Customized table systems
Process optimization starts at the workplace
As part of the expansion of a goods service center, 120 new workstations were planned and implemented. Custom-made table systems, prototype tests and ergonomic optimizations formed the basis for efficient processes and precise integration into the existing logistics processes.
Back in 2019, the fashion and lifestyle company E. Breuninger built a goods service center in Sachsenheim near Bietigheim-Bissingen, where all logistics processes for supplying the department stores and the entire online store were bundled. The in-house content production and parts of the administration are also located there. The goods service center has now been extended by a further hall. The workstations in the extension have been completely refurnished on a total of three levels.
Following the invitation to tender for the large project volume, the contract was awarded to the workplace specialists from Krieg. The Heimsheim-based company had already fitted out the existing project. "We quickly sent the customer both an offer and drawings. Our aim was to make a good impression right from the start by designing the solution variants quite openly. Our aim was to take on, supervise and manage the entire project," recalls Frank Ockert, Area Sales Manager and Key Account Manager at Krieg.
Beforehand, everyone involved had given a lot of thought to how the different areas should look. The design, planning and proposals were based on these templates. Krieg's equipment was to be used in various areas of the goods service center. The first step was to consult a small committee, discuss the functions, rethink the plans several times and fine-tune them. Only then were prototypes produced for the individual areas.
Sample tables tried out
Frank Ockert says: "Several specialists contributed their ideas, it was a productive collaboration and a lively communicative exchange. Our sample tables were assembled and provided on site, tried out and modified by employees. The project required a lot of consultation, as everyone involved was keen to find the ideal solutions for the optimum workflow. This is exactly the service we offer."
Some tables have holders for clothes hangers and add-on wings for stacking shoe boxes. In the upper work areas, there are tool holders on the back walls, which are fitted across the entire width of the table so that employees can flexibly attach shelves. Work tables were set up next to the conveyor technology to ensure the best possible removal of goods. A superstructure was also installed above the conveyor system so that crates and cartons can fit underneath, saving space and avoiding unnecessary material consumption. Screen, PC and drinks holders have also been given a suitable place.
A total of 120 workstations were set up in the new wing of the building. Breuninger's requirements for the workstations are high. The workstations were put together with millimeter precision, especially in the context of the local conditions. The majority were tailored to the needs of the customer. Heiko Dieterle, internal project manager and deputy sales manager at Krieg, reports: "We used our Workflex Multiplan series and then modified it accordingly, as both large, bulky and small desks were needed. In total, we manufactured 280 tables for Breuninger, most of which were custom-made." Some of the tables are height-adjustable, both with hand cranks and by means of clamping screws.
Ergonomics as an important aspect
The experience and feedback from the first project has been incorporated into the new equipment, especially in terms of ergonomics. Heiko Dieterle says: "We explicitly looked at the reach distances and table heights. Where does the employee have to reach during the process, what do they need at what height and how often?" Aspects such as body rotations and material proximity influenced the planning. The bottom line is that much more comfortable heights were installed and the grip is more comfortable. The gripping areas were adapted several times during the development process, the superstructure and the height of the conveyor technology were changed and various components were modified. "Our expertise in terms of ergonomics was very much incorporated into the project," continues Dieterle.
The test set-ups and the testing and optimization of the samples took around six weeks, after which the workstations were produced for eight weeks. The furnishings have a functional look. As in the existing building, the new furnishings are in RAL color 7035 (light grey). A tight time window was planned for the on-site assembly in order to be able to start operations in the West Hall on time. Krieg's seven-strong assembly team was on site for four weeks to set everything up in a short space of time. Heiko Dieterle sums up: "From development to optimization, the project was very interesting and the close cooperation was once again a success." In addition to style awareness and a flair for trends, Breuninger stands for a strong customer focus: services such as the Special Service, the in-house made-to-measure atelier, Click and Collect and online reservations, the in-store ordering service and the shuttle service are available in-store and online. Breuninger now has twelve stores in Germany and Luxembourg with around 6,500 employees.
LogiMat, Hall 5, Stand 5F45
You might also be interested in
Better room quality for industrial workplaces
A pleasant indoor climate, balanced lighting and low noise levels are essential prerequisites for performance, health and motivation in the workplace.
read more...Assembly and handling
Handling and assembly are just as important in an industrial environment as the actual production. We have compiled this market overview to help you maintain an overview.
read more...Handling and production logistics
Flexible workstations with classic conveyor technology
SEW-Eurodrive has created efficient and flexible processes to implement the Industry 4.0 approach.
read more...Simple tool change in seconds
With the CMS, Schunk is launching a user-friendly, manual change system for quick component replacement. In addition to its simple and convenient operation, the CMS also stands out with its extensive range of optional modules and complementary end...
read more...Partial automation with robots
At Automatica, Promess will be showcasing its modular individual workstations and how these can be partially automated with robot support. The servo press manufacturer will also be providing information about the latest features of its Revolution X...
read more...Digital assembly processes to combat the shortage of skilled workers
The increasing shortage of skilled workers is putting even well-established companies in manual assembly under pressure. According to the "DIHK Skilled Workers 2022 Report", 58% of industrial companies were unable to fill vacancies in the long term....
read more...Reach zone at the workplace: definition and structure
The example of the reach space at the workplace clearly shows that ergonomics is all about taking the individuality of all employees into account.
read more...Collaborative assembly stations in the context of handedness
When designing an assembly workstation, consideration should be given to whether it will be used by a right-handed or left-handed person. This should also be taken into account when working with collaborative robots.
read more...Customized assembly stations
Not every product can be manufactured fully automatically. Automated production is often not practical, especially for complex, varied products in small quantities.
read more...