Tool-dispenser organizes the tool stores

Machines halted as a result of a shortage of tools is an expensive and unnecessary situation for any producer, which is why we offer a software and hardware package in the Tool Dispenser that continuously checks stocks, and is therefore able to initiate resupply in good time, explains Dieter Schabel, General Manager at MPK Kemmer PCB Tools. This makes the right number of tools with the proper diameter available to the user at any time.

The Tool Dispenser is an automatic device in which up to 15,600 tools can be stored. It is connected to a PC that runs software developed particularly for this purpose and shows the current levels of stock in the dispenser on a monitor screen. It is possible, at the press of a button (like a cigarette machine) to select the tools, sorted according to diameter; they are then immediately dispensed into the 10-tool European standard magazine. The number of tools removed and the parts numbers are displayed on the monitor in real time, and transmitted via modem to PCB Tools.

When the quantity of tools in the dispenser falls below a defined limit, a stock indication is issued, and refill by the supplier is initiated promptly. As soon as the stock level falls below minimum, the tool supplier immediately begins the refill procedure. Up to eight dispensers of this type can be connected to one computer, representing a stock quantity of more than 120,000 tools.

It is clear what the benefits both for ourselves and our customers are: the customer always has enough tools in stock without having to administer expensive orders, delivery notes and invoices. Ordering faults do not occur, and neither do mistakes on invoices and delivery notes; the customer just pays for the number of tools removed from the dispenser. On the other hand, PCB Tools can continuously orient its production schedules around the needs of its customers, simplifying production planning and avoiding bottlenecks in the supply chain. Since the dispenser was introduced in April of 2002, a number of famous customers have already decided in favour of this system, and several further installations are being planned.