When a purchase order comes in, the MIS department enters it. Orders requiring parts from the carousels are automatically downloaded to a PC and queued at each carousel. The software determines commonality between orders and directs the batch pitching operation. Up to eight kits can be picked simultaneously from a single carousel rotation. Totes with anti-static liners are set up on the conveyor next to the carousel.
Large orders require a full tote, small orders can use one tote divided into eight cells.
As new orders are downloaded from MIS they are automatically queued. When the operator selects a pick, a label is automatically printed and the carousel rotates to the first pick. The picker places the specified number of items in a bag, seals it and applies the label. The bag is then placed in the proper tote or cell. This process continues until all of the items are picked.