Material Handling Computer Integrated Manufacturing © 2013 Project Lead The Way, Inc.

Photo courtesy of the Jervis B. Webb Co. Materials Handling CIM Introduction to Automation Materials Handling Transportation Inventory control What is materials handling? It deals with the treatment of raw materials and finished products. Even the baggage carousel at the airport can be considered a materials handling system. Inventory control is the systematic management of the balance on hand of inventory items, involving the supply, storage, distribution, and recording of items. Photo courtesy of the Jervis B. Webb Co. Project Lead The Way, Inc. Copyright 2008

Conveyors Materials Handling CIM Introduction to Automation Conveyors can be used to move inventory in and out. They can also be an important component of a process such as finishing. Project Lead The Way, Inc. Copyright 2008

Photo courtesy of the Jervis B. Webb Co. Materials Handling CIM Introduction to Automation ASRS Automated Storage and Retrieval System ASRS stores, inventories (counts), and tracks the location of materials and products. The ASRS can maximize the use of floor space. Materials transfer between machines and conveyors requires input and output connection and communication. Some products must be treated prior to handling. For example, some plastics induce electrostatic charges when they come into contact with each other. The ASRS can be equipped with dividers so that these items do not make contact. Photo courtesy of the Jervis B. Webb Co. Project Lead The Way, Inc. Copyright 2008

Photo courtesy of the Jervis B. Webb Co. Materials Handling CIM Introduction to Automation AGV Automated Guided Vehicle AGVs are used to transport materials and products between manufacturing centers. An AGV consists of one or more computer-controlled wheel-based load carriers (normally battery powered) that runs on the plant floor (or if outdoors on a paved area) without the need for an onboard operator or driver. AGVs have defined paths or areas within which or over which they can navigate. Navigation is achieved by any one of several means, including following a path defined by buried inductive wires, surface mounted magnetic or optical strips, or by way of inertial or laser guidance. Photo courtesy of the Jervis B. Webb Co. Project Lead The Way, Inc. Copyright 2008

Photos courtesy of the Jervis B. Webb Co. Materials Handling CIM Introduction to Automation Human Safety Materials handling systems can be used to ensure the safety of the workers. The ASRS pictured above was designed to protect workers from dangers caused by handling radioactive waste. Photos courtesy of the Jervis B. Webb Co. Project Lead The Way, Inc. Copyright 2008

Image Resources Jervis B. Webb Company. (2008). Retrieved January 10, 2008, from http://www.jervisbwebb.com/