October 17, 2001—FastPic Systems, a developer of software for automated storage and retrieval system operation, recently announced that its flagship product—FastPic4—is specially designed to take advantage of a relatively new strategy for managing inventory called “kitting.” This strategy involves storing and retrieving multiple stock-keeping units (SKUs) together in kits that can be more easily managed in assembly operations.
A kitting strategy can reduce inventory by using component parts as needed rather than creating sets of parts in advance that remain on shelves waiting for use on the shop floor, according to FastPic. Kitting can be as simple as preparing a handwritten list that includes the contents of each kit and an identifier that indicates to which process the kit belongs. This basic approach is effective even in shelving and rack type storage systems.
FastPic4 software is designed to manage virtually all manual and automated storage and retrieval systems including shelving and rack, pick-to-light, horizontal carousels, and vertical storage devices. It offers a special kitting interface that includes an easy-to-use grid field, similar to a spreadsheet that streamlines data entry by allowing users to easily fill in the SKU number and the quantity of each to create a bill of materials. Text is fully customizable, allowing the use of common or industry-specific names of components rather than part numbers if desired. To retrieve a kit, an operator simply enters the bill of materials identifying number or description and either printed pick lists are generated for manual systems or the storage and retrieval system automatically directs the operator to pick the correct quantities of the proper items. Features such as bar code scanning add more speed and accuracy to automated storage and retrieval systems.
For more information, contact FastPic at 207/854-8663.
