Deepsky, the Warehouse Execution System That Does It All in the Warehouse

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As online retailers continue to promise their customers ever-shorter delivery times, warehouse software is being improved to optimise order preparation. This is exemplified by the advanced Deepsky software from Exotec, which manages and optimises warehouse ordering operations. According to Antoine Tobo, Software Project Manager at Exotec, Deepsky is a comprehensive solution. Let’s take a closer look at its features…

To meet customer demand more quickly and efficiently, logistics centres use WMS (Warehouse Management System) software to support order preparation, including receiving, storage, and dispatch. But Deepsky goes even further: “It offers other functions,” explains Antoine Tobo. “This software is a WES (Warehouse Execution System), which streamlines and automates logistics processes such as the reception, storage, preparation of orders, and dispatch of goods. It’s the pilot of the warehouse machinery. ”

In practice, Deepsky executes orders from the automated warehouse execution system: it matches the right parcel to the proper order, finds the right item in the bins to put it in the correct box, attaches the right label and sends the goods to the appropriate lorry at the correct time, etc. “These are the basic tasks of a WES, and Deepsky handles them perfectly,” explains Antoine Tobo. “Carrying out these operations quickly requires complex and precise warehouse processes ”.

To do so, Deepsky pilots several robots in parallel and coordinates the numerous operators to anticipate each parcel movement and to ensure that it arrives at the right place at the exact time. In short, it plans the entire order and the logistical constraints, such as truck departure schedules and so on… The software adapts to every eventuality: an operator taking a break, a defective item that needs to be replaced in the order, or a delivery driver’s delay. Deepsky can prioritise each action to guarantee optimum delivery.

Deepsky stands out for its ability to adapt to all situations, whatever the unexpected. “As a logistics specialist, we are positioned to anticipate all possible contingencies,” says Antoine Tobo. Deepsky doesn’t just work in standard situations. It can project ahead and deal with all the classic problems encountered in a warehouse while maintaining its performance. This is made possible by the sensors mounted on the machines and the fine-tuned programming of the Exotec teams. ” “As a result, any “grains of sand” or single points of failure that may occur during order preparation are very well tolerated and don’t slow down the business. That’s what makes the system so robust ,” he adds. The server hosting the Deepsky software is duplicated, so there is always a solution in case of a breakdown. To put it plainly, the warehouse has a WES that is always working, with a backup system that can take over at any time.

Performance and production rates are constantly monitored on one of the screens, which follow a set of standard indicators (number of orders placed, etc.) and other less traditional indicators (expiry date in the pharmaceutical industry, etc.). Better still, Deepsky continually optimises order completion and improves its performance with each update, capitalising on its experience. The combination of design, programming and learning helps to maintain delivery schedules.

Deepsky doesn’t work alone in the warehouse to fulfil orders. It communicates with all machines: robots, conveyors, automated arms, scales, formers, labelling machines, etc. “The software can interact with all these machines, regardless of their communication protocol. Thanks to our dual role, we have succeeded in giving it this interoperability capability”, sums up Antoine Tobo. “We are not only designers, manufacturers, and equipment vendors but also integrators of the overall solution. We take each technical component and make it work together as a part of a comprehensive system. . Non seulement, nous sommes concepteurs, fabricants et vendeurs de matériel, mais en plus, nous sommes intégrateurs de la solution globale. Nous prenons chaque brique technique pour les faire fonctionner au sein d’un système cohérent Deepsky , therefore, becomes an integration tool!”

Another major advantage is that Deepsky can operate reliably over the long term. The software package is constantly being improved and updated. The parts in the robots are replaced even before a breakdown occurs. “This expertise is part of Exotec’s DNA,” he concludes. “As we’re responsible for maintaining the automated warehouse execution system, it’s in our interest to do as much preventive maintenance as possible rather than carrying out emergency repairs. That’s why we have this concern from the design stage! “

Contact our team to find out more about how our WES Deepsky can improve your warehouse performance.