Automated Parcel Sorting System
Smart Singulation: A SilMan National Installation Program
SilMan’s Specialty Trade team executes a national program installing smart singulation technology to support a leading end-to-end supply chain solution provider. 200+ sites since 20218. (Photo: SilMan Industries)
CLIENT
Multiple End-Users
INDUSTRY
Parcel Handling
PROJECT SCOPE
Mechanical & Electrical Installation
LOCATIONS
National Program
Powerful singulating technology with the smallest footprint possible
SilMan Industries has provided expert installation, maintenance, and project management services for leading supply chain companies across the United States since 2008. As a 21st-century industrial start-up, we have developed collaborative relationships with a host of leading supply chain solution providers, including the producer of a new, highly intelligent parcel singulator, installing 200+ systems in facilities nationwide, including FedEx and USPS.
Our Specialty Trade Services group has its hands on this technology throughout the year and continues to be dazzled by the results for parcel distribution facilities. In this article, we will share our experience implementing the systems and observations of the solution.
Revolutionizing Parcel Sortation
The Singulation process manipulates bulk flows of parcels into a single-file lineup with space between each piece. This solution actively singulates parcels into a single file before sortation using a combination of variable-speed rollers and sophisticated machine vision technology. This organized stream is crucial for efficiently feeding parcels into downstream equipment for further processing like scanning, weighing, and sorting.
National Installation Program
With advanced automation implementation, true optimization requires more than just dropping in equipment. Seamlessly integrating the technology into the existing infrastructure and processes ensures maximum ROI. The foundation of this success relies on an effective skilled trade and project management team.
Our Specialty Trade team collaborates closely with our esteemed partner and has been at the forefront of deploying this technology nationally. The breadth of deployment underscores SilMan Industries’ contribution to the mechanical and electrical installation of advanced material handling systems. Moreover, the sheer number of completed projects is a testament to the ongoing customer demand for the singulator and the success of the installation program.
Project Scope and Execution
Installing the singulator system involves a meticulous and well-orchestrated plan. The timeline for each installation project is carefully mapped out to ensure minimal disruption and optimal integration into existing systems. Our site teams are composed of seasoned mechanical and electrical experts prepared to handle every stage of project implementation. Each team member brings unique skills and experience to ensure that the installation process is smooth and efficient.
Speak to a key team member on this project
Meet Tommy Ethridge.
For more information about this project or related topics, contact Tommy by email or call directly at 662.260.2544.
You may also enjoy this article on parcel sortation.
Specialty Trade Services project management and site leadership are key components of the installation process. SilMan Industries employs a strategic approach to project management, emphasizing clear communication, precise planning, and agile response to on-site challenges. The site leadership teams are OSHA-certified and equipped to handle the installation complexities, ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards.
Click images for fullscreen viewing. (Photos: SilMan Industries)
New Horizons in Material Systems Integration
Visit an MHI tradeshow or explore Google, and you will find a myriad of suppliers vying for your attention. We commonly encounter individuals spending a lot of time chasing “shiny objects” – technologies that focus on a single action. Experienced senior leaders, however, know they cannot build an entire system around a single solution. Systems need to live and breathe as a single organism for maximum results.
To achieve the best results, veteran professionals turn to a seasoned systems integrator partner for guidance. For example, the intelligent singulation discussed in this piece offers tremendous potential for parcel and distribution operations. However, it is the thoughtful integration with other system elements, upstream and downstream, and the overarching objectives of the business that adds unique value.
The SilMan Industries Material Handling Integration team is a nationally recognized provider of thoughtful, cost-effective solutions. The company’s culture of collaboration provides end-to-end design, engineering, and implementation services, including the all-star Mechanical and Electrical teams featured in this article.
Appendix: Highlights of the Smart Singulator
- Unmatched Speed and Throughput: 18,000 pieces per hour, the highest velocity parcel singulation available on the market.
- Space Savings Through Compact Footprint
- AI-powered vision: machine learning controls each parcel’s spacing and alignment, exception detection, and handles parcels of all shapes and sizes, including polybags.
- Large system handles up to 120-lb packages
- Easily integrates with existing legacy equipment
About the Company
SilMan Industries (previously SilMan Construction) is based in San Leandro, Calif., with Engineering and Field Operations offices in Tupelo, Miss. The firm provides integrated turnkey solutions in the Industrial, Manufacturing, Distribution, and Public Works sectors.
Notably, in 2010 SilMan Industries was contracted to dismantle and remove the NUMMI assembly line in Fremont, Calif., transport the equipment, and reinstall the system in Blue Spring, Miss., establishing Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi (TMMMS). This high-visibility project ignited the company’s meteoric growth, laying the foundation for SilMan’s national service area.
For more information, please visit www.silmanindustries.com/about.
