore cannot be improved. Kaizen, meaning continuous improvement, is a core tenant in TPS (Toyota Production System) and empowers individual team members to identify areas for improvement and suggest immediate, yet practical solutions. A facility that focuses on continuous improvement does not stop once a process is automated.

Streamlining Logistics: How Automation is Reshaping Warehouse Operations

April 17, 2024
Automation is not merely a buzzword; it's a transformative force reshaping the landscape of warehouse operations and logistics management. By harnessing the power of advanced automation technologies such as AS/RS systems, conveyor and sortation systems, robotics, GTP (goods to person), artificial intelligence, and data analytics, are streamlining their logistics processes like never before. From inventory management to order fulfilment, automation is revolutionizing every aspect of warehouse operations, driving efficiency, accuracy and agility.

Bastian Solutions at Logistics World Summit & Expo 2024

April 10, 2024
Whether your company is headquartered or has locations in Central America, you know how important the region is to global manufacturing, warehouse distribution and cross continental freight. Mexico and other Central American country’s location in the western hemisphere is both strategic for global trade as well as in-country distribution. Their skilled yet cost competitive labor force make them very desirable for many consumer goods, farming and agriculture, petroleum, and other raw materials for manufacturing.

Understanding Material Flow in Automated Handling and Fulfillment

April 03, 2024
You’re walking into a bustling warehouse, where the air buzzes with the orchestrated hum of voices, footfalls and equipment. In one corner, various SKUs are received and swiftly stored, each item finding its place. Across the floor, synchronized activity surrounds order fulfillment: items are picked, packed and ready for their journey to customers or stores. This is material flow and it plays a vital role in distribution operations.

Optimizing Warehouse Efficiency through Human-Automation Collaboration

March 27, 2024
In the dynamic landscape of modern warehouses, the integration of automation has changed the way materials are handled by enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and productivity. However, the role of humans remains indispensable, bringing cognitive abilities and adaptability to the table. Striking the right balance between humans and automation in warehouse material handling is crucial for optimizing operations and maintaining a competitive edge.

Considering Robotic Depalletizing? Evaluate These 3 Key Factors First

March 20, 2024
Does your facility have labor intensive, ergonomically challenging or repetitive operations that involve breaking down a pallet load? If so, robotic depalletizing could be a solution to help eliminate ergonomic strain, lower operating costs and allow for the reallocation of labor to other tasks within your facility.

Efficiency and Safety: Navigation in Industrial AVs

March 13, 2024
Within the realm of industrial vehicle automation, the terms “dynamic path planning” and “obstacle avoidance” have recently generated buzz. On the surface, the idea of an AV (autonomous vehicle) having the capability to independently navigate around unforeseen obstacles appears to be a valuable feature. And, make no mistake, there are certainly specific applications where that feature can be beneficial. This blog post will expand on the other navigation methods and why AV OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) make the deliberate choice to use them.

MODEX 2024: Where Your Automation Journey Begins

February 28, 2024
As a leading systems integrator, Bastian Solutions understands material handling solutions do not come in a one-size-fits-all package. The company holds decades of experience across a broad spectrum of industry verticals and our experts partner with customers to engineer warehouse automation and material handling systems designed to achieve business objectives. Bastian is eager to exhibit at MHI’s MODEX 2024 trade show March 11-14 in Atlanta, Georgia. Booth B5619 will feature various automation and technology, along with opportunities to learn more about how Bastian can help select, implement and optimize the right material handling equipment and processes to Engineer Your Competitive Edge!

Meeting Retail's New Demands: Bastian Solutions at RILA LINK 2024

February 21, 2024
Remaining competitive means staying ahead of retail's rapid changes, such as complex omnichannel business models, demanding planning cycles, and rising customer expectations. Retail leaders are coming together at this year's RILA LINK to tackle these challenges. They want integrated solutions to simplify operations and make customers happier.

The Unique Advantage of Bastian Solutions: A Complete Material Handling Systems Integrator

February 14, 2024
In warehouse automation and material handling systems, companies typically fall into two categories: manufacturers (OEMs) or integrators. Manufacturers are known for creating the hardware and technologies that power warehouse automation, while integrators specialize in bringing these diverse components together into a cohesive, functioning material handling system. At Bastian Solutions, we often encounter the question, 'Are you an integrator or a manufacturer?'

Conveyor Technologies Transforming Indian Small-to-Medium Companies

February 07, 2024
Efficiently moving items is the name of the game in material handling and the number one player is conveyor. Whether your company plays in the automotive, electronics, food and beverage, or pharma industries, you are going to need to move materials, components and/or finished products to the next area of your business. A well-designed conveyor system determines whether you stay in the game or not.

Addressing Labor Shortages and Turnover in Material Handling with Automated Picking Solutions

January 31, 2024
In the dynamic warehouse operations and logistics industry, a prominent issue consistently arises in corporate discussions and daily floor operations: the challenge of labor shortages and high employee turnover. As supply chain, operations, and production leaders, you know how these labor issues strain daily operations and threaten long-term growth and efficiency. The current scenario presents a stark contrast – while there's a booming demand for logistics and warehouse services, finding and retaining skilled labor to meet this demand has become increasingly more difficult. Frequent turnover amplifies these issues, leading to operational delays, escalating costs, and a decline in employee morale.

Key Distribution Center Operational Considerations for a New Year

January 24, 2024
Peak season has come and gone. Happy New Year! As we close the door on a busy holiday season, it’s a good time for distribution center leaders to pause and reflect on how to apply the learnings of 2023 in order to make operational course corrections and define capital investment needs for 2024 and beyond. The 2023 holiday season demonstrated continued sales growth, most notably in online sales, whether for BOPIS (buy-online-pickup-in-store) or ecommerce purchases, according to Bain’s recent report.

Industrial Distribution: SMC Doubles Picking and Increases Same-Day Shipments

January 17, 2024
Growth. Striving for a $2 billion annual revenue goal, SMC Corporation needed a facility and automation technology solution that could meet them where they were and easily support their vision for growth. As a global leader and manufacturer of automatic control equipment, SMC had grown to over 80 subsidiaries and joint ventures around the world. They serve customers in a variety of industries and had grown to 30% of global market share in the pneumatics industry.

3 Key Factors in Goods to Person Throughput Design

January 10, 2024
From a mechanical standpoint, a goods-to-person system certainly can attain the tote delivery rate advertised on a vendor’s website.  However, these advertised rates do not consider the primary determinant for the throughput rate that is actually realized at a goods-to-person work station – the pick cycle time. 

Beyond Automation: Building Long-Term Relationships for Operational Excellence

December 20, 2023
In today's dynamic and competitive business landscape, companies are constantly seeking ways to improve their operational efficiency and achieve sustainable growth. While automation solutions can offer significant benefits, true success lies in building long-term partnerships that go beyond simply providing equipment.

Elevate Your Warehouse Efficiency: Identifying Conveyor Opportunities

December 13, 2023
In the dynamic landscape of warehouse operations, efficiency is the cornerstone of success. As businesses strive to streamline their processes, there's a unique opportunity for warehouse operators to revolutionize material handling with conveyor systems. Warehouses are undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the need for streamlined operations and increased productivity. Recognizing this evolution is the first step for businesses looking to stay ahead in an ever-changing market. Labor costs, inventory management complexities and navigating seasonal peaks are common hurdles. In this blog post, we'll explore how businesses can identify and leverage conveyor opportunities to elevate their operations.

3PLs and Material Handling Integration

December 06, 2023
When people hear the term 3PL, they might ask questions such as: “What is a 3PL?” A 3PL or third-party logistics is a business that provides logistics operations to other business. These value-added logistic services include:

Holiday Order Fulfillment Calls for An Omnichannel Approach

November 29, 2023
Sales are on the rise again this holiday season and consumers are shopping in an omnichannel way. Black Friday, Cyber Monday and sales before and after the Thanksgiving holiday marked at least a week of special discounts and sales. It also marked a year over year increase in retail activity in the United States, spending an estimated $9.8 billion during Black Friday alone, according to Adobe Analytics. Originally a single day of sales, discounts and deals came early extending the sales period before Black Friday, potentially easing the Friday sales bump. In-store sales increased by 1.1%, while ecommerce sales rose by 8.5% year over year, according to MasterCard SpendingPulse. Final totals are still being tallied but reports from MasterCard SpendingPulse, Adobe Analytics and various consulting firms indicate that most likely due to the country’s inflation and economic pressures, consumers actively took advantage of the season’s special discounts, searching for the best deals. They are buying “closer-to-need” according to TD Cowen analysts.

Choosing the Right Conveyor System for Festive Season Demand

November 15, 2023
The festive or peak season is one of the busiest times for companies, especially those in the e-commerce and retail industry sectors. With the holidays here, consumer demand for products significantly spikes both in volume and quick fulfilment requirements. With continuous festive promotions and sales, it is understandable that there is an increase in orders with more customer expectations, so it is crucial to have efficient and reliable warehouse material handling systems in place to handle the festive season demand. Determining the specific requirements of your business during the festive season is essential to ensuring a smooth and successful operation.

Clear the Fog of Peak Season: 4-Step Process

November 01, 2023
The fog of peak season. Does this sound like a similar experience to all warehouse operations team members? It’s earlier than usual and you know you have a very long day ahead of you. The building pulses with an electrifying energy but it's a frenetic, anxious feeling that everyone has in the pit of their stomach. The team knows that its “go time” as the customer order volume is going to be 3X the norm. As you walk out of the office and into the warehouse you are met with the sound of conveyor belts humming and the ceaseless beeping noise of forklifts darting all over the building. What is normally an orderly row of neatly stacked goods near pack out, now resembles a maze, as your team scrambles to locate items with urgency. Every corner of the warehouse is in motion, every aisle alive with the chaos of associates picking, workstations loaded with boxes for packout, and trailers are everywhere.

Self-Driving Forklifts: The Future of Pallet Transportation

October 25, 2023
The fascination with automation has been amplified by the rise of AI (artificial intelligence) and the emergence of seemingly self-driving cars. This trend has made “automation” an ubiquitous term worldwide. Manufacturing and warehousing facilities are at the forefront of adopting automation due to the numerous advantages it offers, including waste reduction, increased production efficiency and a compelling ROI (return on investment). In fact, technology like self-driving vehicles isn’t new to the warehouse environment but it has come a very long way since it was first introduced. In this post, we’ll dive into how advanced technology is being leveraged to complement warehouse operations and how you can plan for successful integration.

Bridging the Labor Gap: Common Warehouse Automation Considerations

October 18, 2023
The ongoing labor shortage crisis is being felt across various sectors, with warehousing being no exception, and its impact threatens efficiency and productivity. The question being asked today by most manufacturers and distributors is not “Should I automate?” but rather “When and how much should I automate?” To best answer those questions, it’s crucial to first understand common material handling and automation considerations.

Bridging the Labor Gap: Warehouse Automation's Role in Addressing Labor Shortages

October 11, 2023
In today's rapidly evolving global economy, industries are facing a unique challenge: labor shortages. The shortage of skilled and unskilled laborers is being felt across various sectors, with warehousing being no exception. Warehouses serve as the backbone of the supply chain, but the ongoing labor shortage crisis threatens their efficiency and productivity. Thankfully, technology has stepped in to address this challenge with the implementation of warehouse automation. In this blog post, we will explore the labor shortage issue, its causes, and how warehouse automation is revolutionizing the industry, ensuring smooth operations and boosting productivity.

Elevating Dock Operations with Telescopic Conveyors

October 04, 2023
To meet the escalating customer demands, optimizing the movement of goods is now more crucial than ever for warehouses in manufacturing, logistics and e-commerce. Telescopic conveyors are a proven and efficient technology for various industries in India.

Quality in Everything We Do: Fork Trucks to Cranes to System Integration

September 27, 2023
Conceptually, material handling is simple – store products and move products. Officially defined by MHI as “the movement, protection, storage, and control of materials and products throughout manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, consumption, and disposal,” this concept is an unavoidable aspect of business. It also, like many ideas that start simple, quickly becomes complicated once you start exploring its details, especially given today’s rate of technological improvement. Despite those challenges, however, the need to deliver on orders, navigate and succeed during peak seasons and meet customer expectations remains and needs to be addressed.

The Past, Present and Future of Retail Supply Chain

September 20, 2023
With the global pandemic only a few years behind us, rising diesel prices, supply chain shortages and a drastically transformed customer shopping landscape, the closing of 2022 should have looked bleaker. However, the “hyper growth” that was seen in ecommerce during the pandemic moved 2025 projections up by years. At the closing of 2022 we’re seeing retail’s first trillion-dollar year. As the meteoric growth of online sales has begun to moderate, and as we look forward to 2023 it will be imperative for retailers to address the past, present and future of retail.

Understanding the Difference Between Safety Devices in Material Handling Automation Systems

September 13, 2023
In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, automation has become an integral part of various industries, ranging from manufacturing and logistics to healthcare and transportation. With warehouse and distribution center material handling automation's widespread adoption, ensuring the safety of workers, equipment and the public is of paramount importance. To achieve this, various safety devices are employed to minimize risks and prevent accidents.

The Trickle-Down Effect of Right-Sized Packaging

September 06, 2023
The average box is 40% too large for its contents and eliminating excess volume would result in 24 million fewer truckloads per year in the United States, according to DHL, The Logistics Trend Radar. With increased focus on sustainability and supply chain impacts to a company’s bottom-line, the importance of packaging strategy has never been higher. Fortunately for supply chain leaders, packaging automation has continued to evolve to address this need and the time has never been better to consider how right-sized packaging could positively impact your supply chain.

The Ins and Outs of Automated Inbound Palletizing

August 30, 2023
For many distribution centers, unloading trailers and placing inbound product on pallets can be very labor-intensive. There are often hundreds to thousands of boxes in each trailer and these boxes can be large, heavy and hard to reach meaning most reaching, lifting and moving of boxes is done manually. Additionally, the environment inside the trailer can range from cold to extremely hot making it, at times, particularly uncomfortable. As a whole, finding and keeping labor for this essential work often presents a problem. Introducing the right automation to your palletizing operations can address labor availability challenges while also improving margins, throughput and operational flexibility.

Is It Time for Warehouse Automation? Identifying the Need

August 24, 2023
Are you considering refining your warehouse operations and improving customer satisfaction? One of the transformative solutions that has gained significant traction in recent years is automating warehouses by integrating material and product processes through material handling equipment. By introducing and integrating robots, conveyor systems with intralogistics solutions, companies can revolutionize the way warehouses can run. However, the question remains – how do you know when warehouse automation is needed?

6 Considerations for Retail E-Fulfillment Polybag Packing Automation

August 16, 2023
Bag or box? They aren’t the only packing options, but they are certainly the most prevalent when it comes to retail fulfillment. With ecommerce activity on the rise, planning for and designing DC efficiency around single order pick and pack operations is a necessary shift to remaining competitive in the retail industry. Not only does this factor into meeting consumers’ quick turnaround expectations but also in keeping costs low. When it comes to packing and shipping, you can make efficiencies in larger factors such as operations and system design but also in smaller details like the size of the parcel. Shipping fast and cost efficiently is a balancing act that starts in warehouse or distribution center design. Whether you are working with polybags, boxes or both, appropriate automation sizing and integration with surrounding equipment has immediate and lasting impacts.

Pack Expo 2023: The Trickle-Down Effect of Automating End of Line Operations

August 09, 2023
The world of automation is more complicated than it has ever been, with several emerging technology options and configurations now readily available with more to come. What we know, however, is that creating a foundation for long-term resilience relies on adaptable automation. Together with data-backed system integration you can overcome business challenges to meet objectives now and, in the future, reaping better ROIs. This means taking a detailed look at the processes before a package leaves the warehouse.

Warehouse Data Analysis: Time Consuming but Vital

August 02, 2023
“Garbage in, garbage out”; that’s the typical mantra for simulation and consulting studies as it relates to the quality of the inputs and the resultant quality of the outputs. Having worked with companies small and large, across a variety of industries, we know one thing is true – every bit of detail counts to ensure we can help our customers maximize their operations.

Leveraging Autonomous Vehicles: Why & How?

July 26, 2023
One size does not fit all. As a material handling systems integrator, we know that all too well. That phrase is especially true for trending technologies like autonomous vehicles or AVs. Encompassing both AGVs (automated guided vehicles) and AMRs (autonomous mobile robots), AVs provide a quick method to gain efficiencies in operation processes without installing infrastructure.
Posted in General Blogs

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) for Enhanced Efficiency & Seamless Automation

July 19, 2023
AMRs (autonomous mobile robots) have emerged as a distribution or manufacturing operation game-changer. For those seeking solutions to enhance efficiency, reduce costs and streamline operations, AMRs offer a cost-effective solution. These versatile robots can move and operate independently, revolutionizing various industries and opening new possibilities for automation. AMRs can meet various application process needs, allowing them to easily fit into existing company operations.

4 DC Design Focus Areas: Beyond Automated Warehouse Technology

July 12, 2023
Streamlining the complex processes of getting products from inbound receiving to outbound truck loading requires thoughtful orchestration of functions within the four walls of distribution and fulfillment centers that extends beyond selecting the right automated technology. Let’s take a look at five more areas that you’ll want to consider during the planning phase to unlock even more efficiency opportunities.

Digging into the Data: Understanding Leading vs. Lagging Metrics and Setting Effective KPI Targets

June 28, 2023
In today's data-driven world, organizations rely on KPIs (key performance indicators) to measure their progress towards achieving business objectives. In order to really dig into a company’s metrics, there are two important concepts to grasp when working with KPIs: leading and lagging metrics, and effective targets. By understanding the difference between these types of metrics and how to set appropriate KPI targets, businesses can make informed decisions and drive meaningful improvements.

Meet Any Market Intralogistics Challenge with a Dynamic Alliance of Innovation and Trust

June 21, 2023
In the ever-evolving realm of logistics and supply chain management, innovation is the linchpin. Failure to remain open to and properly integrating innovative solutions can stifle operations from continuing to stay competitive in the industry, whether it’s automotive, retail, healthcare and agriculture, for example.

Enhancing Efficiency in Indian Industries with Advanced Conveyor Systems

June 14, 2023
Efficient and streamlined operations are vital for the success of any industry. In India, companies are constantly seeking innovative solutions to improve productivity, reduce costs and enhance overall efficiency. ‘Research and Markets’ reports that India’s warehousing market is expected to reach INR 2,872.10 bn by 2027.One significant aspect of achieving these goals lies in optimizing material handling and warehouse operation processes.

Leveraging Cobots in Modern Warehouses

June 01, 2023
Collaborative robots’ (cobots) popularity has grown in recent years for their ability to work alongside human operators and in a diverse range of applications. These robots, specifically designed to share workspace with humans, automate tasks that typically require some level of operator intervention. Cobots have proven to be safe, flexible, quick to implement and easy to program solutions that benefit both distribution and manufacturing operations. Let’s dive deeper into capabilities and potential use cases for this advanced technology.

Maintaining SOX Compliance with Intralogistics Software

May 24, 2023
If your company is publicly traded, there's a good chance you’ve heard the term “SOX” before. The SOX (Sarbanes-Oxley) yearly financial reporting audit touches every function of a public corporation – from human resources to supply chain management. SOX compliance is a massive operation both in terms of cost and labor force. The right software solution, however, can not only help you achieve the most out of your warehouse system design but can also help support you through SOX compliance.

Closing the Automation Gap with Intralogistics Software

May 17, 2023
Robotic order picking and sorting are becoming key technologies in warehouse automation and often provide huge advantages to distribution centers over more conventional order fulfillment methods. However, without a versatile WCS (warehouse control system) or WES (warehouse execution system), it can be difficult to integrate such technologies into a complex operation.

Optimizing Warehouse Operations: Avoiding Common Mistakes with Advanced Automation Technologies

May 10, 2023
Warehouses are an integral part of the supply chain management system of any organization for storing and distributing goods efficiently and effectively. However, there are certain common mistakes that warehouse operators make that can negatively impact the productivity and efficiency of the warehouse.

Expanding WMS Functionality with WES Integration

May 03, 2023
While automation equipment is certainly a large factor in optimizing warehouse operations, it’s important to remember that the software managing the system is just as vital. For automation, the WES can help expand on WMS functionality, helping to improve total warehouse communication, simplify integration, enhance visibility and more.

Process and System Efficiency: You Can’t Improve What You Don’t Measure

April 26, 2023
KPIs are quantifiable metrics used to measure the success of a particular process or system. They are typically tied to specific objectives and goals and are used to track progress over time. KPIs are an essential tool for businesses to measure the effectiveness of their operations, identify areas of improvement and make informed decisions. This includes the material handling and automation industry.

ProMat Recap: The Future of AGVs is Here

April 19, 2023
Bastian Solutions was once again excited to attend ProMat at McCormick Place in Chicago. This year's booth featured a live system demonstration that integrated multiple technologies, including several of our autonomous vehicles, Bastian Solutions SmartPick, AutoStore, Tompkins Robotics tSort, Bastian Solutions Conveyor, and more. We hosted a live seminar "Cutting Through the Noise: How to look beyond technology and meet business objectives". We also unveiled our newest product, the CB18 AGF, during a live press conference at our booth on Monday, March 20th.

10 Warehousing Challenges & Key Factors to Finding the Right Automation Solution

April 12, 2023
Managing a distribution or manufacturing facility can be challenging. It can be very easy to get so focused on the technical details of various automation solutions. The danger is that it’s easy to lose sight of the main goal, the reason behind adding automation – meeting business objectives and improving business operations.

Increase Operational Throughput Using the Theory of Constraints Principles

April 05, 2023
All inbound and outbound warehouse operations such as receiving, putaway, picking or packing, for example, formulate a series of dependent events. These events occur in sequence and are, to some extent, interlinked to the events preceding or following them.

Can Outsourcing Preventative Maintenance Save You Money?

March 29, 2023
Despite the high value and need, it’s not uncommon for warehouse automation system maintenance to be trimmed from a company’s budget and priority. Outsourcing is one way to keep maintenance costs down but still protect your operation. In this post, we look at how.
Posted in General Blogs

Custom Apple Packers Optimizes Production Flow with Integrated Automation

March 23, 2023
Looking to optimize flow of cartons from two production areas and reduce overall labor requirements, Custom Apple Packers turned to RH Brown for automated sortation and palletizing solutions. We were able to design an integrated system that increased throughput to meet the customer’s requirements, while utilizing existing accumulation lanes.
Posted in General Blogs

Maximize Floor Space, Optimize Ops with Robotic Buffering Systems

March 22, 2023
Order fulfillment operations play a crucial role in today's fast-paced world, where customers expect their orders to be processed and delivered quickly and accurately. With the increasing demand for seamless and efficient order fulfillment services, businesses are turning to innovative solutions to meet the needs of their customers. One such solution is the use of robotic buffer systems.

Bringing the Future to You at ProMat 2023

March 15, 2023
The fierce competition for warehouse space and fulfillment labor combined with growing customer demands and ever-evolving technology offerings can make it overwhelmingly noisy and difficult to navigate. That challenge can make it hard to identify the solution that will help companies meet business objectives today and in the future. To add to that complexity, the supply chain industry is ever-growing and evolving. Our team of engineers can help guide through the noise that companies may be facing. Bastian Solutions is eager to attend this year’s ProMat tradeshow March 20-23, 2023, to discuss some of these supply chain challenges with attendees.

The Comprehensive Solution for Fluid Trailer Loading: ULTRA BLUE® Automated Robotic Truck Loader

March 08, 2023
Floor or fluid trailer loading is a common task that companies utilize to maximize the cube utilization of a trailer. Unfortunately, the improved usage of shipping space comes with an increased operational cost. At its core, fluid loading is an extremely labor-intensive task that has proven to be difficult to complete and staff. The work environment, ergonomic strain, and monotony of the task lead to high turnover rates and a physically strained workforce. Not to mention the increased costs and reduced throughputs resulting from cases being double handled. Fortunately, Bastian Solutions has addressed these issues with the ULTRA BLUE® robotic truck loader.

The Effectiveness of Slotting in Warehouse Operations

March 01, 2023
Warehouse slotting, velocity slotting, re-slotting – these are all commonly used terms when referring to SKU optimization. What does it mean and what does it look like for warehouse operations? Put simply, velocity slotting is an organizational strategy that utilizes storage zones within a warehouse to store products by pick frequency. It’s impact stretches to positively impact costs, inventory performance and satisfying customer service level agreements, to name a few. Let’s take a deeper look at the effectiveness of slotting.
Posted in General Blogs

Material Handling Solutions Fit for New England’s Pharma and High Tech Manufacturing

February 22, 2023
The New England area is well known as a center for academics, medicine, and high-tech manufacturing. The concentration of notable academic institutions is a big factor in the concentration of companies providing pharmaceutical and high-tech manufacturing. Each of New England’s leading industries requires unique considerations. For this post, let’s take a look at the pharmaceutical industry, specifically. Examples of pharmaceutical and healthcare companies located in New England include the Thermo Fischer headquarters, 3 R&D sites for Pfizer, multiple facilities for Johnson & Johnson, and a multitude of hospitals such as Massachusetts General Hospital.

The Value of Intralogistics Software in Effective Material Handling

February 15, 2023
Material handling is a very exciting industry to be a part of in 2023. The demand for fast, efficient and reliable storage and fulfillment is higher than ever, which has led to some amazing advancements in technology. Goods to person systems, robotics, automated trailer loading, and automated vehicles are just a few of the amazing technologies that everyone in the industry is talking about. These solutions can add incredible value to a distribution center, but there is a critical piece behind the scenes that can make or break the entire system: software.

'Looking Beyond Technology' at RILA LINK 2023

February 08, 2023
Bastian Solutions will be present at RILA LINK in Orlando, FL this month. Joining the retail order fulfillment and automation conversation with thousands of supply chain executives to connect, learn and explore leading best practices. With over 2,000 retail supply chain leaders in one place, LINK is the perfect event for Bastian to connect with carriers, vendors and other key partners.
Posted in General Blogs

Keep Up with Northern California Wine, Manufacturing and Agriculture Material Handling Needs

February 01, 2023
For Northern California, wine, manufacturing and agriculture are leading industries. All of these products require specific material handling needs to ensure that products are handled properly, customers receive products as expected and business objectives are met. As a premier automation integrator, we know that the future of material handling is the delivery of integrated solutions.
Posted in General Blogs

Warehouse Execution Systems: Orchestrating Operations and Enabling Future Automation

January 25, 2023
The term ‘Warehouse Management System’ (WMS) is synonymous with the management of operations within a distribution center. But there can be gaps within the WMS’s broad scope that require another layer of integration to truly allow the system to operate as designed, especially when it comes to automation. Warehouse Execution Systems (WES) have been created to operate under the WMS to help fulfill business needs not easily managed by the WMS. In fact, it is a crucial element to enabling more automation in warehouse operations.

Industry Leaders, Innovators and Investors at Manifest 2023

January 18, 2023
Bastian Solutions is excited to join supply chain and logistics professionals for the second annual Manifest trade show, the premiere gathering of industry leaders, innovators and investors for a showcase of innovation and transformation across the logistics and supply chain tech industry. Manifest brings unprecedented access to the people and technologies changing the way the world moves.
Posted in General Blogs

Solve the Complexities of Payload Storage and Retrieval

January 04, 2023
Managing a warehouse operation is not an easy job. Land costs and warehouse leasing charges are increasing exponentially. At the same time, there is also limited availability of trained operators which adds to expenditures, either in training cost, recruitment or addition of new technology that fulfils the task. However, for a business to successfully meet consumer needs, it is essential to optimize the centre for picking, storing and shipping. These opportunities for efficiency cannot be overlooked.
Posted in General Blogs

Hypercare: Guidance from Operational Go Live to Project Closure

December 28, 2022
A crucial phase of system execution that should not be overlooked is planning appropriate hand-off of the installed and integrated solution to the customer. A poor hand-off can hamper system potential and lead to both immediate and long term challenges. That said, hypercare support, although common among the industry, looks different for each customer.
Posted in General Blogs

Interview Recap: Getting Started with Mobile Robotics

December 21, 2022
Recently, Bastian’s Autonomous Vehicles General Manager, Michael Marcum, spoke with other industry experts about insights on getting started with mobile robotics.

Tackling Returns: An Online Clothing Retailer Changes the Game

December 14, 2022
Dealing with returns and reverse logistics can be a struggle for ecommerce order fulfillment - especially in the retail and consumer goods industries. Here's how we helped one client improve their returns process.

Thrive During Peak Season: 3 Order Fulfillment Considerations

December 07, 2022
Peak season is here. While Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the biggest sales days of the year, have come and gone, order fulfillment operations are busy ensuring that orders are filled accurately, packaged carefully and shipped on time. For retailers, this is both a time of getting through the peak and also an opportunity to shine ahead of competitors. Handling seasonal peaks requires automation that simplifies the surge in distribution.

