material flow: Mr. Höller, the integration of one or more storage lifts can be a first step towards automation. For which industries and products is the SSI Logimat predestined?

Benjamin Höller:

In principle, the SSI Logimat proves to be versatile and is suitable for companies in all industries. Consider, for example, the optimization of storage and retrieval processes, such as the storage of spare parts or tools. An outstanding feature here is the use of the goods-to-person principle during the retrieval process. This offers decisive advantages in terms of retrieval speed, for example by allowing similar components to be picked for different orders in a single pass. The warehouse lift system provides active support by displaying the required goods and spare parts, which considerably simplifies the provisioning process.

mfl: What advantages does the SSI Logimat offer compared to conventional shelving systems?

Höller:

Imagine you have to pick the right spare parts in a conventional shelving system in an area of 150 square meters. Here you are heavily reliant on comprehensive documentation or the knowledge of your colleagues. The SSI Logimat, on the other hand, makes it possible to save the exact storage location of the various goods. The goods can then be retrieved efficiently via the transmitted order or a simple QR code scan.

Further advantages of the warehouse lift system are the higher capacity, space savings and storage compaction as well as an accelerated picking process. The control of the warehouse processes also minimizes errors and contributes to increased efficiency. All in all, this leads to considerable cost savings for companies.

mfl: Storage lifts can also be ideally integrated into existing halls. How much floor space do companies have to allow for that has been freed up by redundant shelving?

Höller:

The storage lift can be adapted almost exactly to the existing room height and also flexibly in width and depth to the customer's individual requirements. The footprint, i.e. the space required, is small compared to the realizable storage area. This means that companies only need a footprint of around 14 square meters to create a storage area of around 160 square meters, with an average storage height of 200 millimeters. Incidentally, the maximum storage height used is automatically adjusted when each shelf is stored or retrieved, thereby optimizing the height. In contrast to the conventional option of using shelving racks and building new storage areas, the use of storage lifts enables better use of existing space and can make an extension unnecessary. We see this particularly often with companies that have grown over the years and are located in conurbations with limited space for expansion.

mfl: What are the software requirements for this solution, and when does the investment start to pay off?

Höller:

SSI Schaefer offers the option of incorporating storage lifts into almost any software environment or integrating them completely. The motivation behind the use of storage lifts is often to increase the production area by minimizing storage areas or to achieve a higher throughput through adapted processes and to minimize picking errors. The investment usually pays for itself through higher process quality, increased efficiency and long-term cost savings. Depending on the specific framework conditions, the return on investment can be estimated on a case-by-case basis. In order to clarify the exact requirements and potential, we conduct personal discussions for each individual project.

mfl: One solution to the ongoing staff shortage could be more attractive jobs. To what extent does SSI Logimat score points in this context?

Höller:

The integration of ergonomic features such as Logiwork and Logitilt into the SSI Logimat plays a decisive role. The ability to tilt the shelves and adjust the working height eliminates the need to bend, stretch or work overhead, which often leads to back problems. Ergonomics protects the health of employees and prevents potential health risks. Avoiding strenuous activities makes the workplace more attractive and improves employee satisfaction in the long term.

mfl: Storage lifts can also be combined with other solutions from the SSI Schaefer portfolio to achieve additional increases in efficiency. In which area is demand currently particularly high and why?

Höller:

Storage lifts are particularly popular in situations where space is limited and expansion is difficult to implement. A typical area of application is, for example, the service and maintenance area, especially for spare parts storage. Storage lifts are also increasingly being used in production loading, where efficiency and space utilization are crucial. The great thing is that these solutions can be flexibly combined with other products from our portfolio. This ranges from software solutions to shelving and pallet racking, ideal for bulky parts, through to fully automated solutions. This holistic integration enables effective use of the available space and optimizes the entire storage and production processes.

mfl: What makes the SSI Logimat an attractive choice for customers?

Höller:

The SSI Logimat impresses with a diverse product line with robust, durable components and solutions as well as leading software integration. In addition to rapid deployment, we rely on customized concepts to meet specific requirements.

It is important to emphasize that the SSI Logimat does not always have to be the sole solution. Every project is unique, which is why we attach great importance to comprehensive consultation. Our aim is to find the optimum solution together with our customers.