Rika
Rika Redefines Workflow With Jungheinrich® AGVs
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Driving Optimization & Efficiency
Driving new efficiencies and optimizing processes was key for Rika’s long-term performance. An established sheet metal manufacturer, Rika produces more than 12,000 tons of sheet metal annually – making efficiency and uptime critical for its success. By partnering with Jungheinrich’s Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) solutions, Rika was able to transform its workflow, minimize downtime and increase accuracy.
RIKA'S CHALLENGES
Prior to using automated guided vehicles, Rika’s team faced several challenges in their workflow, including:
- More than 1,000 pallets a day, sometimes requiring 80 trips an hour, were manually transported by employees over repetitive routes – placing an enormous strain on personnel.
- Incorrect storage and retrieval resulting in delivery delays.
- Very narrow transport paths. Their pallets varied in height and weight, and included racking heights of over 16 feet.
THE SOLUTION
Partnering with Jungheinrich, Rika redefined their existing material handling process – moving from a fully manual workflow to a hybrid model that featured both automated guided vehicles and employees working together. Jungheinrich was able to provide the following solutions for Rika:
- Fleet of nine Jungheinrich EKS 215a automated stackers to transport their raw materials and end products. The EKS 215a has a width under 36 inches — small enough to fit in their narrow transport paths. The automated guided vehicles are equipped with sensors to detect the height and weight of each pallet. The automated pallet jacks were also equipped with self-supporting, anti-slip forks to simplify storing pallets at 17 feet.
- Implementation of 2,500 pallet rack spaces and custom automation software. Transfer stations are located in the production area on floors, shelves and trolleys.
- Three automatic charging stations located around the facility. Lithium-ion technology powers the AGVs, which charge themselves when not in use to ensure around-the-clock availability.
- Hybrid workflow: While most of the transportation is done by AGVs, the last leg of the product’s journey is performed by an employee. This synergy between employee and machine has proven to be particularly efficient for their operation.
RESULTS
Rika’s redefined process has resulted in improved accuracy and streamlined its workflow to result in:
- Automated goods transport in combination with manual forklifts for greater efficiency.
- Improved precision and accuracy during storage and retrieval.
- Optimized labor usage by repurposing employees to higher-value and more complex tasks.
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