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Industry’s largest manufacturing and supply chain trade show return to McCormick Place in April 2027MHI recently announced the dates for ProMat 2027. ProMat 2027 will be held April 19-21, 2027 at Chicago's McCormick Place. ProMat is the largest international manufacturing and supply chain show and conference held in the United States.ProMat brings together solution providers who demonstrate their equipment, systems and services to over 50,000 manufacturing and supply chain professionals from around the globe, seeking productivity solutions for their operations. Over 1,000 exhibitors will showcase their solutions on ProMat’s three show floors totaling over 670,000 square feet of manufacturing and supply chain solutions.ProMat exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling, transportation, and logistics industry, from traditional, manual equipment to computerized, automated systems.ProMat 2027 will also feature a comprehensive educational conference including keynotes and show floor educational seminars led by industry experts and leading authorities.ProMat 2027 will again include its highly regarded and prestigious International Buyer Program. The Program provides matchmaking for interested buyers and sellers through an International Business Center located near the show hall.Exhibit Space Draw Lease Deadline is November 5, 2025The ProMat 2025 Exhibit Space Draw will be held November 18-21, 2025. This will be the first opportunity for organizations to secure exhibit space at this event. The deadline for leases for the Space Draw is 5pm ET on November 5, 2025.For more information on exhibiting or attending ProMat, visit promatshow.com.
WIXOM, MI, August 2025 — ISD has launched OneTouchDistribution, a cutting-edge automation system designed to optimize order fulfillment for case, split-case, and pallet operations. By integrating state-of-the-art storage, retrieval, transportation and processing technologies, the system minimizes labor requirements, enhances accuracy, and maximizes facility space utilization.OneTouchDistribution provides a comprehensive approach to warehouse automation, offering a seamless process from inbound receipt to outbound fulfillment. The system significantly reduces labor requirements by automating receiving, storage and order processing.By leveraging advanced tracking and sequencing, OneTouchDistribution ensures 99.9% percent pick and inventory accuracy while maintaining high throughput, even during peak demand periods. The system’s high-density design allows for the storage of hundreds of thousands of cases or split-case products in a compact footprint, making it an ideal solution for facilities looking to maximize operational efficiency without expanding their physical space."OneTouchDistribution was designed with flexibility and agility at its core," said Ed Romaine, VP of Marketing at ISD. "Every operation has unique challenges, and our system adapts to those needs… whether handling cases, split-cases, or pallets. It allows businesses to scale seamlessly, adjust to shifting demand, and optimize order fulfillment without disruptions. This level of adaptability ensures our clients maintain efficiency, accuracy, and speed, even in the most dynamic distribution environments."The system automates inbound processing by receiving products through lift trucks, autonomous mobile robots, humanoids or Cobots. Once received, items are scanned, recorded, and directed into an automated storage and retrieval system that organizes and tracks each product in real time.Orders are processed based on specific sequencing and fulfillment requirements, ensuring that inventory is retrieved in the optimal sequence for downstream operations. Retrieved products are sent to fully automated or semi-automated picking stations, where they are either picked and sent to a cartonizing area for split-case processing, directly routed to a sorter for case picking or delivered to palletizing and/or an outbound staging area for final shipping.OneTouchDistribution is designed to support a wide range of industries, including food service, ecommerce, pharmaceuticals, industrial distribution, reverse logistics and third-party logistics. Its scalable architecture allows for phased implementation, enabling businesses to integrate automation at their own pace while maintaining ongoing operations.The system’s ability to handle full-case, split-case and pallet orders within a single platform adds to its versatility, making it a viable solution for distribution centers with diverse fulfillment requirements.The system also offers flexibility in order sequencing, allowing products to be picked and processed in a precise order based on weight, fragility, delivery requirements, order cut-off times, and customer preferences. Automated scanning and