SAP Automation Control
The use of automation within the warehouse can provide significantly increased material handling throughput and efficiency. The key to the successful implementation of automation is the integration with the other warehouse and logistics processes and systems. Without this the workforce and operational control and reporting becomes fragmented and inefficient.
Examples of warehouse automation that can be integrated, controlled and managed from SAP include:
- AS/RS (Automatic Storage and Retrieval Systems) / Unit and Mini Load Systems
- Conveyor and Sortation Systems
- Label Applicators
- Palletisers
- Pick-by-Light
- Production Silos
- Scales
Integration
Rocket's approach to automation places a strong emphasis on both technical and operational integration, allowing the specialised external automation control systems to be used effectively with SAP, while retaining all the benefits of process control, operational reporting and management in the SAP Warehouse Management/ERP system.
Automation can be controlled from different levels depending on the extent to which SAP manages the process and the required visibility of activities within the automation system. Selecting the most appropriate method of integration is a key success factor. It is to this end that Rocket has developed its automation integration approach and toolkits.
Rocket Toolkits help to accelerate the implementation and integration of technology within SAP solutions while reducing implementation cost and risk. Toolkits development follows strict development standards including SAP approved interfacing mechanisms and enhancement techniques to ensure smooth deployment and robust operation.
Examples of the warehouse automation integration points:
- ERP
Inventory movements - Warehouse Management
Transfer orders - Task and Resource Management
Task execution - Extended Warehouse Management
Warehouse task execution - Extended Warehouse Management
Material flow systems (MFS)
SAP supports many different types of communication method:
- Text
Simple text extract / import for non real time requirements - IDOCS
SAP's standardised message format with semi real time and extensive error handing capabilities (e.g. Workflow) - XML
Provision for XML messages passing utilising SAP PI - RFC - (Remote Function Call)
SAP Real time interface API - Extended Warehouse Management, Material Flow Systems (MFS)
Offers the total integration and control at the automation Programmable Logic Controller's (PLC's) completely removing the need for any external automation control layer
Demonstrate, Evaluate, Implement
Rocket offer the facility of a comprehensive research and demonstration landscape and can help you rapidly evaluate or prototype your business requirements and support you throughout every aspect of designing and implementing automation equipment into SAP controlled business processes.
Rocket has a depth and breadth of understanding of the technical impacts and process considerations for the integration of automation equipment and other complementary technology into SAP controlled operations. Backed by a history of successful implementations of various automation equipment into a wide range of industries and a network of close business relationships with key hardware suppliers, Rocket provides a full range of consulting services in the integration of automation or warehouse systems into SAP ERP and SCM landscapes.