Reliably store and retrieve tools 

Manage tool stock with ZOLLER TMS Tool Management Solutions

It is more important than ever for companies to maximize productivity when setting up their production facilities. This includes minimizing effort when finding tools in different storage locations.

With ZOLLER, transparent tool storage and retrieval help companies avoid multiple purchases and reduce tied-up capital. Hidden tools are now a thing of the past.

Easily integrate tool storage locations

The ZOLLER »quickPick« software module provides manufacturing companies with sophisticated functions for quickly storing and retrieving tools and equipment in storage cabinets and systems. Operators are guided with graphics through the process, making it easy to manage tool storage across the shop floor.

How does it work? 

Storage systems are initially created in ZOLLER TMS Tool Management Solutions with the storage location management module. This includes the ZOLLER Smart Cabinets, which come in varying sizes for different storage needs. The »toolOrganizer«, for example, has drawer cabinets for small tools and cutting inserts. The »keeper« cabinets, on the other hand, can store holders and complete tools. (Photorealistic 3D models are available.)

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. "The storage location management module enables complete production areas, including storage locations, to be displayed in 3D."

Get step-by-step guidance

Another advantage of ZOLLER's software, according to 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 says. 

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 that the system is active and makes 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 and equipment in the 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. Sometimes differences arise between data in the ZOLLER storage location management software module and physically available tools 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 stock in the warehouse.

Find tools quickly and safely

Need a tool or device to set up a machine? There are several different ways to find them. 

For example, one procedure is to simply enter ID codes. The software module then immediately shows the corresponding storage location using colored 3D graphics.

Warehouse staff or machine setters also have the option of searching 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. (There is also an option for 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. 
• By using the available lists and touching the touchscreen, they can find the tools or devices required for the set-up. Several tools from a list can be selected using a key combination in the standard operating system.

When it's time to retrieve the tool, the »quickPick« software module displays 3D graphics with highlighted storage locations.
 

Simplify returns 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: 

• The software displays lists of the tools that were previously removed from storage and used in production, so they can be quickly identified. 
• Staff can select individual tools and devices or complete lists on the touchscreen.
• The software module will show the corresponding storage locations with 3D color graphics. 
• Storage is confirmed by simply touching the touchscreen.

Customize tool storage for your convenience

ZOLLER software is universally designed. It provides detailed functions for a wide range of situations and work steps. And in some cases, individually adapted structures sometimes prove to be more convenient and reliable in daily practice. With that in mind, the »quickPick« software module can be easily set up 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, like passwords and 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 Bender.

Individually adjustable functions also include so-called widgets. These are programmable displays for work steps that are frequently carried out by certain people. Any sequence of activities, like 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. 

Because steps do not need to be called up individually, widgets make working with the »quickPick« software module considerably easier, especially for less trained personnel. Notes on activities and lists of work steps can also be created for additional support to help ensure that operators safely carry out the work processes assigned to them.

Using tool storage for transparency and profit

With the »quickPick« software module from ZOLLER, production companies work with more agility when storing and retrieving tools. The convenient and clear operator guidance with graphics on the touchscreen simplifies and speeds up work processes, so 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," says Bender.