3 Tips on Successful Automation Integration

November 30, 2022
Determining which material handling automation is best for your warehouse is challenging. From sifting through the vast amount of automated equipment options to identifying immediate and future operational needs, it’s not a task accomplished in a business day. And truthfully, the challenge doesn’t end once you’ve selected your new system. The next objective is to ensure the technology fits and optimizes your operations. Seamless integration and full utilization of the new system aren’t a given. It takes time, communication and planning. Before implementing any solution, consider these three tips for successful automation integration.
Posted in General Blogs

Automation: A Backbone to Streamline your Omnichannel Processes

November 23, 2022
In this fast-paced industry where customers are looking for the fastest delivery and using multiple channels to complete their purchases, brands need to be nonstop active. Today, almost all consumers check reviews and compare prices both online and offline before making a purchase.

PLC Checkpoints for Maintaining Your Automation System

November 16, 2022
A PLC or programmable logic controller is the “brain” for any automatic application. The PLC program is what provides and gives signals to any automatic system. Quite simply, without the “brain” the application wouldn’t work; therefore, it is of upmost importance to make sure that it is taken care of and maintained. It needs to be stored in its recommended environment and preventative maintenance (PM) should be completed as recommended.

Os cinco principais benefícios do Pick to Light explicados

November 08, 2022
Você já precisou fazer compras em um mercado que nunca frequentou? Você fica com aquela sensação de impotência de tentar descobrir o que exatamente é uma “Fruta do Conde” e muito menos tentar localizá-la na seção de produtos (graças a Deus “fruta” está no nome). Claro, talvez você tenha algumas pistas para ajudá-lo a chegar lá (placas de corredor, intuição geral), mas sabe que terá uma frustrante caça ao tesouro na próxima hora para completar sua lista.

Bastian Solutions Celebrates 70 Years and Counting

November 03, 2022
If It Rolls – We Supply It. This was the motto of Bastian Solutions, then the E.C. Stark Co., Inc., in the 1950s. Hand trucks, casters and carts were the original material handling equipment supplied by the company, which was formed on October 31, 1952, by Elgan Stark, father-in-law of Bill Bastian Sr. Fast forward 70 years, and Bastian Solutions continues to grow as a leading material handling automation company. Although casters and the like are no longer the heart of the business, the vision remains the same – to help companies be more efficient, better serve their clients and make the world a better place.

End of Line Palletizing - Central vs. Local Robotic Palletizing

October 26, 2022
For manufacturing companies facing challenges of labor availability, increased order volume and ergonomic issues, an automated palletizing system is an effective method for quickly improving outbound operations. When considering an automated palletizing solution for multiple production lines, there are generally two options: centralized palletizing or local palletizing.

Keep Up with India’s Festive Season Demand with Continuous Customer Support

October 19, 2022
The festive season is the most exciting time of the year in India. The season brings out the best in companies and customers with celebrations, new product launches and sale offer blasts like Amazon Great Indian Festival and Myntra big fashion festival etc. It also brings a whirlwind of considerations for warehouses and distribution centres.
Posted in General Blogs

Showcasing Resiliency at Pack Expo 2022

October 12, 2022
Bastian Solutions’ team of engineers can help guide you through your automation journey. You can schedule an in-person meeting to discuss your operational challenges with our experts at Pack Expo International 2022 – October 23 – 26, 2022.

Celebrating Manufacturing Day

October 07, 2022
Today we celebrate all of our men and women who chose to pursue a career in manufacturing!
Posted in General Blogs

Webcast Recap: Robotics Accelerates Retail Digitization

October 05, 2022
In a recent webcast, Matt Kohler, Bastian Solutions’ Applications Director, and other industry leaders discussed how both online and traditional retailers can take advantage of automation as peak season approaches. A key topic discussed during the webcast was the importance of collecting and analyzing data to provide timely and actionable insights for customers.

Cobots Address Labor Shortages for Friesens Corporation

September 28, 2022
Facing increased customer demand, space limitations and limited labor resources, Friesens Corporation knew they needed to challenge themselves to think creatively about their production efficiency. Increased demand and volume necessitated higher throughput that only more binding lines could accommodate, creating constraints on the existing floorplan and layout. Finding space meant taking a closer look at their production processes.

Três fatores principais no design de produção de goods to person

September 22, 2022
Como integradora independente, a Bastian Solutions trabalha com diversas tecnologias e marcas. Como tal, não é incomum ser perguntado pelos clientes: “Quantas linhas por hora posso fazer com um sistema de goods to person?” Quando falamos de GTP (sistemas de goods to person), isso pode incluir sistemas de AutoStore, ASRS, Scallog, Kardex, Servus ou Adapto. Todas essas tecnologias oferecem métodos modernos e facilmente escaláveis de atendimento de pedidos, por meio de diferentes configurações tecnológicas e de design. Portanto, quando se trata de responder “quantas linhas por hora posso fazer”, há muitos fatores que entram em jogo, mas há três elementos principais que ajudam a fornecer uma imagem mais clara e fornecer uma taxa estimada de linhas por hora. Vamos explorar isto.

New Goods-to-Robot Systems Take E-Fulfillment to the Next Level

September 21, 2022
Over two decades ago, the internet made its way into households, retail, and manufacturing environments, providing a foundation for commerce to occur in a more rapid and convenient fashion. Since then, ecommerce has undoubtedly become the platform of choice for procuring everything from household products to industrial equipment. While present strategies such as warehouse execution systems, sortation, rainbow palletizing, and GTP (goods to person) systems have certainly helped meet these aggressive order fulfillment pursuits, a new robotic solution is proliferating the material handling industry that can further improve operations and customer satisfaction.

3 Key Mistakes to Avoid in Micro-fulfillment Technology Selection

September 14, 2022
Bringing products as close and as fast as possible to customers triggered a new way of looking at fulfillment centers. In addition to large regional warehouses, microfulfillment centers (MFCs) are popular topics in retail, ecommerce and food industries. Before implementing any solution, it’s key to carefully review applications and properly prepare for current and future scenarios. This step can help you avoid key mistakes and select the right technology. The last thing you want to do is to install a technology that doesn’t do the job the way you expected or needed.

How Toyota's Narrow Aisle and Automation Solutions Can Help Increase Productivity

September 07, 2022
No matter the industry, demand for products and services is at an all-time high. This increase in demand may leave you wondering how to best maneuver and store materials in your warehouse while remaining productive. More and more operations are configuring their warehouse space to accommodate narrow aisles. Warehouse operations are also choosing to automate systems to allow for more storage space and increased productivity when performing highly standardized, repetitive tasks. Narrow aisle forklifts such as Toyota’s Core Electric Turret Forklift, Order Picker, Stand Up Rider, along with automated solutions such as the Core Tow Tractor and Center-Controlled Rider, may be a great solution for your operation. Discover how automated systems and narrow aisle solutions can help you navigate your warehouse confidently and take your operation to the next level.

Micro-fulfillment: From Small Warehouses to Cities

August 30, 2022
In supply chain, decentralization makes it possible to obtain small urban warehouses which help to manage order preparation as close as possible to the end consumer. We are talking about micro-fulfillment warehouses (or micro-logistics platforms), or even nano-fulfillment for the smallest of them.

BlueBotics: Bringing Interoperability to AGVs and AMRs Today

August 24, 2022
Easier than ever to integrate into operations, AGVs (automated guided vehicles) and AMRs (autonomous mobile robots) are transforming the way manufacturing and distribution centers operate. This cost-effective solution increases efficiency, improves working conditions and easily scales to match business growth. Technologies like BlueBotics ANT opens possibilities through their advanced fleet management capabilities and interoperability. This means customers can carefully build-out the vehicle tech stack they need for their business. BlueBotics ANT is part of the Bastian Solutions growing portfolio of automation capabilities.

4 Questions to Ask Before Selecting Goods-to-Person Solutions

August 17, 2022
Over the past few years, the phrase “goods to person” has become mainstream. As distribution facilities look to service customers more quickly, optimize warehouse space, and improve accuracy of order fulfillment, goods-to-person technologies have become a realistic option to accomplish these goals.
Posted in System Automation

¿Qué es el Microfulfillment?

August 11, 2022
Sin duda alguna, el “microfulfillment” es un concepto que se está volviendo tendencia dentro de los esquemas de cadena de suministro. La habilidad de llevar productos a las manos de los consumidores más rápido que cualquier competidor es el objetivo último, así que, no sólo es una tendencia actual, si no que ha evolucionado en una estrategia de descentralización a través de la cual los productores buscan mejorar la experiencia de los consumidores. Entonces, ¿cómo se define?

Autonomous Vehicles: Bringing Flexibility to Indian Warehouse Operations

August 09, 2022
Autonomous vehicles such as AGVs (automated guided vehicles) and AMRs (autonomous mobile robots) are self-guided load carriers that can autonomously travel to execute tasks assigned to them and can be the best fit for distribution centres, warehouses or manufacturing facilities. These vehicles can work independently without an onboard operator due to the latest innovation in sensors and control devices that help drive the navigation.

3 Parcel Shipment Direct-to-Consumer Opportunity Areas

August 03, 2022
It’s no secret that, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, foot traffic in brick-and-mortar stores has seen a dramatic decrease. Recent reports show a slight increase and recovery but it is becoming increasingly clear that online shopping is the way of the future. How are businesses responding to this trend and what does this mean for parcel shipments?

Sorting Through Sorters: Your Guide to Sortation Conveyor

July 27, 2022
The heart of most distribution centers today is sortation. If it is applied correctly, products are efficiently routed to appropriate areas of the facility. Applied incorrectly, and the consequences can be catastrophic, often times costing companies millions of dollars in wasted labor and non-value added processes. Read: Your Guide to Sortation Conveyors

5 Methods for Reducing Product Loss in Your Warehouse

July 20, 2022
There are a few major concerns in distribution system design that need to be consistently addressed. One of the most critical cost concerns is financial waste through damaged product. In a post-recession era when companies are working to “stay lean”, managing product waste is a tangible area where capital investment can lead to great returns.

Reimagining Order Fulfillment with Robotic Piece Picking Solutions [Infographic]

July 13, 2022
Transform warehouse operations to achieve smarter, more accurate, 24/7 order fulfillment with piece picking robotic solutions carefully integrated to support existing workflows and flexible enough to easily grow for future business volume, products, seasonality and new functions. Download this Infographic to learn more.

3 Steps to Choosing Material Handling Technologies that Last

July 06, 2022
Technology advancements are being made all the time, whether it’s new gadgets or software. In fact, it seems as though any time you look at the latest tech news a newer version of a product you've just purchased has come out. The same challenge exists with material handling and supply chain automation. Whether it's upgrading a conveyor system, adding a goods to person or AS/RS (automated storage and retrieval system), or state-of-the-art robotic automation, there are several factors that one should consider when looking into a new technology.

Optimizing the Outbound Logistics Process

June 29, 2022
With the boom in the ecommerce market, companies will have to optimize outbound processes in order to keep up with the race and continue to meet customer expectations – correct orders with on time fulfilment. Let's look at how.

Small Scale Robotic Automation Drives a Big Impact for Gerrie Electric’s Distribution

June 15, 2022
“Our existing 26,000 square foot facility was just not enough.” Gerrie Electric turned to small scale automation to unlock warehouse footprint and productivity opportunities quickly and reliably. The result – error-free picking, a boost in throughput, a trajectory to achieve and beat a targeted 3-year ROI and room to accommodate their immediate growth for additional robots and ports to handle the increased demand. As the largest independent, electrical lighting and automation distributor in Ontario, Canada, Gerrie Electric serves customers ranging from car and steel OEMs, pharmaceuticals and individual contractors performing on-site electrical installations.

L'automatisation à petite échelle génère un grand impact pour la distribution de Gerrie Electric

June 15, 2022
« Notre installation existante de 26 000 pieds carrés n’était tout simplement plus suffisante ». Gerrie Electric s’est tourné vers l’automatisation à petite échelle pour lever les restrictions dues à la superficie d’entrepôt et permettre rapidement et de façon fiable des opportunités de productivité. Le résultat : un prélèvement exempt d’erreurs, une amélioration de la productivité, une trajectoire pour atteindre et surpasser un rendement du capital investi sur trois ans ciblé, et de l’espace pour accommoder la croissance immédiate pour des robots et des ports supplémentaires afin de traiter l’augmentation de la demande.

5 Common Mistakes in Distribution Center Operation Design

June 08, 2022
Before products can be sent on their way to individual doorsteps or stores, there are a lot of individual yet highly connected functions. All of these tasks are housed in a single DC (distribution center). As straightforward as it may seem to get products from inbound receiving docks to outbound shipping and truck loading, there are a few key considerations to avoid common mistakes in layout and design. Unlocking efficiency opportunities means thinking through safety considerations, the placement of functions and technologies in the warehouse, understanding of drawbacks or potential challenges, and evaluating what can and cannot or should not be automated. Let’s take a look at some of the common mistakes and considerations to avoid them.

Key Interface Testing for a Successful and Seamless AS/RS Integration

June 01, 2022
The testing phase is one of the most crucial and often overlooked project phases when planning for an AS/RS (automated storage and retrieval system). Selecting an optimal technology for a customer’s specific needs is only the first step of the process, testing helps to highlight additional opportunities, refine warehouse operations with the new automation, as well as mitigate unforeseen challenges. As we look into what goes into a typical test plan for an AS/RS, there are four stages that can be considered testing staples: remote interface testing, internal integration testing, integration testing with the customer and UAT (user acceptance testing) with the customer.

Workplace Health: Ergonomics, Safety and Health Enhanced by Logistics Robots

May 25, 2022
Post originally published and provided courtesy of Scallog. In order to coordinate and absorb those retail flows as effectively as possible to meet demand, logistics engineers must become more efficient and productive, beyond trading off their resources as an adjustment variable. Automation, and specifically goods-to-person robotics, is a crucial element to ensure efficient logistics without compromising on the operator’s safety and well-being.

How to Navigate Significant Shifts When Upgrading Warehouse Software

May 18, 2022
Supply chains and warehouse operations are under a spotlight with many moving towards adding small- and large-scale automation solutions with software upgrades to match. Identifying and navigating those changes is not easy but the right warehouse software platform and integrator can help make the shift seamless.

How to Fix Conveyor Belt Tracking in 3 Easy Steps

May 11, 2022
One of the biggest pain points in the life of a maintenance technician or installer is conveyor belt tracking. Here are a few helpful tips to lookout for and an easy, 3-step process to get your belt running right down the middle.

Is Pick to Light Right for You? Streamline Picking Processes with Easy, Visual Cues

April 27, 2022
Are you looking for a way to eliminate waste within your picking process? Are you struggling to achieve accuracy metrics? Does your operation suffer from constant turnover or accommodate seasonality? If any of these scenarios hit a little too close to home, a pick to light solution may be a good choice to optimize your operation! In this article, I will go over the functionality, advantages and operations best suited for this technology.

Outfitting Industrial Robots for Extreme Warehouse Environments

April 20, 2022
Hot, cold, corrosive – these environments, and more, inherently require a little extra care when it comes to planning labor and tasks. The same goes for introducing any automated technologies. After all, you need them to operate correctly and avoid any unnecessary damage. Often pulled in to support tasks that need to be reliably repeatable, industrial robotics are an excellent option to support safer work in unique environments. When looking at any robotics application, it’s crucial to consider the conditions under which the task is happening. Whether it’s palletizing, welding, paint, or part handling, the working environment – temperature, exposure, application, and materials – plays a key role in the way automation equipment is selected, outfitted, and designed. Let’s take a look at some of the most common challenging environments and what can be done if the environment is too harsh for most standard industrial robots.

Lean Warehousing: The 5S Method

April 13, 2022
Developing a Lean culture in your organization is a multi-step process and, in this article, we will discuss one step in particular: establishing a 5S program.

Automation is Becoming the New Normal in India Warehousing

March 29, 2022
The warehousing industry has grown in the last few years by becoming more intentionally planned, multifaceted and accessible. It’s a push towards automation. This will progress further in the upcoming years, especially as companies look to meet customer’s fast fulfilment expectations and challenges like labour and real estate availability continue. The last few decades have shed a light on how products get to consumers, bringing increased attention to warehousing and distribution which has evolved the focus bringing substantial study and investment.

Goods to Person: What Works Best, Where and When? [Infographic]

March 23, 2022
The question for today’s modern warehouses is no longer when should we automate, but how and where do we automate for the best impact? To help sort through these cutting-edge offerings, we’ve created a quick visual guide to understanding the basics of goods to person systems, including the different types, their benefits and important factors to consider. View the full-size infographic.

Achieving Success with Goods to Person Starts with Software

March 17, 2022
With all this innovation and growth in the goods to person warehouse automation sector, it’s vital to factor the impact on the whole system’s integration, tied together through software and controls. To compensate, WES systems are getting larger and more complex in order to integrate with new technologies provided by other vendors coming to market. To truly optimize a goods to person system, customers should consider each GTP technology’s merits, but also the software that will manage its operations.

Creating Warehouse Extensibility: Goods to Person and Robotic AI

March 09, 2022
Adapting to uncertain markets, goods to person continues to prove to be a robust foundation for distribution center operations that can grow and adapt.

Latin America’s Largest AutoStore Brings Innovation for Dafiti Group Retail Ecommerce

March 02, 2022
Featuring capacity for goods to person system storage of 3.6 million products, Dafiti Group’s newest warehouse, called LEAP, houses one of the most advanced automation systems in the world providing fast delivery across Latin America. As part of the Global Fashion Group, Dafiti leads fashion and lifestyle ecommerce retail sales in Latin America and needed a facility and supporting technology to match their spirit for innovation and top-level customer satisfaction. This fast-moving system was expertly integrated with Dafiti’s current and future ecommerce growth in mind, offering a reliably convenient shopping experience for years to come. “[LEAP’s] scale and sophistication speak to the transformational growth of the fashion ecommerce industry and will help to propel our next ten years of growth in the region,” says Christoph Barchewitz, Co-CEO of the Global Fashion Group.

Maior AutoStore da América Latina traz inovação para o comércio eletrônico de varejo do Dafiti Group

March 02, 2022
Com capacidade de armazenamento de 3,6 milhões de produtos, o mais novo armazém do Grupo Dafiti, chamado LEAP, abriga um dos sistemas de automação mais avançados do mundo, proporcionando entrega rápida em toda a América Latina. Como parte do Global Fashion Group, a Dafiti lidera as vendas de varejo de comércio eletrônico de moda e estilo de vida na América Latina e precisava de instalações e tecnologia de suporte para corresponder ao seu espírito de inovação e satisfação de alto nível do cliente.

El sistema AutoStore más grande de Latinoamérica aporta innovación al comercio electrónico minorista

March 02, 2022
Con una capacidad del sistema de almacenamiento de 3,6 millones de “productos a persona”, el nuevo depósito de Dafiti Group, denominado LEAP, aloja uno de los sistemas de automatización más avanzados del mundo y ofrece servicio de entrega rápida en toda Latinoamérica. Como parte del Global Fashion Group, Dafiti lidera las ventas minoristas de moda y comercio electrónico en Latinoamérica y necesitaba unas instalaciones y tecnología de soporte al nivel de su espíritu innovador y de máxima satisfacción al cliente. Ese dinámico sistema se integró con pericia pensando en el crecimiento actual y futuro del comercio electrónico, para ofrecer una experiencia de compra confiable y práctica en los años venideros.

Projetando uma solução de triagem: 3 chaves a considerar

February 24, 2022
O Diretor de Fulfillment atribui a você um projeto para especificar um novo sistema de triagem e transportador capaz de "dobrar" as capacidades atuais. Por onde começar? Primeiro, comece entendendo e desafiando a verdadeira triagem e os requisitos do sistema. Os sistemas de transporte e triagem são soluções projetadas. Como a maioria dos problemas de engenharia, a solução geralmente é tão boa quanto suas entradas.

Conveyor Systems: The Easiest Automation for Speedy Workflows

February 22, 2022
For decades, conveyor systems have been crucial for warehousing and logistics operations. Conveyor systems are used in all fundamental warehouse processes to transport raw materials out of storage to the production line, move products into other storage devices, and move final product into packaging lines, or transport packaged products to shipping. It is the most basic automation for anyone in the facility to transfer materials between long distances on varying elevations.

The 8 Wastes of Lean Manufacturing Applied to Warehouse Operations

February 16, 2022
Using lean manufacturing principles to increase efficiency and productivity in warehouse operations by eliminating wasteful, non-value-added components. Read: The 8 Wastes of Lean Manufacturing Applied to Warehouse Operations

RH Brown: Industry-Leading Material Handling Solutions in the Pacific Northwest

February 09, 2022
In 2021, Bastian Solutions announced that RH Brown Co., a fourth-generation family-owned material handling solution provider, became the newest Toyota member company. We talked to RH Brown Co. President Scott Larsen, who launched system integration and automation offerings after taking the helm as the fourth-generation leader. “With the evolution of the company, our primary focus on our customers hasn’t changed. Our primary focus today is working closely with our customers to identify specific project objectives that are most impactful to the success of their business,” says Scott Larsen.

The Value of WES Software in a Modern Warehouse

February 02, 2022
In these cases, either the host ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system or the WMS (Warehouse Management System) controls inventory and is the brain of the entire warehouse. The WES (Warehouse Execution System), on the other hand, is responsible for controlling the various islands of automation to complete tasks given by the host or WMS system. This might all seem a bit complicated at first. After all, if the WMS is like a brain, why can’t it just control everything in the warehouse on its own? Are multiple systems really better and more cost-effective than one? As I will explain below, a WES can greatly improve operations where automation is involved in many ways.

Software and Automation for Third Party Logistics

January 19, 2022
With the increased demand for ecommerce fulfillment and varied distribution channels, more companies are turning to 3PLs to provide the logistics.

Solving India's Complex Supply Chain Integration Challenges

January 11, 2022
This decade has seen the most dramatic shifts in technologies, especially in the adoption of digital transformation. Every department in the organization has developed its unique way of digitization to connect with its buyers. With this, the nature of supply chain challenges faces a new level; the distribution centres across India have a boost in SKUs, which requires handling throughputs with minimal error. On the other hand, customers are much aware of the processes and seek real-time tracking, which organizations often fail to understand. Let’s take a look at the challenges and potential solutions.

Top 5 Benefits of Pick to Light Explained

January 05, 2022
Pick to light has become a staple of warehouse distribution and order picking. Here are the top 5 benefits. What if there was an easier, automated way to locate these items? Say, when you want to find an item a beacon of light illuminates to direct you to the appropriate aisle, and then another beacon of light illuminates to get you to the correct shelf, and eventually the exact location on the shelf.

Warehouse Safety Clothing: Top Comfortable, Durable Options to Wear Onsite

December 29, 2021
When working at a warehouse, distribution or manufacturing facility, personnel must balance different priorities and considerations such as safety, professionalism, and utility. To meet those considerations, onsite personnel must find clothing that helps them perform their job functions rather than be cumbersome and interfere with tasks. With numerous gear options to choose from, I talked to our team about their preferred onsite clothing choices. Below are some of their top recommendations.

6 Ways to Maximize Your Warehouse Software Support Plan

December 22, 2021
Downtime for fulfillment operations quickly adds up to lost revenue and the ability to restore operations is critical, especially for systems that rely on heavy automation. Don’t get caught in a tough situation. Here are six details worth knowing about warehouse software support plans.

A Few Points to Remember When Palletizing Bags

December 16, 2021
Putting a bag on a pallet and conveying it is a simple enough concept; however, the variations in product must always be kept in mind if you want to prevent product damage and misaligned pallets. Here are five points to remember when using bag palletizing systems... Read More >>

4 etapas para avaliar e decidir sobre a Automação DC

December 14, 2021
Se seu centro de distribuição cresceu em ambos os SKU e o volume de pedidos e seu pedido típico mudou de varejo para vendas de comércio eletrônico, resultando em solicitações maiores de pedidos pequenos, é possível que sua produtividade de separação não seja adequada. Você também pode estar com dificuldades de encontrar mão de obra para enviar pedidos rapidamente e cumprir os acordos de nível de serviço. Esses são apenas alguns desafios que grandes e pequenas empresas de todo o mundo estão enfrentando enquanto se adaptam às mudanças de mercado e mudam as operações de atendimento para cumprir as últimas demandas do comércio eletrônico.

4 pasos para la evaluación y la decisión de la automatización del centro de distribución

December 14, 2021
Si en su centro de distribución ha crecido el número de SKU y el volumen de pedidos, o si el pedido típico ha pasado de las ventas de retail a las de comercio electrónico, aumentando las peticiones de pedidos más pequeños, es posible que su productividad de picking no sea la correcta. Además, es posible que tenga dificultades en la contratación de mano de obra para despachar pedidos con rapidez y cumplir sus acuerdos de nivel de servicio. Estas son solo algunas de las dificultades a las que se enfrentan empresas grandes y pequeñas de todo el mundo al adaptarse a los cambios del mercado y pasar de las operaciones de servicio de pedidos a las últimas demandas del comercio electrónico.

Continuing to Lay the Foundation for Female Engineer Success

December 06, 2021
December 6th marks a significant day of remembrance for Canadians. On this day we reflect and express gratitude to the women who came before us and paved the way for women in engineering and other STEM careers.
Posted in General Blogs

Designing an Optimal Pallet Monorail System

December 01, 2021
When it comes to pallet transport, pallet monorail systems offer a solution that can be significantly less expensive than an equivalent roller conveyor system. Accommodating various applications and adjustable for performance levels, once you’ve determined that a pallet monorail system is the right transportation solution for your application, the next step is putting together an initial concept design.

Black Friday, Cyber Monday: Last Minute Prep for Peak Season Operations

November 24, 2021
As we gear up for 2022, experts at Adobe predict we will be facing the first ever trillion dollar year in ecommerce sales – it’s never too soon to prepare for an uptick in sales year-round.

Peak Season: When Customer Focus Matters Most for Supply Chain

November 22, 2021
It’s no surprise that peak season is no longer just Black Friday. The ecommerce and retail markets have changed to show increased demand throughout the year. That increase means added focus on supply chain quality and efficiencies. Material handling automation and software solutions can help offer answers across industries to tasks like picking and packing, manufacturing, on-site storage, product movement, and so much more. As markets change and adjust, even during this traditional holiday peak season companies are striving to win over current and potential customers. Customer trust is key and maintaining that makes a big difference on customer success. This starts with building an internal culture that is customer focused, building lasting partnerships through teamwork, collaboration and trust.

Getting Started with Custom Warehouse Automation Solutions Development

November 18, 2021
Unique challenges invite opportunities for custom automation solutions – custom design and engineering. So, how does the process work? We meet you at your current state and lead you through our development process based on your custom needs.

Repensando a automação de empacotamento DC para atendimento eletrônico

November 16, 2021
A seleção, o empacotamento e o envio é bastante simples. Mas com pressões cada vez maiores para processar pedidos de forma mais rápida, essas tarefas podem dar à sua empresa uma vantagem competitiva. Quando analiso para o centro de distribuição do cliente, há certos indicadores que procuro para encontrar oportunidades de melhoria. Para uma empresa que processa pedidos de comércio eletrônico, os tanques de coleta estão no topo dessa lista. Embora algumas vezes eles sejam necessários, costumam ser uma bandeira vermelha para ineficiências operacionais subjacentes. No entanto, essas ineficiências são facilmente solucionadas por meio de uma combinação de atualizações do fluxo do processo e nova automação. Esses projetos geralmente têm um ROI incrível, pagando o investimento inicial em um a dois anos. Além disso, são escolhas fáceis para o cliente implementar.

PUMA’s DC Automation Thrives Amid Pandemic Retail Peak Season Shifts

November 10, 2021
Designed for agility and growth, PUMA’s new Indianapolis distribution center was immediately put to the test facing unprecedented ecommerce demand in addition to new, unexpected safety measures.

When is it Time to Introduce Automated Vehicles to Your Distribution Center?

November 01, 2021
How do you determine when it’s time to integrate an automated vehicle solution in your DC (distribution centers)? Discover how these automated systems can help you navigate your warehouse confidently and take your operation to new heights.

Strengthening Supply Chain Operations During India's Peak Festive Season

October 26, 2021
Festive season 2021 is expected to bring numerous opportunities for retailers and ecommerce companies. The excitement with festive promotional sales offers will create massive online traffic, impact product sales and company turnover, and put enormous pressure on companies’ supply chain processes.

More than a 3D Model: Emulation “Digital Twin” Warehouse Visualization

October 20, 2021
Emulation and digital twins are powerful tools that can provide some very real benefits in the world of controls engineering and system integration.

