Swisslog
The Sumitomo Drive Technologies USA headquarters facility in Chesapeake, Va. will receive a major overhaul with the new Swisslog and AutoStore system.
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Swisslog
The Sumitomo Drive Technologies USA headquarters facility in Chesapeake, Va. will receive a major overhaul with the new Swisslog and AutoStore system.
Swisslog announced that Sumitomo Drive Technologies USA will deploy an advanced AutoStore system integrated with autonomous forklifts, orchestrated by Swisslog’s SynQ software.
Sumitomo Drive Technologies, a brand of Sumitomo Machinery Corporation of America (SMA), manufactures power transmission and control products for a variety of applications serving customers in food and beverage, parcel handling, automotive and mining.
Swisslog said the new automation system will be installed in Sumitomo Drive Technologies USA headquarters facility in Chesapeake, Va. as part of the company’s efforts to modernize both its warehouse and assembly operations.
Once operational, the system will include AutoStore (14 robots and 22,872 bins) for small parts storage and 11 autonomous forklifts for handling heavier components.
“This deployment represents best practice for the durable goods manufacturing sector. By consolidating parts and streamlining workflows, the system will reduce warehouse space requirements - helping Sumitomo avoid the cost and complexity of a facility expansion,” said Mike Barker, president and CEO of Swisslog Americas. “The project not only reflects Swisslog’s ability to deliver smart automation, but also highlights the strength of our team’s collaboration with Sumitomo - built on a deep understanding of their business and a shared commitment to advancing their automation journey.”
Swisslog’s SynQ intralogistics software platform will manage all of the logistics processes, including receiving and storage, enabling just-in-time delivery and kitting for assembly lines.
Swisslog said that once the system is operational, it will deliver the following benefits:
"This project marks a significant leap forward in modernizing our operations to better serve our customers," said Tony Barlett, vice president and chief operating officer of Sumitomo Drive Technologies USA. "By partnering with Swisslog, we're not only gaining cutting-edge automation technology and expertise to drive real efficiency, flexibility and performance across our warehouse and assembly processes, but we're also making a critical investment in our workforce. No jobs will be lost; instead, we're equipping our team with new tools and opportunities to grow alongside this technology, ensuring a smarter operation and continued investment in our incredible people."
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