IDX MHE provides a configurable link between supply chain execution / host systems and material handling equipment including AS/RS, carousels, conveyors, elevators, pick-to-light, and even gantry cranes.

IDX MHE provides real-time interfaces between SCE systems and MHE controllers using industry-standard communication protocols including IP (TCP/UDP), FTP, socket communication, and Serial RS 232.

IDX MHE provides a focused window of functionality that allows users to maximize the efficiency of their MHE investment.

modular architecture

IDX MHE leverages functions of the IDX product suite including an embedded development environment that encapsulate functions commonly used in MHE integration routines. This toolkit allows users to integrate with MHE systems of varying complexity without the burden of developing extensive new code.

database buffer

IDX maintains its own database of transactions providing redundancy and task synchronization utilities that will keep your host/warehouse system processes running even during equipment downtime or maintenance.

error logging

Comprehensive monitoring and error-handling capabilities with utilities for translation into meaningful messages to speed operator reaction and prevent equipment downtime.

test bench utilities

Comprehensive suite of testing and simulation tools including a simulator and data generator to stress test the software operation prior to live testing ensuring proper burn in of the software and a robust implementation.

cycle count utilities

IDX MHE supports discrete retrieval of pallets/bins by order key, priority, case Id, customer and others for the purpose of inventory stock checks. One or more output stations can be marked as cycle count stations and IDX MHE will coordinate flow of pallets to these locations for stock counting.

user defined mhe environment settings

IDX MHE provides for easy configuration of the physical aspects of the MHE environment based on the size and type of material handled and the level of automation and control required including number of bins, tiers, and aisles, crane availability, equal crane use, optimization of double fork lifts and others.

independent put-away logic

IDX MHE provides an independent layer of user defined put-away logic by zones (Normal, Hazard, etc), SKU ABC type, SKU across aisles, column weight, and pallet/bin height.

role based security

IDX MHE has its own layer of application security providing flexibility and ensuring that flow control and system information is shared on a need-to-know/need-to-use basis.

benefits

reusable tool

IDX MHE provides customers with all the tools needed to become self sufficient in their MHE integration efforts. First line support and periodic modification resulting from changed business requirements can be done in-house - no more custom interface solutions requiring expensive external maintenance.

operation redundancy

Because IDX MHE is capable of operating as a standalone application and maintains its own database of transactions, your execution environment will be provided an addition layer of redundancy preventing your physical operations from being inflexibly tied to your host/WMS system status.

system flexibility

IDX MHE’s easily extendable architecture allows users to rapidly add functionality to manage additional material handling equipment and/or alternate WMS or other execution systems.