Adaptaciones y reconfiguración: lo que debe saber antes de modernizar su sistema de automatización

October 14, 2021
Si ha formado parte de una empresa que haya acometido planes de adaptación o transición, conocerá los retos que se afrontan al desarrollar un proyecto con las operaciones en marcha. En Bastian Solutions vemos cada año muchos proyectos con operaciones en marcha, como los de mejora o modernización de las operaciones existentes. Esos proyectos son mucho más complicados que los que se ejecutan en instalaciones flamantes o existentes que aún no se encuentran operativas. Cuando se emprenden proyectos de adaptación en operaciones existentes, los directivos de la empresa deben esforzarse para mantener las operaciones cotidianas en marcha con poca o ninguna interrupción para no debilitar el servicio al cliente. Las reconfiguraciones, cuando un nuevo sistema se instala online en una operación directa, también debe manejarse con cuidado para reducir los tiempos de inactividad y las interrupciones en general.

Tompkins Robotics: Automating Hyperlocal and DC Sortation from End to End

October 13, 2021
In today’s global market – facing an acceleration in ecommerce and managing the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic – flexibility is not only key, but a necessity. The flexibility to scale up or down and use automation where it fits best in order to help to maintain a leading edge in the industry markets. Facilitating greater speed, agility and adaptability in warehouse distribution and order fulfillment, Tompkins Robotics’ solutions are designed to allow customers to be more successful in dynamically changing environments. In 2019, Bastian Solutions added Tompkins Robotics’ autonomous mobile robot (AMRs) solution to our growing portfolio of automation capabilities. We talked to Mike Futch, the CEO and President of Tompkins Robotics, for a deeper insight on the technology and future of DC automation development.

Manufacturing Automation: 3 Key Technologies for Improved Safety and ROI

October 06, 2021
Compact and scalable automation options are trending across consumer-facing markets like grocery and retail but when it comes to manufacturing, leading advanced technologies are also proving to be foundational for future growth.

PUMA’s Automation Evolution: Retail eFulfillment with Advanced Warehouse Systems

September 29, 2021
“Quite frankly, we were gonna burst.” Sports company PUMA was not only quickly outgrowing their primary U.S. ecommerce distribution center in California, they were also facing increasing pressures in the rapidly evolving and growing North America ecommerce retail market. And, this was prior to the rapid ecommerce growth triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. Looking to reach their east coast customers faster and more efficiently, a new automated warehouse was planned and opened in 2020 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

You Need it When?! The Challenges of Same-Day Delivery

September 22, 2021
With continuing growth in ecommerce sales and mobile device usage, companies will need to master the art of fulfillment in minutes to meet same-day delivery requests.

Richelieu uniformise l’exécution des commandes pour améliorer l’expérience client

September 16, 2021
Richelieu souhaite améliorer la satisfaction des 90 000 clients et plus qu’ils servent au Canada et aux États-Unis en exécutant les commandes de façon plus rapide et fiable. À titre d’importateur, de distributeur et de fabricant de matériel spécialisé de calibre mondial, Richelieu gère plus de 130 000 UGS. En plus d’une approche qui vise à uniformiser et à accélérer l’exécution des commandes, Richelieu a été en mesure de consolider le stockage externe en tirant profit de ses installations à Montréal. Elle s’est tournée vers Bastian Solutions pour obtenir des conseils et pour mettre en place la bonne combinaison de technologie d’automatisation pour augmenter la durée de vie de l’installation de Richelieu et mettre en place un système qui l’aide à maintenir de façon constante un service à la clientèle de grande qualité.

Finding the Right Automation for Grocery Ecommerce: 3 Proven Technologies

September 15, 2021
By now, we all know the headache that is the world of grocery ecommerce. Between a global pandemic, supply chain issues, product shortages and changing consumer demands, many grocers are scrambling to make the best decision for their customers and their bottom line. The industry transitioning from “how a grocer is going to automate the instore fulfillment process?” to “how are they going to optimize the whole process, including last mile delivery?” Brick Meets Click data showed that online grocery sales for pickup or delivery were $6.6 billion in April of this year. That’s down from the $7.1 billion in grocery e-commerce sales in March of this year, but up from $5.3 billion in April 2020. Reducing the labor spend for filling orders in the store is the first step; what follows is a strategy that can help reduce the overall cost of getting orders into the hands of customers, regardless of the hand-off location. Being a high-volume and low-margin industry, grocers need microfulfillment automation and technologies that are proven, scalable, dense, fast AND have a quick, high return on investment, like these:

Is a Pallet Monorail System the Right Transport Solution?

September 08, 2021
Goods to person and goods to robot solutions are trending topics when it comes to distribution fulfillment but what about heavier and larger pallet transport? Pallet monorail systems are one of the fastest and most efficient ways to transport pallet loads throughout a facility. This technology goes by many different names including “Electrified Floor Track System (EFTS)”, “Electrified Monorail System (EMS)”, or sometimes just “Monorail.” In the most general sense, a monorail system is comprised of two key elements: - Track - provides guidance and power - Trolleys - physically move the pallets along the track system; self-propelled The scalability makes them a great investment, less than a roller conveyor system, and an option worth considering. Below we take a look at standard ways this solution can optimize your operations.

Designing a Sortation Solution: 3 Keys to Consider

September 01, 2021
Conveyor and sortation systems are engineered solutions. Like most engineering problems, the solution is typically only as good as its inputs. Accurate data upfront ensures the solution is tailored to your individual business requirements and product specifications.

Cold Food Storage: Leveraging 5 Key Automation Technologies

August 25, 2021
Real estate is a hot item right now. Coupled with changing consumer grocery and ecommerce buying habits and frozen goods growth, cold storage is in demand. Whether a metropolitan location, to satisfy microfulfillment and hyperlocal needs, or as a regional distribution center, commercial real estate availability has dropped according to Real Capital Analytics. Cold storage industry growth, however, is projected at 4.5% by 2023. This means storage providers are faced with the challenge of optimizing facilities while handling increased inventory volumes and speed. How can cold chain supply professionals effectively prepare for this expected growth? By eliminating inefficiencies and leveraging the right material handling automation.

Automated Empty Case Delivery via Robots and Overhead Monorail

August 18, 2021
In many distribution centers, timely order fulfillment relies on operators having access to empty boxes so that they can quickly complete their picks. This is often completed by building a box and then delivering it to the operator within the pick module. The question is – “What is the best way to get the box from the box erector to the operator?”

The Challenges of Grocery Ecommerce

August 11, 2021
There’s no question that online grocery ordering is here to stay. Access to fresh produce, milk, eggs, toilet paper and many more grocery items isn’t changing. However, the process by which those products get delivered to the consumer from distribution centers – that is being re-envisioned to meet changing consumer demands. And, with that come new challenges, technologies and strategies. Let’s first look back at history.

Richelieu Streamlines Order Fulfillment for Improved Customer Experience

August 05, 2021
Serving more than 80,000 customers in both Canada and the United States, Richelieu aimed to increase customer satisfaction with faster, reliable order fulfillment. As an international importer, distributor and manufacturer of specialty hardware, Richelieu manages over 110,000 SKUs. In addition to a faster and more streamlined order fulfillment approach, Richelieu was able to consolidate external storage by leveraging their Montreal facility. They looked to Bastian Solutions to advise and implement the right combination of automation technology to add to Richelieu’s facility longevity and implement a system that helps them reliably maintain strong customer service.

Adaptación de las estrategias de fabricación para el procesamiento de pedidos directos al consumidor

August 03, 2021
Internet, desde su adopción en la década de 1990, es un lugar extraordinario que continuamente abre nuevas puertas y genera nuevas oportunidades. Los modelos de negocio siguen adaptándose a nuestra nueva realidad conectada. Los consumidores ascienden cada vez más en la cadena de suministro. Los minoristas fueron los primeros en percibir esta tendencia, ya que a los clientes les encanta eliminar las tiendas físicas de su actividad diaria y comprar directamente al almacén a través del mostrador digital. Esto ha conducido al desarrollo y el dominio de los modelos de distribución omnicanal, que ofrecen diversas mercancías y marcas a través de una sola empresa. Deben competir con minoristas exclusivamente online como Amazon. Esto ha significado un cambio trascendental para el centro de distribución.
Posted in Bastian Mexico

Leveraging 3 Common Put Wall Drawbacks for Improved Order Fulfillment

July 21, 2021
Put walls aren’t new but their many operational benefits continue to stand out and help drive distribution center efficiencies, despite some common drawbacks. For companies with high order commonality and batch picking, put walls can easily have a dramatic impact to picking labor. Put walls are simply shelving units with several cubbies of the same or varying sizes, dependent on the orders being processed. Modern units have light indicators at the front and back of the wall to help direct operators to pick and put items.

Kaizen Supply Chain: 8 Focus Areas for Achieving and Maintaining High Quality

July 14, 2021
Kaizen is a term that we’ve all likely heard at some time or another. Its use in various companies around the world has only grown, especially as they look to improve and refine materials handling and order fulfillment practices.

3 Common Processes You Can Automate with AGVs

July 07, 2021
“Automate it.” Every industrial engineer is familiar with this phrase, whether it comes from executives or industry demand. Today’s businesses are always looking to make their processes more efficient and flexible, and automation can be one of the best tools to achieve these goals in light of business growth and market changes. Reaping the most benefit from a modernized system isn’t easy and requires careful planning. Achieving operational goals of increased productivity and decreased waste within your budget, are a significant challenge. No two automated material handling solutions are ever the same. Each company and industry sector may require different solutions based on their specific objectives, parameters and constraints.

4 Ways Warehouse Industrial Robots Can Maximize Your ROI

June 30, 2021
Analyzing the tasks, rates and capabilities can help not only maximize the robotic system but also help reduce the need for ancillary equipment and additional investments, creating a more streamline operation.

International Women in Engineering Day: Engineering Heroes

International Women in Engineering Day is celebrated all across the globe on June 23. This year’s theme, set by The Women’s Engineering Society is Engineering Heroes – celebrating “the best, brightest and bravest women in engineering, who recognize a problem, then dare to be part of the solution; who undertake everyday ‘heroics’ as much as emergency ones.” Here at Bastian Solutions, from project engineering to account management, human resources, controls and consulting, among a number of other roles, we’ve witnessed women in various positions in the last year – a pandemic – come together in a time of crisis to provide guidance and resources. They’ve pulled together to keep us safe and others have helped plan, develop and execute intricate automated solutions for customers. On several different fronts, they’ve fostered innovation and ingenuity to successfully undertake the challenges.
Posted in General Blogs

Rethinking DC Packing Automation for E-fulfillment

June 16, 2021
Pick, pack and ship is fairly straightforward but with increasing pressures to process orders faster and faster, these tasks can give your company a competitive edge.

Accurately Visualize Robotic Systems with Computer Simulations

June 09, 2021
As industrial robotic technology has improved over the years, so has related simulation software. So much so, that a majority of the upfront programming for a robotic system is typically now completed in simulation software first before being implemented in a physical robot. The sophisticated software programs used for robotic simulations replicate real world robotic conditions within a 3D virtual environment. These tools allow for detailed customization providing a reliably clear view of how a robot will operate before its built and integrated. This gives customers peace of mind of how their investment will support their operations.

4 Types of DC Automation Maintenance for Less Operation Downtime

June 02, 2021
Maintenance in the material handling industry can be put into four distinct categories: Reactive, Preventive, Predictive or Reliability Centered Maintenance practices. No matter if you have just a small conveyor system or a multimillion dollar fully automated distribution center you will have to perform maintenance activities to keep the equipment running. For each method, there are pros and cons.

4 Steps for Evaluating and Deciding on DC Automation

May 26, 2021
If your distribution center has grown in both SKUs and order volume or your typical order has shifted from retail to more ecommerce sales resulting in larger requests for smaller orders; it’s possible your picking productivity isn’t where it should be.

AutoStore: Designing Future-Proof Automation Technology

May 19, 2021
Scalability and flexibility are no doubt the focus of today and the future in distribution and production. Utilizing bins, bots and ports, the AutoStore goods to person technology brings a grid-based approach that allows customers to shrink their storage space exponentially while increasing their capacity for smarter, faster operations. Working together since 2013, last year Bastian Solutions expanded its portfolio of global partners with AutoStore to further support customers wherever they may be, providing them increased capacity, flexibility and accuracy.

Fostering Innovation in Supply Chain & Logistics

May 12, 2021
Today, companies around the world are shifting their operations to meet the needs of market challenges – acceleration of ecommerce, microfulfillment adaptation. But, with that too comes a need for maintained quality and reliability.
Posted in General Blogs

Making the Most of Automation for Food and Beverage Manufacturing

May 05, 2021
Adding advanced technologies to a distribution or manufacturing operation can certainly create efficiencies. With food and beverage, I’ve found that there are four key focus areas that can help manufacturers truly make the most of automating their processes.

Scallog: Creating a Resilient Solution for the Future of Warehouse Logistics

April 28, 2021
Dynamic and easily scalable, goods to person technologies have risen to the forefront of order fulfillment conversation amid rapid ecommerce growth. Answering the challenge of automation for various industry applications and operation sizes, Scallog’s order fulfillment system adds a mobile robotic solution to the mix. Announced late last year, Bastian Solutions, an independent integrator, has added Scallog’s technology to our growing portfolio of automation capabilities. We talked to Olivier Rochet, founder and president of Scallog, for a deeper insight on the technology and future of DC automation development. This French robotic automation system manufacturer, already installed in six countries, offers a goods to person technology based on robots that move shelves around the warehouse.

Even Turnkey Automation Solutions Require Effective Training

April 21, 2021
You’re planning on implementing a new turnkey system for your business. Just like the name implies, implementation should be as easy as turning a key, right? Not quite.

Employee Development: Path to a Lean Supply Chain

April 14, 2021
As a fundamental element, supply chain and logistics requires delivering a quality product to the consumer. The details behind quality product and on time delivery are complex and filled with complexities such as distribution center locations, advanced automation technologies, product specifications, throughput goals, and software support. And, while selecting the right automation equipment is important for a company’s competitive advantage, sustainable growth is most centered around the people. Lean supply chain management and the operational success is a product of the strength of your human resources. How do you create and foster sustainable human resource growth? While COVID-19 has forced companies to shift priorities and adjust manufacturing processes to deal with changing consumer demand and new safety precautions, the fundamentals continue to hold true for employee development: clarify goals and direction, identify the challenges, promote learning, and put that learning into practice.

Top 3 Myths about Industrial Robotic Integration

April 07, 2021
In today’s environment, technology and automation are growing and advancing at a drastic speed. Recent investments by venture capital and private equity firms are further evidence of that rapid growth. Whether industries are looking to increase the amount of throughput in their facility, reduce or eliminate any ergonomic risks, or increase overall efficiency of the operation, the right combination of technology and automation in an industrial robot can provide the solution. So why are some individuals still hesitant about implementing industrial robots? Common misconceptions in our industry could be playing a part in that. The top three most common myths touch on ROI, applications, and complexity.

Adapting Manufacturing Strategies for Direct to Consumer Fulfillment

March 31, 2021
The internet, since its adoption in the 1990s, is an amazing place that consistently opens new doors and creates new opportunities. Business models continue to adapt to our new connected reality. Increasingly, consumers are working their way up the supply chain. Retailers first felt this push as customers are happy to cut brick and mortar stores out of their daily routine and make purchases directly from the warehouse through digital storefronts. This has led to the development and dominance of omnichannel distribution models, delivering a variety of goods and brands under one company. They are required to compete with online-only retailers like Amazon. This was a dramatic shift for the distribution center.

Modernizing DC Operations: Automation Requires Management

March 24, 2021
More companies are starting to prioritize automation while those that had already put a lot of focus on automation are not looking to slow down. In fact, there is greater emphasis on it. Companies are realizing the competitive advantages that automation provides and are starting to challenge why adding a goods to person or ASRS system may or may not work in their business.

Smarter Robotic Each Picking, Now Powered by AI

March 10, 2021
Robots have been around for a while now and some may now consider them a commodity. They take inputs – product dimensions, pick and place locations – and produce outputs – finished pallets, unloaded or loaded machines. The inputs and outputs are controlled and consistent. What happens when the inputs and outputs can’t be controlled? Are you out of luck? Not anymore! Bastian Solutions has implemented robotic systems that allow robots to see, reason, and act to unknown inputs and produce desired outputs.

International Women’s Day: Choose to Challenge

March 08, 2021
International Women's Day is celebrated on March 8th every year around the world. It has been observed since the early 1900s and first recognized by the United Nations in 1975. This year’s theme is “Choose to Challenge.” What started as a protest for equal rights and voting rights is now a day to “celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.” In the supply chain and logistics industry, there is increased support to drive recruitment for women in engineering and tech related roles, influence of women in the industry, and the development of women’s careers.
Posted in General Blogs

3 Lessons on Navigating Complex Multi-Site Automation Projects

March 03, 2021
The word “complexity” usually garners feelings of fear or hesitation. At Bastian Solutions however, when customers inquire about complex multi-site projects, we view these as exciting and engaging opportunities. Amidst the pandemic, there has been a sudden rise in ecommerce. It is estimated that U.S. ecommerce sales in the third quarter of 2020 was $209 billion, which was an increase of 37% from sales over the same time period in 2019. With this rise in consumer demand, there has been an increased demand for quick, complex supply chain solutions.
Posted in General Blogs

Want to Make an Impact? Choose a Career in Supply Chain Automation

February 25, 2021
I was recently on a Sunday afternoon Zoom call (gotta love COVID-19) with some old friends from college – Boiler Up! We all graduated in the early 2000s, thus we’re 15 years or so into our careers. As the conversation progressed through a multitude of topics from the weather to kids to the trials and tribulations of U.S. politics, one of my buddies expressed how much he dreaded Monday mornings. Although he has a great job, he said he feels “uninspired”. My other buddies quickly jumped in acknowledging their agreement. I asked: “What would make you all feel ‘inspired’?” Almost in unison they all said they “want to feel as though their work is truly making an impact.”
Posted in General Blogs

National Engineers Week: Why Supply Chain & Logistics?

February 23, 2021
In celebration of National Engineers Week – annual recognition of the importance of math, science, and technical skills – Bastian Solutions talked to three of its engineers to understand how they came to be an engineer, their experiences in the field, and how the supply chain industry has changed in the last year.
Posted in General Blogs

System Integration Success Through Effective Communication

February 17, 2021
Synchronizing complex automation systems and technologies is no easy feat. You’re not only coordinating controls and software but also ensuring that components, technologies, and processes work well together to achieve project goals. To make processes better. As unique as each system is, so too is design, installation and project management. The last thing you want is to have complications or hamper creativity that may give you the competitive edge you seek for your company.
Posted in General Blogs

Retrofits and Cutovers: What to Know Before Modernizing Your Automation System

February 10, 2021
At Bastian Solutions, we see a lot of live operation projects every year – enhancements or modernizations of existing operations. These kinds of projects are considerably more difficult than projects that are performed in a greenfield (brand new building) or brownfield (existing building) site that aren’t operational today.
Posted in General Blogs

Automated Distribution: Bringing Innovation to Pharma Fulfillment at Knipper

February 03, 2021
Now with access to 75% of the U.S. population with 2-day ground service, Knipper can deliver product to customers faster, thus increasing customer satisfaction, creating unique opportunities, and greater specialization in direct to physician fulfillment.

30 Years of Industry Experience: Creating a Strong Foundation for Improved Kaizen Processes

January 27, 2021
Coronavirus (COVID-19) has penetrated every industry and forced changes throughout. Business processes have required accelerated reviews for the safety of the workforce and to adjust to changes in consumer demand. Supply chain and logistics has been in the spotlight with concerns about how shipments will get from one location to another, replenishment changes due to ecommerce trend acceleration, and demands for same day deliveries. This leads to process and management decisions.

3 Key Lessons for New Year DC Throughput Efficiencies & Adaptability

January 19, 2021
We’ve all heard some variation of the saying “Never Let a Crisis Go to Waste” but how good are we at recognizing the crisis and the best way to capitalize on it? As we enter this new year, we must acknowledge 2020 was unlike any other year in many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted everything in our lives: personal, political, and professional. The world learned to work from home, educate from home, and to the point of this article – shop from home. What can be learned from this “Great Accelerator” event to ensure distribution centers are ready to adapt in the future and improve throughput efficiencies? Here are three lessons from this past year, and a few recommendations for each to ensure the 2020 distribution center (DC) “crisis” doesn’t go to waste:

Supply Chain Returns: Strategically Handling the Post-Holiday Rush

January 13, 2021
With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season now over, many would think that retailers and manufacturers could catch their breath and start to focus on the next season. However, all retailers and online businesses know that there is one more hurdle to cross before closing out this season and that means processing returns! Here are 3 Key Thoughts for Strategically Managing Returns.
Posted in General Blogs

New Year DC Resolutions: 4 Operational Considerations for a Smoother Year Ahead

January 06, 2021
As we close the door on a year of tremendous challenge and change, it’s a good time for distribution center (DC) leaders to pause and reflect on how to apply the hard-won learnings of 2020 in order to make course corrections for 2021 and beyond. Despite how early it may seem, now is the time to prepare for the second half of 2021, by which time the COVID-19 pandemic may be substantially behind us. As you chart your distribution operation’s path forward consider a few key questions that take into account your business needs, workforce, trends and technologies. Not only will this help prepare your operations for a smoother process but will help you assess your capabilities as external factors continue to change.

7 Ways to Help Your Warehouse Employees Work at Peak Performance

December 29, 2020
For years, logistics consultants, material handling engineers , and supply chain execution providers have been slicing-and-dicing warehouse statistics in a quest to enhance employee performance for the ultimate purpose of bringing profitable dollars to the bottom line. While having tangible statistics and historical records of warehouse operation is important, I suggest that these benchmarks alone will not drive peak employee or warehouse performance.

Scalable Automation: Creating Optimization for Today and Tomorrow at Parts Town

December 16, 2020
Parts Town needed a way to get ahead of their 30 percent year over year growth. Order printouts and manual push carts bustling from one side of the warehouse to another just wasn’t working anymore. Wanting to embrace their success without sacrificing their promise to customers of same-day delivery, Parts Town turned to Bastian Solutions. It was time to envision a new approach and make better use of their space.

Drones en la Cadena de Suministro

December 09, 2020
Era sólo cuestión de tiempo para que los proveedores logísticos, los integradores y las diferentes empresas multinacionales empezaran a buscar maneras de aprovechar esta tecnología.

Goods to Person Systems Stretch Beyond Social Distancing Benefits

December 09, 2020
Various goods-to-person technologies have risen to the challenge of social distancing by creating naturally spaced workstations for employees and allowing companies to continue their business momentum. In some cases, ramping up to match shifts like we’ve seen in ecommerce. In Q3 2020, about $1 in every $5 was spent on online sales, according to U.S. Commerce Department retail data.

Multi-Site Project Implementations: Consistency Drives Efficiency

November 18, 2020
As the global effects of COVID-19 continue to play out, demand for contactless shopping via eCommerce is increasing putting pressure on fulfillment. Businesses are scrambling to identify opportunities to increase supply across their distribution networks. Many are seeking support from automation systems integrators (conveyor, robotics, software, controls) across several fulfillment sites at once. While multi-site implementations can be challenging, when executed successfully they can achieve greater results than single-site implementations.

El Comercio Electrónico en México

November 18, 2020
Sin duda el comercio electrónico ha revolucionado la manera en la que las personas realzan sus compras. No sólo ha incrementado la participación comercial del comercio electrónico en el mundo, si no que en los años recientes el crecimiento exponencial representa una amenaza para el comercio tradicional. Read: El Comercio Electrónico en México
Posted in Bastian Mexico

Pandemic Accelerated Growth: 5 Ways AGVs and AMRs are an Asset to Your Operations

November 12, 2020
Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are transforming the way manufacturing and distribution centers operate. They are easier than ever to integrate into your operations and are currently seeing a significant boost in adoption.

Black Friday Prep: Peak Season Trends

November 06, 2020
Although 2020 has been an unpredictable year with unprecedented commerce demands, this year worldwide ecommerce sales have already increased by 18% more than last year. That’s $3.5 trillion USD, according to Shopify. And, it’s expected to nearly double by 2023 to more than $6.5 trillion. Chances are that planning was already underway to shift processes to accommodate for the expected growth in ecommerce before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. However, the state of the world during the pandemic greatly shortened the time frame in which updates and changes needed to be made. Companies everywhere scrambled to quickly pivot based on their unique situations.

5 Order Fulfillment Technologies to Keep an Eye On

October 28, 2020
As an independent systems integrator, Bastian Solutions is constantly evaluating the latest cutting-edge technologies. Largely driven by the continued growth of ecommerce, advancements in automated order fulfillment solutions continue at an unprecedented pace. Here are five order fulfillment technologies to keep an eye on…

Using an AutoStore ASRS as a Manufacturing WIP Storage Buffer

October 22, 2020
With the advent of cube storage solutions, non-traditional ASRS have become more prevalent. In certain applications, the cube storage solution can be denser (smaller facility footprint) and less expensive than traditional ASRS.

Hyper-Local Fulfillment 101: Permanent Changes in Buyer Behavior

October 14, 2020
This supply chain evolution has created the need for hyper-local fulfillment, which also comes with its own challenges. Customers expect things like free or low-cost shipping, same or next day delivery, hassle-free returns and inventory to be always in stock, just to name a few.

Breaking the Ice on Cold Storage Automation

October 08, 2020
Bastian Solutions’ Supply Chain Explained: LIVE webinar series continued with Robert Humphry, manager of systems sales taking a look at the complicated industry of frozen and refrigerated goods.

B2B Warehousing: Automation to Transform your Operations

September 30, 2020
Our second webinar of the Supply Chain Explained: LIVE series featured advice from Bastian Solutions’ Director of Consulting, Jason Tenorio, on challenges everyone in the B2B warehousing world is facing.

Ecommerce Automation: Addressing Overnight Changes in Buying Patterns

September 24, 2020
In the first installment of our Supply Chain Explained: LIVE webinar series, Director of National Accounts Matt Kuper discussed the massive impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the ecommerce supply chain. With retailers shifting to more online sales, grocers managing more buy online, pick up in store (BOPIS) orders, and supply chain interruptions across the globe hindering the ability to order parts or products, we saw a major shift in buying patterns for both B2B and B2C.

Business Intelligence and the Benefit of Sofware Analytics

September 21, 2020
'Business Intelligence' and 'Analytics' are buzzwords in our society. Any google trend search will show the rise of these buzzwords over the last 15 years. Everyone wants to make smart business decisions based on the data that they have; and everyone wants to know that they have made smart business decisions - and how to improve on those decisions. This is especially true in the automated warehousing industry as these systems need to produce an ROI to justify the expense of implementation.

5 Ways to Keep Your Project on Schedule

September 10, 2020
The two weeks at the beginning of a project take just as long as at the end of a project. The difference between the beginning and end, is that the beginning is usually less stressful than when a project is getting close to a deadline or a hard Go Live date. It can be easy to let precious time slip! By being efficient during the negotiation stage and clearly communicating the project timeline and milestones at the beginning of the process, you can help your projects run smoother.

10 Types of Ancillary Equipment for Industrial Robotic Systems

September 03, 2020
Now, more than ever, companies struggle to staff industrial areas due to the ongoing labor shortage. Robotic systems can accomplish many tasks within an industrial environment, including palletizing, depalletizing, case packing, machine tending, and many other roles.

How Much Does Pallet Racking Cost?

August 27, 2020
There are many factors which must be considered when pricing the various types of pallet racking. For the most accurate pallet racking price you should always consult with your material handling provider. However, what if you’re only looking for a ROM (rough order of magnitude) or high-level estimate? Below are a few rules of thumb that will help you determine a rough price estimate for pallet racking.

Bastian Solutions Modular Sorter

August 19, 2020
Due to the rapidly expanding industry of ecommerce, ease of installation and maintenance of conveyor systems is exceedingly critical to remain competitive in today’s material handling market. The more complicated the system, the more of an impact this can have on its design and success as a solution. In material conveyance terms, sortation is one of the most complicated problems out there. Typical medium rate sortation requires AC power, DC power, and pneumatics for successful sortation of packages up to 75 pounds in weight. They provide rates up to 300FPM at 85CPMwith a maximum sorter length of 150ft. Bastian Solutions’ conveyor team has now developed a solution that provides the same speed at 90CPM, an unlimited maximum sorter length, and requires nothing but low-voltage DC power for operation, all while offering competitive pricing; the Modular Sorter.