labeling ensure complete validation before orders leave the facility, reducing errors and increasing efficiency. Likewise, document printers and inserters can be easily integrated into the OneTouchDistribution system for increased revenue generation and reduced labor.With a focus on space optimization, the system minimizes wasted storage areas and maximizes available cubic space, creating a more efficient and cost-effective distribution process.About Integrated Systems Design - ISDIntegrated Systems Design is a comprehensive systems integrator of automated solutions for warehouses, manufacturing, distribution, retail, and wholesale applications, improving processes and productivity while reducing operational costs. Whether providing consulting services to meet current issues or developing future scalable plans to address industry challenges, ISD creates value for a broad range of industries by tailoring systems to clients' specific requirements.ISD expertise ranges from handling, storing, and picking pieces (eaches), cases, pallets, build lines, and special or custom handling solutions. Products and services include automatic storage and retrieval (ASRS), AMR, conveyor, robotics, batch stations, shuttles, pick-to-light, carousels, vertical lift modules (VLMs), controls, and software (including inventory management, WCS, WMS, and MES).ContactEd RomaineVP Marketing & Business Development215-512-2613
ATLANTA (Aug. 1, 2025) – FORTNA, a leading provider of automation and software solutions across the end-to-end logistics value chain, has been named to SupplyChainBrain’s prestigious list of 100 Great Supply Chain Partners for 2025. This recognition, based on direct customer feedback, highlights FORTNA’s ability to solve complex operational challenges and drive measurable value across omnichannel and parcel distribution environments.This marks the thirteenth time FORTNA has earned a spot on the list, reflecting the company’s continued commitment to innovation, excellence and long-term customer success.“For twenty-three consecutive years, SupplyChainBrain has published our much-anticipated list of 100 Great Supply Chain Partners – a select group of companies whose customers recognize them for providing outstanding solutions and services,” said Brad Berger, Publisher of SupplyChainBrain. “Our six-month online poll of supply chain professionals requires a qualified response, asking them to nominate vendors and service providers whose solutions have made a significant impact on their company’s efficiency, customer service and overall supply chain performance. This year’s field of nominees was highly competitive and overall excellent – coming from all areas of supply chain management."FORTNA has partnered with industry-leading organizations around the world to design, develop and deliver powerful end-to-end automation solutions, robotic technologies and AI-powered software platforms that optimize performance, address disruption and increase profitability. This award follows the recent announcement of the company’s AI-powered Autonomous Flow WES that seamlessly orchestrates people, process and technology into dynamic, efficient and responsive distribution centers.“We are honored and grateful that FORTNA has been recognized by our customers for our collaborative approach to designing and implementing next-generation, warehouse and distribution solutions and services,” said Rob McKeel, CEO of FORTNA. “This award underscores our team’s robust expertise and ongoing commitment to driving innovation and long-term customer success.”This award spotlights 100 outstanding providers of technology, logistics and transportation or consulting services that significantly impact supply chain efficiency around the world. FORTNA will appear in the August 2025 issue of SupplyChainBrain magazine and on SupplyChainBrain.com as a celebrated member of this year’s 100 Great Supply Chain Partners.About FORTNA FORTNA partners with some of the world’s leading brands to transform omnichannel and parcel distribution operations. Known world-wide for enabling companies to keep pace with digital disruption and growth objectives, we design and deliver solutions, powered by automation, robotics and intelligent software, to optimize fast, accurate and cost-effective order fulfillment and last mile delivery. Our people, innovative approach and proprietary algorithms and tools ensure optimal operations design and material and information flow. We deliver exceptional value every day to our customers with comprehensive services and products including network strategy, distribution center operational design and implementation, material handling automated equipment, robotics and a comprehensive suite of lifecycle services. Visit www.fortna.com.ContactCheryl FalkSVP Global Marketing Communications and Demand GenerationFORTNA Inc.cherylfalk@fortna.com
