Light Directed Picking Systems: Improving Efficiency and Accuracy in Warehouse and Factory Operations
Warehouse and factory operations require precise and efficient processes to ensure that products are delivered to customers on time and with accuracy. One technology that has been developed to enhance these processes is light directed picking systems, also called pick-to-light. These systems have been implemented across various industries and have shown significant improvements in efficiency and accuracy. In this blog, we will provide an overview of light directed picking systems, their history, how they work, their advantages, and current published metrics on their performance.
History of Light Directed Picking Systems
Light directed picking systems were developed to streamline warehouse operations by improving the accuracy and speed of order picking. The first systems were introduced in the 1980s and utilized light displays to guide pickers to the correct locations within a warehouse. Since then, the technology has advanced significantly, and light directed picking systems are now commonly used in various industries, including retail, e-commerce, healthcare, and manufacturing.
How Light Directed Picking Systems Work
Pick-to-light systems use visual cues to guide operators to the correct product location, quantity, and order. The system consists of several components, including:
- Pick-to-light modules that are installed at each picking location
- A control module that communicates with the warehouse management system (WMS)
- A software application that manages the pick assignments and sends the information to the control module
- A display module that provides the picker with information on the product location, quantity, and order
Once a picking assignment is sent to the system, the pick-to-light modules illuminate, indicating the product location and quantity. The picker confirms the pick by pressing a button on the module, which signals the system to move on to the next pick.
Advantages of Light Directed Picking Systems
The primary benefits of light directed picking systems include improved efficiency, increased accuracy, enhanced safety, and reduced training time. By guiding operators to the correct product location and quantity, light directed picking systems reduce the time needed to find products and eliminate errors. The result is increased productivity, which ultimately leads to cost savings and improved customer satisfaction.
Additionally, pick-to-light or light directed picking systems enhance safety by reducing the risk of accidents that can occur when operators are manually searching for products. By eliminating the need to search for products, the risk of injury is significantly reduced. Light directed picking systems also reduce training time by providing clear instructions and reducing the need for extensive training.
Examples of Improved Efficiency and Accuracy
Several studies have shown that light directed picking systems can significantly improve efficiency and accuracy. For example, a study conducted by The Supply Chain Consulting Group found that implementing a light directed picking system led to a 60% reduction in picking errors and a 50% increase in productivity. Another study conducted by Retrotech reported that implementing a light directed picking system led to a 20% increase in productivity and a 99.99% accuracy rate.
Implementing a Light Directed Picking System
To successfully implement a pick-to-light system, it is essential to plan and prepare carefully. This involves understanding the requirements of the warehouse and factory operations and identifying the best technology and vendor for the project. It is also critical to integrate the system with existing systems to ensure seamless operations. Employee training is also crucial to ensure that operators understand how to use the system correctly.
Conclusion:
Light directed picking systems are an effective way to improve efficiency and accuracy in warehouse and factory operations. They provide operators with clear instructions, reducing the risk of errors and injuries while enhancing productivity. By understanding the benefits and requirements of implementing a light directed picking system, warehouse and factory operations can enjoy increased productivity, reduced costs, and improved customer satisfaction.
Contact LD Systems to learn more about pick to light picking options.