2020 Internship Program

August 13, 2020
Ever wondered what Bastian Solutions interns are up to during their programs? Bastian Solutions makes every effort to ensure each intern goes back to school or out into the industry with valuable skills necessary for success. From controls to software and systems, our interns had a diverse experience this year, and even with the challenges presented with COVID-19, they each flourished and brought great value to our teams!

Implementing AGVs with Robotic Palletizing Systems

August 05, 2020
An automated guided vehicle’s (AGV) key role when interacting with robots is the delivery/removal of materials. Special attention needs to be given to interaction points in order to have a successful automation ecosystem

Microfulfillment Part 2: Pros and Cons

July 29, 2020
The term “microfulfillment center” has quickly become one of the top buzzwords in material handling. But what is it and is investing in it the right decision for your supply chain?

Microfulfillment Part 1: What is Microfulfillment?

July 22, 2020
Without a doubt, microfulfillment is one of the hottest trends in supply chain. The ability to get products into consumers’ hands quicker than your competitors is the ultimate leg up, so not only is it a trend, but it’s a strategy enabling today’s retailers to decentralize fulfillment, create a better customer experience and redefine the retail landscape. So, what is it?

Building A Community for Women in Tech: Mentorship and Sponsorship

In the spirit of Canada’s National Engineering Month back in March, and as we welcome a new wave of grads into the workforce, we’re sharing our top tips for inspiring students and young engineers to join the engineering field, stay motivated, and find the community they need to feel sense of belonging. In light of COVID-19’s isolation measures, there’s no better time to connect with community members for a video call to discuss their goals and how you can support them.

Promoting Warehouse Worker Safety Post-COVID-19

June 23, 2020
During this global coronavirus pandemic, people are concerned with protecting themselves and their families from contracting and spreading the disease; many go to extraordinary measures to ensure everyone they care about stays healthy. For employers, this protective nature extends to the employees who are the foundation of their business too.

How to Properly Select a Vertical Reciprocating Conveyor

June 17, 2020
With skyrocketing warehouse real estate prices in many parts of the country, Bastian Solutions is finding more of our customers want to make better use of their vertical cube.

Throwing Good Money After Bad: Addressing Failed Operational Investments

June 09, 2020
Throwing good money after bad often happens without the realization that it’s being done. We’ve worked with several clients over the years where the common thread across projects has been an investment in something of considerable capital value that simply isn’t well suited for the client’s operation.

A New Graduate's Experience in the Warehouse Automation Environment

June 03, 2020
Graduating from university is an exciting and meaningful milestone for many. Following shortly after is a huge leap into the first full-time position of your career

The Importance of Discussing Slotting Early in New Facility Design

May 19, 2020
When designing a new warehouse or distribution facility, the earlier that conversations are had about slotting goals, the better the end result.
Posted in General Blogs

How Automation is Helping During a Pandemic

May 14, 2020
Because of COVID-19, many manufacturing companies are finding themselves needing to change operating procedures. Here's how automation is helping one company make much-needed PPE.

Using a Gaming Engine for Agile Supply Chain Optimization

May 12, 2020
How embracing agility and operational responsiveness in supply chain modeling and network design software gives businesses the best opportunity for success.

Questions to Expect From a Material Handling Integrator

May 05, 2020
In any material handling project or consultation, the first step is getting to know your business and its needs. Here are some of the questions you can expect.

World Day for Safety & Health at Work: Looking To The Future

April 28, 2020
With business so drastically changed amid the crisis, will the focus on ensuring worker health and safety be permanent?
Posted in General Blogs

Automation in Software Development

April 23, 2020
Automation in software can be a very powerful thing, when done correctly. Here are some tips on how to analyze whether automating a process is the right decision.

What Do Material Handling Applications Engineers Do?

April 14, 2020
A break down of the role of applications engineers and how they help ensure each project is successful.
Posted in General Blogs

The Benefits of Post-Implementation Support

April 09, 2020
Even the best designed system isn't perfect, so having a reliable support system in place is vital to the success of a high performing business.
Posted in General Blogs

Robot EoAT Tool Changers: How & Where They Are Used

April 07, 2020
On any given production line, workers pick up different specialized tools to complete different tasks. End of arm tool changers allow robots to do the same.
Posted in System Automation

A Thank You to Essential Businesses and Personnel

March 30, 2020
Without the world of supply chain – truck drivers, factory employees, maintenance crews and retail workers, just to name a few – our world might, figuratively, stop turning.

What's the Difference Between WMS, WES and WCS?

March 24, 2020
If you work in material handling or order fulfillment, you've heard these terms, but they're hard to keep straight. Read this article to learn which piece of the software puzzle does what.

How COVID-19 Will Permanently Change your Omni-Channel Supply Chain

March 19, 2020
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to force unprecedented shut downs, will the resulting changes to supply chains be temporary anomalies or permanent changes?
Posted in Industry News

MODEX 2020: A Lesson in Resiliency

March 17, 2020
Despite fears of the COVID-19 pandemic amidst the biggest trade show of the year, the supply chain industry adapted and made the best of a difficult situation.
Posted in Industry News

The Changing Role of a Site Supervisor

March 16, 2020
With large-scale projects, proper planning is required for success. This is where having a good site supervisor makes all the difference.
Posted in Project Management

The Importance of Validating AGV Design with Simulation

March 05, 2020
AGVs have some pretty impressive benefits, but only if implemented correctly. Here's how simulation can ensure the right AGV count and design for your warehouse or manufacturing operations.

Delivering Best Buy's Supply Chain Transformation

March 03, 2020
Learn how we helped Best Buy overhaul its omnichannel operations and supply chain network to stay competitive against Amazon.

Replenishment: The Hidden "Traffic Cop" of Distribution Operations

February 27, 2020
Without a solid, well-designed replenishment strategy as part of a fully integrated operation, picking systems can't operate at their optimal level. Here are some tips to help.

Six Reasons to Simulate Your Operations

February 26, 2020
Six reasons you should consider simulations to help address some of the challenges in your manufacturing or warehousing environment.

Weathering the Storm, Part 2: The Balancing Act of Supply Chain Risk Management

February 19, 2020
It's impossible to predict where or when a disaster may occur, but these tips can help mitigate the risk in today's increasingly global supply chains.

Weathering the Storm, Part 1: Preparing Operations for Natural Disasters

February 18, 2020
Understanding how your operation could be affected in the wake of a natural disaster can help your business survive the worst.

The "Final 50 Feet" of Ecommerce Delivery: Trends, Challenges, and Technology

February 13, 2020
While the “last mile” has long been a focus for retailers and carriers, one particularly challenging element is the “final 50 feet” of urban parcel delivery.

Staffing For Peak Season: What Went Wrong?

February 11, 2020
If your operations hired additional staff over peak season and it was still a struggle to keep up, these factors could have been overlooked in your planning process.

Building the Business Case for Distribution Center Automation

February 06, 2020
While there is often a compelling ROI for automating your DC operations, there are several other key factors that should also be considered when building your business case.

Importance of Communications in Supply Chain Management

February 04, 2020
From timely deliveries to employee morale, communications touch every aspect of any business. These tips will help you establish an effective communication plan.

How Automated Material Handling Systems Impact Warehouse Facility Design

January 30, 2020
Automated material handling systems often have requirements that exceed typical warehouse design considerations. These are the items to keep in mind to ensure your new distribution facility can properly house these complex systems.

Two Key Elements to Effective Change Management

January 23, 2020
Change is not easy and not everyone adapts well. Fortunately, with effective change management, successful transformation can be reached with minimal issues.
Posted in Project Management

Creating Project Teams with the Right Mix of Engineering and Operational Expertise

January 21, 2020
Successful warehouse projects require collaboration between the individuals possessing engineering and analytical knowledge and those with a deep understanding and expertise of the operation itself.
Posted in Project Management

Planning Your Future DC

January 14, 2020
Planning for a future distribution center can be a daunting task, but these tips for developing a robust plan will help mitigate risk and ensure success.

AutoStore Aims to Redefine Retail With Micro-Fulfillment

January 08, 2020
AutoStore is redefining retail and customer service with an exciting new micro-fulfillment campaign and design concepts that will help retailers enhance a customer’s in-store experience

AutoStore anuncia la campana de micro-fulfillment (Spanish)

January 08, 2020
AutoStore está redefiniendo el servicio minorista y de atención al cliente con una nueva campaña de microprocesos y conceptos de diseño interesantes que ayudarán a los minoristas a mejorar la experiencia de la tienda del cliente.
Posted in General Blogs

AutoStore annonce une campagne de micro-traitement (French)

January 08, 2020
AutoStore redéfinit le commerce de détail et le service client avec une nouvelle campagne de micro-exécution et des concepts de conception passionnants qui aideront les détaillants à améliorer l'expérience en magasin d'un client.
Tags: N/A
Posted in Uncategorized

AutoStore anuncia campanha de micro-execucao (Portuguese)

January 08, 2020
A AutoStore está redefinindo o serviço de varejo e atendimento ao cliente com uma nova campanha de microprocessos e conceitos de design interessantes que ajudarão os varejistas a melhorar a experiência na loja do cliente.
Tags: N/A
Posted in Uncategorized

Reverse Logistics & Omnichannel Returns: Maximizing Opportunity

January 07, 2020
Today’s shoppers do not hesitate to send back items that do not meet their expectations. Modernizing the returns process has become a key objective for many retailers.
Posted in General Blogs

Why Spare Parts Distributors Should Consider Goods-To-Person

December 18, 2019
Over the years, Bastian Solutions has partnered with several OEMs & spare parts distributors to improve their order fulfillment systems. We’ve found that goods-to-person systems are a great fit.
Posted in System Automation

Why Your Material Handling System Is Only as Good as Your After-Sales Support

December 12, 2019
When it comes down to it, after-sales support is about making the customers’ lives easier. We believe it is vital to take care of the customer throughout not only the sales cycle, but also the lifecycle of anything we provide.

The Prime Effect, Labor Shortages, and Dynamic Economy: A Glance at the 2020 Market

December 04, 2019
While impossible to predict, certain market trends can give us an idea on what to expect in the supply chain and logistics market for 2020 and how to prepare.
Posted in Industry News

Automation is Here to Stay (and Improve Your Life)

November 21, 2019
I often get asked about automation’s effects on employment. Here are some lessons from history that show how the implementation of automation improved the quality of our lives by changing the kinds of jobs available.

How to Choose the Correct Divert for Your Sortation Conveyor System

November 12, 2019
With so many options available, choosing the right type of divert for your sortation system can be difficult. These are the factors to consider.

The Value of a Good System Test Plan and Test Scenarios

November 06, 2019
As distribution centers become more automated, a well thought-out and formal warehouse system test plan and test scenarios can help conquer these increasingly complex systems.
Posted in System Automation

Automated Bulk Case Dispensing with Conveyor

October 30, 2019
Our client needed a better solution for building mixed-SKU orders. Here's how we designed a simple solution that increased speed and accuracy.

How an Apparel Company Moved from a 3PL to In-House Distribution

October 17, 2019
After previously relying on a third-party logistics company to handle shipments to its global customer base, Adore Me knew it was time to bring its order fulfillment operations in house.
Posted in System Automation

Third Party Logistics vs. In-House: What's Right for Your Operation?

October 09, 2019
Every warehouse operation has unique challenges. When considering third-party logistics, it's important to have a thorough understanding of the entire operation.
Posted in General Blogs

Sifting Through Single Item Sortation

October 01, 2019
Single item sortation is frequently used to quickly fill multiple orders that contain similar items. Here's how it works.

6 Reasons Why You Need a Site Manager on your Project

September 24, 2019
All projects, large and small, have many moving parts that need to come together in time to meet your deadline. For projects to run smoothly, it's important to have one person who knows your system inside and out, making sure it all goes smoothly - a site manager.
Posted in Project Management

Inside the Success of an Electronics eCommerce Distribution Center

September 13, 2019
With the right people, processes, and technology in their new advanced distribution center, NewEgg can accurately fill orders faster with a lower cost of shipping and provide overall better customer service.
Posted in General Blogs

Finding the Right Solution: Supercapacitors vs. Batteries

August 28, 2019
When making a decision, it’s important to fully consider the benefits and disadvantages of each available option. Here's how we decided between supercapacitors and batteries when developing our warehouse robots.

How the World's Largest Wine & Spirits Distribution Center Ships 25 Million Cases Each Year

August 20, 2019
After consolidating all the inventory and functions of its Florida facilities into a single location, Southern Glazer’s Lakeland, Florida facility is now the largest liquor spirits and wine distribution hub on the planet.

Retail Fulfillment: The Costs to Be Free

August 15, 2019
As ecommerce continues to grow, it’s apparent that fast and free shipping is a key motivator for online shoppers.
Posted in General Blogs

5 Reasons to Study Your Supply Chain Network

August 07, 2019
Whether a company has established supply chain optimization as a competitive advantage or is just starting to explore the possible benefits, here are 5 reasons to conduct a distribution network study.

Automation's Effect on Flexibility

July 31, 2019
When exploring automated solutions, it’s important to consider not just the benefits, but the overall impact each will have on your operations - including their effects on flexibility.
Tags: automation
Posted in System Automation

How to Identify a Replacement Conveyor Part

July 23, 2019
Replacing conveyor parts is a normal part of system maintenance, but it's not always easy to identify the right part number to reorder. This guide will help.

Joint Process Improvement: How to Find the Right Partner

July 11, 2019
A joint process improvement program should reduce costs and improve quality - if you choose the right partner. Here are the characteristics you should look for to ensure success.

Drones in Supply Chain

July 09, 2019
Drones are becoming increasingly popular in multiple industries, but will they ever become an essential tool for warehouse management and logistics?

Why You Don't Need a Consultant

June 28, 2019
Not sure whether you need a consultant? This quick guide should help you decide if hiring one is right for your operation.

Creating a Successful Cross-Docking Operation

June 26, 2019
One of the best options to reduce waste is to implement cross docking, but it requires careful consideration and planning to be effective.

Creating a Culture of Continuous Improvement: Part 2

June 20, 2019
While every organization is unique, the steps required to build a continuous improvement culture are the same.

Creating a Culture of Continuous Improvement: Part 1

June 17, 2019
Creating a culture of continuous improvement requires commitment, investment, and empowerment. First, you must understand what continuous improvement is.

Major Trends That Will Drive Distribution Throughout the 2020s

June 13, 2019
Millennials, and their desire for choice and convenience, will drive requirements and expectations on fulfillment and logistics creating a new “on-demand ecommerce” model throughout the 2020s.

Florida’s Growing Distribution & Logistics Market

June 11, 2019
With over 20 million residents and more than 100 million visitors every year, plus the growing demand for faster delivery, Florida has seen tremendous growth in distribution centers over the past few years.
Posted in General Blogs

3 Ways Lift Assist Devices Can Benefit Your Manufacturing Process

June 06, 2019
Rather than risking damage or injury when moving large and heavy objects, more and more companies are turning to ergonomic industrial lift assist systems. Here are 3 benefits that make lift assist devices a worthwhile investment.

O que e o AutoStore? (Portuguese)

June 04, 2019
Saiba mais sobre o AutoStore, um sistema de armazenamento e recuperação automatizado goods-to-person que é líder no mercado em termos de densidade de armazenamento.
Tags: N/A
Posted in Uncategorized

En quoi consiste l'AutoStore? (French)

June 04, 2019
L’AutoStore est un système automatisé de stockage et de récupération de type marchandises vers personnes, leader du marché en termes de densité de stockage.

Que es AutoStore? (Spanish)

June 04, 2019
Obtenga más información sobre este exclusivo sistema automatizado de almacenamiento de almacén y lo que lo convierte en la mejor opción para maximizar la densidad de almacenamiento.

What is AutoStore?

June 04, 2019
Learn more about this unique automated warehouse storage system and what makes it the best option for maximizing storage density.
Posted in System Automation

3 Ways Simulation Modeling Optimizes Distribution Center Design

May 30, 2019
System simulation modeling is a very effective strategy to validate the future-state design of a distribution center, but the benefits don’t end there.
Posted in System Automation

Michigan’s Contribution to Material Handling

May 23, 2019
How Michigan’s history as a regional center of automotive manufacturing led to the rise of innovative assembly line technologies.
Posted in General Blogs

What are Photo Eye Sensors, and How Do They Improve System Automation?

May 21, 2019
Whether they’re used to sense the presence of boxes on a conveyor or parts on a manufacturing line, photo eyes help keep automated systems running around the world.

8 Questions to Consider When Choosing Warehouse Racking

May 17, 2019
While it’s pretty simple to construct, the art of properly choosing and implementing racking can either optimize or inhibit your storage density. These are some questions to consider to ensure you select the best warehouse racking solutions for your facility.

Choosing your Material Handling System: A Quest for the Right Solution

May 14, 2019
Your business is starting to take off and orders are coming in faster than you can keep up. It’s starting to look like time for an upgrade to your warehouse system, but where should you begin your search? These tips will help you start the journey.

Designing an Endless Metal Belt Conveyor Solution to Withstand High Temps

May 09, 2019
While every operation is different, some have unique challenges that require creative solutions. This client needed a conveyor that can tolerate high temps while transporting molten plastic. Here's how we designed the solution.

4 Steps to Reduce Operational Waste in an E-commerce World

May 08, 2019
The Toyota Production System (TPS) characterizes waste using 3 Ms: Muda, Mura, and Muri. These 4 steps can help ecommerce organizations enhance their understanding of these wastes and create a plan reduce them.
Posted in General Blogs

3 Things That Will Help You Succeed in a Robotics Career

May 02, 2019
At Bastian Solutions' R&D branch, we have seen many intern candidates and interested students apply, all hoping to get into robotics. Here are three characteristics that we look for. They may not be what you think!
Posted in Education

4 Signs It's Time to Replace That Outdated Conveyor System

April 30, 2019
Conveyor systems can last a long time, but even the best maintained systems only last so long. Here are 4 signs that it's time to replace your outdated conveyor system.

The Rise of the Urban DC

April 23, 2019
More and more people, especially young adults, are moving into cities. To reach this increasingly important market segment, retailers need to find a profitable and efficient way to do urban fulfillment.

5 Simple Strategies to Attract and Retain Warehouse and Distribution Center Labor

April 16, 2019
Warehouse and distribution center managers face massive challenges in both hiring and retaining employees. Here are five simple strategies that help attract and retain warehouse and distribution center workers.
Posted in General Blogs

Technological Advancements Enabling the Growth of Robotic Picking

April 04, 2019
In the very near future, robotic picking will become mainstream, facilitating a 24/7 picking and order fulfillment environment. Improvements in a few existing technologies have helped pave the way.

3 Advanced Features of the Bastian Solutions Conveyor Shoe Sorter

April 02, 2019
From day one, the main design criteria for our Bastian Solutions conveyor shoe sorter was maximum uptime with industry-leading crash avoidance. That’s why we developed the best slat, shoe, and end offload in the industry.

Palletizing and Depalletizing with Cobots

March 28, 2019
Palletizing and depalletizing with collaborative robots just made a huge step forward. These easy-to-integrate solutions can handle a range of product sizes and styles while eliminating the need for safety fencing and requiring minimal floor space.
Posted in System Automation

The Customizable Gripper That’s Changing Robotic Handling

March 26, 2019
Until recently, handling delicate products required a human touch. The flexibility and dexterity of Soft Robotics' new modular collaborative robot gripper kit changes that.

Lessons Learned: Styrofoam Coolers and Timing Belt Transfers

March 20, 2019
While most of our projects are successful, there is always the occasional project that didn’t go as planned. Here are some lessons learned from a recent project involving timing belt transfers and styrofoam coolers.

The Emergence of Kiva Look-Alikes

March 14, 2019
After Amazon acquired Kiva Systems, these look-alike vendors have copied and expanded on the fetch & carry, goods-to-person fulfillment method.

7 Energy Considerations for Material Handling Automation

March 11, 2019
Automation can provide a wealth of benefits with the right system. Don't overlook these 7 energy-related questions when selecting which automation technologies are best for your operation.
Posted in System Automation

Distribution Facility Selection: It’s Not Just About Location and Cost

March 06, 2019
Cost and location are important factors when selecting a new distribution facility, but don't overlook these important physical components. Read: Distribution Facility Selection: It’s Not Just About Location and Costy

What to Expect When Onboarding at an Engineering Company

February 28, 2019
Here's what you can expect when starting a new role at an engineering company based on my experience joining a team of industrial & systems engineers.
Posted in Education

SpeedCell: Store More in Less Space

February 26, 2019
Warehouse and distribution companies often need to hold many SKUs and pick faces in a small space. For this client, the SpeedCell storage system was the perfect solution.

Labor Management’s Role in Automation

February 21, 2019
While effective labor management is vital in any operation, it’s critical to not lose sight of its importance as the supply chain and material handling industry moves further down the path of automation.
Posted in System Automation

5 Simple Ways to Protect Your Warehouse Pallet Rack

February 19, 2019
You've made an investment in your pallet racking, so why not take the next step and protect it? Here are 5 simple ways to protect your warehouse pallet rack and improve warehouse safety.

Split Case Picking Systems: A Beginner’s Guide, Part 3

February 15, 2019
With the growth in e-commerce, the demand for split case picking order fulfillment systems has never been higher. Here's Part 3 of our Beginner's Guide: Considerations for Choosing a Split Case Picking System Design
Posted in Education

Split Case Picking Systems: A Beginner's Guide, Part 2

February 14, 2019
With the growth in e-commerce, the demand for split case picking order fulfillment systems has never been higher. Here's Part 2 of our Beginner's Guide: Options for Designing a Split Case Picking System Read: Split Case Picking Systems: A Beginner’s Guide, Part 2
Posted in Education

Split Case Picking Systems: A Beginner’s Guide, Part 1

February 12, 2019
With the growth in e-commerce, the demand for split case picking order fulfillment systems has never been higher. Here's Part 1 of our Beginner's Guide: What Is Split Case Picking? Read: Split Case Picking Systems: A Beginner’s Guide, Part 1
Posted in Education

La importancia de utilizar un Consultor en Logística en México

February 07, 2019
Mexico needs consultants to get to the next level. To get there, Mexican companies need to trust that not everything can be solved from the inside. Read: La importancia de utilizar un Consultor en Logística en México

Trends Driving the Case for Distribution Center Automation

January 31, 2019
An overview of the economic and technological trends that are increasing demand (and ROI) for distribution center automation.

Velocity Slotting with Supply Chain Software

January 29, 2019
Velocity slotting can drastically improve order pick time and operator productivity, if used correctly. Here's what you should keep in mind.

Integrating Conveyor into a Part Press Operation

January 25, 2019
When trying to determine the best automated solution for a manufacturing application, it’s important to ask the right questions.

Tips on Integrating Pallet Flow Rack in a Freezer

January 23, 2019
Standard pallet flow components will not hold up to the rigors of cold storage, but these tips will help you find what will.

The Blockchain Supply Chain: Transparent and Traceable

January 17, 2019
Modern supply chains are extremely complex, making it difficult to track provenance, production methods, and more. Blockchain technology can change that.

AutoStore Black Line : Reponses a vos questions (French)

January 15, 2019
Qu'est-ce qui différencie le nouvel AutoStore Black Line? Nous avons préparé un Q&R pour que vous puissiez découvrir les nouveautés et savoir si cela vous convient.
Posted in System Automation

AutoStore Black Line: Resposta para as suas duvidas (Portuguese)

January 15, 2019
O que há de diferente no novo sistema de mercadorias para pessoas da AutoStore Black Line? Preparamos uma sessão de perguntas e respostas para que você possa aprender o que há de novo e se é certo para você..
Tags: N/A
Posted in System Automation

AutoStore Black Line: Las respuestas a sus preguntas (Spanish)

January 15, 2019
¿Qué tiene de diferente el nuevo sistema AutoStore Black Line de bienes a persona? Hemos preparado un Q&A para que pueda aprender qué hay de nuevo y si es adecuado para usted.
Tags: N/A
Posted in System Automation

AutoStore Black Line: Your Questions Answered

January 15, 2019
What's different about the new AutoStore Black Line? We've put together a Q&A so you can learn what's new and if it's right for you. Read: AutoStore Black Line: Your Questions Answered
Posted in System Automation

Which Products Should Go into a Goods-To-Person System?

January 03, 2019
Considering a goods-to-person system, but not sure which one to choose or what to put inside? Start by analyzing your data.

Trends in Supply Chain Network Software Stack

December 27, 2018
Supply chain network software tools that can help optimize inventory, facilities, and transportation - and some tips to use them.

Lessons From the Amazon Effect

December 19, 2018
How the retail and material handling industries have evolved to service increasing e

5 Questions to Ask When Considering AGVs

November 30, 2018
Wondering whether automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are the right solution for your material handling problem? These 5 questions will help.

The Art of Reusing Conveyor

November 28, 2018
When you’re tasked with reusing conveyor the customer already has, these tips will make the redesign and transition as smooth as possible.

Optimizing Productivity and Space Utilization Through Warehouse Slotting

November 15, 2018
One of the differentiators between average-class and best-in-class operations is having an active warehouse slotting program.

A Food Bank Supply Chain: The Logistics of Feeding the Hungry

November 13, 2018
Food banks from a supply chain perspective: how they receive, store, process, and distribute millions of pounds of food out to the community.
Posted in The Supply Chain

What is a Pallet Positioner and Why Do I Need One?

November 08, 2018
Find out how pallet positioners like the PalletPal™ can make loading and unloading pallets faster, safer, and easier for your workforce..

Reaching The Apex 2018 in Review

November 06, 2018
A review of Bastian Solutions’ Reaching the Apex 2018, a 3-day supply chain and logistics event combining education, facility tours and one-to-one consulting to take your distribution operations to the next level.

5 Advantages of a Cobot from Universal Robots

October 30, 2018
Do you want to automate a process in your facility without breaking the bank? Here are 5 advantages of cobots.

Distribution Center Layout and Design - Part 1: Fundamentals

October 25, 2018
Before diving in to more complex topics, it’s important to have a general understanding of the types of DCs and the functions that happen inside. Read: Distribution Center Layout and Design - Part 1: Fundamentals

Distribution Center Layout and Design - Part 2: Systematic Layout Planning

October 25, 2018
Effective distribution center layout planning is essential for achieving optimal performance. Systematic Layout Planning is our preferred strategy.. Read: Distribution Center Layout and Design - Part 2: Systematic Layout Planning

Back to Basics: 4 Common Types of Racking & Their Benefits

October 18, 2018
Racking is one of the most basic tools in material handling. Here is a simple overview of 4 common types and their benefits. Read: Back to Basics: 4 Common Types of Racking & Their Benefits

A Guide to Testing Your Warehouse Execution System (WES)

October 16, 2018
A WES is a powerful tool that can help a wide range of warehouse DCs. Here’s what’s required to properly test and implement a warehouse execution system..

How Industrial Automation Helped Detroit Recover

October 04, 2018
With the perseverance of its manufacturing industry and the help of innovations like industrial automation, Detroit has made an impressive comeback.

5 Things to Consider When Implementing Trash Conveyor

September 27, 2018
Don’t throw your money in the trash! Here are the first 5 factors you need to consider when selecting trash conveyor.

Fixing a Conveyor Belt Tracking Issue

September 19, 2018
How a conveyor belt tracking issue let us prove our commitment to providing exceptional customer service.

How to Calculate the Ideal Building Column Spacing for Warehouse Pallet Racking

September 13, 2018
Anyone who has been through the process of laying out warehouse pallet racking knows the frustrations of trying to accommodate building columns… Read: How to Calculate the Ideal Building Column Spacing for Warehouse Pallet Racking

8 Top Recruiting and Interview Tips for Companies and Job Seekers

August 28, 2018
The hiring process can be a challenge for both companies and candidates. Here are 8 recruiting and interview tips to make the process better for everyone.

5 Cobot Applications for Distribution Centers

August 22, 2018
From picking, packing, palletizing and beyond, here are some distribution center applications that can benefit from using cobots, or collaborative robots.

Understanding Host System Integration with Exacta Intralogistics Software

August 07, 2018
Integrating supply chain software may seem intimidating, but with the help of our experts and a good software package such as Exacta, connecting your host software system to your automated material handling system is easy.

Understanding Host System Integration with Exacta Intralogistics Software

August 07, 2018
Integrating supply chain software may seem intimidating, but with the help of our experts and a good software package such as Exacta, connecting your host software system to your automated material handling system is easy.

Integrating a Modular Overhead Conveyor System

August 01, 2018
How Bastian Solutions evaluated and integrated an overhead conveyor system for a customer’s new manufacturing procedure.

Increase Revenue with Automatic Stretch Wrapping

July 26, 2018
You spend millions of dollars to get your product to the customer as fast as possible. So why let outdated wrapping procedures slow you down?