Mitsubishi Electric has launched its latest FR-D800 series inverters, designed to deliver better performance, easy operation, and improved energy efficiency for a wide range of industrial applications. Compact and intuitive, the new series delivers powerful performance alongside features designed to make selection, installation, and operation simpler.With a focus on user-friendliness, the FR-D800 inverters feature a door-style surface cover and integrated wiring to make installation faster and easier. The FR-D800 is up to 37% smaller*1 than its equivalent predecessor, reducing enclosure size requirements, allowing for more flexible mounting, and reduced installation costs. A new USB Type-C interface lets users set parameters directly from a PC without powering up the inverter, streamlining both setup and maintenance.Parameters can be set without needing to power the inverters main circuit.The inverters can help save energy with advanced synchronous motor control, which reduces power consumption and cuts operating costs. Its high-efficiency motor drive and lower standby power consumption also contribute to a reduced carbon footprint, supporting more sustainable production practices."With the FR-D800 series, we wanted to create an inverter that both new and experienced users can use with confidence," said Shotaro Marumoto, Inverter Development Section Leader at Mitsubishi Electric. "We've made it straightforward while delivering the advanced performance businesses need to improve productivity, save energy, and meet their sustainability goals."The FR-D800 series is suitable for a wide range of applications, from conveyors and pumps to food processing equipment and textile machinery. Selected models*2 are also suitable for harsh, corrosive environments, thanks to circuit board protection meeting IEC 60721-3-3:1994 3C2/3S2 standards. Furthermore, FR-D800 inverters can control both induction and permanent magnet (PM) motors, eliminating the need for multiple inverters for different motor types. Built-in support for popular Ethernet protocols including CC-Link IE TSN, Modbus/TCP, and EtherNet/IP ensures seamless integration into existing industrial networks, enabling users to quickly integrate it into their digital manufacturing and smart production environments.The series also makes maintenance simpler. Its preventive maintenance functions include lifetime diagnostics for key components like capacitors and fans, helping operators spot potential issues early, especially when using the FR Configurator2 support software. Anomaly detection based on current patterns helps reduce the risk of unexpected downtime, and when a fault does occur, analysis functions solve the problem quickly."Energy efficiency, simplicity, and reliability are essential for modern automation applications and industry in general," added Marumoto. "The FR-D800 series shows Mitsubishi Electric's commitment to providing solutions that meet these needs while contributing to a greener future."The FR-D800 series will be available globally from March 2025, with models designed for different voltage requirements, including single-phase 100V, 200V, and three-phase 400V options.To learn more about FR-D800 series, please visit us.mitsubishielectric.com/fa/en/products/drv/inv/pmerit/fr-d/fr-d800/.Should you have further technical questions, our local expert Tom Henfling, Product Manager, VFDs for North America, may be contacted directly at Tom.Henfling@meau.com.About Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc.Headquartered in Vernon Hills, Ill., Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Inc. is a U.S. affiliate company of Mitsubishi Electric Corporation. It offers a broad product portfolio including programmable automation controllers (PAC), programmable logic controllers (PLC), human machine interfaces (HMI), variable frequency drives (VFD), servo amplifiers and motors, control software, computerized numerical controllers (CNC), motion controllers, robots, low-voltage power distribution products, and industrial sewing machines for the industrial and commercial sectors. Additional information about Mitsubishi Electric Automation is available at us.MitsubishiElectric.com/fa/en.About Mitsubishi Electric CorporationWith more than 100 years of experience in providing reliable, high-quality products, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) is a recognized world leader in the manufacture, marketing and sales of electrical and electronic equipment used in information processing and communications, space development and satellite communications, consumer electronics, industrial technology, energy, transportation and building equipment. Mitsubishi Electric enriches society with technology in the spirit of its “Changes for the Better.” The company recorded a revenue of 5,003.6 billion yen (U.S.