CATERPILLAR
CASE STUDY
OVERVIEW
Caterpillar (UK) Ltd is a leading exporter of Caterpillar - manufactured products, catering to diverse markets. The company's commitment to excellence is evident in its relentless pursuit of efficiency and productivity across its operations.
In a strategic move to enhance the management and tracking of warehouse scanners at its Desford site, Caterpillar partnered with iLockerz to deploy an innovative asset management solution. The iLockerz PRO system, a sophisticated 56-door RFID tracking
scanner locker system with built-in charging capabilities for each compartment, was selected to meet Caterpillar's specific needs.
CHALLENGES
The primary challenge faced by Caterpillar at its Desford site was the inefficient management and tracking of warehouse scanners, an essential tool in the day-to-day operations of the company.
The lack of a centralised system led to misplacement, unauthorised use, and delays in scanner availability, thereby affecting overall productivity and operational efficiency. Additionally, the absence of a charging solution meant scanners were often found with depleted batteries, further complicating workflow and reducing equipment readiness.
SOLUTION
iLockerz responded to Caterpillar's challenges by implementing the iLockerz PRO system. This state-of-
the-art solution employs RFID technology to track and manage the allocation of warehouse scanners
efficiently. Each of the 56 lockers is equipped with charging capabilities, ensuring scanners are fully
charged and ready for use whenever needed.
The system's intelligent software provides real-time data on scanner usage, enabling better accountability and utilisation. The success of this implementation led Caterpillar to explore further enhancements, including the integration of a 4G router and annual SIM, a dome
camera, and a fingerprint reader to bolster security and access control within the existing system.
RESULTS
Implementation of the iLockerz systems at Caterpillar's Desford site and Perkins Engines resulted in substantial improvements in asset management and operational efficiency. The RFID tracking technology led to a significant reduction in lost or misplaced scanners, minimizing downtime and accelerating workflows. The added features of the PRO system, including the 4G router, dome camera, and fingerprint reader, not only enhanced security but also provided a scalable solution that could
adapt to future technological advancements.
The introduction of the iLockerz ECO system at Perkins Engines further demonstrated the versatility and effectiveness of the iLockerz solutions addressing the unique challenges of different operational environments
within the Caterpillar Inc. family. The successful deployment of these systems has established a new standard for asset management and operational efficiency, showcasing the potential for RFID technology to transform warehouse and equipment management practices.
Ben Preston, Supply Chain Planning Engineer, says: "The iLockerz RFID systems have revolutionised our asset management, dramatically improving efficiency and reducing equipment tracking time. These solutions have
allowed us to shift focus from operational challenges to strategic initiatives, setting a new operational benchmark for Caterpillar."
This endorsement from a key stakeholder underscores the critical role of innovative technologies like iLockerz in driving Caterpillar's continuous improvement and operational excellence.