Think Globally, Shop Locally: Choosing Your Material Handling System Integrator

July 24, 2018
Whether you’re in Atlanta or Madrid, there are benefits to selecting a material handling system integrator with a local presence.

3 Factors for Proper Roll Handling

July 19, 2018
The key to any material handling operation is the collection of product data. For roll handling, these are the most important pieces of information to have.

4 Things to Consider When Selecting Wire Decking

July 11, 2018
After you’ve decided wire decking is the best option for your warehouse or distribution center, you still need to decide which options will work best. Here are 4 things to consider when selecting the best wire decking for your application.

Are You Being Held Hostage by Your Material Handling Provider?

July 03, 2018
One of the most important questions you should ask before choosing your material handling systems provider is: do they program in an open controls architecture?  The implications of the answer might surprise you.

Surprising Applications for Plastic Modular Chain Conveyors

June 28, 2018
Part 2 of our series on plastic chain conveyors. Typically used to transport clean, cool, or small products, plastic modular chain conveyors are surprisingly well suited for the opposite, too.

3 Reasons to Implement a Plastic Chain Conveyor System

June 26, 2018
The demand for plastic chain conveyor systems has been steadily increasing as companies realize the benefits they provide. Here are the top three reasons why you should consider using a plastic chain conveyor system.

5 Key Steps to Your Next Material Handling System Modification

June 20, 2018
In today's fast-paced, demand-driven world, material handling system modifications are almost guaranteed and required to keep up with competition. To ensure a smooth project and successful go-live, whether a brand new system or modification, follow these five steps.

Material Handling Ergonomics: 4 Products to Keep Your Workers Safe

June 14, 2018
Most material handling situations involve physically-straining or repetitive actions, such as lifting products from variable elevations, installing a component in an assembly process, or picking products into containers for order fulfillment. Those physical stresses could lead to worker injury and additional costs.

How to Avoid the 6 Most Common Pitfalls of Robotic Palletizing System Startups

June 07, 2018
“Garbage in, garbage out.” As this phrase applies to robotic palletizing systems, the system outputs, particularly built pallet quality and throughput rates, are directly tied to the quality of the system inputs. To avoid issues, it's critical to ensure quality products, pallets as well as downstream and upstream processes. Read: How to Avoid Common Pitfalls of Robotic Palletizing System Startups

The Benefits of Automating Line Replenishment with Electronic KANBAN

June 01, 2018
With the improvements and new technology in material handling, we can take the idea of Kanban to whole new levels. The question is, what level of Kanban implementation, if any, is right for you and your facility? Read: The Benefits of Automating Line Replenishment with Electronic KANBAN

Adopting Automation and Change Management: What to Expect and How to be Prepared

May 23, 2018
Whether its automating the picking process with goods-to-person (GTP) technology or the pack-and-ship process with tapers and print and apply, the path to a successful automation implementation can be seamless and smooth for some organizations, but also, prolonged and strenuous for others.

New Brew of Software for Beverage Distribution

May 16, 2018
Consumers are getting more tech savvy when it comes to purchasing goods. The common trend is to be faster, more accurate, and provide decision-making information on-demand. The wine and spirits industry is no different, which is why smart distributors are investing in new hardware and software.

Understanding OSHA Safety Standards for Conveyor

May 09, 2018
Conveyor equipment can be dangerous if not used in the proper manner and with necessary safety precautions in place. To prevent injuries and accidents, OSHA has outlined several conveyor safety standards, which we'll review and expand upon. Read: Understanding OSHA Safety Standards for Conveyor

Comparing Internet of Things (IoT)-Based Asset Tracking Technologies: RFID vs. BLE

May 04, 2018
Searching for the right asset tracking solution can be daunting. Within the materials handling and supply chain industry, Radio-Frequency Identifier (RFID) is commonly championed as the defacto successor to previous approaches like barcode scanning, but there are other methods that have competitive advantages and technological trade-offs. Read: Comparing IoT-Based Asset Tracking Technologies

Decoding Your Bastian Solutions Conveyor Model Name

March 21, 2018
With Bastian Solutions Conveyor, we want anyone to look at the model name and instantly know what type of conveyor it is. To do this, our naming convention identifies three key features of any conveyor system--belt surface, conveyor function, and power type.

5 Tips for Attending Trade Shows Like an Expert

March 16, 2018
If you’ve never attended a trade show before, they can be a bit daunting; however, with proper preparation, they can provide you with a lot of exposure to new trends and technologies within a relatively short period of time! Read: Attending Trade Shows Like an Expert

How Can Internet of Things (IoT) Tracking Help Recover Assets?

March 14, 2018
From theft to damaged goods, there is a disconnect in the current supply chain. The Internet of Things is quickly changing how we track, manage, and recover assets. What can you do today to ensure your products are shipped on time and uninterrupted?

Your Pallet Racking Guide: Insider Tips on Selecting and Installing

March 08, 2018
Pallet racking is a common storage solution in warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing facilities of any size. Although common, there are many options to consider, so it’s good to understand your objectives before jumping into the proposal process.

Eeny, Meeny, Miny, Moe: Picking the Best Supply Chain Trade Organizations

March 02, 2018
Welcome to the world of distribution…or is it supply chain….or maybe logistics? Whatever you call it, your objective is to get something from one place to another. There are hundreds of thousands of people working to do the same. Wouldn't it be great if you could find those people and learn from them?

The Highway to Success – Enhancing the Value of the Workforce through Automation

February 28, 2018
Last year, MHI published its “Material Handling & Logistics US Roadmap 2.0”. The Roadmap explains how changing trends in the workforce, technology, consumers and logistics infrastructure will impact material handling and logistics through 2030. One of the biggest changes we see occurring is the relationship between the workforce and technology.

It’s the Little Things: How Anti-Fatigue Mats Make a Big Impact

February 23, 2018
It’s easy to focus on highly automated material handling solutions, especially when these systems have technologies such as fast-moving robots, conveyor, or software. However, it’s just as important to focus on the basics of a material handling environment, including ergonomic products like anti-fatigue mats.

Industrial Real Estate Considerations for Goods-to-Person Technologies

February 21, 2018
Just as the internet has been an enabler for e-commerce, today’s modern goods-to-person (GTP) automation technologies have been an enabler for e-commerce order fulfillment, especially when those orders are delivered on the promise of next-day or same-day delivery.

Automated Order Routing: A Keystone of Your Warehouse Control System

February 16, 2018
From intelligent modules, to proactive monitoring, and complete data visibility into your operations; Automated Order Routing is a software system that will be the keystone to holding your entire operation together. Read: Automated Order Routing Defined

3 Keys to a Successful Warehouse Management System Implementation

February 09, 2018
Purchasing a new warehouse management system (WMS) can bring levels of uncertainty. You want to ensure it's installed correctly and smoothly and your employees are properly trained. To do so, here are 3 steps to a successful WMS implementation.

How to Select a Warehouse Management System

February 06, 2018
Searching for a new warehouse management system (WMS) can be a complicated matter. It is very important to have a plan for success before starting, and then work that plan to the best of your ability.

Is Mobile Pallet Racking the Right Fit for Your Warehouse?

February 01, 2018
In today’s world, we are continuously looking for ways to cut operating costs, maximize the capacity in our facilities, and become more efficient in our everyday processes. As industrial space becomes more difficult to find, mobile pallet racking is emerging as a viable solution.

Mini-Load ASRS: What is it & why does Australia need it?

January 24, 2018
ASRS is the short way of saying “Automated Storage and Retrieval System.” Although these systems have been around for several years, many in warehousing facilities have not heard of it, and those who have might not exactly understand what it is or how it could benefit their operations.
Posted in System Automation

3 Dock Door Equipment Options for a Warmer and Safer Winter

January 17, 2018
Many parts of the U.S. have felt the full force of a ‘bombogenesis’ nor’easter and overall freezing temperatures this season, making it a great time to consider ways to make sure your facility is protected against mother nature. Here are three options for dock door equipment to improve the safety and comfort of your facility.

Supervisão das Instalações de Manuseio de Materiais no Exterior

January 12, 2018
Supervisionar uma instalação de equipamentos como em outras áreas requer atenção, paciência e obviamente o conhecimento técnico necessário, tanto para lidar com os técnicos como com o cliente. Leia o Artigo

Don’t Let Wash-Down Conveyor Leave You Feeling Drowned

January 10, 2018
Often times, when people think of wash-down conveyor, stainless steel comes to mind. That's correct, but there are several key components to successful wash-down conveyor. They are complicated as long as you work with a trusted vendor.

5 Ways to Optimize Your Warehouse Processes with Microsoft Access

January 03, 2018
If your warehouse management system provides countless amounts of raw data, a database management program such as Microsoft Access can help you maximize all that valuable information.

10 Common Warehousing Mistakes to Avoid This Year

December 28, 2017
Constraints such as omni-channel distribution and speed to delivery have really put a strain on overall operations.  Given the immense challenges faced today, DC managers and facility engineers should work to avoid the following 10 common warehousing mistakes.

6 Considerations when Integrating Cold Room Conveyor

December 21, 2017
Many of us think about winterizing our car or home, but your conveyor system also needs protection from cold temperatures. In this article, we will discuss six areas to consider when installing conveyor and other material handling equipment in cold rooms or freezers.

The Magic Behind Online Shopping

December 19, 2017
E-commerce fulfillment is on the rise and investing in automating these facilities streamlines operational processes. Through the use of robotic ASRS, supply chain software, and conveyor sortation, fulfillment centers are beginning to look a lot like high-tech versions of Santa's workshop.
Posted in System Automation

How to Quickly Build Mixed Layer Pallets

November 21, 2017
Layer picking is a high-rate, high-SKU order fulfillment application used in warehouses across many industries to increase efficiencies and reduce fulfillment costs.  Layer picking operations are made even more efficient when combined with pallet flow racking equipped with specialty separators.

Collaborative Robots Part 2: Benefits and Expanding Capabilities

November 16, 2017
Industrial robots play a large part in the automation of industrial environments, but collaborative robots are expanding the realm of possibility. In part two of our series, we’re discussing the benefits of collaborative robots, and why that makes them a growing piece of today's modern manufacturing and distribution puzzle.

Collaborative Robots Part 1: Pros, Cons, and Applications

November 14, 2017
Once you know the strengths and weaknesses of cobots, where do they make the most sense?  Typically, they're best in applications where they move light products relatively slowly.

Robótica e a otimização de espaço de armazenagem

November 10, 2017
Apesar da tecnologia de armazenagem e retirada automatizada (ASRS) não ser exatamente recente, é notável o nível de desenvolvimento e sua capacidade de solucionar problemas complexos otimizando processos logísticos economizando espaços ao máximo.

Using Virtual Reality for Material Handling System Design

November 07, 2017
Virtual reality is the next disruptive technology making its way into many different industries and applications, including material handling systems design. Learn more about BastianVR and how our team is using it to help customers visualize their system investments.

Artificial Intelligence: Hype or Game Changer

November 01, 2017
Artificial intelligence (AI) has been in the news a lot lately.  Self-driving cars, smart personal assistants (e.g. Amazon’s Alexa), and recommendation engines that serve up your favorite movies and books, are all exciting AI applications that you have probably heard about.  There are, though, many more, including in material handling automation.

From the “Other Side” – Perspectives from a Systems Integration Rookie

October 19, 2017
Material Handling is not as large of a household term as many of us would like, but once you have product that needs handled, you must know certain levels about the industry. Here's my first material handling systems integration experience.

Supply Chain Software: What are Unit Tests and Why Should You Care?

October 11, 2017
Unit testing has become quite the buzzword over the past several years, but what is and why should you care? Learn more about this process and how it can help.

Zone Skipping Your Way to Increased Profits in Ecommerce Distribution

October 05, 2017
Zone skipping is a logistics technique where companies ship their products directly to sorting facilities close to the final ship-to destination.  Zone skipping can result in a significant savings as the costs associated with multiple sort and transfer points by the carrier are eliminated.

Automated Order Routing & Business Intelligence in Retail Distribution

October 02, 2017
Automated Order Routing (AOR) provides intelligence for the tracking of order fulfillment containers on conveyor belt network to the correct work areas in a distribution center.
Tags: N/A
Posted in Uncategorized

A 3-Step Method to Warehouse Optimization

September 27, 2017
While there are many different areas and processes you can focus on when attempting to optimize your warehouse, this three-step method can be applied to all areas of your warehouse in one form or another.

3 Space-Saving Conveyor Support Alternatives

September 21, 2017
Conveyors are often routed through all parts of a facility at various elevations. Supporting these conveyors while maintaining critical floor space and walk ways creates a unique challenge. Here are three conveyor support alternatives to help you maximize floor space.

The Importance of Installation Drawings for Your Material Handling System

September 15, 2017
Material handling system drawings are a key tool when proposing a new system to a customer or vendor, so if they don’t make sense, it can hinder proposal discussions and the final outcome of the system installation.

Is Your Machine Race Ready?

September 13, 2017
Downtime can be one of the most expensive costs to a business. Minutes and even seconds are critical in a high volume facility. Almost every machine in the industry will come with some type of preventive measures to ensure it runs smoothly. Take the time and COMPLETE your PM checks.

Mobile Robotics: Uma solução que combina Robôs e mobilidade

September 08, 2017
A precisão robótica significa menos preocupação com erros e limitações no processo de “picking”. Tenha ganhos de performance com a capacidade de operar 03 turnos sem a necessidade de recarregar a sua frota. A solução “Mobile Robotic” posiciona seu processo de expedição acima dos padrões de mercado.

Business Intelligence in Modern Material Handling

September 06, 2017
As consumer needs get more demanding, material handling companies must keep pace and stay competitive.  There is a plethora of unique technologies for developing a warehousing solution, and with all of these, the ability to monitor the system and make meaningful decisions is crucial. Enter business intelligence...

18 Essential Pallet Racking Guidelines

August 30, 2017
The material handling industry is abundant with new technologies and innovations. In the background of all this fancy new technology is a variety of less exciting, but equally important equipment, including pallet racking.

Beyond Conveyor: The Evolution of Material Handling Technology

August 24, 2017
Whenever asked about my job, most questions revolve around conveyor and racking, but I can’t help but wonder why the scope of the industry ends there, or at least the perception of it. Today's material handling technology is impressive and more advanced than ever before.

Information Security and Its Beneficial Role in Warehousing

August 21, 2017
If you think information security only applies to encrypting sensitive data and protecting against data breaches, what would you think if I told you that you were only scratching the surface of information security?

Up, Up, & Away: Spiral Conveyor vs. Incline Conveyor

August 16, 2017
In a perfect world, every conveyor system would be flat. However, this is hardly ever the case. People, equipment, walls, and daily operations always seem to get in the way. Therefore we must go over, under, or around.

Which Sortation Technology is Correct for Your Application?

August 09, 2017
There are many different technologies to choose from when selecting a sortation conveyor, and each solution should be compared to ensure that the correct sorter is used to meet your system needs. Let's explore the options.
Posted in System Automation

On-Demand Packaging Saves Time, Space and Money

August 03, 2017
Have you heard anyone talk about “on demand packaging”, “right sizing boxes”, or “custom box making”? These terms refer to using box making equipment to deliver the sizes of boxes you really need, when you need them. Here's why it's beneficial.

A Beginner's Guide to Order Picking Technologies

August 01, 2017
Time to impress upper management with four picking technologies you should know when beginning a career in the supply chain.

4 Tips for New Engineers Starting Their First Job

July 27, 2017
So you just graduated from an engineering school, and you had a couple interviews with a company that went pretty well. With a sigh of relief, you’ve managed to convince them that you know stuff about things. You may have even convinced yourself of the same. For a time.

Configuring Your AutoStore System: 5 Design Parameters

July 25, 2017
AutoStore is an automated, high density warehouse storage system. Its modular design and standard components make its configurability nearly endless.
Posted in System Automation

AC/DC: Selecting AC Powered Conveyor vs. DC Powered Conveyor

July 20, 2017
Conveyors can be complicated to understand until you break them down into their individual components and understand what they do for your system. A good place to start when understanding your conveyor system is AC (alternating current) powered conveyor versus DC (direct current) powered conveyor.

Is it Time to Automate Your Machine Tending?

July 18, 2017
With the continued advancement of the automotive industry and the high demand placed on manufacturers, is it time to automate your machine tending operation?

Automação e Software Supply Chain

July 14, 2017
O software WMS (warehouse management system) é o mais velho conhecido sistema de suporte de operações em armazéns, faz o controle de inventário, processa o recebimento, ordens de armazenagem, ordens de separação e envio.

Manufacturing Automation, Material Handling, and the 21st Century

July 11, 2017
Modern manufacturing facilities are relying on new technologies and innovations to produce higher quality products at faster speeds with lower costs. Implementing more intelligent software and hardware is the only way to compete; however, those technologies have levels. Read: Manufacturing Automation, Material Handling, and the 21st Century

The Death of Brick and Mortar Retail…Not So Fast!

June 29, 2017
Never in our lifetimes have we seen such as change in the retail supply chain. The traditional process of regional distribution centers shipping to brick and mortar stores has been significantly altered by online fulfillment from the likes of Amazon.com and an ever-growing list of online retailers.

Preventing Common Warehouse Safety Hazards

June 27, 2017
Although safety is a year-round concern, June is National Safety Month, so it's the perfect time to look at the most common warehouse safety hazards and how to prevent them. Read: Preventing Common Warehouse Safety Hazards

Is Your Warehouse Traffic Resembling a Busy Interstate?

June 22, 2017
Self-driving cars are the future of our roads, but manufacturing and distribution centers have been using autonomous vehicles for years. Are AGVs right for you?
Posted in System Automation

A Review of the Distribution Automation Landscape in Mexico

June 16, 2017
We all know and believe that automation is the future (and in some cases, the present), but what’s different for Mexico and LATAM (Latin America) in general? Why is it so difficult to take that first step to automate material handling processes in those countries?

Choosing the Right Employee Lockers

June 13, 2017
Now that we are all grown up (in body more so than in mind), lockers can be even more important than back in school. They store the items we need for work, a change of clothes, give us space for personal items, and allow us to feel at home with a personal space of our own.

A Supply Chain Software Comparison: WMS vs. WCS vs. WES

June 07, 2017
The evolution of supply chain management has introduced a new breed of supply chain software, but what are the differences between the "big three"? Let's examine the functionality of WMS, WCS, and WES. Read: A Supply Chain Software Comparison: WMS vs. WCS vs. WES

Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS): A Beginner's Guide

May 31, 2017
Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS) are not new technologies. They actually became commercially available in the 50’s and 60’s. Since then, there have been vast improvements. Is an ASRS right for your warehouse? Let’s dive into this technology to find out. Read: Should You Consider an Automated Storage and Retrieval System
Posted in System Automation

Your Guide to Critical Spare Parts

May 26, 2017
Have you ever driven down the highway and noticed someone standing along the roadside next to their automobile, waiting for road service? You glance down and see they have a flat tire and NO SPARE! What has this down time cost them?

Now is the Time to Replace RF with Voice Picking Technology

May 23, 2017
Warehouse picking technologies have developed immensely over the past 15 years. Offerings range from paper pick lists and light directed picking, all the way to goods-to-man technologies. Depending on throughput, budgets, and space requirements, each of these have their place in the warehouse logistics world.

How to Select the Right Industrial Casters

May 18, 2017
Casters, like most day-to-day items, are often overlooked—until they don’t work. From carts to portable gravity conveyor and work stations, there are a lot of components within a warehouse, distribution center, or manufacturing plant that often utilize them. So if you haven’t replaced a caster in a while, the time is likely coming.

Navigating the World of Automated Warehouse Vehicles

May 12, 2017
The world of automated warehouse vehicles can be confusing. Just consider the various types of available guidance systems: wire-guidance, magnetic tape and magnetic paint, laser-guidance, inertial navigation, and camera based imaging (i.e. vision-guidance). When you factor in the type of vehicle, e.g. tugger, unit load, custom, etc., the task of selecting a specific platform can be overwhelming.

How to Increase Meeting Effectiveness

May 09, 2017
Communication is key in any business! We're often managing meetings with people in various locations and time zones, both internal and external resources. Each employee's communication manner directly impacts the image of both the employee and the company.

When It’s Right to Use Wide Span Bulk Shelving, “It’s Right”

May 05, 2017
Storage is a key component of every warehouse. Oftentimes it involves pallet rack, but in many instances smaller, bulk storage is needed. This is the perfect application for wide span bulk shelving. Here is run down on the basics of bulk shelving for your warehouse, manufacturing plant, or distribution center.

Get a Grip on Your Pallet Handling

April 25, 2017
When looking for a pallet handling solution, knowing the key questions to be answered and the crucial information regarding your product and process is critical.

Supply Chain Software Making a Big Impact for Small Business & Startups

April 20, 2017
Large companies have teams of statisticians, data scientists and engineers to solve complex logistical problems. Companies like Amazon invest millions of dollars for small improvements to their already lean and efficient operations. But what about companies just starting off in warehouse distribution? How can these companies plan for growth while maintaining small, budget friendly operations?

Carton Flow Rack: Which Type is Right for you?

April 13, 2017
Carton flow rack is one of the many places in the material handling world where gravity is used to assist in the transportation of products. Carton flow utilizes a slightly declined array of rollers or skate wheels to provide an efficient, steady supply of product to an employee picking product for various applications.

Bastian Solutions Unveils Its ZiPline Conveyor Shoe Sorter

March 28, 2017
Bastian Solutions is proud to introduce a shoe sorter as the newest addition to its ZiPline Conveyor product line. Over the years, our team has integrated and installed many shoe sorter designs. Using that experience, we are proud to manufacture our own shoe sorter, featuring some unique design improvements.

Augmented Reality (AR): The Future of Supply Chains?

March 24, 2017
Augmented reality and virtual reality are new technologies being applied to the ever evolving supply chain. Integrating these devices with warehouse software, picking processes, and robotics could be the future of distribution and manufacturing operations.

Click and Collect: Stores Become Retail Distribution Centers

March 17, 2017
Today’s retail stores are evolving, but what does the future hold? Could AGVs or augmented reality speed order picking and take fulfillment to the next level? In the future, will we ever have to go into a store again?

Industry 4.0 - Are you Prepared for the Winds of Change?

March 15, 2017
Industry 4.0 poses massive implications for OEMs and equipment suppliers who don't keep their feet under them. Industry 4.0 is already paving a viable future for manufacturing and distribution advancement. The first gusts are here, and it begs a proper storm warning.

4 Benefits of Material Handling System Simulation

March 08, 2017
Modern material handling systems employ increasingly complex hardware and software to optimize material flow and order fulfillment. As such, committing to a new design, or to modifications of an existing system, can become a daunting task. Learn how simulations can help.

7 Tips for Selecting the Right Conveyor Type

March 02, 2017
There are many items to consider when selecting a conveyor type for a project. Each item has it’s own importance and will impact conveyor selection. Use the following criteria to make the best choice for your operation.

How Wire Shelving Increases Facility Safety and Versatility

February 22, 2017
There are two key underlying fundamentals that all successful warehousing, distribution, and manufacturing facilities have – safety and versatility. Implementing wire shelving has many advantages that meet both of these fundamentals.

If Julia Child Upped Her Throughput: Food Grade Conveyor 101

February 16, 2017
As standards of food manufacturing and distribution change with new mandates, food manufacturers and processors sometimes struggle to keep up. The regulations may require facilities to modify their existing material handling equipment for new, updated equipment that meets current standards. This article sheds light on which conveyor is best for conveying various food products.

Project Management: A Tool for a Successful Automation Implementation

February 09, 2017
Project management is a critical piece to any successful automation system implementation. From the development stage to go live, the project manager must ensure all is going as planned and as the customer needs it. Here is an overview of what a good project manager should cover.

Top 10 Things to Know About Robotic Palletizing

February 07, 2017
There are many factors to consider when implementing a robotic palletizer. What goes into creating an efficient and robust palletizer, and what can determine the overall success of your solution? Here are ten important aspects of robotic palletizing systems you should know.

Carton Flow Rack: Roller vs. Wheel

February 02, 2017
By definition, carton flow rack is easy to understand; a form of shelving that uses a rear load design, as an item is removed from the front the item directly behind it takes its place. The idea gets to be distinctly harder to comprehend when choosing between rollers and wheels for your carton flow.

Key Considerations When Designing Goods-to-Person Systems

January 26, 2017
The ever-increasing need to satisfy customers in the world of order fulfillment is causing the warehouse and distribution industries to consider more efficient and cost-effective solutions to satisfy the need. This has lead many companies to implement, or consider, higher-automation solutions that include goods-to-person technologies. Read: Key Considerations When Designing Goods-to-Person Systems

E-Commerce, the Economy, and Our On Demand World

January 24, 2017
A movie, pizza, pair of shoes, microwave…your new material handling system. All these things and anything else you can think of are now available with a few keystrokes and a click of a mouse. All this buying is not only driving the retail market, but also growing other businesses.

Paper Handling Success Story: Using Standard Conveyor in a New Way

January 18, 2017
When we come across items that are difficult to handle, this often leads us to designing and manufacturing custom equipment to get the job done. However, for a recent customer, we were able to modify one of our standard conveyor models, the high-rate transfer, to solve the issue.

Y tú ya has comprado por internet? Como estar preparado para el Boom del e-commerce en México

January 16, 2017
Cada día vemos como están llegando nuevos servicios de comercio electrónico a los retailers que ya conocemos, así como nuevos jugadores. Esto porque todos quieren ser parte de los USD 3.2 B que representa e-retail, con un crecimiento del 15% sostenido. Leer: Preparación para el boom del e-commerce en México

What to Look for When Sizing Up High Capacity Industrial Trailers

January 11, 2017
There are many applications for high capacity industrial trailers in industry today. A couple examples may include handling aluminum slabs, coils, and die handling. Capacities can quickly exceed a hundred thousand pounds or more, and it is essential to match the right trailer components with your warehouse or manufacturing application.

Tesla VS Edison la guerra de la corriente, Conveyors un nuevo campo de Batalla

January 06, 2017
Precisamente en el momento en donde el nombre de Tesla comienza a ganar su lugar en la historia, donde cada día se conoce mucho más de su genio incomprendido y nos hacemos partícipes de todas las mejoras que ayudaron a moldear mejor el mundo actual vengo a reavivar la llama de la famosa guerra entre la corriente directa y la corriente continua que se libró hace más de un siglo.

The Top 4 Benefits of a Robotic Document Inserter

January 04, 2017
A Robotic Document Inserter can accurately place the proper paperwork into your case or carton every time and can ease the demand on your operational team.

The Whole 9 Yards on E-Commerce

December 21, 2016
With an unprecedented ability to compare prices and shop around without ever leaving the house, more and more people are utilizing E-commerce. So how are successful E-commerce companies setting themselves apart? Read on to find out.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Conveyor Roller Replacement

December 15, 2016
Understanding what information to have on hand when ordering replacement conveyor rollers can remove a lot of guess work, reducing the risk of ordering incorrect rollers and not having the correct parts available when equipment breaks down.

5 Passos para uma Implementação de Automação Logística bem Sucedida

December 09, 2016
O sucesso de uma solução de manuseio de materiais bem implementada depende de alguns passos importantes a seguir. Um bom manuseamento de materiais integrador siga estes passos para garantir que o projeto for bem sucedido, e que o cliente está satisfeito. Rear o artigo completo

Taking Ownership of Your New Automation System

December 07, 2016
A customer who is ready and willing to take ownership of their new automation system is more likely to be successful

I am Thankful for….Same Day Shipping!

November 22, 2016
As Thanksgiving approaches, I would like to admit that I am very thankful for same day shipping. Yes, of course this comes behind my family, friends, home, etc. However as part of a two-working-parent household with two young boys, this convenience is a lifesaver. Continue Reading: I am Thankful for….Same Day Shipping!

Is the World ready for the New Frontier of Robotic End of Arm Tooling?

November 01, 2016
With recent innovations in technology, Robotic End of Arm Tooling concepts are rapidly becoming a reality in today's manufacturing environment. These innovations are helping manufacturers increase productivity and efficiency in their operations.

3 Considerations to Prep Your Order Fulfillment for Black Friday

October 17, 2016
In order to be best prepared for seasonal peaks such as Black Friday and its potential 10:1 volume spike, distribution leadership must begin looking at how their warehouses are set up.

Taking Your Warehouse to Another Level (Literally!) with Elevated Platforms

October 13, 2016
If you've maximized the floor space of your current facility, you might be thinking of making an expensive move. But another option to consider is using the full volume of your facility and investing in your vertical space with elevated platforms.

