Mizumashi-Based Logistics Automation
Milkrun systems, often called mizumashi, are now standard in modern factories. Mizumashi is a system based on regular, planned delivery routes. This allows us to deliver the exact amount of material needed to the production cell on time. By combining them with appropriate automation tools, we can not only optimize material flow but also increase the efficiency of the entire plant.
How is automation changing modern logistics?
Milkrun and mizumashi system automation involves the use of advanced IT technologies, digital planning tools, and automated transport vehicles. This enables a range of benefits: from eliminating empty runs to reducing human involvement in the process and fully integrating with production and warehouse management systems (e.g., WMS).
Optimized Routes and Schedules
Modern digital systems (e.g., digital twins) can plan the route of transport trucks to serve as many points on the production floor as possible in a single run. This reduces the need for as many trips, which translates into lower energy consumption, reduced congestion on internal roads, and lower CO₂ emissions. Automation also allows delivery schedules to be continuously adjusted to current production needs. This is crucial when a factory operates on a just-in-time basis.
Eliminating Empty Runs and Reducing Costs
One of the greatest advantages of automation is the elimination of empty runs. Each trip is precisely planned, and transport vehicles always transport materials or pick up finished products. This reduces operating costs by up to 20-40% and allows for better utilization of available warehouse space.
Minimizing Inventory and Downtime
Automation enables just-in-time deliveries in line with the just-in-time philosophy. Materials reach the production line when needed, minimizing inventory at stations and reducing the risk of downtime caused by component shortages. By implementing logistics automation on the production floor, we are operating in accordance with the Lean philosophy.
Error Reduction and Increased Safety
Automated systems manage routes, communications, and schedules, eliminating the risk of human error. Standardized operations and digital control of material flow increase the reliability and safety of the entire logistics process.
Faster Transportation and Greater Flexibility
Research shows that implementing digital tools in Milkrun systems allows for more than doubling the internal delivery cycle time – from 66.6 seconds to 30.2 seconds per cycle. Furthermore, the modular design of Mizumashi trains allows for easy scalability and adaptation to changing production needs.
Summary
Internal logistics automation is a key factor in fully utilizing the potential of Milkrun and Mizumashi systems.
This translates into:
- reduced costs and emissions,
- increased flexibility and safety,
- shortened delivery times,
- minimized inventories and downtime,
- better utilization of resources and space.
It is through automation that modern internal logistics becomes not only efficient but also resilient to the challenges of the modern market.
