Warehouse Management System for coil storage

Warehouse Management System for coil storage

Improved efficiency and productivity in warehouse operations

  • The Konecranes Warehouse Management System (WMS) is designed for managing an automatic coil warehouse operated by cranes with mechanical grippers or magnets. The WMS manages transport orders, optimizes operating times, and provides real-time information on operating and system statuses for streamlined warehouse operations.

    Steel coil data is recorded by the WMS through a host system and the operator can easily access all relevant system and coil information. Coils arriving at the storage point are automatically stored up to three layers in storage and automatically retrieved when requested.

    The WMS consists of a basic module plus extension modules for yard management, production management and mobile robot management.
  • Coil warehouse
Benefits
  • Achieve high throughput combined with high storage capacity
  • Rule configurator allows for easy adding and editing of position rules when storage requirements change
  • Reorganization of coil storage significantly reduces crane movements during peak times
  • Distribution of workload across all storage areas and cranes helps speed up the supply to the production line
  • Crane operating data can be analyzed for further warehouse optimization
  • System allows order prioritization for the most efficient retrieval sequences which helps increase productivity
  • Storage, retrieval and store selection strategies provide better organization and help increase safety and productivity
Yard Management ModuleProduction Management ModuleMobile Robot Management Module

Mobile Robot Management Module

Coil in storageThe Konecranes WMS Mobile Robot Management Module (MRMM) controls the material flow of coils outside the storage area. A mobile robot management module is a key component in coil warehousing as it manages and directs the movement of mobile robots for efficient material handling. The Konecranes MRMM can implement several different types of mobile robots.

The MRMM communicates with the mobile robots through wireless communication or cabling within the customer network and provides them with instructions on pick-up and delivery points. It also monitors mobile robot locations and checks that they follow a safe and optimized path. Additionally, the MRMM integrates with the WMS to keep track of inventory levels, update the status of orders, and plan the most efficient mobile robot routing. This results in a streamlined and efficient material handling process, reducing downtime, and increasing productivity.

Benefits
  • Automation of material handling outside the storage area provides increased efficiency
  • Safety is improved with the monitoring of mobile robot movements
  • Inventory tracking is enhanced by integrating the MRMM in the WMS

Yard Management Module

Man scanning coil informationThe Konecranes WMS Yard Management Module (YMM) controls the material flow of coils from the train or truck to storage. The WMS-YMM also controls coil registration and quality checks.

Before storing a coil, the data record is transmitted to the WMS from the host/MES system or manually entered by an operator via the WMS screen. The coil is labelled with a barcode-readable label and its contour dimensions are measured and verified. The operator inputs all information—including the coil's location on a train, truck, or in a buffer area—using a mobile device connected directly to the WMS.

Coils can be automatically unloaded from and loaded onto trains or trucks. For trains, the crane only needs to drive over the entire train once to assess the position of all loaded coils. For both trains and trucks, the application software calculates the exact position, height, diameter and width of each coil and the measurement result is sent to the WMS. The WMS detects the coils with machine vision and its algorithm determines the pick or deposit position on the train or truck.

Benefits
  • Provides one system to control the material flow from the train or truck to the warehouse and vice versa.
  • High throughput can be achieved with the coordination between manual operation and automatic crane warehouse.
  • Provides central interface between material handling technology and customer IT.

Production Management Module

Production management moduleThe Konecranes WMS Production Management Module (PMM) provides special functions for production order management such as the control and management of priorities of production orders and output conveying lines, management of deliveries and delivery positions, and reordering or replacement of coils.

When the turnstiles are occupied with requested coils and the transfer area is empty or in manual mode, the WMS retrieves requested coils from the automatic storage area and places them in the buffer area. Coils that are not located in the uppermost layer will be automatically dug out by relocating coils above.

Retrieval is typically based on priority first, then creation time (first in, first out) to one of the retrieval points. If the retrieval request is determined by project-specific retrieval criteria, the WMS selects the coils using a designated retrieval strategy.

Benefits
  • Provides automatic load optimization for increased efficiency
  • Production orders are automatically generated and managed with status updates to host systems

Mobile Robot Management Module

Coil in storageThe Konecranes WMS Mobile Robot Management Module (MRMM) controls the material flow of coils outside the storage area. A mobile robot management module is a key component in coil warehousing as it manages and directs the movement of mobile robots for efficient material handling. The Konecranes MRMM can implement several different types of mobile robots.

The MRMM communicates with the mobile robots through wireless communication or cabling within the customer network and provides them with instructions on pick-up and delivery points. It also monitors mobile robot locations and checks that they follow a safe and optimized path. Additionally, the MRMM integrates with the WMS to keep track of inventory levels, update the status of orders, and plan the most efficient mobile robot routing. This results in a streamlined and efficient material handling process, reducing downtime, and increasing productivity.

