Diamond Phoenix lowers costs with Next Gen technologies
By Staff -- Modern Materials Handling, 3/30/2006
The unifying focus behind next generation technologies from materials handling system supplier Diamond Phoenix (Booth 2234) is cost reduction. Via steps like streamlined control designs, the company is out to make solutions more affordable, said Larry Strayhorn, president, at a press conference yesterday.
For example, said Strayhorn, the new SMARTdepot vertical life module (VLM) now has one central control panel, and fewer buttons and sensors. Other features—such as using programmable logic controllers (PLCs) rather than proprietary controllers and Fieldbus input/output—also cut costs by making the system easier to deploy and maintain. Traditionally, VLMs have been "islands of automation," Strayhorn said, but by reducing their costs, more end-user companies can justify them on a broader scale in applications such as automated management of tooling, molds, and parts in lean manufacturing. "But to do that, you have to get the point-of-use costs down," said Strayhorn. "The purpose behind our next generation technologies is to drive down costs … and lower the hurdle for return on investment."Other next generation technologies on display included new "DirectPick" pick-to-light components with a smaller form factor and initial cost, and a horizontal carousel system that allows for the management of three carousels from one control platform.
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