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New-build distribution centre to minimise carbon dioxide emissions with
LS-4000CB sorter
New sorter motor technology reduces energy consumption by 75% compared to comparable conventional systems
High level of automation optimises workflow to increase efficiency and productivity with planned expansion to meet future growth
Crisplant – a global leader in automated logistics systems – have been awarded a contract to design and install a high-speed automated sorting system based on the ‘green’ Crisplant LS-4000CB sorter. The system will be installed in myToys.de’s new-build distribution centre, at Langenselbold, Germany with a scheduled completion date of June 2010.
The new distribution centre will enable myToys.de to maintain its rapid growth by moving from a manual distribution system to a process which optimises workflow and provides a high level of automation, with throughput of 11,000 items per hour.
The new automated system will feature the innovative Crisplant LS-4000CB cross-belt sorter: This state-of-the-art sorter has a new motor technology which reduces energy consumption by 75%, compared to equivalent sorters using conventional motors. This will allow myToys.de to achieve a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.
When the new centre is operational, items will be manually batch-picked in the warehouse and loaded into totes which will transport them to the distribution system. The items will be manually transferred into 5 inductions and automatically sorted, via two overhead barcode scanners, into 92 double chutes, with 6 additional special chutes and 1 chute for no-read items. The automated system will be managed by modules from the Crisplant software suite: a sorter controller, machine controller, and a user interface which allows staff to monitor and manage workflow throughout the automated sort process.
Rolf Hamburger, Head of Logistics division at myToys.de commented; "Crisplant have undertaken a number of automated logistics projects for Otto Group companies and we therefore have a high degree of confidence in their designs and their systems. As this is the first automated distribution system at myToys.de, Crisplant’s vast experience has been crucial in ensuring that the system will accurately handle over 100,000 different line items. These range from toys, books and children’s clothing to school supplies, maternity, sportswear and household items, with a very diverse range of shapes and sizes."
Crisplant’s Logistic Systems Director, Henrik Mortensen, added; "The LS-4000CB sorter will provide myToys.de with significant improvements in productivity whilst ensuring ultra-low energy costs and maintenance overheads, as well as enabling them to meet ambitious targets for environmental responsibility. System emulation, using current and future peak capacities, will allow Crisplant to future-proof the automated process by including plans to move to higher capacities within the initial design."