Tecnologia Avançada de Separação de Pedidos traz Melhorias para Operadores de E-Commerce

October 07, 2016
Acompanhando o grande sucesso do e-commerce é fácil imaginar como é crítico e eficiente o processo de separação de pedidos de empresas de e-commerce. Seus clientes esperam receber seus pedidos cada vez mais rápido e por outro lado o único caminho de atender as expectativas é usando sistemas automáticos ao invés de operação manual.

Fluid Loading and Unloading: It’s Really Cut and Dry

September 28, 2016
Loading and unloading a moving truck by hand is a task that we despise in our personal lives and yet a very similar task is performed everyday across the world by thousands of businesses and tens of thousands of people. Here are three conveyor options to improve your fluid loading process.

Importância do Integrador na solução de automação para manuseio e movimentação de material

September 22, 2016
O Brasil segue se desenvolvendo na área de logística tanto em tecnologia como também em processos. Um novo e importante papel que começa a fazer diferença, é o Integrador.

How to Select and Optimize Cost Effective Material Handling Systems

September 20, 2016
In any distribution or manufacturing operation, material must be moved from point A to point B. This movement is not free; so whether it is people, conveyors, or automated guided vehicles (AGVs) being used to transport goods, the cost to move material has a significant impact on a company’s bottom line.

Bastian Solutions na Movimat 2016

September 14, 2016
A Bastian Solutions irá participar da Movimat 2016, que ocorrerá no período de 20 a 22 de Setembro no Expo Center Norte em São Paulo - SP.

Top 10 Things to Know About Industrial Robots

September 08, 2016
The need to reduce labor cost, improve ergonomics, maximize system efficiency and speed, and improve product quality has never been more vital than right now. Here are ten important aspects of industrial robotic systems you should know. Read: Top 10 Things to Know About Industrial Robots

Pallet Dispenser Essentials

August 24, 2016
One of the most vital parts of any palletizing system is a pallet dispenser. Pallet dispensers automate the infeed of an empty pallet at regular intervals into the system. This automatic infeed increases the overall efficiency of the system by leaving operators available to tend to different parts of the same line, or even a different line altogether. Read: Pallet Dispenser Essentials

Be the Box:  Using Visualization to Create a Better Material Handling System Design

August 19, 2016
When creating your material handling system design, visualizing your product's path and any potential bottlenecks ensures an efficient design that will be successful now and in the future.
Posted in System Automation

Leaning on Smart Manufacturing

August 16, 2016
In the modern world of industrial robots and manufacturing, there are many new and innovative ideals being proposed as guidelines to streamline the mechanisms cranking out the incredible magnitude of products populating our world today. For instance, the Lean Manufacturing movement.

Dress Up Your Pallet Rack With Accessories

August 12, 2016
To take full advantage of your pallet rack investment, you should also consider some common accessories to ensure the safety and longevity of its use. These accessories can include wire decking, row spacers, and column protectors to name a few.

What Does a Material Handling Systems Integrator Do and How Can It Benefit My Business?

August 10, 2016
If you're wondering why you've been directed to a material handling systems integrator by an OEM or if you stumbled across a website in an attempt to learn more, then here's some information on the benefits of a systems integrator and what you should expect. Read: Benefits of a Material Handling Systems Integrator
Posted in System Automation

5 Tips on Project Requirements Definition

August 04, 2016
It would be nice if you could download the ideas for your next project to someone else, but today you have to define project requirements. That term is used often and everyone has a different idea of what constitutes a “requirement”.

A Guide to Dock Boards and Dock Plates

July 26, 2016
Any facility you go into that requires material handling equipment, will most likely have one, if not more, dock doors. Dock doors are the life line to get your customers product in and out of the facility. So, how do you handle the transition from the carrier (via truck) to getting the product into the building and back out?

Spare Parts and Why You Need Them

July 20, 2016
Whether you require conveyor system spare parts, robotic spare parts, or other spare parts inventory, having those critical items on hand is key to keeping your material handling system at maximum uptime.

Pallet Rack Systems: Structural vs. Roll Form Pallet Racking

July 13, 2016
Choosing the correct type and style of pallet rack system is critical in ensuring your warehouse space is efficiently utilized on the first day of use and for years to come. Whether selective, drive-in, pallet flow or some other type of rack is best suited for your application, determining whether to use roll form or structural components is a decision that should not be overlooked.

How to Choose and Work with a Robotics Integrator

July 07, 2016
Choosing the proper integrator to partner with to accomplish an organization’s strategic goals for robotic automation is not a trivial task. Companies have several avenues that they explore when it comes to gathering information, soliciting bids, evaluating, and selecting an integration partner.

Making Sense of "All the Things"

July 05, 2016
RF scanning devices, conveyor photo eyes, and warehouse management software are a few of the elements that contribute to the warehouse Internet of Things. Take the concept a step further by mining data from the operation to feed business intelligence software and you have the Internet of Everything.

5 Reasons to Utilize Conveyors Over Carts for Material Transport

June 24, 2016
The challenge of how to best move materials efficiently though the facility is something that keeps many operation managers scratching their heads. Generally, as product volume dictates, carts are brought into the equation and then non-powered trucks or conveyor. But when is it right to invest in conveyor for your material transport?

Organize Your Warehouse with the Right Industrial Containers

June 22, 2016
For all of us in the northern hemisphere, it’s officially summer time, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late for a little spring cleaning. If your facility could benefit from improved storage and organization, there is a wide variety of industrial containers from which you can choose based on your storage needs.

Accumulation Conveyor 101: Understanding Minimum and Zero Pressure

June 16, 2016
When designing your conveyor system, you will most likely find yourself in need of some sort of accumulation conveyor. Whether that accumulation is belted or roller, minimum or zero pressure, or fixed zone or dynamic, Bastian Solutions is here to help. Read: Accumulation Conveyor 101

5 Easy Steps to Choosing a Conveyor

June 10, 2016
Selecting the right conveyor for your operation can be difficult. There are many brands and types to consider based on your application, goals, and environment. Although our team is always available to help you in the conveyor selection process, here are 5 steps to get you started.

How to Specify Your Conveyor Safety Netting

June 01, 2016
Overhead conveyor is a common and useful component of many material handling system designs. It saves valuable floor space and can provide a safer working environment for employees as long the proper safety features are included. One key safety component of overhead conveyor is safety netting.

Put Walls: The Low Investment Solution for E-Commerce Order Fulfillment

May 24, 2016
E-Commerce Sales around the globe have eclipsed previous records continuously for the past ten years, and it’s easy to see why. Consumers can purchase everything from household commodities to a lock of Justin Beiber's hair and all from the comfort of their home.

9 Things to Consider Before Buying a Carton Flow Rack System

May 20, 2016
Carton flow rack can be a valuable tool that allows users to save space and increase efficiency in order fulfillment operations. The key is selecting the right type of carton flow rack for your facility. There are several options to choose from, and there are several factors that must be considered.

Improve Warehouse Safety During National Safety Month

May 16, 2016
Employee safety is important in any field of work, but for manufacturing, distribution, and warehouse workers, it's something that must be considered every day. From poor ergonomics to high-tech machinery, there are a lot of situations our workers encounter each day that could potentially lead to injury.

The Reality of “One-Size-Fits-All” Supply Chain Software

May 11, 2016
Many supply chain software companies want to sell an entire suite of products to their customers, but oftentimes, only a few of the products fit a customer’s needs. When a “one-size-fits-all” solution doesn’t work, that’s when software modules come into play.

Why ResinDek® is a Great Cost Saving Alternative to Concrete Mezzanine Floors

May 06, 2016
Conventional wisdom has always suggested that concrete floors are superior construction when it comes to mezzanine floors. A popular choice for new construction by many general contractors, concrete is a proven flooring material offering both durability and longevity. Concrete construction, however, comes at a cost, a very high cost.

Voice Guided Technology: A Proven Solution for your DC and WMS

May 03, 2016
Voice technology is evolving all around us, and its use in the warehouse is no different. Even with the onslaught of advanced automation, voice-guided picking is an effective and popular order fulfillment solution.

Anatomy of a Pneumatic Lift

Within a complex material handling system, product may need to be transferred between elevations. The most commonly used piece of equipment for this elevation transfer is an elevator lift. For light duty applications such as totes and boxes, a pneumatic lift elevator is a very economical solution.

Difficult to Convey: Documents and Stacks of Paper

April 26, 2016
The material handling industry is wrought with products that are simply a bear to move. For some products there are plenty of “okay” options, but an optimal one is seemingly nonexistent. So do you just call it quits, close the doors, and never sell another of your difficult to convey products? Of course not.

Where Should My New Distribution Center Be Located?

April 22, 2016
Whether you are looking to build your first Distribution Center (D.C.) or your fifth, the location of the D.C. is critical for the success of your operations. There are many factors that can affect the decision of where the facility should be, including: real estate cost, transportation cost, labor cost, access to quality labor, taxes, transportation routes, service level guarantees and many others.
Posted in The Supply Chain

Buying Versus Leasing Industrial Equipment

April 20, 2016
When it comes to procuring industrial equipment, we have to look at what option is best for our companies. Many businesses often seek to save as much money as possible when it comes to acquiring this type of equipment. Some businesses have available capital to invest in purchasing new equipment, while others prefer leasing.

Next Generation Goods-to-Person System Extends Beyond the Storage Buffer

March 28, 2016
Goods to person automation is an ever growing field that represents a revolution in the material handling industry – eliminating the costly and time-intensive process of having operators travel throughout the warehouse to pick. There are many options out there, but all of these technologies are representing only half of the goods-to-person concept.

New Bastian Solutions Conveyor Product: Two-Lane Flighted Conveyor Merge

March 23, 2016
Our Bastian Solutions Conveyor brand flighted conveyor merge may sound like some sort of fancy, new piece of technology that uses cutting-edge controls to parse products at lightning speed through the air. Well, it’s actually much simpler than that. In fact, it kind of removes the need for controls. And fancy technology. It’s really quite simple.

The Southeast U.S. Provides Big Opportunity for Business

March 18, 2016
With MODEX 2016 right around the corner, I took some time to speak with our Atlanta regional manager, Brian Ulanch, on the growing opportunities and benefits of doing business in Atlanta and the importance of hosting one of our industry's biggest shows.

Which Goods-to-Person Technology is Right for Your Operation?

March 08, 2016
With increasingly high customer expectations in the world of order fulfillment, many distribution and warehouse managers are searching for ways to improve throughput, accuracy, and efficiency. To help, we need look no further than the best-in-class Goods-to-Person (GTP) technologies that are changing the face of order fulfillment.
Posted in System Automation

5 Ergonomic Products Employees Will Love

February 24, 2016
As we wrap up the month of love and get even farther into 2016, maybe you’re asking yourself, “What can I do for my employees to make 2016 even better for them?” One place to start is ergonomics.

Your Path to an Automated Warehouse: 3 Things to Know

February 23, 2016
Peace of mind, organization, simplicity. These are things we all strive for in life, and of course within the four walls of a warehouse or distribution center. To achieve these goals in your operation, here are 3 steps for implementing proven intelligent technology into your current process.

New Singulator Handles 60-Pound Tires

February 18, 2016
There are various types of singulators, and they can handle everything from boxes to specialty products, or in this case, circular/cylindrical items. One of our newest projects coming off the production floor is a singulator designed to efficiently handle heavy tires during the manufacturing process. Read: New Singulator Handles 60-Pound Tires
Posted in Manufacturing

Machine Tending Robots: The Importance of Part Positioning

February 10, 2016
One of the key aspects of a robotic machine tending system is part positioning. It is critical during the design process to understand the interface between the part, machine center, and robot.

Keg Handling 101: 3 Options for Easy Moving

February 05, 2016
One of the most challenging and often times dangerous items to handle and store are beer and wine kegs. Not only are they awkward and heavy, but their round, oblong shape leads to very inefficient storage. In addition, the rapid expansion of the craft beer industry has led to a significant increase in the number of keg SKUs requiring storage. With wine makers also jumping on the keg bandwagon, the number of wines being distributed in kegs is also rising. As more beer and wine distributors must handle kegs, it's important to do so properly and safely. Below are a few helpful solutions for your keg handling needs.

Competitive DC Growth Nationally Drives Need for Space Efficiency

January 26, 2016
The Journal of Commerce reported that big-box distribution facilities of 500,000 to more than 1 million square feet are leading construction activity. These large-scale, modern warehouses give top retailers and distributors the economies of scale of operating under one roof, whether serving as national distribution centers or regional distribution facilities.

Examining the State of Logistics Report

January 14, 2016
Every year the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals produces a “State of Logistics Report”. The 26th annual report, released last June, analyzed U.S. logistics in 2014 and gave a prediction for what 2015 would have in store. Here's a look at some of the key stats and tips on how logistics companies can respond.

What’s the Impact of Cyber Monday Beating Black Friday?

January 05, 2016
For the very first time in American consumer shopping history, Cyber Monday generated more revenue than Black Friday. In total, US e-commerce exceeded $400B in 2015, up 25% YOY (year over year). Soon the US Commerce Department will announce that fourth quarter sales accounted for nearly 40% of online sales for the year.
Posted in Industry News

How High Can I Build My Pallet Flow Rack?

December 28, 2015
While there is no one-size-fits-all answer for how high pallet flow rack can go, let’s look at the major variables that are taken into consideration when designing a racking system for pallet flow.

#RelationshipGoals in the Material Handling Industry

December 16, 2015
When selecting a material handling integrator, remember to consider who you are, where you are, and where you are going.

Adapting Drones for Modern Material Handling

December 04, 2015
The consumer U.A.V. industry is one of today’s fastest growing markets. Modern technology is enabling one of the greatest tech adaptions to society. With every new technology, there is a certain level of acceptance. As that acceptance grows, oftentimes the new tech presents unanticipated applications, and to me, that is the most exciting part.

5 Ways to Supercharge Your Barcode Scanning System with Camera Vision

November 30, 2015
Does your current single line barcode scanner underperform, resulting in excessive no-reads or read conflicts? Today’s barcode reading systems need to reach read rates of 99.9% to 100%. If your system is not reaching this percentage, it’s time to re-evaluate your technology.

Get the MOST from Your Workforce

November 19, 2015
Do you or any of your clients have processes where employees’ expected rates are unknown, based on averages, or quite frankly conjectured from guessing? Rates may be unknown or need re-evaluation because of new or different layouts, or process changes. If any of these situations are affecting your employee production rates, then you should consider MOST, Maynard Operation Sequence Technique.

Ergonomic Benefits of Industrial Robotics

November 05, 2015
Hundreds of thousands of people have to deal with risky work environments, dodging workplace injuries, and making it home to their families every day. There are industry shifts, however, that are seeking to reduce the need for utilizing human labor in these inherently risky operations and shifting them to safer tasks in the facility.

Why and How to Calculate Short-Circuit Current Rating (SCCR)

October 28, 2015
SCCR may sound like an acronym for a competitive racing circuit or a certain rock band from the 60/70s. However, fortunately for you, SCCR is way more interesting. It stands for Short-Circuit Current Rating, which is defined in the 2011 NEC (National Electric Code), Article 100 as: “The prospective symmetrical fault current at a nominal voltage to which an apparatus or system is able to be connected without sustaining damage exceeding defined acceptance criteria.” Read: Calculating Short-Circuit Current Rating (SCCR)

Complicated vs. Complex Automation Systems

October 22, 2015
At first glance, complicated and complex systems might sound the same, but a closer look at your business model and SKU seasonality will reveal which system will work best for you.

The E-Commerce Pick Module

October 15, 2015
Goods-to-person picking, the new buzzword in material handling, is a great option for operations with a high number of SKU’s and a relatively low cubic velocity of SKU’s, but in an operation that has very fast moving or large items, it can be prohibitively expensive to use this technology throughout. Sometimes it is best to use, or supplement a goods-to-person operation, with a pick module.

5 Robotic Cell Layout Considerations

October 09, 2015
In a robotic application, many times the goals are safety, labor-cost, throughput, or ergonomics. Once the system type is defined, technical requirements are stated, and the goals are established, one of the most crucial ingredients to a successful project is an efficient system layout.

How to Choose the Best Support for Your Selective Pallet Racking

October 07, 2015
Selective pallet racking has been a popular and effective storage method in warehouses, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers for decades due in large part to its ease of design and implementation. As easy as it may be to install some frames and beams and call it a day, it’s also important to assess the need for pallet supports or wire decks and to decide which is best for your application.

3 Industrial Lift Table Uses Safety Officers Would Hate

September 25, 2015
Discussing the benefits of an industrial lift table can be a no-brainer for professionals who use them regularly. From the ergonomic benefits to the efficiency in moving products of any size, lift tables provide a great advantage for the difficulties of product distribution. But there are also a few ways you shouldn't use them.

Project Spotlight: New Robotic Bag Palletizing EoAT

September 23, 2015
Bastian Robotics recently redesigned and upgraded our robotic bag palletizing End of Arm Tool (EoAT) to accommodate a wider range of products with the same base tool. Similar to past renditions, this tool still has a clamshell design and interfaces with our custom bag pick conveyor.

Industrial Robotics in the Automotive Industry

September 17, 2015
Industrial robots have been associated with the automotive industry ever since their inception over 50 years ago. Back in 1962, Unimation’s UNIMATE was installed in General Motors’ New Jersey plant, making it the very first industrial robot to ever be used by a major manufacturer. However, it wasn’t until about 20 years later when industrial robots truly became synonymous with the auto industry.

7 Helpful Tips for Selecting Food Grade Conveyor

September 14, 2015
Conveyor systems are most critical in the food processing and manufacturing industry to reach high efficiency and profitability. The answer to which style of food grade conveyor can be a difficult decision. Conveyor technology is changing rapidly, and it’s always beneficial to study what is available in today's market before making a decision to settle on yesterday's offerings.

The Importance of Preventative Maintenance for Your Automation Systems

September 03, 2015
We’re hearing more and more from material handling and packaging automation facilities that having spare parts on hand is a luxury they can’t afford. But what is your facility sacrificing if your production line comes to a screeching halt when a component fails?

6 Helpful Tips for Installing Conveyors in Freezers

August 25, 2015
In the conveyor world, there aren’t many more challenging applications than freezer installations. The deep cold introduces many obstacles for components. In general, the colder you go, the more things you must take into consideration. Here are 6 helpful tips for ensuring a successful freezer conveyor installation.

3 Steps to a Great Turnkey Material Handling System

August 20, 2015
A turn-key material handling solution is the complete design, build, and installation of material handling equipment. This type of solution allows you to work with one company to ensure your project exceeds expectations from start to finish. Here's what you should expect during the three phases of your turnkey project...

Project Spotlight: Utilizing the Auxiliary Axis Servo of a Robot

August 11, 2015
In this month’s project highlight, we’re diving into a recent project in which we used the auxiliary axis on a robot to control the sweeper bar on a row forming conveyor. This allowed us to add an additional axis of integrated motion to the robot, giving us 7-axes of motion.

Your Complete Guide to Robotic Case Packing Systems

July 23, 2015
Robot-based automation is also an excellent alternative to manual operation. In addition to increased up-time and total throughput, fewer accidents and increasingly demanding workplace ergonomics are compelling reasons to make the shift to robotics. In the packaging industry, robots generally fall into two main areas: pick and place applications and feed placement...

Improve Your Automation System Safety with These 4 Components

July 16, 2015
In the automation world, safety is of the utmost importance. Not only do industrial robotics and other automated material handling systems perform difficult tasks that keep personnel out of unsafe and ergonomically difficult conditions, but these same automation systems must be inherently safe for personnel to work around as well. Read: Improve Automation System Safety
Posted in General Blogs

Understanding Lift Table “Drifting” and “Leak Down”

July 09, 2015
A majority of industrial lift table owners are probably familiar with the phenomenon commonly referred to as “drifting” or “leak down”. However, they may not know what causes this, or how it can be controlled. Here are some tips for eliminating the issue. Read: Understanding Lift Table Drifting

How to Select the Right Container for Conveying Products

July 01, 2015
Are you considering the purchase of a conveyor system to transport your product in the warehouse? If so, there can be many factors to consider when deciding how to convey your material, especially when it comes to the box or container holding the material. In this article, we’ll discuss a few things to keep in mind.

The Most Important Factors of a Robot in a Machine Tending Application

June 16, 2015
When deciding what machine tending robot best fits your application, it is important to look at a number of criteria and weigh the pros and cons of each to figure out which robot is the best fit.

What is Hydraulic Lift Table Coasting and How Can It Be Prevented?

June 08, 2015
It is often required that hydraulic lift tables stop at precise elevations. However, the phenomenon commonly referred to as lift table “coasting” can allow lift table platforms to continue past the intended stopping point. In this article, we'll discuss the causes of lift table coasting, and how it can be prevented.

Warehouse Execution Systems: A New Label for an Established Solution

June 03, 2015
In 2009, in an attempt to appeal to a younger audience, Pizza Hut began to market itself as “The Hut.” Now, Pizza Hut themselves would admit that nothing about the company, their pizza, their restaurants or policies had changed. This was simply a way to get into the conversation of the “texting generation.” This rebranding or renaming practice is performed in every type business, and it is currently taking place in the material handling industry.

Robotics in the Food and Beverage Industry

May 28, 2015
As government regulations become more stringent, retailer demands continue to increase, and competition intensifies, the need for robots has never been more imperative for success in the food and beverage industry.

How Does a Hydraulic Scissor Lift Table Work?

May 21, 2015
By far the most common industrial lift is the hydraulic scissor lift table. This may seem like a complicated piece of equipment, but in actuality hydraulic lift tables are very simple in design. These lift tables are comprised of five major components: the platform, base, scissor legs, hydraulic cylinder, and power source. Read: How Hydraulic Scissor Lift Tables Work

10 Tips for Setting Up a Label Print and Apply System

May 19, 2015
Automatic print and apply units can be tremendously helpful in labor reduction and product throughput if done correctly. They can also cause a lot of downtime and operator headaches if done incorrectly. The intent of this article should be to spark focus and attention to design considerations before implementation. This can be used as a guide and hopefully generate interest in systems of this nature.

30 Questions to Consider When Selecting a Lift Table

May 11, 2015
Selecting an industrial lift table can be overwhelming. Between sizes and options there are literally thousands of configurations to choose from. When making your selection, it’s important to consider what is being lifted, how it needs to be lifted, how the lift table should operate, and whether any safety features are required. Ask yourself the following questions to ensure you select the best lift table for your operation. Read: How to Select a Lift Table

Warehouse Storage Myth Debunked - Equal Space Strategy versus Equal Time Strategy

May 07, 2015
Ask any warehouse manager how to stock a forward pick area, and you may get one of these two methods--allocate the same amount of space to each SKU or store an equal time supply of each SKU in the area. Here's a look at why either solution might offer the same labor costs.

How to Get the Most Life Out of Your Industrial Robot

April 30, 2015
There are several ways an industrial robot can wear out sooner than intended. On average, most companies plan to get more than eight years of service out of a robot. However, some companies have robots that are still running after nearly 20 years. What causes some companies to get more or less use out of their robots?

Using a Lift Table for Pallet Offloading

April 29, 2015
With limited fork lift resources, one manufacturer installed a pallet handling system that used a lift table, floor pit, and pallet conveyor to improve cycle times and reduce traffic in a busy assembly area.

You’ve Got a Friend in the PalletPal 360™

April 23, 2015
Most of us don’t consider our material handling equipment to be among our closest friends. After all, what has a conveyor, cart or pallet jack ever done for you? However, there is one piece of equipment that you might want to consider adding to your Christmas card list – the Southworth PalletPal 360™.

Project Spotlight: Integrating a Transfer Robot

April 22, 2015
In this month’s product highlight, we are going to focus on a very important aspect of a recent case packing project--the transfer robot. Bastian Robotics developed a robotic case packing system that required the orientation of the product to be changed 90° from the production line prior to inserting it into the case...

The $1.3 Trillion Benefit of Order and System Visibility

April 16, 2015
As pressure mounts, retailers are depending on automated facilities with material handling equipment for efficient processing of large volumes of orders. But aside from the equipment, software is taking center stage for ensuring order deadlines are met.

ROI Factors in a Material Handling Automation Project

April 08, 2015
Introducing automation into a business can be a large and intimidating project. A good deal of time and money are generally invested up front in order make the project successful. However, there are several benefits automation can bring about that help justify these expenses.

The 5 Inefficiencies STEALing from Your Distribution Center

March 05, 2015
There are 5 common inefficiencies and resource wasters STEALing from distribution operations everywhere, but today’s goods-to-person technologies can turn those losses into profit in as little as 2 years. Let’s look at these five wastes and how goods-to-person systems are overcoming them.

Conveyor System Best Practices in the Pharmaceutical Sector

March 03, 2015
After comparing its warehousing operations to industry best practices, Roche Diagnostics Operations (RDO) revealed opportunities to improve processes by standardizing across all warehouses and implementing a more automated material handling system. In doing so, Roche was able to increase pack rates, reduce operating costs, and gain better visibility of carton-level details. Read: Conveyor System Best Practices in the Pharma Industry

Growing E-Tailer Increases Throughput 200 Percent with Order Fulfillment Automation

February 11, 2015
To keep up with strong consumer demand, Monoprice, Inc. needed an order fulfillment automation system to help increase daily throughput from roughly 300 orders per hour up to 1,000 orders per hour.
Posted in System Automation

Robotic End of Arm Tools: Get a Grip on Your Product

February 03, 2015
A colleague wrote earlier about the ways of getting a grip on a product. He emphasized the importance of the robotic end of arm tool (EoAT) to the system even though it may seem like a small component. He also delved into the many ways the robotic EoAT can be used. I wanted to use this article to expand on his ideas and describe how this gripping action is accomplished. Read: Get a Grip on Your Product (part II)

Making Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification a Standard

January 09, 2015
One of the most important considerations when selecting an integrator to supply a material handling system should be the quality and engagement of the integrator’s project management. This is why in 2015, all robotics project managers will need to be PMP certified...
Posted in Project Management

Cross-Training: The Key to Manufacturing Success

January 07, 2015
When it comes to manufacturing, schedules are constantly being shifted and moved around in order to accommodate projects in the most efficient way possible. In order to improve our productivity, we had to go against the traditional methods and adapt a dynamic cross-training method. Here are some tips to get your team started as well.

Giving Thanks for Great Customers

December 19, 2014
It’s always good, especially around the holiday season, to give thanks for all our good fortunes and blessings. In a professional setting, I especially like to give thanks to those who have made my job more fulfilling, challenging, and successful. At the forefront of those whom I am always most grateful for are my customers.

Unforeseen Benefits of Adding Robot Labor to the Workplace

December 17, 2014
Robotic automation is becoming more commonplace in the manufacturing realm, with general industry and automotive parts suppliers leading the way. Modernizing factories throughout the Americas, the expected benefits have contributed to an increased number of robot installations, but the unexpected benefits have rapidly accelerated the pace of those installs.

Industrial Robots by the Numbers

December 08, 2014
Numbers are an extremely powerful tool. They can help us calculate, quantify, and analyze just about anything. But what makes them so important? In the ever changing world of industrial robotics, what can we learn from them? As it turns out, we can learn quite a bit.

What’s Old is New Again: The Many Uses for Used Robots

November 24, 2014
The modern-day industrial robot is one of the most robust technologies and will generally last for years, even decades. However, as with all good things, they eventually move toward the end of their useful life. When this occurs, a robot-owner is presented with a few options...

Tips for Selecting the Right Tire Handling Equipment

November 19, 2014
The tire manufacturing industry continues to push for automation of tire handling, resulting in reduced labor costs and improved quality. The automation of this process includes a variety of conveyors and material handling situations. We will highlight several of these key processes and the equipment used to properly convey and store tires...

4 Ways Industrial Robots Provide Flexible Packaging Automation

November 17, 2014
The current manufacturing landscape is subject to rapid changes in demand, presenting the need for highly efficient, customized technologies. This is why flexible automation is critical for companies who seek to remain competitive and grow their business. With shorter production runs between SKU and packaging material changes, flexibility is a key feature in a manufacturing environment, especially when it comes to packaging automation. This is why industrial robotic systems are an excellent option.

Project Management: Who is to Blame?

November 12, 2014
I came across an article about the GT Advanced Technologies bankruptcy and thought, who is actually at fault? GTAT’s position is that Apple put them out of business with burdensome demands whereas Apple’s position with GTAT remains unclear. Last year, Apple offered $578 million to assist them with setting up their facility. As a project manager, I suggest that both parties are to blame.

Breaking News: Rosie the Robot is Real

November 06, 2014
Remember when Rosie the Robot, the famous maid from The Jetsons, was a fantasy character every human wished they had available in their own home? Why should we have to do regular household chores when a robot could do them for us? Then we could focus our efforts on more important things, like watching a baseball game or going out of town on a family vacation. Well folks, I have news for you: Those robots are REAL! Read: Rosie the Robot is Real

The Top 3 Specifications for Designing Effective Sortation Systems

October 29, 2014
Whether a project is a multi-million dollar distribution center or a small shipping system, one thing that can make or break it is how efficiently the system can sort the product. To avoid issues and ensure a successful sortation system, one of the most important factors is thoroughly discussing our customers’ specifications prior to the design.

