The rapidly expanding internet retailer redcoon has been using a Geutebruck integrated video solution since early 2013 when its distribution operation moved to its new purpose-built logistics centre in Erfurt, Germany.
This 53,000 square metre facility holds over 400,000 items at peak periods and is equipped with all sorts of technology. For data processing alone12 kilometres of glass fibre cable and 55 kilometres of data cable had to be installed, as well as 1000 data connection sockets to serve PCs, printers, WLAN access points, scanners and cameras. The fully automated small item store, the automatic control of the conveyor system and a pick-by-light system using towers all provide for maximum efficiency in the dispatch process. More than two million euros were invested in IT infrastructure, servers and productivity monitoring – all with the aim of same day shipping 99% of stock.
With entertainment electronics, computers, household gadgets and other compact, high value items featuring strongly in the company’s offering, the requirements for the centre’s security system were very high. Protecting against intruders and theft was a priority from the start. Hence the company chose a VdS class C intruder alarm system with access control functionality, a comprehensive IP video solution and a top level management system to visualize all the functions.
A key aspect of Geutebruck logistics solutions is that they have the ability to pair up video data with warehouse processing data when goods are handled and scanned. This integration converts them into powerful management tools.
Nihat Ademoglu, redcoon’s project manager for the Erfurt centre recalls that the company initially saw video only as a security measure, in particular for monitoring of the loading and unloading processes. “However,” he admits, “as the project developed it became apparent that the chief benefit of the video system was in controlling the materials handling systems and the processes.” The link between process data and video system data makes the documentation of liability transfer much simpler and provides protection against legal claims by third parties. It ensures that each shipment is accurately documented. “It means we can ship up to 30,000 packages per day and the visualisation system helps us to keep track of it all.”
Given that the Erfurt centre serves seven other European countries as well as the Germany, the systems were designed to comply with the German BV (Bekannte Versender) and AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) regulations.
“From our experience of the technology,” recommends Ademoglu, “I can only advise other companies to exploit every possible advantage from visualisation technology. A modern video system doesn’t just record pictures, it offers many other benefits: it supports searches and preserves evidence; lets you manage events, flexibly and cost efficiently. And this transforms video surveillance from being just a security system into an important tool for logistics. – At one time camera pictures were only of interest to security guards but now they are important for supply chain professionals too.”
More information about Geutebruck video security systems and integrated logistics solutions at www.geutebrueck.com.
