Store and retrieve tools conveniently and reliably

Find quickly and safely 

If tools and fixtures are needed to equip machines, they can be found quickly using various selection processes and retrieved from the warehouse locations. For example, staff can simply specify the identification codes. The software module immediately displays the corresponding warehouse location using colorful 3D graphics. 

Optionally, warehouse staff or machine adjusters can also search for the right tools in several steps, starting with the machining process. To do this, they first receive a list with detailed data and graphics on the available tools and fixtures (optionally also measuring and operating equipment) on the touch screen. Based on other criteria, such as diameter, clamping length, or preferred storage location, they can refine the search and narrow it down to a smaller selection. Based on the lists presented and with a simple touch on the touch screen, they can quickly and reliably find the tool required for the respective configuration or a suitable device. It is also possible to select multiple tools and devices from a list. This is done as usual in the standard operating system by selecting with a combination of keys. To remove, the »quickPick« software module again displays 3D graphics with warehouse locations highlighted in color, showing where the tools, measuring and operating equipment, and necessary devices are located. 

Safely back from production to the warehouse 

The special Circulation function »in the »quickPick« software module significantly speeds up the return of tools and devices from production to the warehouse. To do this, it displays lists of tools that have previously been removed from storage locations and used in production. This also applies to measuring and operating equipment, as well as devices. This allows them to be quickly identified. With a simple touch on the touch screen, staff can select individual tools and devices or entire lists. The software module displays the corresponding storage locations with colorful 3D graphics. Finally, the entry is confirmed with a single touch on the touch screen. «

Customize individually 

Regarding the extensive benefits of the »quickPick« software module for the simple and fast storage and retrieval of tools, measuring and operating equipment, as well as fixtures|devices, Robin Bender states: Our software has been designed to be universal. It offers suitable and detailed functions for a large number of situations and operational steps. In order to be able to work reliably and comfortably in daily practice, customized structures are sometimes more convenient and reliable. For this reason, the »quickPick« software module can be easily customized according to individual requirements and conditions.» «

Among other things, it is possible to assign access rights to selected functions and work processes. These are then accessible exclusively to designated personnel with the help of access identifications (passwords, RFID). Above all, this ensures secure work processes. Not everyone in production can, for example, remove expensive tools from storage locations or adjust the (minimum) stock in the warehouse at their discretion», explains Robin Bender. «

Among the particularly advantageous and individually configurable functions are the so-called widgets. These are programmable displays for operational steps that are frequently performed by selected individuals. Any sequence of activities, for example, the removal and insertion of tools for assembly and configuration, can be created individually in a widget. This guides the user step by step through all the necessary operational steps with a single touch on the touch screen, based on graphics. The latter do not need to be called up individually. These widgets thus considerably simplify working with the »quickPick« software module, especially for less trained personnel. As additional support, notes on activities and lists of operational steps to be performed can be created. The individually selected content contained therein helps operators to safely and reliably perform the work processes assigned to them. 

Transparent and cost-effective use of tools 

With the »quickPick« software module from ZOLLER, production companies can work much more quickly and flexibly when storing and retrieving tools. The user-friendly and clear guidance based on graphics on the touch screen simplifies and speeds up work processes. The tool cycle is transparent at all times. Detailed information about stock in the warehouse and in production is always available. Tools, measuring and operating equipment, as well as high-quality and expensive fixtures and devices are handled and stored properly. This contributes significantly to production companies working efficiently and economically», explains Robin Bender, highlighting the advantages of ZOLLER's storage location management software module. «

Warehouse management with ZOLLER TMS Tool Management Solutions 

For manufacturing companies, it is more important than ever to minimize secondary times during the preparation of their production facilities. This refers above all to the effort involved in finding tools in different storage locations and storing them as close as possible to production. Thanks to transparent storage and retrieval, multiple purchases can be avoided and tied-up capital reduced, making hidden tools a thing of the past. 

All storage locations integrated 

With the »quickPick« software module from ZOLLER, manufacturing companies have sophisticated functions at their disposal for storing and retrieving tools, measuring equipment, and production resources, as well as devices and tools, easily, quickly, safely, and reliably in selectable storage cabinets and automated storage systems. The advantage of the software module is that it guides the operator through the process graphically. With ZOLLER TMS Tool Management Solutions, storage systems are first created using the storage location management module. This applies, among other things, to ZOLLER Smart Cabinets storage systems with »toolOrganizer« drawer cabinets for small tools and cutting plates and »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 represented and controlled in storage systems from other manufacturers, such as paternoster warehouses. As Robin Bender, project manager for ZOLLER's TMS Tool Management Solutions software, explains, the graphical view is considered valid for manual storage cabinets. He adds: "The storage location management module allows entire production areas, including storage locations, to be represented in 3D».«"» «

Step-by-step guide 

Robin Bender points out another notable advantage of ZOLLER's software: it guides the user through all the steps required to store or retrieve tools using icons and contextual graphics on the touch screen. This prevents operating errors and ensures maximum process reliability when working with tool storage systems», he adds. If, for example, tools supplied by manufacturers are to be placed in internal tool storage systems, all you have to do is scan the manufacturer's identification codes on the packaging. In addition, the number of tools to be stored must be specified. For physical storage and retrieval, the user is assisted by graphics of the available storage locations. LEDs on the drawers or pull-out trays of the ZOLLER Smart Cabinets indicate to the operator which ones are active and facilitate the accounting of items. Confirmation is made by closing the drawer or pull-out tray. At the same time, an internal company ID must be assigned, which the software will use in the future to uniquely identify tools, measuring equipment, and production resources, as well as devices and accessories. From that point on, the tools will be available to the ZOLLER TMS Tool Management Solutions tool management system throughout the entire tool cycle. «

Alternatively, staff can specify the internal IDs directly when storing the tools in order to select the storage locations. Sometimes, when storing or taking inventory, differences arise between the data in ZOLLER's software module for managing storage locations and tools, measuring and operating equipment, and devices physically present in the warehouses. The necessary adjustments can be made easily by modifying the stock levels. In addition, minimum and maximum quantities for warehouse stocks can be entered.