Logistics giant DHL has established its first smart warehouse in Asia Pacific that deploys the digital twin technology, which involves using digital models to better understand and manage physical assets.
DHL Supply Chain successfully implemented an integrated supply chain solution for the Singapore warehouse of Tetra Pak. The facility is one of the largest globally for the leading food processing and packaging solutions company, said a recent DHL release.
“By jointly implementing a digital solution to support Tetra Pak’s warehousing and transport operations, this collaboration is a great example for smart warehouses of the future to deliver agile, cost effective and scalable supply chain operations,” said Jerome Gillet, CEO, DHL Supply Chain Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines.
Combining the Internet of Things (IoT) technology with data analytics, DHL Supply Chain created a smart warehouse solution for Tetra Pak by bridging its physical warehouse with a unique virtual representation that monitors and simulates both the physical state and behavior of the warehouse assets in real time.
With this digital twin solution, the facility is able to maintain 24/7 coordination of its operations to resolve issues as they occur, particularly those that involve safety and productivity.
A DHL control tower monitors the flow of inbound and outbound goods at the warehouse to maintain time efficiency, ensuring goods are correctly shelved within 30 minutes of receipt, and delivery-bound goods are ready for shipment within 95 minutes.
Warehouse supervisors can use real-time operational data to make informed decisions to reduce congestion, improve resource planning and allocate workload, while the streamlined supply chain and staff training will lead to greater productivity.
Using IoT and proximity sensors on materials handling equipment, spatial awareness is enhanced, thus reducing potential collision risks. Controlled areas with restricted access are also monitored with management alerts.
Earlier this month, DHL unveiled a new report on the use of digital twins in logistics. The trend report forecasts the widespread adoption of the digital twin concept in logistics in the near future, a development expected to bring change to traditional supply chains.
Photo courtesy of DHL
