Bielefeld based BOGE Kompressoren has recently benefitted from innovative RFID technology incorporated in the Böllhoff ECOSIT® system.
Step 1 - As is analysis
The customer’s needs are analysed in detail. Logistics and data processing structures, individual processes and basic conditions are all taken into account.
Step 2 - Project phase
In cooperation with the customer, Böllhoff’s experts form a team that integrates all the affected operative sections. The results produced are the foundations for the action plan for customer-specific implementation of ECOSIT®.
Step 3 - Implementation
First of all, the customer executes rough material planning for the parts to be covered by ECOSIT®. Past demands or a demand forecast regarding production planning serve as a basis.
After completing the three steps it was decided that a multi bin system for each article was the best solution at the time for BOGE. Two or more bins are held on the customer’s shelf; when one bin is emptied it is replaced and refilled with the next delivery by Böllhoff.
In 2011, however, Böllhoff introduced innovative RFID technology for C-parts management systems and BOGE reconsidered its options and decided to implement a new system. The new RFID technology gave BOGE the opportunity to further optimise its logistics process, as well as further reducing procurement costs and the number of suppliers.
BOGE therefore decided it would introduce the ECOSIT® RFID Bin system, which works by saving all the relevant data needed to ensure timely replenishment on RFID-labels placed on the front of the bins. As soon as a container becomes empty, it is placed in a collecting bin positioned beside the rack. The data is automatically read off the RFID-tags and transmitted to Böllhoff’s ERP system. The whole process only takes a few seconds.
Markus Hahn, purchaser at BOGE, approved the introduction of the new system: “The RFID technology provided by Böllhoff is the contemporary alternative to barcode scanning of empty bins.” The conversion to the new system was quickly implemented in a single day with the strong cooperation of BOGE.
Böllhoff explains that customers who use ECOSIT® RFID technology benefit from a quick and easy order release and accordingly very short reaction times of the system. They get higher levels of security of supply and a higher flexibility of delivery frequencies for their company.
In 2012 Böllhoff extended its RFID portfolio with the RFID Box variation. This system works in a similar way to the RFID Bin system with one significant difference - if a bin is empty, the customer removes the RFID label from it and puts it into the RFID Box. At this moment, the order is transmitted to Böllhoff.
In addition to the latest RFID technology, Böllhoff still provides a wide range of classical KANBAN systems including:
Single or multi bin systems
• SingleBin - Per article, there is one bin on the customer’s shelf. Before the stock is consumed, the bins are refilled within agreed intervals.
• MultiBin - For one article, there are two or more bins on the customer’s shelf. If one bin is empty the bin will be replaced and refilled with the next delivery by Böllhoff.
Scan solutions
• ShelfScan - With a hand-held scanner, customers capture the required demand. Data transmission is executed fast and easily and directly via modem.
• ScanCard - Supply is controlled with a KANBAN card and executed without bins.
KANBAN with weighing technology
• SmartBin® - The bins are placed on scales. Via the scales, the stock is transmitted to Böllhoff online. If a determined notification value is fallen below, demand-oriented delivery is executed.
Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.
Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.
