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The »quickPick« software module minimizes unproductive time spent searching for tools, measuring and operating equipment, and fixtures within the facility. It is part of the ZOLLER TMS Tool Management Solutions system. It guides the user through all processes involved in storing and retrieving tools using graphical interfaces.
When tools and fixtures are needed to set up machines, they can be located and retrieved from storage locations in no time using various selection methods. For example, staff can simply enter an ID code. The software module then immediately displays the corresponding storage location using color-coded 3D graphics.
Alternatively, warehouse staff or machine setters can also search for suitable tools in several steps—starting with the machining process. To do this, they first receive a list on the touchscreen with detailed data and graphics for the available tools and fixtures (optionally including measuring and operating equipment). Using additional criteria, such as diameter, clamping length, or a preferred storage location, they can refine the search and narrow it down to a smaller selection. Using the lists displayed and with a simple tap on the touchscreen, they can quickly and reliably find the tool required for the respective setup or a suitable fixture. Multiple tools and fixtures can also be selected from a list. As is standard in operating systems, this is done by selecting them using a key combination. To retrieve items, the »quickPick« software module displays 3D graphics with color-coded storage locations where the required tools, measuring and operating equipment, and fixtures are located.
The special “Circulation” function in the »quickPick« software module significantly speeds up the process of returning tools and fixtures from production back to the warehouse. To do this, it displays lists of the tools that were previously retrieved from the storage locations and used in production. This also applies to measuring and operating equipment as well as fixtures. This makes them easy to identify. Staff can simply tap the touchscreen to select individual tools and fixtures or entire lists. The software module then displays the corresponding storage locations using 3D color graphics. Finally, the storage process is confirmed with a single tap on the touchscreen.
Regarding the extensive benefits of the »quickPick« software module for the simple and fast storage and retrieval of tools, measuring and operating equipment, and fixtures, Robin Bender says: “Our software is designed to be universal. It provides suitable and detailed functions for a wide range of situations and work steps. To ensure reliable and comfortable operation in daily practice, individually customized structures often prove to be more convenient and reliable. That is why the »quickPick« software module can be easily and seamlessly configured to meet individual requirements and conditions.”
Among other things, access rights can be assigned for selected functions and work processes. These are then accessible exclusively to the designated personnel using access identifiers (passwords, RFID). “Above all, this ensures secure work processes. For example, not everyone in the production facility can then freely remove costly tools from storage locations or adjust the (minimum) stock levels at their own discretion,” explains Robin Bender.
Among the particularly advantageous, customizable functions are so-called widgets. These are programmable displays for work steps frequently performed by selected individuals. Any sequence of activities, such as removing and returning tools to storage for assembly and adjustment, can be individually configured within a widget. With a single tap on the touchscreen, this widget then guides the user step-by-step through all necessary work steps using graphics. These steps do not need to be called up individually. Thus, these widgets significantly simplify working with the »quickPick« software module, especially for less-trained personnel. As additional support, notes on activities and lists of steps to be performed can be created. The individually selected information contained therein helps ensure that operators safely and reliably execute the work processes assigned to them correctly.
“With the »quickPick« software module from ZOLLER, manufacturing companies operate much more agilely and flexibly when storing and retrieving tools. The convenient and intuitive user guidance via graphics on the touchscreen simplifies and accelerates workflows. The tool cycle is transparent at all times. “Detailed information about inventory in the warehouse and on the production floor is always available. High-quality and cost-intensive tools, measuring and operating equipment, as well as fixtures, are handled and stored properly. This contributes significantly to manufacturing companies operating efficiently and economically,” explains Robin Bender, highlighting the advantages of the ZOLLER software module for storage location management.
For manufacturing companies, it is more important than ever to minimize downtime when setting up their production equipment. This applies above all to the effort involved in locating tools in different storage locations and storing them as close to the production line as possible. Transparent storage and retrieval processes help avoid duplicate purchases and reduce tied-up capital—hidden tools are now a thing of the past.
With the ZOLLER »quickPick« software module, manufacturing companies gain sophisticated functions to store and retrieve tools, measuring and operating equipment, and fixtures easily, quickly, safely, and reliably in any combination of manual and automated storage cabinets and systems. The advantage of the software module is that operators are guided through the process graphically. With ZOLLER TMS Tool Management Solutions, storage systems are first set up using the Storage Location Management module. This applies, among other things, to 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 in 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 adds: “The storage location management module enables the display of entire production areas, including storage locations, in 3D.”
Robin Bender cites another outstanding advantage of ZOLLER’s software: it guides users through all steps of storing or retrieving tools using context-specific icons and graphics on the touchscreen. “This prevents operating errors and ensures maximum process reliability when working with tool storage systems,” he adds. For example, if tools provided by manufacturers are to be placed in internal tool storage systems, the manufacturer’s ID codes on the packaging simply need to be scanned. Additionally, the quantity of tools to be stored must be specified. For physical storage and retrieval, the user is supported by graphics showing the available storage locations. The LEDs on the drawers or pull-outs of the ZOLLER Smart Cabinets indicate to the operator which location is active and facilitate the booking of items. Confirmation is performed by closing the drawer or pull-out. At the same time, an internal ID must be assigned, which the software will use in the future to uniquely identify the tools, measuring and operating equipment, and fixtures. The tools are now available to the ZOLLER tool management system TMS Tool Management Solutions throughout the entire tool cycle.
Alternatively, staff can directly enter internal ID codes during storage to select storage locations for tools. Occasionally, discrepancies arise during storage or inventory between data in the ZOLLER software module for storage location management and the physically available tools, measuring and operating equipment, and fixtures in the warehouses. The necessary adjustments can be easily made via an inventory change. Minimum and maximum quantities can also be entered for inventory in the warehouse.
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