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Zone Routing Configuration


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Zone RoutingGeneral ArrangementPoDD ConfigurationPros and ConsEquipment Application

 Zone Routing Configuration

Zone Routing PoDD© Configuration

Zone Routing Systems represent the next evolutionary step step in zone picking operations. The key element in a Zone Routing System is the PoDD© (Point of Destination Decision).

As you recall from the previous diagram, a Zone Routing System layout is very similar to a Pick to Tote or Pick to Carton order selection system. A center powered live roller "take-away" conveyor with outboard gravity conveyor "flankers" located on either side.

Conventional sequential picking systems typically have picking operators located on each side of the conveyors who will walk the length of the conveyor picking product, placing it into totes or empty cartons, and when an order is complete they will push the tote onto the take-away conveyor. The operator returns to the starting point to start a new order.

Zoned picking systems work in a similar fashion except, that operators are "confined" to specific areas. These systems operate in a manner similar to a "bucket brigade" with tote handed from one operator to another. An operator will look into a tote entering their zone, examine the order document, pick the proper product into the tote and then escort the tote to the next zone, unless the order is complete. If an order is complete, the operator pushes the tote onto the take-away conveyor.

 

zone.h4.jpg (55932 bytes)

 

The PoDD© is comprised of four primary additional mechanical and electrical components:

  • Skew Section . . . positions the tote so it can be "read" by the Barcode Scanner
  • Brake Meter Belt . . . spaces out the totes so that they may be transferred to either side of the pick module
  • Barcode Scanner . . . reads the barcode label and relays the identification to the destination controller for routing instructions
  • Right Angle Transfer . . . transfers the totes to the determined side of the picking module

The ability to automatically "Route" totes through a picking operation can reduce operator handling while increasing system throughput.

More Information: 

Is Zone Routing right for you?  

 

 

 

 

 

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Skew Section

 

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Brake Meter Belt

 

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Barcode Scanner

 

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Right Angle Transfer

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Revised: September 29, 2005