From the moment man figured out how to move objects from one place to another, the world changed forever. Manual laborers armed with the tools to handle and transfer materials quickly and efficiently, soon transformed manufacturing and distribution---giving rise to whole new industries. Today, thanks to the power of automated material handling systems, a new transformation has occurred, allowing small and large businesses to thrive like never before. Here’s a look at some of the many benefits of automated material handling systems.Reduced labor costs – From handling raw materials during manufacturing to the handling and transportation of finished products to facilities for storage and distribution, the costs of manually handling materials can be considerable. Automated Material Handling Systems can dramatically reduce costs by minimizing manual handling or eliminating it altogether.
Improved efficiency – Despite best efforts, the manual handling of materials has traditionally been plagued by inefficiencies, due to the human factor. In contrast, an Automated Handling System (AHS) maximizes efficiency by handling and delivering the correct materials and products---in the correct quantities to the desired location at the correct time---in the most economical manner.
Reduced damage – One of the downsides of the manual handling of materials and products during all phases of production and distribution is that damage can often occur during storage and movement. Automated handling systems are designed to minimize damage through proper material handling systems. In addition, reduced damage can mean substantial savings.
Reduced waste of space – Unlike the manual warehousing of materials--- which often results in less than optimal space utilization---automated handling systems are designed to make the most of every available inch of storage space, thus reducing both handling and storage costs. In addition, automated systems can also free up valuable floor space in production facilities.
Reduced accidents – The human handling of materials carries inherent risks of accidents, such as slips, trips and falls. Not to mention the Cumulative Trauma Disorders that are the result of repetitive movements such as lifting and twisting. Along with exacting a human toll, accidents additionally result in lost productivity. By eliminating manual handling, automated systems minimize accidents while ensuring a safe and efficient flow of materials and products. In addition, automation typically allows for a cleaner more orderly environment than found in operations that are dependent on manual product movement.
Increased scalability – As businesses grow and expand, one of the challenges they face is being able to expand operations in order to meet increased demand. Automated handling systems have the ability to scale up quickly and easily to meet new production needs---along with larger and heavier product units if required---without prolonged downtime for adding and retooling equipment.
Real-time control – In order to better meet the often stringent demands of today’s customers---who typically want things “yesterday”---more and more facilities are turning to automation and computerization to give them complete system control in real-time. This type of flexibility allows for the accurate and fast fulfillment of all orders, the net result being better customer service, higher profits and a greater competitive advantage.
David Glenn is a home improvement expert. He occasionally freelance writes about home security and DIY home repair.
