Swisslog follows global customers with two major contract wins in Japanese medical devices industry

Swisslog, a global provider of robot and data-driven intralogistics solutions, has been awarded contracts to optimize the storage and handling of medical devices from two world-leading brands in Japan.

Both systems include the automated small parts storage system AutoStore, and will be operated by Swisslog’s Warehouse Management System “SynQ”, leading the medical devices sector into a new era of Industry 4.0.

The automation of the two facilities will enable both businesses to substantially increase efficiency, minimize equipment obsolescence, and boost storage capacity for current and future growth.

Following the design phase at each warehouse, Swisslog will be responsible for the implementation of the automated storage and picking system AutoStore, both consisting of more than 16’000 bins and 60 robots. The entire system at both facilities will be controlled via Swisslog’s warehouse management software platform SynQ – short for Synchronized Intelligence.

Swisslog’s design for AutoStore in the medical device industry has been proven in a number of warehouse automation installations worldwide. Meeting the customers’ storage configuration requirements the system includes trace & tracking functionality through the SynQ software, which offers all the pre-conditions for validation.
Intelligent automation for SANRITSU

One of the new projects will be delivered for SANRITSU, a third-party logistics provider for Boston Scientific in Japan. Boston Scientific decided to step into automation with AutoStore by Swisslog based on the successful integration of the same system in Kerkrade, Netherlands. Yasuhide Miura, CEO at SANRITSU says: “The high competence and proven experience of the Swisslog team in the design phase has convinced us to continue Boston Scientific’s partnership with Swisslog here in Japan.”

As one of Swisslog’s flagship solutions, AutoStore is popular among businesses looking for maximum operational efficiency and better space utilization. Robots with transport and lifting functionality operate the system. Equipped with a lift, they retrieve the required bins from the AutoStore grid and present them at the integrated picking stations, led by a controls and location management system. The AutoStore system combines outstanding storage density with very high flexibility. Fitting into existing buildings, the solution is scalable, energy efficient and has a favorable total cost of ownership.
Complete logistics service and maintenance

As a member of the KUKA Group, Swisslog offers its Japanese customers the full advantage of a combined approach to local support and maintenance. Using synergies, Swisslog and KUKA provide businesses with the opportunity to benefit from a lifetime partnership that harnesses the power of both companies. Boston Scientific counts this aspect as crucial. Statement Yusuke Naiki, President of Boston Scientific Japan commented “This next-generation technology will significantly enhance our supply chain capability in Japan. It will improve our distribution agility and enable quicker response to customers. I am really proud that Boston Scientific is taking the lead in modernizing the medical device supply chain and have no doubt that our collaboration with Swisslog and Kuka will be successful and ultimately lead to better patient care.”
Boston Scientific trusted in Swisslog’s competence after previous success in handling their products in their warehouse in Kerkrade, The Netherlands. The flexible and scalable AutoStore system has already been extended with additional robots and miniload conveyors. SynQ software was implemented at the Kerkrade facility, and chosen for Japan too as a result of its advanced and innovative success and its solid partnership with Swisslog.

Contacts

Swisslog
Martina Suter
Head of Marketing APAC
Tel.: +86 138 1799 4274
Email: info@swisslog.com
KUKA
Yasuhiro Hoshino
CEO KUKA Japan
Tel +81 (0)45 744 7531
Email: sales@kuka.co.jp

About Swisslog
Swisslog designs, develops, and delivers best-in-class automation for forward-thinking health systems, warehouses, and distribution centers. We offer integrated solutions from a single source – from consulting to design, implementation and lifetime customer service. Behind the company’s success are 2,500 employees worldwide, supporting customers in more than 50 countries.

www.swisslog.com/wds
Swisslog is a member of the KUKA Group, a leading global supplier of intelligent automation solutions.
https://www.kuka.com/ja-jp/kukaについて