SOFTWARE & INTERFACES – WMS, SAP.EWM & VISUALISATION

Smart software solutions form the basis for efficient logistics processes.

To meet these requirements, we focus on our customers’ core processes and how we can continuously improve them when developing our digital products.

Due to the mostly existing and extensive IT landscapes, seamless integration and flexible connection of subsystems is another factor for a positive project outcome.

Based on a proven standard modular system and the many years of experience of our software experts, we are able to respond to customer specifications individually and implement them reliably.

ADVANTAGES AT A GLANCE

Blick über die Schulter eines Mitarbeiters beim Arbeiten am Computer bei System Logistics
  • WCS / SAP.EWM
  • Visualisation / HMI (Zenon / WinCC)
  • PLC (TIA/E-Plan)
  • Standard interfaces to ERP / MES / YMS / LMS
  • KPI-cockpit
  • Virtual commissioning / digital twin for fast go-live

MODULES AT A GLANCE

The System Logistics Software Suite consists of several systems and modules that are geared towards our core business as a system integrator. At its heart is the Warehouse Control System (WCS), consisting of the WMS and MFC modules. It covers a large part of the supply chain in a factory and/or logistics centre.

WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

The Warehouse Management System (WMS) is the core of the suite. Its main task is to manage logistics and related processes. The WMS manages inventory and interfaces with other systems such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, manufacturing execution systems (MES) and material flow computers (MFC). It also handles business orders such as replenishments, customer orders and goods receipts.

MATERIAL FLOW CONTROLLER

Material flow controllers (MFC) coordinate and optimise physical flows within a warehouse and production environment. As an intermediary, it controls communication between the warehouse management system (WMS) and the control technology (PLC). The MFC optimises transport routes using standardised strategies, depending on traffic and the availability of system components.

CONTROL TECHNOLOGY

Another central component of the Logistics Suite is the control technology (PLC). It interacts directly with the electrical components and ensures transport movements and safety. Together with the MFC, the PLC is directly responsible for the transport of goods in the warehouse. Our tailor-made solutions are based on proven standard components and modules. This enables us to guarantee efficient project planning and subsequent support.

HUMAN MACHINE INTERFACE

The next component of the Logistics Suite is a modern and intuitive human-machine interface (HMI) that facilitates the visualisation and operation of the machines. The HMI monitors, controls, executes commands and evaluates the electromechanical system. It offers functions such as plant visualisations and alarm displays. In the logistics application environment, the HMI is used to monitor plant activities. It also offers functionalities for the safe handling of errors and incidents during operation, as well as support functions for safe and efficient plant maintenance.

We are fast and flexible, enabling us to integrate seamlessly into any system landscape. Our standard interfaces to other systems such as ERP, MES, YMS, LMS and data warehouses enable smooth integration.

  • MWA – Manual Warehouse Application – For working in manual storage areas on mobile platforms
  • VC – Vehicle Control – Fleet management for the targeted control of dynamic systems such as electric railways and driverless transport systems
  • Cockpit – comprehensive presentation and information tool for visualising relevant statistical data (KPI) of a warehouse
  • Emulation – integrated emulation of material movements to fully test optimisations and process changes in advance
  • SMA – System Monitoring & Analytics – tool that collects data from various sources, processes it, visualises it and makes it available for evaluation.

SAP – EXTENDED WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT

As a solution provider for highly automated intralogistics systems, we also have more than ten years of experience in the field of SAP.EWM. We specialise in SAP.EWM-MFS – the machineoriented area where we can optimally apply our technical expertise.

Why? Because the SAP standard does not offer all the functions and optimisations required for complex, highly automated solutions. This is where we come in: we supplement the standard with tailor-made extensions and intelligent adaptations to ensure maximum efficiency and performance.

YOUR ADVANTAGES WITH THE SLG EWM MFS STANDARD

Our solution goes beyond the SAP standard and offers you maximum efficiency, transparency and performance for highly automated intralogistics systems.

Highlights:

  • Separate namespace for a clear structure and easy maintenance
  • Object orientation for improved modularity, reusability and database integration
  • Event-driven processes to avoid continuous load from background processes
  • Efficient interprocess communication for fast processes
  • Optimised error analysis with stack trace and telegram ID for precise identification
  • Direct linking of telegrams with application protocols for transparent diagnostics
  • Support for complex interfaces – including JSON format
  • Dedicated troubleshooting methods for maximum system availability
  • Logging of changes for seamless tracking
  • Dynamic response to faults and utilisation for smooth processes
  • Avoidance of process locks for higher parallelisation and performance
  • Easy goal tracking and usability for your employees
  • Journal of all updates with direct link to the application log
  • Modern analysis tool with web interface and graphical evaluation for performance optimisation
  • Best-of-breed technology – already successfully used by numerous customers.

FUNCTIONALITY FOR MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY

Our solution offers a clear architectural separation between MFS logic and EWM logic, as well as a powerful telegram interface for stable and fast communication.