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words: Benefits of 3D renderings and simulations

October 24, 2014
A key component in our sales process is the creation of 3-D renderings and simulations. With advanced modeling and software tools, Bastian Robotics can bring 2-D drawings to life with highly accurate renderings and illustrations that can alleviate many system concerns...

What's Your Exit Strategy? 5 Methods for Variable Height Access

October 22, 2014
Safely and efficiently accessing and exiting variable height platforms is important for operators who spend their days going between levels. Here are 5 of the most popular methods for variable height access and the pros and cons of each.

Machine Tending: Is It Truly a Robot’s Paradise?

October 16, 2014
Machine tending can be some of the most grueling and hazardous work conditions for an industrial operator, so if you need to increase throughput, it often means a reduction in quality. With the help of industrial robots you can maximize both of these requirements while providing your operators with a safer working environment.

Introduction to Industrial Robots: What You Need to Know

October 10, 2014
If you work with robots every day like I do, it feels almost second nature when selecting the right one for any given application. There are plenty of people, though, who when they hear robot think of Terminator or I-Robot. Industrial robots are a little different than the aforementioned Hollywood versions, so if you are interested in using robots to improve your business, it helps to understand your options.

Prep for the Holidays with These Material Handling Maintenance Tips

September 24, 2014
The holiday season is fast approaching: Yesterday was the first day of fall, football is finally back, and Kmart has already released its first Christmas commercial (no matter how hard they deny it). With the holiday rush around the corner, it’s important to inspect each area of your material handling system to ensure it's running at peak performance.

The Top 3 PC-Based Software Features for Industrial Controls Programming

September 18, 2014
When programming controllers for an industrial automation project, I base my platform (PLC, PAC, or PC) on a variety of project details, one of which is the software that drives the platform. Here is a review of the 3 top features I look for on the software side of a platform decision..

Industrial Robot Proof of Concept: Verify Functionality and Avoid Risk

September 04, 2014
Due to the complexity of certain industrial robot projects, a Proof of Concept (PoC) is sometimes required to verify functionality and key components of a design prior to commencing a full project. Here are the benefits and specifics of arranging a Proof of Concept...

4 Signs a Small- to Mid-Sized Company Needs Order Fulfillment Automation

August 25, 2014
You don’t need a giant distribution center rivaling Amazon or Wal-Mart to benefit from automation. These days, small and medium retailers are competing with the big boys by investing in scalable technologies. Here are 4 signs you're ready for automation.

How to Create a Better Warehouse Layout

August 20, 2014
It is important that a warehouse has enough space to operate efficiently. However, it may be even more important that the space is laid out in a way that optimizes the warehouse’s abilities. Here is a 4-step process used by our consulting team to create the best facility layout.

6 Popular Applications for the Hytrol EZLogic System

August 14, 2014
Hytrol’s EZLogic® conveyor is a versatile product, capable of filling many applications. However, are you aware of everything you can program EZLogic® eyes and modules to do? If not, take a look at 6 common applications and features of Hytrol’s EZLogic® conveyor, as well as explanations for each setting.

5 Communication Tips for Better Project Implementation

August 12, 2014
During a project implementation, it's important to speak the same "language" as your customer. Certain terms might having different meanings as you switch from an old system or software to a new one, so it's critical to ensure everyone is on the same page. Here are 5 tips to ensure good communication and a successful project implementation.

The Final Step in the DMADV Decision Making Process: Validation

July 30, 2014
For several weeks, we have discussed the DMADV process for decision making. The first four (4) phases (Definition, Measurement, Analysis and Design) have been completed, so now we need to consider the effectiveness of the design(s) through a validation process, our 5th and final phase.

How to Select the Best Wire Deck for Your Storage Rack

July 23, 2014
There are several considerations when determining the best wire deck for your next storage rack or shelving project. You have to think about your product weight and dimensions, your rack type, waterfall, etc. Here is the full list of items to consider when purchasing wire deck...

Design: Step 4 in the DMADV Process for Supply Chain Improvement

July 16, 2014
In this article, we continue our review of the DMADV 5-step process for improving your supply chain. Design is step four in the process and involves leveraging the criteria, characteristics and flows developed in the “Analysis” step to look at alternative designs and technologies to create the best facility layout.

Another Broken Pallet! Tips for Better Pallet Handling

July 10, 2014
Although handling pallets might seem simple, there are many considerations when selecting the right equipment such as pallet type, pallet condition, and pallet load stability. Here are a few items that you should consider before selecting your pallet handling equipment...

A Review of 3 Popular Lift Tables: Pneumatic, Hydraulic and Ball Screw

July 02, 2014
The lifting, bending and twisting that often comes with manual labor in our field, can quickly cause neck, back, and other upper body injuries. One easy solution to help with ergonomics is industrial lift tables. Here is a quick review of the 3 most popular types of lift tables...

Analyze: Step 3 in the DMADV Process to Improve Your Supply Chain

June 30, 2014
In previous editions of this article series the Define and Measure stages of the Five Step Decision Making Process (DMADV) to drive supply chain improvements were discussed paving the way for step 3 - Analyze. During this step, the overall performance of the system is evaluated using statistical models to analyze transactional and inventory data.

Top 5 Reasons Modular Offices Make Sense

June 25, 2014
When business demands require different space solutions, modular office systems offer a cost effective and quick answer. Whether you need a portable shelter, clean room, guard shack or other office concept, here are 5 reasons modular offices make sense...

Measure: Step 2 in the DMADV Process to Improve Your Supply Chain

June 05, 2014
DMADV stands for: Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, and Validate. It is a problem-solving approach used by our consultants to help customers make the best decisions for their warehouse and ultimately their supply chain. We've reviewed step 1, but here's more information on step 2: Measure.

Sortation – 5 Reasons to Consider the Hytrol SC Pivoting Wheel Sorter

May 28, 2014
Merely utter the words “pop-up wheel sorter” and instantly one is bombarded with a plethora of negative remarks. However, Hytrol Conveyor Company’s ProSort SC Pivoting Wheel Sorter challenges all of these past observations. Here are five reasons why you should consider the Hytrol ProSort SC Pivoting Wheel Sorter.

Defining the Problem: Step 1 in the 5-Step Decision Making Process to Improve Your Supply Chain

May 22, 2014
In a previous article, we started the discussion on the 5-step decision making process, DMADV, and how it helps you make better decisions in your supply chain or any area of your business. In a series of articles, we’ll further explore and define each step so you can get the most out of this process. In today's article, step 1... Read: Step 1 - Defining the Problem

How to Prepare for a Weekend Cutover

May 15, 2014
Now that your new material handling system is designed, it’s time to get it installed and working properly. The trick is to complete the switch from your old system to your new one with as little downtime as possible.

A Poem About "The Robot Industry" in Honor of National Robotics Week

April 11, 2014
As a Robotics Application Engineer, I work to develop systems that are innovative and push the boundaries of my own creativity. If you are not continually pushing yourself to improve and innovate, then your skills will become static. This is the same thinking behind National Robotics Week. It is important to celebrate how far the robotics industry has come, but we also want to encourage continued education and growth in the field.

When Meat and Material Handling Equipment Meet

April 03, 2014
When in review of some of the most demanding and extreme conditions that material handling equipment (MHE) can be subjected to, the applications can be quite daunting. But despite all the smoke, fumes, dirt, grease, and grime, perhaps the most extreme applications for MHE can be found in one of the cleanest industries of all: meat and poultry processing plants.

3 Options for Starting and Stopping an AC Motor

March 17, 2014
AC motors can be used for anything from running a conveyor to raising a gantry arm, but your best method for starting and stopping an AC motor depends on your end goal. This article will address the three means to control AC motors from lowest to highest capability and cost.

4 Defining Qualities of a Great Project Manager

March 11, 2014
The role of the project manager is of critical importance when running a large project. Their performance impacts the success of a project more than any other team member involved. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the individual appointed to the role possesses the necessary skills and abilities to run a project successfully. A talented project manager will possess the following defining qualities.
Posted in Project Management

The 5-Step Decision Making Process to Improve Your Supply Chain

March 03, 2014
Sometimes it can be hard to make a decision, especially when that decision will cause major changes to the status quo or cost a lot of money. So how do you know you’re making the right choice? One way is to use the proven Bastian Consulting 5-step methodology, DMADV, as your decision making process. Read: The 5-Step Decision Making Process

Why Did You Become an Engineer?

February 20, 2014
In honor of Engineers Week, we asked some of our team members why they choose an engineering career. The responses we received were both fun and interesting! Read them all in today's blog article.

Material Handling in a Conveyor World

February 13, 2014
Even as new material handling technologies enter the market, conveyors seem to remain a critical part of almost every automation system. Here's a brief overview of conveyors and their uses as well as some considerations for choosing the right one to ensure your system performs at peak performance.

5 Reasons Designing a Distribution Center is like Shopping for a New Home

February 06, 2014
Designing your distribution center is just like shopping for your perfect home. When you shop for a house or are looking to build a new one, you take into account many things including planning, work, space, flow, and amenities (automation)...

How Supply Chain Software Keeps iHerb's New DC Running Smoothly

January 28, 2014
With a distribution center full of automation plus 35,000 SKUs to manage, iHerb’s Hebron facility relies on Exacta 6.0, a warehouse control system (WCS) and suite of supply chain software to ensure the entire system runs seamlessly and orders get to customers in the most efficient manner possible.

How a Project Go-Live Compares to Having a New Baby

January 23, 2014
My wife and I were recently blessed with a newborn baby, and the during labor and week after, I couldn’t help but think how the process and activities of being a parent are very comparative to being a project manager...

What’s right for you? PLC or Safety PLC?

January 08, 2014
Do you need a PLC (programmable logic controller) or a safety PLC? The answer depends on the safety requirement of the system or equipment in question. There are PLCs and there are safety PLCs which have safety built into them. So what's the difference, and what should you be using for your automated system when there is a stringent safety requirement? Read: Safety PLC versus a Regular PLC

All I Want for Christmas is an Empty Box?

December 19, 2013
I was recently talking with a client who wants to improve productivity by increasing the efficiency of his facility’s picking operation. As we talked, I learned he was thinking about going to a pick to pack methodology, so I asked him how he was going to get the boxes to his operators...

A Conveyor is Only as Good as the Belt That’s on It

December 12, 2013
Choosing the right conveyor belt for your product is one of the most important, and often over-looked, details in the selection of a conveyor. The type of material the belt is made of is vital to the success of the application, and having the wrong belt can significantly affect throughput, downtime and safety.

4 Advanced Picking Technologies Improving E-Fulfillment

December 04, 2013
Following a hugely successful Cyber Monday, it’s easy to see why an efficient and accurate order fulfillment process is critical to today’s retailers. Customers are expecting orders to arrive faster, and one way of doing that is injecting a little automation into an often manual operation.

The Supply Chain as a Hot Career Choice

November 27, 2013
With all the buzz about supply chains recently, it’s no surprise that career opportunities in the supply chain world are also on the rise. In fact, logistician / supply chain manager was identified as one of the top growth jobs for 2013, but more than 250,000 supply-chain jobs will go unfilled each year through 2018 for lack of qualified talent...

5 Critical Items to Share with an Integrator When Requesting a Proposal

November 07, 2013
When a client comes to us for assistance in solving facility issues, they walk the fine line between sharing too many views or not providing enough information. Both situations can be detrimental to the proposal process, so for best results here are the 5 key pieces of information to provide an integrator...

Preventing Workplace Injuries and the Cost of Ignoring Ergonomics

October 31, 2013
There are more than 1,000,000 non-fatal workplace injuries a year, a third of which are related to musculoskeletal disorders, injuries related to a person's work or working environment. To help prevent injuries and avoid the costs associated with those injuries, here are 4 tips for creating a more ergonomic work environment...

Measure Twice, Cut Once: Getting the Most Out of Your System Data

October 23, 2013
In junior high I’d taken a "Shop" class. Here I honed my love for building, creating and also learned a valuable life lesson: measure twice and cut once. I still find this adage helpful to this day, especially when helping new clients analyze their operations and prep for the future.

How to Build Better Supply Chain Software: Use Automated Unit Testing

October 16, 2013
There are many practices that go into creating great software, but one of the most efficient and effective ways to do that is through automated unit testing. It might sound difficult, but once I explain, you will understand how this common, but often overlooked, programming feature is worth the extra time.

How Do We Recruit the Next Generation of Skilled Workers?

October 02, 2013
I regularly hear from manufacturing business leaders about how hard it is to attract and retain top skilled workers for manufacturing. I know firsthand how hard it is to bring on the next generation of craftsmen in our plant. There are many reasons for this shortage, but I think a lot of it stems back to lack of a successful career path for our young people coming out of high school...

Logistics Gets a Taste of the Spotlight

September 19, 2013
Logistics professionals are the unsung hero of the retail industry, ensuring consumers get the products they need when they need them. With all this hard work, it's nice to see the industry experience an increase in news coverage in recent months. Here are some of the top stories...

Automated Case Picking Systems: Finding the Right Fit for Your Company

September 11, 2013
As an increasing number of companies move toward the use of automated case picking systems, it is important that they first determine the best one for their business.

The Importance of 3D Models in Automation

August 29, 2013
Have you ever spoken to a client about a proposal that you’ve spent days, weeks, or even months on, and they don’t understand the basics of how the system is supposed to operate? In these instances, 3D models can be one of the best presentation tools.

7 Reasons to Choose DC Power for Your Next Accumulation Conveyor

August 22, 2013
The majority of case conveyor systems include at least some amount of accumulation conveyor, and while there are many types of accumulation conveyor, DC powered accumulation conveyor is becoming more and more popular for several reasons...

Why Your Company's Data is Important and Tips to Ensure Its Integrity

August 16, 2013
Everyday, everyone, everywhere is bombarded by data. Nowhere is this more evident than in business because data is a vital piece of the business success equation. For this reason, it's important to ensure you have accurate and reliable data, a.k.a data integrity. Here are some tips to effectively manage your company's data integrity...

6 Tips for Better Conveyor System Maintenance

August 14, 2013
In the midst of a challenging economy and shrinking capital budgets, many companies are faced with the daunting challenge of keeping aging conveyor systems up and running well past when they'd ordinarily be heading to the scrap yard. If this describes your predicament, here are a few maintenance tips to keep that conveyor system going...

Project Planning: How Much Does Conveyor Cost?

August 08, 2013
If your are looking to increase efficiency in your warehouse or distribution center, you’ve probably considered installing conveyor or updating your current conveyor system. If so, the pricing you receive will vary based on your needs and the scope of the project; however, here are some general conveyor pricing guidelines to help you determine a project budget.

7 Reasons for Project Failure and How to Avoid Them

August 06, 2013
Project management is filled with daily challenges, from the planned to unplanned, and often it is the failures of a project that teach us the most. Any project manager worth their salt will acknowledge that the failures and misses during their careers taught them valuable lessons while making them better at their job.

Major Sporting Events Require Better Logistics

July 31, 2013
Major sporting events such as the World Cup and Olympics are a critical time for players and teams, but what about the corporations supplying apparel, equipment, food and beer, televisions, and the list goes on and on. For those companies, prepping and improving logistics operations is key to beating the competition during those big events.

Holes in the Floor: Importance of Repairing Damaged Concrete

July 24, 2013
Cracks and holes in your facility's floors can be a costly issue if not maintained on a regular basis. Thankfully, there are new industrial coatings and polymers that can easily and cost-effectively fix these problems without leading to operational downtime.

How to Increase Productivity Within Your Warehouse Fulfillment Center

July 22, 2013
Automation is an effective way to increase productivity in the workplace, but it still requires a careful approach to meet your needs and fit your budget. Depending on the size and demands on your warehouse and employees, different levels of automation may provide the most reliable returns and better productivity...

Factory Acceptance Testing for Custom Automation

July 12, 2013
How do you test and prove functionality of a piece of equipment that has never been designed or built before? The answer is an obvious one: custom automation requires custom acceptance testing...

The Top 5 Reasons to Hire a System Integration Team

July 11, 2013
A growing trend in the material handling automation industry is the use of system integration companies as opposed to traditional equipment-focused manufacturers for materials handling needs. Here are 5 reasons system integrators are a great option for your next material handling project... Continue Reading >>

The New Differentiator in Warehouse Software Isn't New

July 02, 2013
In the past, warehouse and distribution products fell into two camps--material handling equipment and warehouse software. However, companies soon found it advantageous to offer both, allowing them to implement end-to-end warehouse systems for their customers.

MAYDAY MAYDAY! The Art of a Well-Balanced HMI Alarm System

June 27, 2013
After purchasing a material handling system, the most beneficial tool in your arsenal for monitoring that system is the human machine interface (HMI). But within that HMI, the alarm system window is the most important component. With effective alarms, you'll be able to more quickly solve you material handling system disruptions.

The Importance of Qualified Maintenance Personnel and a Spare Parts Inventory

June 26, 2013
A facility’s conveyor system is often the lifeblood of a business but often it is not treated as such. Unplanned downtime disrupts production and directly affects the bottom line, but downtime can often be avoided or greatly minimized with qualified and effectively trained maintenance personnel as well as an adequate on-site spare parts inventory.

4 Emerging Technologies That Will Change How We Do Business

June 17, 2013
It is easy to look back and say how different technology was fifteen years ago. It’s also not a stretch to say that technological innovations like laptops, broadband Internet, and USB drives have made the workplace more efficient. But what comes next? Below are 4 emerging technologies that should, in the next 15 years, make as much of an impact as the laptop computer had on the last.

Innovative Robotic End of Arm Tooling

June 12, 2013
As a design engineer in the robotic material handling field, I am always looking for new and innovative ways to handle different types of products. About a year ago, I was briefly introduced to a new robotic end effector technology that I thought would be worth spending the time to research and share.

How Industrial Robotics Improve the Economy

June 05, 2013
There have been many discussions regarding Americans losing jobs to overseas manufacturers and to increased use of robotic automation, and with fair wage employment on the rise in many other countries, there has also been an increase in the use of robots there. Amid these discussions and trends, recent studies show that, in fact, industrial robotics actually positively impact jobs and the economy.

Top 10 Forklift Safety Tips in the Material Handling Industry

June 03, 2013
Each year, roughly 25 percent of forklift-related deaths are caused by an overturned forklift, and other forklift truck accidents lead to significant injuries and damage--most completely avoidable. To reduce the risk of accidents, here are the top ten tips for increasing forklift safety... Continue Reading >>

What You Should Expect From a Warehouse Control System

May 21, 2013
Making the move to automate warehouse processes and operations is no small decision. Not to mention that choosing the type of automation, and how much of it you plan to install, can significantly affect the success of the project. There are many factors to consider and...

Bastian Solutions’ Complete Guide to Conveyor Systems

May 16, 2013
We are often asked for more information about the different types of conveyors available, the benefits a conveyor system provides, and how it affects productivity in the workplace. To answer all these questions and more, we are happy to provide our complete guide to conveyor systems...

Brick and Mortar in E-Commerce 2.0

May 15, 2013
With the recent release of the Samsung Galaxy S4, I finally reached the tipping point and tossed my antiquated Blackberry to the wayside, but when I was researching which smartphone to select, I looked online only to be overwhelmed by the number of options. This led me to visit a small kiosk in the mall before finally making my purchase online. In this instance, and in many others as the trend continues to grow, the storefront served to augment my online buying decision...

Automation Products and the Traits of a Rock Star Distributor

May 10, 2013
As an independent systems integrator, Bastian Robotics is able to source virtually any technology. Some technologies are strategically sourced, and some we manufacture. For the ones not manufactured on our own shop floor, we rely on an array of excellent distributors...

Enclosed Track Overhead Conveyor: True, Tried and Tested

May 09, 2013
Enclosed track overhead conveyors have been around for many years, some dating back to 1919 when they were used in automotive assembly plants. However, this type of conveyor is not just for moving automotive parts or clean clothes. It provides a host of other benefits as well...

6 Helpful Tips when Working with CAD

May 02, 2013
Computer-aided design programs have become a staple in many engineering practices, but sometimes it can feel like an uphill battle trying to get them to cooperate. They have a tendency to be buggy, crash, or unable to execute certain commands. But not to worry, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of things going wrong and to produce better drawings...

PC-Based Controls vs. PLC-Based Controls for Machine Automation

April 24, 2013
PC-based controls were all the rage a decade or so ago. I saw many systems delivered with PC-based controls touting advantages ranging from less cost to more functionality. From my perspective, it seems as though the tide has turned in recent years back to PLCs, so let's take a minute to review the pros and cons of each... Read More >>

How to Increase System Availability without Redundancy

April 19, 2013
Redundancy in system design means duplicating or triplicating equipment so if primary equipment fails, system operation continues uninterrupted. On a recent project which implemented redundancy to achieve high system availability, or up time, I began to research whether there were alternate ways of reaching high availability without the use of redundancy. Here are some solutions I discovered...

From the Vine to My Table...

April 17, 2013
In college, I was given the opportunity to attend a wine tasting session to learn the basics and proper food pairings. Since then, I was fortunate enough to marry an individual whose hobby is cooking and who over the years has enjoyed seeking out the right (reasonably priced) wine to go with whatever dish she might have prepared. However, it is after the wine is made and bottled that my private interests have intersected with my professional endeavors; somehow this bottle has to get from the winery to my table...

Fundamentals of a Successful Material Handling Weekend Cutover

April 09, 2013
Weekend cutovers are becoming more popular as demand for system reliability, increasing throughput, and ever-changing products drive facility managers to find new system solutions, while avoiding the headaches of taking down their current system during business hours. I have helped in a few material-handling cutovers, so I would like to share my thoughts on how to complete one successfully. Here are a few of the fundamentals...

Order Fulfillment Technologies Compared

April 03, 2013
You know what your operation needs: a better, faster, and more accurate order fulfillment solution. As with most things, however, the order fulfillment process is much more complex and involves people, resources, record keeping, and transportation—all of which require time and management.

Can Going Green With Conveyors Save You Money?

April 01, 2013
For the last several years, a green movement has swept the globe. Consumers, organizations, and large corporations have all moved toward green initiatives. However, in an industry filled with automation and machinery, the thought of going green might seem like a faraway dream. Luckily, new innovations in conveyor technologies have led to the possibility of greener business practices in the fields of materials handling and automation...

When Does Automating Case Storage Make Economic Sense?

March 21, 2013
Over the last few years, I have seen more client interest in automated case storage systems. While the cost justification for some of these installations was based upon very high labor costs; I think the technology costs have dropped to the point where it can have a wider application.

From New Hire to Part of the Team

March 14, 2013
Have you ever started a new job and felt like a small fish swimming alone in a big new pond? Here are some recommendations for successfully transitioning your new hire into a card-carrying member of the team.

Girl Scout Cookie Sales vs. Material Handling Sales

March 08, 2013
What do Girl Scout Cookies have to do with material handling? Everything! Cookies are made with various conveyors in the baking and coating process. Boxed cookies are put into cases; cases are glued with automated equipment, stacked on pallets, stored in racks, and logistics services route the orders to the local service centers.

Size Does Matter...When It Comes to SKUs

February 28, 2013
I just had a discussion with a colleague in our consulting group about a client who wanted him to design a picking area. The problem was the client didn’t have any product size information. To this client, the size of a case was “case size,” and an individual item was smaller than “case size.” Regrettably, many distribution operations have little information about the size of the product they are distributing, but know size information has many advantages...

5 Basics of Good Customer Service

February 21, 2013
Any organization providing products and services should have a solid, if not excellent, customer service and support system in place. Although providing top-notch customer service involves a variety of tactics and procedures, by turning these five actions into habits, you will be well on your way to keeping customers engaged and satisfied...

3 Essential Traits of Good Project Managers

February 20, 2013
All project managers are NOT created equal. Some are more schedule-focused, while others are more budget-driven. Some spend more time on procurement management, and yet others concentrate on ensuring scope creep doesn’t occur. Regardless of what a project manager emphasizes, I’ve found all good project managers have these 3 essential traits

10 Simple Tips for Basic Conveyor Troubleshooting

February 19, 2013
I have seen people push boxes along powered conveyors too many times. Just fix it already! If you want to get that conveyor moving again, here are 10 tips I've learned to help you troubleshoot the problem and hopefully get it running... Read More >>

The Beauty of Zero Pressure Accumulation Conveyor

February 11, 2013
It may not seem like a big deal to keep products from touching each other as they are conveyed until you are standing under a conveyor and glass bottle cases begin crashing into each other. There definitely is an art and science to conveying very fragile, light products in between large, heavy products. That's where zero pressure accumulation conveyor comes in... Read More >>

Quality Through Innovation Builds Lasting Relationships

February 07, 2013
Have you ever heard the saying “You get what you pay for”? This is usually synonymous with the thought that you need to spend more money to get higher quality products. However, this is typically not aligned with the majority of consumers who want more for less. The higher quality products are expected...

The Importance of Understanding Your Pallet for Proper Conveyance

February 05, 2013
I spend much of my time in manufacturing facilities dealing with material handling issues related to moving and positioning pallets, plastic bulk box containers, steel racks, and multi-footed thermoformed pallets. Often times, we are given very little information on these objects, let alone the details of the bottom surface. This prompted me to write about the importance of this often skipped over, yet extremely important topic.

Independent Integrator – What Does This Mean?

January 24, 2013
When describing ourselves to potential customers as an independent material handling integrator, we are often asked to explain what that means. Being an independent integrator allows us to do four key things: recommend the best solution based on your needs, provide many equipment options for your consideration, base our decision on our supplier experience, and offer fast, on-site assistance whenever needed.

The Intangible Benefits of Used Equipment

January 17, 2013
Used automation equipment is seen by some as too risky an investment, and by others, as an easy way to save a project's budget while still getting all of the hardware they desire. Like all projects, there are pros and cons to used or refurbished equipment, but when the opportunity for used automation presents itself, it is worth the time to closely examine it as an option...

Transitioning from a FIRST Student to a FIRST Mentor

January 16, 2013
A stadium is packed, adults and kids filling the stands and watching in anticipation. Fans loudly cheer on their team, proudly wearing their teams' colors, while fans back home watch the game on ESPN. Both teams are vying for a guaranteed playoff spot within their division and have had a long season getting to this point. Think this is your typical sporting event? Think again. Welcome to Einstein Field during the championship event of a FIRST Robotics Competition.

Simulation or Animation – What’s the Difference?

January 10, 2013
Simulation, animation, they’re basically the same thing, right? With the graphic capabilities of some simulation software packages, such as Demo 3D, it’s easy to see why people think these are synonyms. In reality, an animation is a moving picture used for demonstration, while simulations can be used for so much more...

8 Steps for Improving Employee Engagement

December 21, 2012
If you ask human resource specialists for the most desired trait in an employee, they are likely to tell you employee engagement because engaged employees work hard, do the right thing, and enjoy coming to work each day. Because of this, it is important for companies to improve employee engagement when possible, so here are 8 tips to help you do so...

It’s Just a “Typical” Pallet

December 18, 2012
At the beginning stages of a material handling opportunity, whether a multimillion dollar system or an inexpensive gravity roller conveyor, an application specialist will commonly ask the question, “What can you tell me about the product we are going to be carrying on this equipment?”

The History of Robotics [Infographic]

December 12, 2012
Industrial robots are incredibly advanced thanks to new technologies in controls, vision systems, and end of arm tooling. All of this has allowed them to perform increasingly difficult tasks faster and more precisely, but how do these machines compare to some of the first robots ever created? Take a look at this graphic to find out...

5 Tips for Choosing the Right Automation Proposal

December 05, 2012
You spent years trying to get this new automation project in the budget, and you just found out it's been approved!  So after months of planning, you've developed a detailed bid specification for what this project requires, and you've released a detailed RFQ. You might think all the hard work is behind you, but you're actually just getting started. Here are 5 tips to help you choose the right automation proposal...

Seismic Conditions vs. Material Handling System: What You Should Know

November 21, 2012
Planning for your racking and ceiling hung conveyor projects is a critical first step no matter what, but never more important than when installing them in areas where seismic events can occur...

Pallet Racking 101: Which Type Do You Need?

November 15, 2012
To help you determine the type of pallet racking that best fits your needs, we will look at nine qualifying questions and then review the five main types of pallet racking. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, but once you know what you're looking for, the decision should be fairly easy.