$ 37,3 billion*) in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023. For more information please visit https://www.MitsubishiElectric.com.*U.S. dollar amounts are translated from yen at the rate of ¥134=U.S.$1, the approximate rate on the Tokyo Foreign Exchange Market on March 31, 2022About Mitsubishi Electric Factory Automation Business GroupOffering a vast range of automation and processing technologies, including controllers, drive products, power distribution and control products, electrical discharge machines, laser processing machines, computerized numerical controllers, and industrial robots, Mitsubishi Electric helps bring higher productivity – and quality – to the factory floor. In addition, its extensive service networks around the globe provide direct communication and comprehensive support to customers. The global slogan “Automating the World” shows the company’s approach to leverage automation for the betterment of society, through the application of advanced technology, sharing know-how and supporting customers as a trusted partner.For more about the story behind “Automating the World” please visit: www.MitsubishiElectric.com/fa/about-us/automating-the-world.About e-F@ctorye-F@ctory is Mitsubishi Electric’s integrated concept to build reliable and flexible manufacturing systems that enable users to achieve many of their high speed, information driven manufacturing aspirations. Through its partner solution activity, the e-F@ctory Alliance, and its work with open network associations such as The CC-Link Partners Association (CLPA), users can build comprehensive solutions based on a wide ranging “best in class” principle.In summary, e-F@ctory and the e-F@ctory Alliance enable customers to achieve integrated manufacturing but still retain the ability to choose the most optimal suppliers and solutions.*e-F@ctory, iQ Platform are trademarks of Mitsubishi Electric Corporation in Japan and other countries.*Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.*All other trademarks are acknowledgedContactPam SummersMarketing Communications Manager+1 (847) 478-2415Pam.Summers@meau.com
MAVs deliver a lot of benefits, including higher efficiency, productivity, safety, and flexibility. To provide safe, efficient, and cost-effective movement of materials. To supplement or replace manually-operated material handling vehicles, such as forklifts, tuggers, and order pickers. For greater flexibility in material transport compared to fixed solutions, such as conveyors. In response to shortages in labor, allowing reassignment of employees to areas where they can add more value. To eliminate associate travel time during picking and order fulfillment.
This document provides an introduction to SLAM (Scan, Label, Apply, Manifest), which is a critical element in "the last 100 feet" of every warehouse in the world.The document defines the following topics: Pack, Scan, Label & Apply, Manifest, and Transport & Sort. Within each topic area are best practice recommendations on how to apply SLAM principles to your application.This document was created by the SLAM Industry Group. For more information, please visit https://www.mhi.org/slam.
Price: $25.00This standard applies to underhung cranes whose end trucks operate on the lower flange of a patented-track runway section; and to carriers (trolleys) operating on single-track patented-track monorail systems, including all curves, switches, transfer devices, lift and drop sections, and associated equipment. Systems used for transporting personnel require special considerations and are not included in this standard. This standard does not apply to enclosed-track runway sections, enclosed-track monorail systems, structural-shape runway section, or structural-shape monorail systems. Refer to ANSI MH27.2 2025, Enclosed Rack Underhung Cranes and Monorail Systems for enclosed-track runway sections and enclosed-track monorail systems.Hoist(s) or carrier(s) may be supplied by the crane manufacturer, crane distributor, crane installer, or by the user. In either case, the applicable portions of ASME/ANSI B30.16, Overhead Hoists (Underhung); ASME B30.11, Monorails and Underhung Cranes and appropriate ASME HST Performance Standards apply to the hoist(s) and carrier(s). If the hoist(s) or carrier(s) are supplied by the user, the crane builder shall be provided with certified dimensional drawings with all required data including wiring diagrams, carrier collector locations and weights.This standard includes considerations for cranes and monorail equipment only. It does not include considerations or specifications for the design of the building, the design of supporting structure, electrical power supply, or erection.This standard applies to systems operating in normal ambient temperatures and atmospheric conditions; any other conditions require special consideration.