Highlights of the SYSTEM LOGISTICS telegram interface

  • Stable telegram communication between EWM and PLC via parallel, bidirectional communication channels
  • Optimised telegram structure and extended MFS processes
  • Improved error analysis thanks to extended telegram protocol

INTELLIGENT ROUTING AND STORAGE PROCESSES

  • Routing using the Dijkstra algorithm for maximum efficiency and significantly simplified customising compared to LOL
  • Transport journal for full transparency of all active and archived movements, including errors and target tracking
  • Dynamic aisle and storage location search with automatic redetermination in the event of malfunctions
  • Support for multi-depth storage
  • Complete aisle blocking/unblocking in the event of a malfunction
  • Empty run reduction for storage and retrieval machines through double play

VEHICLE CONTROL – EVERYTHING AT A GLANCE

  • Clear vehicle status and error display with reset function
  • Vehicle-specific order search and control of storage locations
  • Set long-term fault for longer failures
  • Status and occupancy on transfer, storage and retrieval lanes traceable, including blocking function

TRANSPARENCY & ANALYSIS

  • Booking journal for all bookings on decision notifications
  • Blocking journal with comment function for better traceability
  • Connection to our System Monitoring & Analytics (SMA) tool
  • SLG NIO dialogue for visualising transport and HU errors, including product details, batch, storage location and open tasks

FURTHER INFORMATION

WAREHOUSE CONTROL SYSTEM

With the System Logistics WCS, you can optimise your warehouse processes and thus increase your efficiency and productivity. The software solution offers you:

  • Comprehensive functions for warehouse management, from goods receipt to dispatch
  • Efficient control of material flow in the warehouse
  • Transparency regarding stock levels and stock movements
  • Consistently optimised warehouse processes

You receive a scalable solution that can be adapted to the individual requirements of your company.

The software is suitable for all warehouse sizes and can be adapted to different warehouse types and processes.

User interface

  • Browser-based Java client for workstations (WCS client)
  • HTML5 web app for mobile use (MWA)

User management

  • User groups, user roles, user
  • Permissions

Master data management

  • Article
  • Business partners

Warehouse, storage location and inventory management

  • High-bay warehouse
  • Manual warehouse
  • Warehouse consolidation

Goods receipt

  • Automatic goods receipt from production with quality lock
  • Automatic goods receipt via camera system (empty container detection)
  • Manual external goods receipt
  • Retouren

Goods issue

  • Management of customer and order data
  • Order processing
  • Route management

Preparation for dispatch

Dispatch notification

Replenishment

Automatic replenishment for picking

Manual warehouse

  • Management of manual warehouses
  • Management of forklift transport
  • Block/storage location management
  • Order picking with handheld radio support: MWA

Journal

  • Stock
  • Transports

Inventory support

  • Stock counting
  • Parking space counting
  • Handheld radio terminal-guided inventory processing in manual warehouses

Statistics

  • Orders
  • Transports
  • Warehouse utilisation

Transport management

  • Mapping of assets across multiple levels
  • Connection to production

Routing

Transport routing including sequencing

Resource management

  • storage and retrieval machines
  • Conveyor technology
  • Subsystems (electric monorail systems, electric floor conveyors, driverless transport systems)

System Logistics PLC forms the basis of all automated solutions. It offers comprehensive functions and solutions for the automation of mechatronic components:

  • Standardised modular PLC software based on Siemens TIA from an extensive library
  • Element-oriented EPLAN library
  • Coordinated hardware components from renowned manufacturers (Lenze/SEW)
  • Effective and material-friendly approach to electrical installation
  • Standard-compliant safety concepts
  • Standardised interfaces to System Logistics WCS or SAP EWM
  • Standardised interfaces to other trades, e.g. stretch wrappers, labellers, third-party conveyor technology

Our visualisation/HMI is the central tool for monitoring, controlling and operating the control system.

It is based on either:

  • System Logistics HMI – Z (Zenon)
  • System Logistics Suite HMI – W (WinCC)

And offers the following basic functionalities:

  • Graphical representation of the control components of the system in 2D
  • Level of detail depending on the zoom level
  • Multi-touch navigation
  • Display of sensors, drives, command devices
  • Alarm display
  • User management
  • Activity logging
  • Secure operating concept for manual operation of individual components

OPERATING CONCEPT

Processes in the field of conveyor technology and warehouse technology are carried out as fully automatically as possible. Nevertheless, interaction with the operator is necessary:
  • for visualising system statuses
  • for reporting error statuses
  • to rectify malfunctions

The SYSTEM LOGISTICS operating concept provides the following components for visualisation and operation:

  • Control stations equipped with push buttons, key switches and indicator lights that provide basic information.
  • A user interface (HMI) that runs on portable computers (e.g. laptops, tablets) and provides further information and operating options.

Various control panels and control stations are available in the system itself for on-site operation of the system. Mobile devices are used as the interface between the user and the machine. In conjunction with the HMI, these offer optimal conditions for operating the system and querying operating statuses.

Communication takes place via WLAN TCP/IP. The function selected in the HMI is activated by buttons at the local control stations.

