Komatsu needed to meet growing omnichannel needs for equipment parts at its facility in Ripley, Tenn. It turned to automation from Swisslog, which designed a system using AutoStore’s hardware and Swisslog’s SynQ software.
Tokyo-based Komatsu’s 685,00 sq. ft. (63,638 sq. m) distribution center in Tennessee is a critical hub for heavy construction parts and equipment. The company, whose U.S. headquarters are in Chicago, said Swisslog’s technology supports its emphasis on innovation and will enable its parts and service program in the U.S.
The new deployment of Swisslog’s integration of SynQ with AutoStore’s automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) is Komatsu’s second. Its first was in Australia earlier this year.
Komatsu expects to automate without disruption
“We are thrilled to partner with Komatsu to automate its second distribution center globally with AutoStore and our SynQ software to help ensure fast turnaround times for parts delivery,” stated Sean Wallingford, president and CEO of Swisslog Americas.
The ASRS in Ripley contains 16,000 bins and nine robots. Swisslog said its automation experts worked with Komatsu to integrate the system into the existing facility so that it will not interrupt existing operations.
“We designed the automation solution to easily grow as the need for capacity is expected to increase,” Wallingford added. “The system helps ensure continuous operation as Komatsu expands capacity to handle more parts.”
Swisslog claimed that its SynQ software provides warehouse execution, material flow, and automation control functionality in a single, modular platform. It can integrate with existing warehouse management systems (WMS) to orchestrate the material flow, the company said.
The companies said they expect the system is expected to be operational by January 2025.
Swisslog deploys 400 AutoStore projects
Buchs, Switzerland-based Swisslog is an experienced AutoStore integrator. It has deployed more than 400 ASRS projects in over 26 countries.
Swisslog Americas in June announced new headquarters in Dunwoody, Ga., near Atlanta. It also has facilities in Virginia, Ohio, and Mexico, as well as field service engineers across the U.S.
The warehouse automation provider said it “delivers data-driven and robotic solutions for your logistics automation alongside reliable, modular service concepts.” Swisslog has more than 15,000 employees worldwide, and is part of KUKA Group.