Cart allows batch picking of low-velocity SKUs.

Press Release Summary:



EASYpick® GoKart(TM), with pick-to-light technology, enables operators to pick several orders simultaneously during one pass. With readable interface, self-contained unit can be hand driven or motorized. It uses wireless local area network (LAN) and short-range RF scanners. Constructed with chrome-plated steel frames, augmented by stainless steel hardware, cart can be manufactured up to 66 x 36 x 79 in. (L x W x H) with rubber/polyurethane bumpers.



Original Press Release:



FKI Logistex Real Time Solutions GoKarts Streamline Operations and Improve Picking Rates for Low-Velocity SKUs



Pick-to-light batch picking carts eliminate long walk times, maximize output

(Emeryville, CA: October 09, 2002) FKI Logistex (LSE: FKI.L), a leading single-point supplier of integrated material handling solutions for distribution, baggage handling, freight, parcel, and manufacturing applications, announces the availability of EASYpick® GoKarts(TM) RF batch-picking carts from its order picking and fulfillment experts, Real Time Solutions.

Increased accuracy and productivity rates
EASYpick GoKarts use Real Time Solutions' cutting-edge pick-to-light technology to allow batch picking of low-velocity SKUs. Batch picking increases inventory accuracies, reduces returns processing levels, and boosts overall productivity throughout picking operations. The advanced pick-to-light system enables operators to pick several orders simultaneously during a single pass through a breakpack picking area, dramatically reducing walk times.

EASYpick GoKarts are the ideal solution for repack zones containing large numbers of SKUs, long aisles, and low-velocity products. In many operations, approximately 33% of SKUs are high-velocity items picked from flow racks aggregated in a single picking area, and account for 95% of picking activity. The remaining 66% of inventory, generally accounting for 5% of picking activity, is spread throughout the rest of the warehouse. These low-velocity items require employees to make long, unproductive walks between pick locations; integrating EASYpick GoKarts eliminates this problem by enabling items to be picked in batches.

EASYpick GoKarts offer an easy-to-read interface and operation that is simple to learn and understand, allowing pickers to quickly master the pick process. At the beginning of each pick cycle, the picker scans the totes on the cart using a handheld RF scanner. Once scanned, the pick destination is displayed. Upon arrival, the picker verifies the location and picks the items as indicated on the pick-to-light display unit. When the full quantity of items has been noted as picked, the system then displays the next pick location. This easy-to-follow system helps to reduce picking errors and boost accuracy rates.

Self-contained unit integrates easily with other systems
EASYpick GoKarts are self-contained units that can be hand-driven or custom manufactured for motorized operation. Carts employ a wireless local area network (LAN) and short-range RF scanners for controller-host unit communications; also included in the onboard systems are an RF barcode scanner, universal pick-to-light channel lightbars, and handheld RF scanners. Plastic conduits are used to house cables and wires, ensuring picker safety. Cart batteries are mounted in a pullout drawer, offering quick and easy access for maintenance, repair, and replacement. As most hand-trucks operate on 24-volt systems, EASYpick GoKarts are specifically modulated for 24-volt output, thereby allowing the controllers to seamlessly integrate with existing 24-volt systems.

"By employing wireless pick-to-light technology, EASYpick GoKarts gives operators both mobility and real-time reporting for low-velocity SKU picking," said Stephen Legg, president of FKI Logistex Real Time Solutions. "We enable pickers in even the remotest locations of the DC to remain integrated into scheduled work waves, keeping picking operations flowing smoothly."

Rugged, durable construction
EASYpick GoKarts are engineered for superior maneuverability and reliability. With chrome-plated steel frames augmented by stainless steel hardware, their sturdy design and construction makes them ideal for use in demanding or damp environments. Carts can be manufactured up to 66" in length, 36" in width, and 79" in height and are equipped with rubber and/or polyurethane bumpers to prevent damage to both cart and walls. The carts use polyurethane casters and wheels with a 360° turning radius, allowing pickers to maneuver in aisles as narrow as 4 feet across.

Current customers of FKI Logistex Real Time Solutions GoKarts include leading apparel manufacturer, Liz Claiborne; aftermarket auto parts retailer, Advance Auto Parts; and grocer, Hannaford Bros.

About Real Time Solutions
Real Time Solutions systems are installed and maintained in over 280 sites in North America, Latin America, and Europe, with more than one million lights installed. Key products include Outbound Productivity Suite (OPS), EASYPICK and EASYPUT® order fulfillment systems, RF carts with lights, and voice and light trees on carousels, each providing real-time management tools to help balance work load distribution, monitor order completion, and track productivity.

Real Time Solutions, an FKI Logistex company, is the leading developer and provider of hardware and software order filling solutions that increase productivity and accuracy in warehouses and distribution centers. Real Time Solutions, which has been evolving paperless picking solutions for more than a decade, currently has more than 100 employees in two California facilities.

For more information, contact Stephen Legg, president, FKI Logistex Real Time Solutions, by telephone at (510) 985-6300, via e-mail at info@realtime-ptl.com, or by visiting www.picktolight.com.

About FKI Logistex
FKI Logistex is a leading supplier of integrated material handling solutions for distribution, baggage handling, freight, parcel, and manufacturing applications. FKI Logistex supplies its customers with an integrated set of leading edge technologies in high-speed sortation, conveyor systems, carousels, palletizing, paperless pick products, AS/RS, controls, order processing software, warehouse control systems, and total materials handling automation.

FKI Logistex (www.fkilogistex.com) is a part of FKI plc (LSE: FKI.L) a UK-based international engineering group. FKI Logistex is comprised of the industry's most successful and recognized brands, including Alvey Systems, Cleco, Crisplant, Crisplant a/s, Automation Division (incorporating Buschman Operations, Mathews Operations, and CMP Corporation), Integration Division, Io Systems, Real Time Solutions, and White Systems.

For more information contact: FKI Logistex, 1500 Lebanon Road, Danville, KY, 40422; telephone: (877) 935-4564; e-mail info@fkilogistex.com.

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