Computer als Schnittstelle für Intralogistiklösungen, im Hintergrund eine offene Tür und ein beladenes FTS/ AGV

SYSTEM TOPOLOGY

Depending on the size and complexity of the system, the intralogistics system is divided into several group controllers (GC). These communicate via TCP/IP with a material flow computer (MFC), which controls the material flow using telegrams and serves as an interface to the higherlevel
system.

Each group control is further divided into operating areas (LAC). The individual operating areas are switched together in their operating mode and serve to logically structure the systems. The division into group controls and operating areas is based on material flow and control technology aspects in order to ensure the safe functioning of the system.

Each operating area continues to consist of elements that are responsible for operating the system, transporting the conveyed goods and monitoring conditions. A general distinction is made between conveyor technology components (CON) and devices (DEV). Conveyor technology components include roller conveyors, chain conveyors, lift tables, turntables, etc. Devices include lifts, transfer cars, storage and retrieval machines, and electric railways.
A group control system can consist of the following components:
 

  • CON components
  • 1 to n DEV components
  • CON and 1 to n DEV components
Zwei Arbeitsplätze an einem Schreibtisch mit jeweils einem Schreibtischstuhl und zwei Displays

WHY SYSTEM LOGISTICS SOFTWARE SUITE?

FUTURE-PROOF:

Thanks to the use of state-of-the-art software technologies, our warehouse control system is ready for future requirements and expansions


INTEGRATED:

Standardised interfaces ensure the best possible integration into existing systems such as ERP, MES or LIMS


USER-FRIENDLY:

The software impresses with its clear user guidance and reduced manual effort

TRANSPARENT:

Numerous control options with extensive on-board reporting, statistics and KPIs enable continuous monitoring and evaluation.


TIME-SAVING:

A virtual commissioning and test environment ensures a fast go-live and maximum quality

QUALITY ASSURANCE, TESTS & GO-LIVE

We are fully aware of our responsibility for the smooth operation of our customers’ businesses.

That is why we rely on a consistent, continuous testing procedure throughout the entire product and project life cycle.

This ranges from automated module testing to comprehensive testing of business processes using digital twins and covers all our software modules, including PLC software.

Intensive in-house quality control in collaboration with our customers begins with pure interface tests between the

systems and ends with a factory acceptance test lasting several weeks, during which all systems are interconnected and tested against the virtually mapped logistics system.

This not only ensures software quality, but also enables early training of customer personnel and promotes customer identification with the overall system.

SECURITY & COMPLIANCE

Our commitment to your cyber security

At SYSTEM LOGISTICS GMBH, security and trust are our top priorities. We meet the highest standards and legal requirements such as NIS2, the Cyber Resilience Act, the Data Act and the Radio Equipment Directive – in line with the guidelines of KRONES AG.


OUR MEASURES:
  • ISO/IEC 27001: 2022 certified – internationally recognised information security management.
  • Organisational security: integration of our processes with KRONES AG, clear responsibilities, strict access controls, data protection guidelines and emergency plans. Regular training and audits ensure a high level of security awareness.
  • Technical security: Continuous system and network analyses, vulnerability scans, penetration tests and risk assessments for maximum security.
  • Product security: Development based on the principle of “security by design”, rapid security updates, compliance with legal requirements such as the Radio Equipment Directive (RED), Data Act and Cyber Resilience Act (CRA).

OUR GOAL:

Robust, trustworthy products and services that protect your data and ensure business continuity
– in close cooperation with KRONES AG.

PROJECT EXAMPLE

Expanded high-bay warehouse for Spitz in Attnang-Puchheim by System Logistics

Food

SPITZ

Warehouse expansion and replacement of existing WMS from 1995

GOAL: A new WMS for the entire logistics system
RESULT: Project duration 14 months, expansion by 4 aisles / 13,000 storage locations and introduction of a central WMS without interrupting production
REQUEST ANALYSIS
MORE ABOUT THE REFERENCE “SPITZ”

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Both – System Logistics WMS or SAP.EWM. It depends on the long-term, sometimes companywide, IT strategy. Depending on the objectives, both solutions can have advantages and disadvantages. A decision should be made in consultation with various stakeholders and specialist companies.

Seasonality and peak utilisation are common in many industries. The basis for this is always high availability of the overall systems. Our software solutions support this with fault-tolerant software strategies, smart buffer and sequence logic, and intensive quality assurance measures using functional and load tests via digital twins.

System integration begins with the IT landscape. To this end, we have created standard APIs that enable us to flexibly integrate other software solutions. This is based on a lean and clearly structured software concept and data model.

NEXT STEPS

Clarify the problem and current IT situation together

Coordinate interface scoping and data model

Test/go-live plan

Budget price including ROI analysis

IT THAT CONNECTS YOUR LOGISTICS

We optimise your system landscape and show you how ERP, MES and WMS can work together seamlessly.

FURTHER INTRALOGISTICS SOLUTIONS

System Logistics Kommissionierung: Mehrere AGVs bewegen flache Kisten effizient im Lagersystem

ORDER PICKING (CASE PICKING)

Fahrerloses Transportsystem (AGV) von System Logistics transportiert eine Palette mit Getränkekisten

AGV (BLOCK STORAGE & WAREHOUSING)