The Value of Training

November 07, 2012
As a recent college graduate, I have been exposed to many new and exciting aspects of the robotics and material handling industries. I will argue that in the past month alone I have gained more valuable work experience than in the last four years of college. Why do I say this? The main reason is due to strong and impactful training.

Is a High-Speed Robotic Palletizer in Your Future?

October 17, 2012
High-level conventional palletizers have dominated the high-speed palletizing industry, and for good reason, as they are a robust and proven technology. However, with recent technological advances, robotics are now becoming a much more viable alternative to conventional machines with respect to equipment speed and price...

What's New in Goods-to-Person Mobile Robots for Full and Split Case Picking

October 10, 2012
With Kiva serving as a catalyst, in the last 18 months there have been several new entrants into the goods-to-person mobile robot category for full case and split case picking, and for good reason. There are many advantages to implementing this technology in your distribution center...
Posted in System Automation

Help! I’ve Fallen and I Can’t Get Up!

September 26, 2012
Last night I had a nightmare. It was the one we’ve all had where we’re falling and wake up just before we hit the ground. I don’t know about you, but I hate that one! Too bad I didn’t have fall protection equipment. I could have enjoyed a good night’s sleep. Well now there is a solution. One that is finally configurable enough that I can install one in my bedroom, as if that would really do me any good, right? But the Gorbel Tether Track™ fall arrest system can be a lifesaver (literally) in a variety of industries... Continue Reading >>

Global Supply Chains Going Local

September 21, 2012
Most of us are familiar with the phrase: “think globally, act locally.” Though it might be popularly thought of in terms of food sourcing, the manufacturing industry is also adopting a local mindset. A recent survey by EEF, the manufacturers' organization, found that 40% of U.K. companies are bringing production back in-house, while 25% have increased their use of local suppliers...

Can You Handle It?

September 13, 2012
Every robotic system revolves around the product it handles, so having a thorough understanding of the product allows you to utilize different technologies and methods for processing it through the robotic system. The following are the 10 main areas I consider during product evaluation. These areas are analyzed during the initial design phase and considered throughout the lifecycle of the project.

The Foundation of Conveyor System Design

September 07, 2012
As a material handling system integrator, one of the most popular requests we receive from our clients is to design a conveyor system for their operations. When this happens, one of the first things we do is ask about the product this new system will convey. Surprisingly, many customers don't understand why we need this information, but the product specifications are the foundation to building a great conveyor system, and here's why...

Material Handling Automation in Brazil: New Rules for a Changing Market

August 27, 2012
Brazil, and South America in general, is a very good market as it is expanding, resourceful, demographically buoyant, and with increasing rates of population entering the middle and upper classes, boosting consumption; however, many business models are about to change as this occurs, mainly due to labor cost’s rapid increase...

3 Technologies Driving Efficiency Gains in the Medical Service Industry (and Shortening Hospital Visits)

August 22, 2012
While waiting for all the materials to come together from various locations to assemble the cast for my son's leg, I began analyzing the logistics management required to ensure the proper materials are available when needed throughout the hospital..

Why Cycle Counting Beats Physical Inventories

August 15, 2012
Accurately tracking inventory can be a costly affair for many distribution centers since it interrupts your daily operations and consumes man hours better spent on revenue-generating activities. If your DC has struggled with completing a physical inventory, cycle counting could be the solution you need... Read More >>

The Beauty of a Team-Based Sales Presentation

August 09, 2012
In the strategic selling cycle, we are often faced with the decision to sell to a customer individually or as a team. Having been through both scenarios for several years, I would highly recommend the team-based selling approach, and there are many reasons for this recommendation...

Manufacturing Renaissance in the U.S.?

July 26, 2012
It wasn’t all that long ago U.S. manufacturing prowess was the envy of the world, but then numerous U.S.-based companies decided to move their manufacturing operations abroad due to world competition and cost constraints. In recent years, however, a fascinating and somewhat silent trend has developed; U.S.-based manufacturing is making an exciting and notable comeback .

The Summer Olympics Meets Logistics

July 18, 2012
In about two weeks, thousands of spectators will watch athletes from around the world compete in the 2012 summer Olympics in London. At the same time, a different type of summer games will take place right in our own backyard: the 2012 LogistXGames . Beginning in Louisville this Thusrday, teams of warehouse employees will put their unique skills to the test in hopes of moving on to the Global LogistXGames at the end of September...
Posted in Industry News

Automatic Print and Apply: Blessing or Pain?

July 11, 2012
Are there machines out there that can automatically print a shipping label for a container and apply it without anyone touching it? Why yes, there are. As much as that might seem like a miracle machine, they can come with their fair share of headaches, but let’s start with the positives...

Freight Solutions Management

June 29, 2012
As a material handling solutions provider, we take pride in integrating the best mix of technology and people to maximize our customer’s bottom line. We believe that there is a “best” solution out there for every customer. This philosophy is typically applied throughout our business processes; how can we do things cheaper, faster, better, and provide more value to our customers. One of the areas we recently focused on in this regard is freight management . Here are 6 key areas on which we have focused our attention and have seen real benefits...
Posted in The Supply Chain

Do You Know the Difference Between SaaS and Cloud Computing?

June 27, 2012
When talking about software as a service (SaaS) and cloud computing, people tend to use the two terms interchangeably. Although the two technologies are related, they are not the same. So what is the distinction? Simply put, SaaS is a type of cloud computing . Let’s roll up our sleeves and dig into the specifics so you can better select services and products that will benefit your organization... Continue Reading >>

Automation: Not Always About the Dollars, But Always About the Sense!

June 21, 2012
When considering why some manufacturing and distribution companies have implemented automated material handling systems , you often hear of financial statements including a solid Return of Investment (ROI), prompt Payback Period, or Strong Internal Rate of Return (IRR) . While it cannot be debated that the financial justification for an automation project is very important, financial evaluation alone should not be the only criteria when considering whether to automate . Here are 10 additional benefits to justify automation...

How to Reduce Total Cost of Ownership

June 07, 2012
The creators of Nedpack vertical conveyor went through six steps to reduce the total cost of ownership on their machines to make them more affordable and easier to maintain. Here are the steps they took and how they can help you create products with reduced cost of ownership or help you find the best technology for your facility.
Posted in Guest Posts

Synergy of Information and Material Handling Automation is Key in Supply Chain Management

May 08, 2012
Business is ever changing and competition is always increasing, but the companies that can properly harness the power of automation in their supply chains will thrive into the future...

Saving a Troubled Project (and Re-gaining the Customer's Confidence)

April 26, 2012
While no one enjoys being in these positions, at one time or another every company will experience one. And the question is how do you save face?

Getting Air: New Vertical Conveyors Raise the Bar

April 11, 2012
Who doesn’t have fond childhood memories of jumping over objects, whether it was on a bicycle, sled, skis, or dirt bike? Well, “getting air” is not just a kid’s dream; our customers want it, too. It seems like almost every project has some requirement to elevate product from one level to another.

The Invisible Men of Material Handling

March 27, 2012
Upon the approach of my tenth anniversary with Bastian Solutions, I began asking myself what makes this company successful. After all, there must be some reason or reasons why I have found such satisfaction here that I have contributed a decade's worth of skill, talent, and effort toward the company's success. In answering this question, recent project experiences led me to an answer that lies partially outside of the company...

24-Volt DC Conveyors: External Drives vs. MDR

March 22, 2012
Just a few years ago, the material handling industry thought 24-volt conveyors had to be driven via a small, high RPM motor with gearing assembly, all fitted within the tube of a drive roller; thus, the term motor driven roller (MDR). In recent years, however, a new technology has come along offering a much different solution. This new technology utilizes a 24-volt motor mounted external to the roller rather than inside, and it offers several advantages...

5 Steps to Eliminate the “Madness” of Your Next Project

March 12, 2012
March Madness is finally here, and there's a reason it's called "madness." The unexpected often happens - which is very exciting in sports, but not so much with a mission critical project. To reduce the "madness" that can often overwhelm and impede project success, follow this simple outline. As a result, you will save time, effort and money over the lifespan of the project.

2012 World Ag Expo, Material Handling Automation, and Helping our Veterans

March 09, 2012
Recently, I attended the World Ag Expo at the International Agri-Center in Tulare, California. It is the largest trade show of farm and agricultural equipment and associated products in the world, and because it is held outdoors, very large equipment can be brought in for attendees to view--from tractors nearly two stories tall, to the smallest of nozzles used in irrigation...

Is Leasing an Option for Automating Your Distribution Center?

March 01, 2012
Leasing larger, higher priced equipment is a very common practice for all sorts of companies, large and small. This makes sense because there are many benefits to doing so...

New Design Tools for the Creative Engineer

February 16, 2012
With the pace of business continually accelerating, it is nice to see the selection of new engineering design tools rising to the occasion. Although there is no substitute for sound engineering fundamentals, these tools can help engage an engineer's creativity by speeding up the iterative design process.

Would you Choose a Systems Integrator or an Original Equipment Manufacturer for Your Logistics System?

February 16, 2012
There are three key elements that differentiate a systems integrator from an original equipment manufacturer: product life cycle, successful integration of products, and choice of system products. Taking a look at these can help you make an educated decision when researching both options. Continue Reading >>

Manufacturing and Logistics Facts about Valentine's Day [Infographic]

February 14, 2012
Behind all those flower bouquets, candy hearts, and jewelry boxes, there's a manufacturer and distributor who got them to you! So this year, I thought it would be fun to take a look at the numbers and logistics behind Valentine's Day because without all the behind-the-scenes work, well, the day just wouldn't be the same...

Poetry, Process Improvement, and Stepping Out of the Rut

February 10, 2012
Recently, I attended a meeting where a consultant was presenting his recommendations for a project that involved adding automation to an existing process. One of the key points that jumped out at me was that his justification for this project was focused entirely on the elimination of people. While the consultant suggested that the project would probably go forward because it was a strategic initiative on the part of the customer, I could only think about a more than 100-year-old poem entitled, The Calf-Path ... Continue Reading >>

The Art of Project Management

January 31, 2012
Project management is more or less the art of making things happen, or moving a project forward to completion. Sounds simple enough, right?

Help Me, Help You -- A Project Engineer's Take on RFPs

January 19, 2012
In this day and age, it's absolutely crucial to develop a sound request for proposal, or RFP. There are several key advantages to taking the time and effort to do so, but this isn't a how-to on on RFPs. Instead, it is key information that you should think about as it relates to your projects.

Vectura ASRS Stacker Crane Offers System Flexibility

January 04, 2012
The Vectura unit load stacker crane is a flexible and modular design concept which allows our customers to quickly configure the crane and ASRS to their specific application.

Does Santa Claus need a Material Handling System?

December 28, 2011
As I learned more about material handling systems, I thought--a silly thought I admit--that even Santa Claus would be more efficient with a conveyor system...

20 Awesome Gifts to Get an Engineer This Holiday Season

December 20, 2011
If you're anything like me, you've probably procrastinated on this year's holiday shopping. And if you're really like me, you have an engineer on your shopping list, and you're struggling to find him or her the perfect gift. Well, you're in luck because I've spent the last week digging around the Internet to find some ideal gifts, ranging from humorous to down right practical...

Comparing Modular Construction vs. Stick-Built Construction

December 02, 2011
When expanding your facility, one key decision is the choice between modular construction and traditional stick-built or “hard” construction. Some of the typical considerations when making this choice are cost, lead time, and code requirements. While this is a good starting point, there are other things to consider. Let’s look at the following as a guide to help you compare the two building methods and their benefits...
Posted in Guest Posts

The Sensitive Engineer: Using Monte Carlo Simulation to Understand the Sensitivity of a Complex System

November 23, 2011
During the design process of any system, it is desirable to know how the possible range of input values will affect the system output. One back-of-the-envelope method is to assume the amount of resources the system will use, err on the high side, and protect yourself against failure.

Identifying the "Old Bob" in Your Material Handling System

November 17, 2011
Technology in today's material handling world is changing at a record pace and will only continue that same trend. As I see this pattern, it reminds me of how history really has so many lessons for us today.
Posted in System Automation

How to Be a Great Material Handling Equipment Partner

November 08, 2011
I have had the good fortune to have succeeded in the material handling equipment (MHE) industry for more than 27 years now, and during my time in the industry, I have worked with a wide range of customers. Most of them have been excellent partners in the purchasing process; however, some have made the process a bit difficult, resulting in numerous re-quotes and many wasted engineering hours. This not only resulted in frustration for me, but more importantly, frustration and wasted time for them. To avoid those issues and facilitate the process for both parties, here are some basic tips on how to be an excellent material handling equipment partner:

5 Ways to Support Your Conveyor System, While Conserving Floor Space

October 27, 2011
In years gone by, facility roofs were designed in such a manner that you could just about hang the Queen Mary from them with little regard given to worrying about the roof collapsing or caving in. Nowadays, this is not always the case. With rising costs in steel and labor, roof structures are for the most part designed with the minimum loading allowed by law.

Safety First: A Review of OSHA Violations and Penalties

October 21, 2011
In my last blog article, What's the True Cost of Your Corporate Safety Program , I discussed the importance of corporate safety training and some of the most popular OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) citations in 2010. Now I'd like to review some of the costs that occur when workplace safety standards are not followed, which often results in violations with costly penalties that can reach upwards of $500,000, and in some cases, even jail time.

The Pros and Cons of Implementing a Robotic Mixed Pallet Building System

October 14, 2011
The topic of robotic, or automatic, mixed pallet building has come up quite a bit recently, so I thought I'd share some of the benefits and challenges that go along with it.

Hurry Up... So We Can Save Some Money

September 30, 2011
It's always puzzled me as to why so many companies spend months and years planning and designing a project and only give the material handling integrators two weeks to bid. It's also been suggested that tight timelines provide the end user with the best price possible. In my opinion and past experience, this statement couldn't be further from the truth. Read More >>

It's a Great Day to Be an Engineer

September 26, 2011
Despite the economic downturn, engineering has been one of the least affected professions. In fact, hiring in the engineering services sector has increased 104% since December of 2009. So what does this mean for you?

Evaluating the Economics Behind Your Project Investment

September 14, 2011
As consultants and material handling system integrators, we are often asked to evaluate the economics of capital projects. There are several metrics that can be used to evaluate a project, each with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. However, we are almost always pressed to say what the "payback period" is of a given project. Every time it happens, my stomach hurts just a little.

Material Handling Trends and Technologies Improving the Supply Chain

September 08, 2011
Today's economic climate has put enormous pressure on companies to obtain quicker returns on their investments, so as manufacturers research and develop new material handling equipment , this issue is becoming increasingly important. Customers want solutions that offer not only a strong return on investment but do so faster than ever before. The material handling industry is responding with new equipment, technology, and systems that enable complete supply chain visibility , thus allowing customers to see how their investments are impacting their overall operation. The following are just a few of the trends and technologies helping to make this possible. Read More >>

No Longer a "Simple" Machine: The Advancement of the Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV)

September 01, 2011
While AGVs are most well-known for their use in distribution and manufacturing environments, application of the Automated Guided Vehicle has broadened during recent years to include advanced robotics technology that is no longer restricted to the industrial environment.

How the Material Handling Industry Sparked a Marketing Craze

August 18, 2011
As surprising as it might seem, the material handling industry was the founder of today's current marketing craze--the quick response (QR) code. That little black and white square now seen everywhere from your Starbucks cup to movie posters was originally used by vehicle manufacturers to track parts.

4 Keys to Great Human-Machine Interfaces

August 12, 2011
A Human-Machine Interface (HMI) is a user interface through which humans and machines interact; the interface provides an operator with a graphic representation of the machine or operating system and then allows the operator to monitor and control that piece of equipment or system. There are numerous design principles and guidelines involved with designing an HMI, so I've narrowed the list to what I think are the most important aspects to great industrial user interfaces... Read More >>

22 Factors that Can Affect Employee Motivation & Engagement

August 02, 2011
The magic ingredient to a winning team is their commitment, motivation, and engagement to each other and the goals of the team. Creating an environment that motivates employees is one of the toughest challenges our managers and leaders face today. It takes tremendous energy and time to build a motivated team, but the incremental benefits are critical to the long-term success of the organization. Read More >>

The #1 Way to Increase the ROI of Your Automation System

July 20, 2011
So you're planning to invest, or have already invested, thousands or millions of dollars in your industrial automation system to ensure the long-term growth and success of your company. That's great!  Now it's time to make a relatively small investment that will help you maximize the return on investment (ROI) from your new system, and here's how...

Who You Gonna Call? A Sales Engineer!

July 07, 2011
If your business is in manufacturing or distribution, you are likely faced with a common dilemma in today's business environment -- lack of resources. Nowadays, businesses stay very lean in terms of personnel, and this often leads to some troubling questions for management. One answer might lie in the availability of a good field sales engineer. A field sales engineer (FSE) is an individual with both the sales and engineering experience needed to address technical solutions for your business.

Warehouse Safety Profile: Southern Wine and Spirits

June 28, 2011
The following is list of just some of the safety solutions Southern Wine and Spirits uses to protect their workers and products.

Change Management: 8 Tips to Successfully Implement a New Technology

June 21, 2011
Planning, implementing, and managing change is undoubtedly a difficult task if left to circumstance; nevertheless, these responsibilities are something many of us face.

Choosing Between a Robotics Integrator or Manufacturer

June 13, 2011
I've had the opportunity to work for both integrators and for a manufacturer of industrial robotic arms. One of the questions that I've had many clients ask me over the years is whether they should buy a robotic solution directly from the manufacturer or from an integrator.

Finding the Perfect Automated Storage and Retrieval System

June 09, 2011
Last month a colleague of mine, Derek Cribley, wrote a blog article about the evolution of Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) since he first started working with them 15 years ago. To give you an appreciation for the breadth of solutions available, I thought I could share my experience from a recent project I worked on involving an ASRS system for pallet storage. Read More >>
Posted in System Automation

3 Easy Ways to Incorporate Green Best Practices into the Material Handling Industry

June 02, 2011
With the economic recovery moving at a snail's pace and the cost of raw materials and fuel continuing to rise, manufacturers are continually challenged to find ways to incorporate green sustainability solutions into their material handling processes.

Engineering Consulting Studies: A Road Map to Success

May 25, 2011
Athletes train tirelessly to master their chosen skill. Countless hours are dedicated to perfect each movement, lower reaction time, and increase strength. The same can be said for professionals and laborers alike. Each group either does or can benefit from dedicated, focused instruction. Whether it is a coach, a professor, or a mentor, these individuals provide guidance to ensure correct implementation of vital tasks.

3 Ways to Reduce Supply Chain Costs

May 18, 2011
Whether you believe the peak oil theory or not, the cost of crude oil continues to rise causing a major affect on a variety of supply chain costs. Last year, I listened to an economist talk about the influence of rising oil prices, and how it will change the logistics industry as we've known it in recent years. At the time I was skeptical of his predictions . Today with gasoline prices at $4.15 per gallon and rising, I'm starting to believe what he had to say. Here's why.......

To Move or Not to Move...Your Existing Material Handling Equipment

May 13, 2011
When companies are moving to a new facility, I'm frequently asked whether it's better to move existing equipment to the new location or to purchase new, and my usual answer is that it depends on many factors. Now I know this really isn't an answer at all, but the decision can't be made without first asking several important questions .

Creating Effective Safety Training for Your Employees

May 03, 2011
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) mandates that business owners must provide safety training to all employees. However, owners are given the option of deciding what kind of training will be done and what topics will be covered as it relates to their business.

Thinking Outside the Box is Key to Innovative Solutions

April 28, 2011
In today's business world, many employees--including myself from time to time--wear multiple hats on a day-to-day basis. These additional responsibilities, combined with a decreasing amount of time in which to do them, create an atmosphere in which out-of-the-box thinking is often lost.

The New World of Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems

March 25, 2011
As I was recently working on an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS)project, I had the opportunity to reflect on how much the technology has changed in just the past few years. One of the more valuable references I was using--from the Material Handling Institute of America --divided the ASRS technology into two main families: fixed aisle and carousel/vertical left module (VLM). However, some of the new advances in ASRS have a hard time fitting into either of these categories.

Benefits of Single Sourcing Your Manufacturing Automation Partner

March 22, 2011
With the summer project season just around the corner many industrial manufacturing companies are shoring up plans for their big projects. I recently had the pleasure to walk a manufacturing plant from front to back and back to front again in search of automated material handling opportunities. It certainly was a shocking experience because in this case, the client went naked! While this client was the expert on their systems and operations, a trained eye in material handling-- especially robotic --was a welcome investment of their time.

Out With the Old, In With the Newly Retrofitted Conveyor

March 17, 2011
Retrofitting what you already own is often just a fraction of the cost of replacing it with new conveyor, and you can also gain new functionality.

From Military Satellites to Material Handling, Engineering Processes are Key

February 25, 2011
In the past several months, I have been making the (more or less) smooth transition between my previous career as an engineering manager in the aerospace sector and my new role in the material handling industry with Bastian. While originally it was somewhat scary to move from one industry to another, I was pleased to discover the many connections between my previous career and my new one.

The Material Handling Industry: More Exciting Than You Think

February 11, 2011
Before I accepted my position as a research and development engineer at Bastian Material Handling , I only knew of a peripheral definition for material handling. This was due to my focus as an undergrad in automotive engineering, with some topical interest in aerospace and biomechanics.

Let Your Material Handling System Define Your Building

February 03, 2011
I want to challenge anyone involved in the leasing, acquisition, or development of industrial real estate to incorporate your company's material handling solution into your building design and/or specifications. Looking first at the processes inside a building and then establishing building parameters will lead to increased efficiencies and more cost-effective solutions.

Robotic Palletizing vs. Conventional Automated Palletizing

January 26, 2011
When a business decides to automate its palletizing process , there are essentially two choices: robotic or conventional. What are the differences between these two technologies? What are the advantages? Read More >>

Lean Six Sigma Part II: Do You Know What Your Customers Want?

January 20, 2011
As an officer in the U.S. Air Force, I was responsible for the phase inspection of our bomber aircraft. The team took the aircraft down for inspection, repairs, and preventative maintenance of safety-of-flight and mission-critical items. Our maintenance group commander, a colonel, constantly challenged our quality assurance (QA) pass rates on phase inspections. The goal was 96 percent, and on average, the unit hit that mark.

The Importance of Optimizing Your Packing Process

January 13, 2011
For most companies, warehouse efficiency has become a matter of survival versus the profitability goals of a few years ago. Thus, most companies are looking for even more ways to make their day-to-day processes more efficient.

7 Industrial Robotics Hazards and How to Avoid Them

January 05, 2011
Many companies wonder whether robots are safe to implement in their facility. Although an industrial robot will improve the ergonomic conditions in a production area, there is a perception that the robot will create an unsafe work environment. Although industrial robots do contain some potential hazards, they are all preventable as long as workers are well educated on the robotic system and the robotic integrator has fulfilled all job requirements, including proper installation, programming, and risk assessment. Read More >>

Top 3 Reasons to Consider Material Handling System Simulation

December 29, 2010
To showcase the usefulness and advantages of material handling simulations I've included the top 3 reasons one should consider simulating their current or future processes.

Controls Engineering Lessons Learned the Hard Way

December 23, 2010
Those of you in the business of making electricity do what you want it to do have all been there, whether you are an electrician, electrical engineer, or controls engineer you have been in a position where you have unnecessarily beat your head against the wall trying to solve a problem. When it is all said and done you realize that the root cause of the problem could have easily been avoided had you taken a few simple steps up front. From the "School of Hard Knocks," here are a few learned lessons that might be helpful to you.

What's the True Cost of Your Corporate Safety Program

December 21, 2010
Few of us have been able to escape the unwanted, but necessary, cost-cutting initiatives of our employers during the past three years of the recession. In the interest of self preservation, we have combed through each line item of the corporate budget looking for hidden treasures to help sustain us until consumer demand returns.
Posted in Education

Keys to a Successful Mezzanine Design

December 16, 2010
Many material handling projects today include high tech "wizardry" such as robots , Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) , or Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV) . These types of equipment all have their place and serve their function well; however, we can't lose sight of the basic, less heralded, building blocks of a great system. One of these building blocks is a mezzanine .

Lessons Learned from Conveyor Design: A Modular Conveyor Development Success

November 05, 2010
When Bastian partnered with Blue Arc Engineering to design Bastian Solutions' conveyor, a zero accumulation conveyor, we knew that there would be hundreds of different products that would have to be conveyed. Thus, we manufactured a conveyor that could handle very small products as well as large and heavy boxes on inclines, declines and horizontal conveying applications. We learned a lot from turning modular product development into “Modular Conveyor Development."

The Importance of Hiring the Right People

October 04, 2010
Bastian Solutions recognizes that our talented and driven employees are responsible for the success of the company, so we regularly analyze where we need to grow and how we can recruit top candidates.

Functional Specification Documents – Do We Have To?

September 16, 2010
Writing specification documents and listing requirements is not typically a favorite task for a controls engineer. We’d rather be designing, coding, and debugging. But a well written specification can help a project move along more smoothly and therefore be more enjoyable.

Having a Voice (Solution) In Your Future

September 14, 2010
Voice-directed warehousing activities have come a long way since they were first introduced. The biggest physical benefit that generally comes to mind is the ability to remove distractions such as scanning guns and pick lists, freeing both of the operator’s hands to perform work.

The Top 10 Characteristics of a Perfect Project Manager

July 26, 2010
Having been in the trenches executing complex automated material handling systems for the last 23 years certain “lessons learned” become etched into my mind. The difference between a great project manager and a mediocre project manager directly impacts: the ability to complete the project on time, overall profitability, and most important customer goodwill... which translates to the future revenue stream with that customer. I would offer the following 10 characteristics of a perfect project manager for your consideration...
Posted in Education

Mixed Load Palletizing: Can it be done?

July 15, 2010
The good news is that this long talked about concept has been proven within the last few years. You can hardly be in business anymore without being impacted by the need to deliver only what your customer needs. The days of shipping excess are over and everyone is looking to eliminate waste in their supply chain process.

Lean Optimization for Pack Out and Manifest Operations

June 28, 2010
Lean manufacturing is a common production practice. It considers the spending of resources for any goal other than the creation of value for the end customer to be a wasteful practice, and thus a target for elimination. Wasteful practices are those practices that do not add value to our customers. When considering each process within your facility it becomes necessary to consider those goods and services that you, as a customer, are willing to pay for and those goods and services that you do not see value in...

Inventory Accuracy is Key to Operational Performance

April 08, 2010
I was recently at a client location and I asked them what their number one operational problem was. The director of distribution didn’t miss a beat. “Inventory Accuracy,” was his reply.
Posted in Education

Options Available with AS/RS Technology

March 05, 2010
This article will discuss some of the options available to the designer for Unit Load AS/RS Systems. Mini and Micro Load systems will be discussed in the next article.

Pick To Light (PTL) vs. Pick To Voice (PTV)

November 13, 2009
Supply Chain Consultant Marvin Logan debates which is better: Pick-to-Light or Pick-to-Voice.
Posted in System Automation

Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About AS/RS, But Were Afraid to Ask...

August 05, 2009
Since the introduction of AS/R systems in the United States, the technology has evolved in a number of directions that has resulted in greater capability, and a large diversity in the rules for its application. Needless to say, in the last 40 years or so, these systems have become both Hero and Villain to the enterprises they have served. Success and horror stories are constantly referenced, and depending on which end of the spectrum your counsel is from, you may be influenced to make a decision focused on the wrong issues or for the wrong reasons...
Tags: AS/RS, Mason, Ohio
Posted in Education

"Rules of the Road" for Conveyor

May 28, 2009
There are basic rules of the road for designing a conveyor system. Here are a few.
Posted in Education

Continuous Employee Development: Setting and Managing Expectations for Successful Growth

May 28, 2009
All living things grow if they're healthy. The same principle is true for a healthy organization of people.
Posted in Education

How a Material Handling Engineering Study is Performed

April 23, 2009
An Engineering Study is an inexpensive and efficient way to add temporary expertise to help study a distribution or manufacturing issue and come up with an engineered solution. At Bastian Solutions, we identify and measure several key performance indicators that, in most situations, management doesn’t have the time or the experienced staff required to...

What to Expect from an Engineering Study

April 17, 2009
For those of you in the material handling or manufacturing industry, there is a good chance that you are working with a system that is quickly becoming outdated. With today's idea of "buy today, ship tomorrow" online shopping mentality, your system could easily become overwhelmed, especially if downsizing has resulted from the recent economy. But how do you even start to improve?...

How to Maintain System Uptime, In a Down Economy

April 02, 2009
In a down economy, businesses start to maintain their conveyors instead of replacing them. As the economy starts to squeeze the wallet, new conveyor sales start to fall but spare parts sales, according to Bob Trebilcock from Modern Material Handling magazine, could potentially increase 25% this year...
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