Automated Warehouses

Implementing RFID in a warehouse to automate it

The implementation of RFID technology in an automated warehouse takes place in several stages. First, RFID tags need to be installed on each product that is stored in the warehouse. These tags contain unique information about the product, such as its name, description, expiration date, among other relevant data. RFID readers are then installed at different points in the warehouse, allowing the tags to be read in real time.

Once the tags and readers have been installed, the RFID system is integrated with the warehouse inventory management system or WMS.

This enables real-time tracking of the location and movement of each product in the warehouse, facilitating inventory management, optimising picking, and goods receipt processes. Every time a forklift passes through an RFID gate, all products are registered, and the stock of all loaded products is updated.

In this way, accurate, real-time inventory reports can be generated, helping warehouse managers to make informed decisions and plan business operations more effectively.

How does an automated warehouse work?

• Product receipt: when products arrive at the smart warehouse, RFID tags on the products are scanned to record product details, and a location in the warehouse is assigned.
• Product storage: when a product is stored, RFID tags are read to record the product's location in the warehouse. This enables the system to track the product in real-time, helping maximise efficiency in order processing.
• Order picking: when an order is received, the system uses RFID tags to locate the products in the warehouse. This enables warehouse operators or robots to find them more quickly, reducing errors in orders.
• Use of sensors and RFID tags: Sensors can read tags from a distance of several metres, allowing for quick tag reading and product processing.
• System programming: warehouse management systems can be programmed to work more efficiently to minimise waiting time and maximise efficiency in order picking.

Which processes can be improved in a logistics warehouse through automation?

Automating inventory management

With RFID technology, you can automatically control your inventory without your operators having to do it manually.
In addition to saving a lot of time, you can avoid production stoppages due to lack of stock and have your inventory updated in real-time.

RFID tags are added to your products, pallets or shelves. RFID readers and antennas placed in the warehouse will detect at all times how many products you have in your inventory, without the need for operators to count manually.

Thus, as the system knows at all times how many items you have, it can alert you when there is an incident or when few units are left.

Automatically controlling the location of goods

Thanks to RFID, you can control the traceability of items: know their history, exact location, and the trajectory of a product or batch of products reliably and in real-time.

In order to know their exact location, the goods are tagged with RFID tags and RFID gates or antennas are placed at loading docks and passageways. When products are moved and pass through these areas, the RFID reader detects the tag and sends the information, which is recorded in your WMS or ERP.

Optimise order picking and preparation

Thanks to Picking Voice technology, orders are prepared more efficiently, quickly, and with fewer errors.

Picking Voice guides warehouse operators in order picking using voice instructions. The system reads the order and gives voice instructions to the operator about each product to include, providing the most efficient route to reach the exact location of the product.

Moreover, being hands-free technology, orders are prepared more comfortably and without interruptions for typing or writing.

The operator in turn must confirm that he/she has picked each of the requested products, which results in a significant reduction of errors.

Optimising production line processes

To optimise your production line, you can automate serial tagging of products or pallets by automatically placing RFID or Barcode tags. In addition to saving time, you will avoid human error in the placement and content of tags.

You can also enter the weight or volume measurement of the product automatically. The weight can be indicated on the tags automatically or may influence the filling of containers or product boxes. This helps ensure that weight and volume requirements are met for each product and reduces filling errors.

Optimise storage space

RFID technology enables better inventory management, which helps to maximise available storage space. Warehouse managers can quickly identify products with low turnover and organise the warehouse to optimise available space.

Tecnipesa helps you to turn your warehouse into a smart warehouse

Do you want to automate your warehouse but don't know where to start? We can help you.

Whether you need to automate your entire warehouse or just a specific process, we can assist you. In general, the process of automating a warehouse with Tecnipesa consists of several steps:

1. Firstly, our consultants will meet with you to understand your needs and goals. Then, we will work with you to create a warehouse optimisation project that meets your specific needs and is also cost-effective for you.
2. Once we have created the project, we will start working on the installation of technologies such as RFID, gates, production line printers, label printers, readers, and data capture terminals0
   We would also install other technologies if necessary for your company, such as Wifi access points and Voice Picking systems..

3. After installing these technologies, we will make sure that everything is connected to your WMS or Central System. If you do not have a WMS, you can hire our Tecnipesa RBK which offers you a powerful Warehouse Management System at a very low cost. We can also advise you on the installation and maintenance of other complementary solutions such as Voice Picking.
4. Finally, you will have various maintenance contracts or personalised after-sales support that you may need. We will accompany you throughout the entire life cycle of your equipment and applications.