Price: $25.00This standard applies to underhung cranes whose end trucks operate on the internal flange of a runway using enclosed track section; and to trolleys (carriers) operating on single-track monorail systems, including all curves, switches, transfer devices, lift and drop sections, and associated equipment. Systems used for transporting personnel require special considerations and are not included in these specifications. This standard does not apply to underhung cranes whose end trucks operate on the lower flange of a patented-track runway section. Refer to ANSI MH27.1-2025, Patented Track Underhung Cranes and Monorail Systems for patented-track runway sections and patented-track monorail systems.Hoist(s) or carrier(s) may be supplied by the crane manufacturer, crane distributor, crane installer, or by the user. In either case, the applicable portions of ASME/ANSI B30.16, Overhead Hoists (Underhung); ASME B30.17, Cranes and Monorails (With Underhung Trolley or Bridge) and appropriate ASME HST Performance Standards apply to the hoist(s) or carrier(s). If the hoist(s) or carrier(s) are supplied by the user, the crane builder shall be provided with certified dimensional drawings with all required data including wiring diagrams, carrier collector locations and weights.This standard includes considerations for cranes and monorail equipment only. It does not include considerations or specifications for the design of the building, the design of supporting structure, electrical power supply, or erection.This standard applies to systems operating in normal ambient temperatures and atmospheric conditions; any other conditions require special consideration.
A form of powered conveyor used to transport heavy unit loads such as pallets and industrial containers. These conveyors can be single or double chain strand in configuration. This chain is not only the driving force but it is also the part which comes in direct contact with the load and provides friction which pulls the load forward. In some cases, free rollers on either side of or between the chain provide additional support to the load. Short sections of double strand chain conveyors are a common means of transferring loads at right angle to/from another straight section of roller conveyor.
This is a paid advertisement. Heavy-duty autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) like the Omron HD-1500 are quickly becoming the gold standard for automating pallet transport in warehouses and distribution centers. Capable of moving payloads through dynamic and peopled environments using onboard mapping software, AMRs provide the ultimate in flexibility and scalability. In this video, you will learn about the three methods logistics facilities can use to get pallets onto robots and the advantages each one has relative to the constraints of a particular warehouse infrastructure.
Kuecker Logistics Group designed and equipped a new 655,000 sqft distribution center for a large retailer of closeout merchandise and excess inventory. The 655,000 sqft facility — used for store replenishment — includes full case pick modules equipped with a central conveyor on each level to transport the picked cases to a centralized merge point. To save time, money and provide a durable warranted product, Kuecker Logistics Group’s designed the pick modules with a combination of ResinDek with the Gray Diamond Seal® 2 finish and ResinDek with the MetaGard galvanized steel finish.
When Victaulic, a manufacturer of fire protection and HVAC equipment, decided to expand its current facility they needed a way to transport hot metal from furnaces to auto-pouring stations. The new system consists of three hot metal carriers: two are in use while the third is used as a back-up. The carriers travel on a closed loop monorail system which is routed around the foundry. A glide switch and spur track provide easy access to the maintenance areas where the third carrier is stored. Benefits: Safe (infrared transmitter), Efficient (weighing system) Easy to operate, reliable, Can be custom-designed (anti-collision system – strobe light flashes when carrier is energized, bell sounds.
ACCO Material Handling Solutions provided Louden 585 Cranes equipped with Wright Work-Rated Hoists. All motions are controlled by Inverters for smooth operation. Additionally supplied Nutting trailers to transport the plate safety to the burn table.
The Automatic Guided Vehicle (AGV) system was installed at a major food manufacturer in New South Wales Australia. The 6 vehicle fleet automates movement of palletized finished product and empty pallets between the stretch wrapper, ten packaging/palletizing lines, a shipping buffer storage area, and two dispatch locations. The dual fork carriage allows the AGVs to transport empty and full pallets simultaneously eliminating the need for pallet dispensers at each packaging line. The system provides for the safe, reliable delivery of food and empty pallets and significantly reduced pallet and product damage.
