How is Pick-to-Light Used in Manufacturing Applications?
In the warehousing and order fulfillment side of the supply chain, pick-to-light systems have been a widely adopted material handling solution for decades. But, did you know that in the manufacturing realm, top global manufacturers have experienced rapid gains in speed and quality for their parts picking, assembly and material handling applications by using pick-to-light and other light-directed productivity solutions?
Here are some of the manufacturing applications we see on a regular basis:
- Parts picking
- Kitting
- Sequencing solutions
- Parts batching
- Line-side picking systems
- Assembly and sub-assembly
Watch this short video to see three demonstrations of picking, assembling and kitting:
Pick-to-Light Error Proofing Solutions Improve Quality
Using a visual tool like pick-to-light in picking parts for manufacturing is an ideal poka-yoke (error proofing) solution for reducing errors and defects in lean production processes, and perfect for continuous improvement goals and manufacturing process management.
Light-directed systems also reduce mistakes (and their associated costs) in kitting and assembly workstations. Many manufacturers, from automotive to industrial goods to medical devices, have achieved a fast ROI by avoiding costly errors. Lightning Pick also offers productivity gains, even during labor shortages.
How Does it Work?
Light modules direct operators to the correct parts and quantities, in the correct sequential steps, as required by the bill of materials (BOM). As the video above shows, the process is simple, and production workers actually prefer the light-directed process. The Lightning Pick methodology eliminates wasted touches or picking the wrong part in a group of similar-looking parts, which can be common in manual, paper-based picking systems. Without the fear of making mistakes, they can focus on quality and productivity.
How could light-directed picking technology be used in your production processes? Matthews Lightning Pick is the number one provider of light-directed systems in North America. If you would like an in-depth consultation on how pick-to-light could be integrated into your manufacturing processes, please contact us at info@lightningpick.com or call 262.250.2100.
Stay tuned for future articles about choosing the right pick-to-light system for your type of application.
