Innovation in the smallest of spaces: the world's first Jungheinrich PowerCube in operation
A warehouse like no other: the world's first Jungheinrich PowerCube has gone into operation at M. Schönenberger AG in Switzerland - with 18,000 storage spaces on just 400 square metres. What sounds like the future is now reality and shows how innovation based on partnership creates real added value.
When the storage space at M. Schönenberger AG reached its limits, it was clear that conventional solutions would not be enough. Instead of building an expensive new warehouse, the company opted for innovation. The result: the world's first Jungheinrich PowerCube went into operation in Switzerland - taking warehouse logistics to a new level. With over 18,000 container storage locations on just 400 square metres of floor space, the PowerCube uses space like no other system. 26 levels, shuttles with lithium-ion technology, up to 150 storage and retrieval operations per hour - this is automation at its best. For Schönenberger, this means over 30% more storage capacity and a massive improvement in picking processes.
The path to this goal was characterised by close cooperation. It took two years from the initial concept to the go-live - with a smooth start just ten months after installation began. ‘The on-site support from the Jungheinrich team was exceptional and created friendships that have lasted far beyond the project,’ says Enzo Guzzo, Supply Chain Manager at Schönenberger.
Technology that inspires
Eight PowerCube shuttles work almost invisibly under the modular racking system. They pick up the required containers and deliver them to exactly the right place - quickly, reliably and quietly. For the employees, this means fewer journeys, less effort and more focus on the actual job. ‘Experience at Schönenberger shows that the PowerCube offers unbeatable advantages, especially for existing, manually operated high-rack warehouses that are to be automated and condensed into less space,’ emphasises Arne Sturm, Jungheinrich Sales Manager Logistics Systems in Switzerland. When space is tight and warehouse height is limited, the PowerCube quickly becomes a real advantage - even for very narrow aisles and complex requirements.
