HEITEC and HEISAB modernise order picking system
Heel, one of the world's leading manufacturers of natural medicines, headquartered in Baden-Baden, Germany, commissioned the modernisation of its existing pick-by-light picking system. The aim was to replace the existing software and hardware, some of which was outdated, and to integrate the entire material flow control functionality directly into SAP EWM.
Realisation
To ensure smooth system integration into the existing SAP EWM, HEISAB and HEITEC analysed the existing processes together with the customer in a comprehensive preliminary study and precisely defined the requirements. This enabled clear budgeting and reliable scheduling.
In the subsequent implementation phase, sensible work packages were formed in order to reduce the complexity of the overall project. The step-by-step implementation led to quickly visible results and transparent project progress.
In order to integrate the paperless picking process Pick-by-Light, which guides employees through the picking process with light signals, into SAP EWM MFS (Material Flow System), the conveyor technology control system was revised and seamlessly connected to SAP EWM (HEISAB) and PLC (HEITEC) together with the new scales and other Pick-by-Light hardware.
By using a digital twin, extensive tests and simulations of the new PLC logic could be carried out virtually before commissioning. As a result, commissioning was carried out quickly, efficiently and with minimal errors.
The project was realised in close cooperation between HEISAB and HEITEC. Thanks to the successful cooperation, the Pick by Light system was not only modernised, but also fully integrated into SAP EWM. The result is streamlined and transparent processes, reliable communication between PLC and SAP and a noticeable reduction in errors in the picking process. The hybrid project approach with a digital twin and agile sprints enabled the project to run smoothly and go live quickly. With SAP EWM MFS and the digital twin, the customer has a future-proof solution that guarantees efficiency and maintainability in the long term.
Customer benefits
- Complete integration in SAP EWM - without additional middleware
- Increased process reliability thanks to direct communication between PLC and SAP
- Minimised error rate thanks to modern pick-by-light technology
- Flexibility thanks to modular solution and agile project phases
- Fast go-live thanks to digital twin and pre-tests
- Long-term maintainability thanks to consistent SAP standardisation
