Handheld Module instantly transmits data to Pocket PCs(TM).
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Press Release Summary:
Handheld Wireless Information Module(TM) (WIM) provides real-time, remote access to statistics and maintenance data by communicating directly with main system controller via Open Process Control (OPC) interface to Microsoft Visual Studio.NET(TM) WebService(TM). OPC support enables unit to integrate with any existing OPC-compliant applications and uses WiFi 802.11b for radio frequency communications. Windows®-format GUI allows for interpretation of statistics and maintenance alerts.
Original Press Release:
FKI Logistex Launches New Wireless Information Module
Handheld unit provides instant remote access to real-time statistics and maintenance data
(Cincinnati, OH: January 9, 2003) FKI Logistex (LSE: FKI.L) Automation Division, a market-leader in the design, manufacture, installation, and integration of innovative material handling solutions, today unveiled its real-time Wireless Information Module(TM) (WIM). The FKI Logistex WIM is a state-of-the-art wireless application providing instantaneous data reporting to handheld Pocket PCs(TM) (formerly Microsoft Windows CE(TM)) by communicating directly with the main system controller via an OPC interface to a Microsoft Visual Studio.NET(TM) WebService(TM).
Using wireless Ethernet(TM) technology, the FKI Logistex WIM captures system statistics in real-time and transmits them to the target Pocket PC anywhere within the facility, offering operators a snapshot of current system performance. The handheld unit's simple Windows-format graphical user interface allows for swift interpretation of statistics and maintenance alerts, including diverts, "no-reads", alarms, aborts, and exception notifications. Users can scroll quickly and easily through each page by tapping the Pocket PC touch screen.
"The FKI Logistex WIM gives operators a window into the nerve center of their facility," said John Westendorf, CEO of FKI Logistex Automation Division. "By providing instant remote access to real-time data, we give them the knowledge needed to make intelligent choices."
Easy integration with existing wireless systems and OPC-based applications
The FKI Logistex WIM architecture is constructed around Microsoft Visual Studio.NET(TM) and Microsoft WebService. The module's Open Process Control (OPC) support enables it to integrate with any existing OPC-compliant applications, including FKI Logistex BOSS(TM) and the BOSS Sorter Control Module. In addition, it integrates easily with PLC's. The module uses WiFi 802.11b for radio frequency communications (the frequency most commonly installed in warehouses for wireless barcode scanning operations), allowing the FKI Logistex WIM to interface seamlessly with existing wireless systems.
Ideal for remote system management and maintenance
The FKI Logistex WIM is an effective tool for busy DC managers who can benefit from remote access to critical data previously only available on fixed screens at monitoring stations scattered throughout the facility. By monitoring and reporting data such as individual conveyor lane information and sorter status, as well as current and historical carton cycle rates down to individual I/O points, the module offers a granular level of control and provides early warning of anomalies throughout the system.
The FKI Logistex WIM also allows maintenance personnel to closely monitor their system via system alarms, exception notices, and I/O debugging reports. Armed with precise data, maintenance personnel can quickly and accurately pinpoint the physical location of system errors, maximizing up-time and minimizing maintenance-related productivity losses.
"Bending steel is easy; anyone in the industry can do that. Putting intelligence into the controls that run the steel is where the real challenge comes in," said Westendorf. "The FKI Logistex WIM represents the next phase of evolution as we move from static, historical monitoring systems to intelligent, proactive systems."
Available for demonstration at ProMat 2003
The FKI Logistex WIM will be available for viewing and in-person demonstrations during ProMat 2003, February 10-13, 2003, at Chicago's McCormick Place Convention Center. Please stop by the FKI Logistex booth in Hall B, booth number 1407, for a product demonstration or to speak with any of the on-hand controls experts.
For further information, please contact the FKI Logistex Automation Division by calling (513) 874-0788 or by e-mailing automation@fkilogistex.com; you can also visit the FKI Logistex Automation Division on the web at http://www.fkilogistex.com/automation.
About FKI Logistex Automation Division
FKI Logistex Automation Division is a designer and supplier of material handling systems for all phases of product distribution and material flow. Whether it's high-speed carton sortation, moving massive parts in an industrial setting, or sorting finished products for shipping - from conveyors to cross docking equipment to order fulfillment equipment and controls - FKI Logistex Automation Division makes integrated material handling systems built to perform reliably for decades.
With nearly a century of material handling experience, FKI Logistex Automation Division has the industry's most diverse base of development and application experience. We are a leader in the material handling industry - designing and building the highest quality equipment and systems, as well as providing installation, training and ongoing service and support. Industry experience, industry knowledge, industry expertise - FKI Logistex Automation Division is the answer for material handling. Visit the division's website at http://www.fkilogistex.com/automation.
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.
