Modern’s 2015 Casebook

A mainstay of our industry, Modern’s annual Casebook has persevered through the ups and the downs of the economy. According to the latest Material Handling Equipment Manufacturing Forecast (MHEM) released by industry association MHI, things are looking up. Materials handling equipment new orders grew 8.8% in 2013 and are forecasted to grow 8% to 9% in 2014 and 2015. Shipments are growing. Domestic demand is growing. This likely also means your operation is growing. Taking on additional SKUs, managing omni-channel and multi-channel distribution, integrating new software and adding equipment is a daily challenge.

It’s for those materials handling professionals looking for solutions that Modern Materials Handling proudly offers the 2015 Casebook, a reference guide designed to inspire innovation and investment. It’s jam-packed with case studies as well as the most comprehensive directories available of materials handling equipment manufacturers and related information management technology suppliers.

The 2015 Casebook features 40 case studies that put the spotlight on successful innovation projects. Modern readers will learn how savvy operations are solving lift truck management issues by putting upgraded software and robotics to work; implementing new automated packaging solutions; putting automation and conveyor systems to the task; and taking steps to implement or upgrade information management and software to improve visibility and streamline labor relations and more.

The editorial team at Modern is well aware of the challenging fiscal environment in which materials handling professionals have been operating over the past several years. However, we understand the costs of not following through on overdue improvement projects that are designed to boost productivity in the long run.

It’s our hope that the 2015 Casebook will continue to inspire the innovation and investment that will keep your warehouse and distribution operation on the road to success for many years to come.

Lift Trucks
Standardized fleet helps control maintenance costs
Hydrostatic drive system lasts six times longer on an oil change
Sport equipment seller cuts costs with new lift truck
Electric scooter increases productivity in warehouses
Multi-level orderpicker helps optimize storage, slotting and picking
Specialized fleet mix supports facility consolidation

Fixed Path
Manufacturer increases efficiency with custom automatic guided vehicle
Telescoping conveyor extends productivity
Power protection prevents production interruptions
AGVs offer precision in missile production facility
Distributor uses automation to consolidate five facilities into one
Global retailer reduces downtime, improves diagnostics for tilt-tray sorters

Packaging
Custom palletizer handles fruit gently
Printers ensure quality for direct-to-consumer business
Automated packaging line adds versatility, subtracts downtime
On-demand foam packaging secures product and savings

Storage/Staging
Value Drug Mart adds horizontal carousels to meet demand
Temporary structure shelters workers and product at the dock
Food-grade mezzanine exceeds sanitary requirements for bottler
Software controls new robotic goods-to-person picking system
Fully automated pallet AS/RS optimizes processes for industrial distributor
Vertical lift module saves space and strengthens ergonomics
Warehouse optimizes order picking through gradual automation
AS/RS tackles peaks without more staff
Reconditioned carousel supports booming e-commerce business
Insulated wall creates temperature-controlled cleanroom
Facility consolidation merges two parts rooms into the space of one

Information Management
Voice-directed picking supports productivity and compliance
Image-based bar code reader achieves perfect read rates for 1D codes
Beverage distributor replaces paper-based picking with voice
Manufacturer tightens inventory control with turnkey RFID system
Cloud-based YMS provides real-time visibility across network
Intelligent lighting provides managers with energy data
Distributor targets accuracy and labor costs with mobile pick carts
Mobile computers help automate inventory management
Software suite unites packing, shipping and storage in multiple facilities

Dock Equipment
HVLS fans promote productivity
Distributor strengthens cold chain at the dock
Insulated dock door keeps weather and service calls at bay
Speed means savings for large doorways