KNAPP stresses its extensive software capabilities

At a Monday morning booth press conference KNAPP (Booth B6811) emphasized its extensive software capabilities as means of supporting flexible distribution that spans omni-channel, e-commerce and retail fulfillment.

Heimo Robosch, executive VP of sales for KNAPP AG, commented that while KNAPP historically was known for the quality of its automation systems like shuttles, it is the company’s expanding software capabilities that are the root of much of the value its solutions provide today, and allow its solutions to address multiple needs, including omni-channel, e-commerce and retail fulfillment. Robosch added that the North American market now accounts for about 40% of KNAPP’s business, with strong global growth overall.

KNAPP’s KiSoft software suite offers multiple functions, including predictive analytics and maintenance. KNAPP also discussed its robotic order picking solution, which leverages artificial intelligence (AI) based technology from its partner Covariant. At the press conference, KNAPP discussed a new software tool called KiSoft Genomics that accelerates and simplifies gathering of master data for its robotics picking solution.

Josef Mentzer, CEO for KNAPP in North America, added that the company is rapidly expanding its U.S.-based workforce and has added a software controls training center at its Kennesaw, Ga., U.S. headquarters to support customer needs and build software expertise.