Technology Learning Center

GENCO Supply Chain Solutions has long been known for its research, development and implementation of cutting-edge supply chain technologies. The company's Strategic Processes & Technologies team works with leading academic institutions and commercial partners to develop deployable supply chain solutions.

In early 2004, GENCO Supply Chain Solutions opened its Technology Learning Center (TLC). Located at the corporate headquarters, in Pittsburgh, PA, GENCO Supply Chain Solutions utilizes its TLC to develop and demonstrate innovative material handling robotic applications, voice-directed warehouse management systems, effective routines for testing RFID and the demonstration of various other supply chain technologies.

Real-World Learning Center

The TLC is a 9,000 square foot "noisy" warehouse processing area embedded in a one million square foot distribution center active with ambient radio waves, including wireless networks, cell phones, RF networks, etc. The warehouse area is setup to function exactly the same as a retail or manufacturing operation and includes:

RFID enabled forklift
Variable speed conveyor capable of running up to 640 feet per minute
RFID enabled stretchwrap machine
Pick-to-/put-to-light systems
Handheld interrogators
Dock door portals
Passive RFID integrated with an active real time locator system (RTLS)

All of these processing methods allow product-specific certification at speeds of over 600 fpm that is required by many retailers and the Department of Defense.

RTLS in the Technology Learning Center

GENCO Supply Chain Solutions has also installed RTLS in the TLC. RTLS technology allows material-handling equipment to be monitored based on x, y and z coordinates and allows GENCO Supply Chain Solutions to capture data on forklift utilization and travel distances as well as several other benefits.

The TLC is used to develop and demonstrate other applications centered around its customers' and their customers' needs, including voice-directed technology for picking and shipping, voice and RFID technologies in tandem, robotic applications and other newer technologies.