Manage stock with ZOLLER TMS Tool Management Solutions

It is more important than ever for production companies to minimize non-productive time when setting up their production facilities. This applies above all to the effort involved in finding tools in different storage locations and storing them as close to production as possible. Transparent storage and retrieval means that multiple purchases can be avoided and tied-up capital reduced - hidden tools are now a thing of the past.

All storage locations integrated

The ZOLLER »quickPick« software module provides manufacturing companies with sophisticated functions for storing and retrieving tools, measuring and operating equipment and devices simply, quickly, safely and reliably in any number of manual and automated storage cabinets and systems. The advantage of the software module is that operators are guided graphically through the operation. With ZOLLER TMS Tool Management Solutions, storage systems are initially created with the storage location management module. This includes the ZOLLER Smart Cabinets storage systems with the »toolOrganizer« drawer cabinets for small tools and cutting inserts and the »keeper« cabinets for holders and complete tools. Photorealistic 3D models are available for these.

With the ZOLLER »quickPick« module, storage and retrieval processes can also be efficiently mapped and controlled in storage systems from other manufacturers, such as paternoster storage systems. As Robin Bender, Project Manager for the TMS Tool Management Solutions software at ZOLLER, explains, the graphical view applies to manual storage cabinets. He continues: "The storage location management module enables complete production areas, including storage locations, to be displayed in 3D."

Guided step by step

Another outstanding advantage of ZOLLER's software, according to Robin Bender, is that it guides users through all the steps involved in storing or removing tools with context-related icons and graphics on the touchscreen. "This avoids operating errors and ensures maximum process reliability when working with tool storage systems," he adds. If, for example, tools provided by manufacturers are to be placed in internal tool storage, only the manufacturer's ID codes on the packaging need to be scanned. The quantity of tools to be stored must also be specified. For physical storage and retrieval, the user is supported with graphics of the available storage locations. The LEDs on the drawers or pull-outs of the ZOLLER Smart Cabinets indicate to the operator that the system is active and make it easier to book the items. Confirmation is given by closing the drawer or pull-out. An internal ID must be assigned in each case, which the software will use to uniquely identify the tools, measuring and operating equipment and devices in future. The tools are now available for the ZOLLER tool management system TMS Tool Management Solutions throughout the entire tool cycle.

Alternatively, staff can enter internal ID codes directly when storing tools in order to select storage locations for tools. Sometimes differences arise between data in the ZOLLER storage location management software module and physically available tools, measuring and operating equipment and devices in the warehouses during storage or during an inventory. The necessary adjustments can easily be made with a stock change. Minimum and maximum quantities can also be entered for stocks in the warehouse.

Find quickly and safely

If tools and devices are required for setting up machines, they can be found and removed from the storage locations within a very short time using various selection procedures. For example, staff can simply enter ID codes. The software module then immediately shows the corresponding storage location using colored 3D graphics.

Optionally, warehouse staff or machine setters can also search for suitable tools in several steps - based on the machining process. To do this, they first receive a list on the touchscreen with detailed data and graphics on the available tools and devices (optionally also measuring and operating equipment). Using further criteria, such as a diameter, a clamping length or a preferred storage location, they can refine the search and narrow it down to a smaller selection. Using the lists presented in each case and by simply touching the touchscreen, they can quickly and reliably find the tool or suitable device required for the respective set-up. It is also possible to select several tools and devices from a list. This is done as usual in the standard operating system by selecting them with a key combination. For removal, the »quickPick« software module again displays 3D graphics with highlighted storage locations containing the required tools, measuring and operating equipment and devices.

From production safely back to the warehouse

The special "circulation" function in the »quickPick« software module significantly speeds up the process of returning tools and devices from production to the warehouse. It displays lists of the tools that were previously removed from the storage locations and used in production. This also applies to measuring and operating equipment and devices. This means they can be quickly identified. Staff can select individual tools and devices or complete lists on the touchscreen simply by touching them. The software module in turn shows the corresponding storage locations with 3D color graphics. Finally, storage simply needs to be confirmed by touching the touchscreen.

Customize individually

Robin Bender explains the wide-ranging benefits of the »quickPick« software module for quick and easy storage and retrieval of tools, measuring and operating equipment and devices: "Our software is universally designed. It provides suitable and detailed functions for a wide range of situations and work steps. In order to be able to work reliably and conveniently in daily practice, individually adapted structures sometimes prove to be more convenient and reliable. This is why the »quickPick« software module can be set up simply and easily to meet individual requirements and conditions."

Among other things, access rights can be assigned for selected functions and work processes. These are then only accessible to the designated personnel with the help of access identification (passwords, RFID). "Above all, this ensures secure work processes. Not everyone in the production plant can then, for example, remove cost-intensive tools from storage locations at will or adjust the (minimum) stock level at their own discretion," explains Robin Bender.

The particularly advantageous, individually adjustable functions also include so-called widgets. These are programmable displays for work steps that are frequently carried out by selected persons. Any sequence of activities, for example the removal and re-storage of tools for assembly and adjustment, can be created individually in a widget. A single touch on the touchscreen then guides the user step-by-step through all the necessary work steps using graphics. The latter do not have to be called up individually. These widgets therefore make working with the »quickPick« software module considerably easier, especially for less trained personnel. As additional support, notes on activities and lists of work steps to be carried out can be created. The individually selected information contained therein helps to ensure that operators carry out the work processes assigned to them safely and reliably.

Using tools transparently and profitably

"With the »quickPick« software module from ZOLLER, production companies work much more agilely and flexibly when storing and retrieving tools. The convenient and clear operator guidance using graphics on the touchscreen simplifies and speeds up work processes. The tool cycle is transparent at all times. "Detailed information about the stock in the warehouse and in production is always available. High-quality and cost-intensive tools, measuring and operating equipment and devices are handled and stored correctly. This makes a significant contribution to ensuring that manufacturing companies work efficiently and economically," explains Robin Bender, highlighting the benefits of the ZOLLER storage location management software module.