Warehouse Software controls distribution operations.

Press Release Summary:



Direct ConneX(TM) warehouse directing software provides up-to-the-minute reports on productivity for distribution center managers. It runs on Windows NT platform, receives conveyor status from PLC control system, and receives container routing destinations from host, then routes containers on conveyors to appropriate destinations. Direct ConneX interfaces to other software such as WMS, Pick-to-Light, weigh-in-motion, and print and apply systems.



Original Press Release:


DPI Material Handling Systems Introduces New Conveyor System Sortation Product, Direct ConneX(TM), For Better Control Of Distribution Operations


Grand Rapids, Michigan-DPI Material Handling Systems today introduced Direct ConneX(TM), a user-friendly, warehouse directing software designed to increase distribution efficiency and offer up-to-the-minute reports on productivity for distribution center managers.

Because of its innovative design, Direct ConneX(TM) is easily configurable to any sortation application. Since its advanced design does not rely on custom coding for each system, technical upgrades and enhancements are easy, including integration with other software such as WMS, Pick-to-Light, weigh-in-motion, and print and apply systems.

The Direct ConneX(TM) system operation is simple and logical. The PC-based Direct ConneX(TM) system commander runs on a Windows NT platform and receives conveyor status from its integrated PLC control system. In addition, it receives container routing destinations from the host, which allows Direct ConneX(TM) to route the containers on the conveyors to the appropriate destinations. The Direct ConneX(TM) system monitor interfaces with the system commander, offering advanced, high-resolution graphics. Multiple terminals can be installed throughout the facility, providing users with immediate access to system status.

According to Joel Bos, Director of Controls and Software Engineering for DPI, "Direct ConneX(TM) solves many problems that face distribution center managers. It is comprised of a dual level processor system that offers fast response, superior reporting capability and high-resolution graphics. These reporting and graphic capabilities enable operating personnel to immediately identify discrepancies in product flow, staff imbalances, as well as create useful productivity reports on system throughput statistics." Bos concluded by stating that "the addition of Direct ConneX(TM) allows DPI to offer an enhanced, comprehensive distribution solution to our clients."

Founded in 1981 by a small group of highly experienced engineers, DPI has grown into a nationwide material handling company that plans, designs, implements, installs, and supports the distribution and material handling systems of major companies throughout the country.

Companies that have chosen DPI to develop material handling systems include Office Depot, VWR Scientific Products, Inc., The Pampered Chef, The Kroger Company, IKEA, S. Abraham & Sons, Inc., Fleming Companies, Inc., Meijer, Inc., PETsMART, Nazarene Publishing House, Fender Musical Instruments Corp., Spartan Stores, Inc., Concordia Publishing House, Safeway, Inc., American Stores Company, California Hardware, Southeast Frozen Foods, and many others.

All Topics