Logistics: the pacesetter of production

Production in the assembly plant is based on just-in-time production and its further development, just-in-sequence production. These are organisation and control concepts geared towards requirement-based supply. A finely tuned production and material flow along the supply chain enables each part to arrive at the assembly line in the correct sequence – and at the correct time. A coordinated, stable order sequence ensures that only those parts that can be installed immediately are delivered to the relevant section of the line.

The automated small-parts storage system

One example of the state-of-the-art logistics concept is the automated small-parts storage system (AKL). This provides small load carriers for tugger trains and deploys a shuttle technique that distinguishes it from conventional AKLs. Around 90 shuttles ensure high availability and, due to their autonomous drivetrain, reduce the energy requirement by more than 30 per cent in comparison with an AKL with storage and retrieval units. The concept also uses driverless transport vehicles (FTF), which move autonomously and which transport, for example, the cockpit and seats directly to the line. Dynamic picking, which loads picking trolleys for the assembly line, also increases the storage capacity, while the automation aspect improves employees’ working conditions by shortening their walking distances.