Benefits
  • Automation of material handling outside the storage area provides increased efficiency
  • Safety is improved with the monitoring of mobile robot movements
  • Inventory tracking is enhanced by integrating the MRMM in the WMS

Yard Management Module

Man scanning coil informationThe Konecranes WMS Yard Management Module (YMM) controls the material flow of coils from the train or truck to storage. The WMS-YMM also controls coil registration and quality checks.

Before storing a coil, the data record is transmitted to the WMS from the host/MES system or manually entered by an operator via the WMS screen. The coil is labelled with a barcode-readable label and its contour dimensions are measured and verified. The operator inputs all information—including the coil's location on a train, truck, or in a buffer area—using a mobile device connected directly to the WMS.

Coils can be automatically unloaded from and loaded onto trains or trucks. For trains, the crane only needs to drive over the entire train once to assess the position of all loaded coils. For both trains and trucks, the application software calculates the exact position, height, diameter and width of each coil and the measurement result is sent to the WMS. The WMS detects the coils with machine vision and its algorithm determines the pick or deposit position on the train or truck.

Benefits
  • Provides one system to control the material flow from the train or truck to the warehouse and vice versa.
  • High throughput can be achieved with the coordination between manual operation and automatic crane warehouse.
  • Provides central interface between material handling technology and customer IT.

Tailored coil warehouse solutions for peak performance

When you decide to implement the Konecranes Warehouse Management System for coil storage, you’ll benefit from our comprehensive approach using advanced simulation modeling and customized integrations to transform you warehouse operations. We'll work closely with you to analyze your processes, provide expert technical advice, and conduct in-depth concept studies to determine the optimal solution for your specific needs. We will conduct interface tests before commissioning and provide training to your personnel, using a digital twin with crane simulation, for a smooth start up. Once you are up and running, we can provide 24/7 on-call service and system support for your peace of mind.

WMS planning

Coil storage simulation
Coil storage simulation

Simulation models optimize planning

Using different simulation models, we analyze capacity and performance in order to provide recommendations on the system design and capacity, the number of bridge cranes and performance requirements as well as insight on the operational rules of the system.

Why simulation?

  • The model provides a detailed view of the proposed system to make sure it meets your specified KPIs. It’s also used for throughput calculations, i.e., what would it look like if we added a second crane on a runway.
  • Simulation modelling with 3D animation helps validate the design in terms of crane behavior, stacking height and operational rules.
  • The model is also used to optimize coil storage strategies and capacity, mobile robot/conveyor routes and material logistics within the facility.
Engineers planning WMS for coil storage
Engineers planning WMS for coil storage

Digital twin for insights and training

We use cutting-edge simulation technology to create a digital twin of your crane-automated coil warehouse that emulates the crane movements. This virtual model helps operators and engineers gain valuable early insights into the expected performance of the entire system.

Why a crane emulator?

  • Can help identify potential bottlenecks, optimize storage configurations, and fine-tune operational procedures even before the physical warehouse is constructed.
  • Can be used as a training tool for operators, letting them get familiar with the WMS and crane automation functionalities during the engineering phase.
  • Advanced training helps provide a smooth transition to real-world operations, reducing the learning curve and enhancing overall efficiency once the warehouse is operational.

WMS service

Man at computer
Man at computer

Preventive Maintenance Service

Protect your warehouse management system investment with the WMS Preventive Maintenance Service. The service provides support for the Konecranes WMS software during the operation of the system and includes regular inspection and minor adjustments to maximize availability and minimize the risk of downtime. When you require high-level technical expertise, you can take advantage of troubleshooting support during office hours.
Konecranes remote support center
Konecranes remote support center

WMS Remote Support

When time is critical WMS Remote Support provides quick response for troubleshooting issues that require high-level technical expertise. Minimize unplanned downtime with 24/7 access to our global network of WMS specialists supported by local Standby Service.

In controlled circumstances, and assisted by local Standby Service, a two-way on-line communication with the local WMS system and their operators can be established to expedite corrective action.
Konecranes WMS chatbot graphic

Streamline your work with our WMS chatbot

The Konecranes WMS chatbot puts information about your warehouse management system at your fingertips. User manuals, service reports and other information specific to your WMS is fed into a database that is installed on your local network. The chatbot can be accessed via a web browser—no internet connection needed—or integrated into your WMS.

The chatbot can help you improve efficiency and streamline operations. Operators can instantly find answers to specific questions about the WMS without flipping through lengthy manuals. And the chatbot can guide operators through resolving common issues step-by-step. It’s also an invaluable tool for training as operators can learn the WMS faster with real-time guidance from the chatbot.

Designed for handling coils

Konecranes makes the lifting equipment you need for reliable and efficient steel warehousing. Whether you are running a large steel warehouse alongside a steel mill, a small regional distribution office, or anything in between, we can help you make your warehousing operation more efficient. Our coil handling cranes can be equipped with a variety of lifting devices and Smart Features help reduce wear on the crane and speed up workflow.
Check out our coil handling cranes

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