Southwest Solutions Group Industrial Vending Solutions has been automating and modernizing military MXS/AMXS shops with hardware and software solutions for over a decade. We achieve this by using RoboCribs, ScaleMates, FX AutoLockers, and software with custom Air Force reports and reordering documents. Our solutions can directly support and improve bench stock management, FOD control, staff-hour assets, accountability, and other mandates under AFI 21-101.
We’ve installed these storage systems on bases across the nation. Recently, we installed
- Nellis Air Force Base
- Offutt Air Force Base
- Spangdahlem Air Base
- Eielson Air Force Base
- Tinker Air Force Base
- Travis Air Force Base
Highlighted Features
Co-Mingling Eliminated: Each item is individually separated into bins, and parts cups are accessed individually in less than 10 seconds, eliminating cross-contamination.
Min/Max Levels: Bench stock is managed at the 100% stock level and will not allow you to stock an item over the 200% level. Items are listed on a Restock Report when the stock level reaches 50%, thereby eliminating human error and stock-outs. This automated system eliminates the need for a manual red/green flagging system.
Restocking: Barcode readers allow the supplier to scan the bench stock barcode for quick and accurate restocking.
Lot Control/Shelf-Life Items: Items are managed automatically. When an item reaches its expiration date, the RoboCribs locks out the item. Items are dispensed by the earliest expiration dates first.
Search Options: Bench stock items can be searched/issued by NSN, Nomenclature, Multiple Part Numbers, or traditional bin locations.
Duplicate Bins Eliminated: The system only allows one unique item in its inventory, thus eliminating bin duplication.
ScaleMate: Selected items can be issued using the ScaleMate, which automatically deducts the issued items from the total stock level. This eliminates the need to count multiple-item issues, such as pin rivets, individually. It also controls wastage and virtually eliminates the possibility of FODs.
100% Physicals: Bench stock physicals are cut down from days to hours.
The Benefits
Regain floor space: The RoboCrib’s TX750 and VX1000 have a footprint of less than 9 square feet, with capacities of approximately 1,000 unique items. The larger LX2000 has a footprint of roughly 25 square feet, with a total of up to 2,574 items.
Authorized access: Autocrib solutions have an integrated barcode reader. This reader identifies the bar code on the back of the individual’s CAC but NOT the chip data; alternatively, the user can enter his/her man number and a user-chosen personal PIN code.
Point of use: The system can be strategically positioned on the hangar floor, resulting in saved staff hours from parts attendants and maintainers walking to a crib and waiting to get parts. Barksdale AFB PHASE shop, AGE shop, and MUNS have been using this concept since 2009 with exceptional inspection ratings. Our representatives work well with the DLA. We make sure our military clients can process their orders through DLA seamlessly without delay.
Overview of the Software
Autocrib Software is a SQL-based program designed to be a complete inventory management system. Our software allows the squadron to efficiently manage its bench stock, shop stock, and operating stock inventory, track usage, and identify slow-moving and dead parts items. The database within the software is developed directly from the unit’s S04. A digital Shadow Board on the Item Issue Screen shows the image and provides item details, eliminating the need for outdated physical shadow boards.
The software tracks each user’s bench stock issues to view the last 30 recent issues for a quicker search and issue. It also includes over 200 standard reports and several custom Air Force reports, all managed from the administrator’s workstation.
Providing Options and Quality Service
RoboCrib: An industrial vending machine with a touch screen used to manage small fasteners and bench stock in warehousing and open-hanger environments with little maintenance.
FX AutoLockers: Can be set up as stand-alone or as an accessory connected to the RoboCrib to issue larger bench stock items such as filters, hoses, incandescent light bulbs, tires, gaskets, and much more. They are modular and can be switched out, or additional lockers added as the inventory grows or changes.
ScaleMate: A RoboCrib scale accessory that provides the ability to dispense multiple quantities of an item with an automated count determination and deducted from the stock level. Self-calibrate before each transaction.
Warranty: AutoCrib provides a 5-Year DoD ONLY Warranty to military accounts. The warranty includes all parts, postage, and 24/7 tech support for five full years from the shipment date.
Contact Us for Bench Stock Vending Machines
Southwest Solutions Group provides design and installation services for industrial vending machines. We will also provide you with a free consultation to determine your exact needs and specifications before you commit to buying anything. For more information or to speak with a specialist, call us at 800-803-1083 or send us a message today.
Military Testimonials
“I would like to give kudos and accolades to Bruce and Taylor. Their willingness to help has made our automated storage stacker event successful. Bruce’s vast knowledge of your stacker lift equipment and his ability to communicate these skills has allowed us to become very knowledgeable on system operation. They have helped us understand the basic operation of stacker machines as well as general troubleshooting. Together your employees make a magnificent team that portrays good work ethics, dedication, and positive attitude that would make any company proud. The customer service that these gentlemen have given Team Tinker only ensures that we will continue to maintain a partnership with Southwest Solutions Group. Keep up the good work.”
“We were extremely satisfied with the work of Chester last week. His commitment and tireless work ethic allowed us to get the weapon racks installed in three days versus the 5-7 days we thought it was going to take. He finished the job about 1500 on Thursday…I want to commend him and thank him for his honesty and willingness to go the extra mile to make sure the job was done to standard. We appreciate his honesty and dedication.”
“A big THANK YOU goes out to Jim Smith and the entire team at Southwest Solutions Group for our recent move and re-install of our Spacesaver high density storage shelving! We absolutely could not go without the system you provided for us 6 years ago in our new facility. Jim did an excellent job of designing our new layout utilizing all of our existing shelving investment! This job was all accomplished under a very tight time frame and with minimal disturbance to my team. Additionally, I need to mention the fantastic upfront coordination of this project and the clean and successful install by your installers. Thank you again Southwest Solutions Group for standing behind your product for all these years and another job well done!”
“Sir, I just wanted to let you know that Adam and Bryan were probably some of the best guys I’ve ever had the pleasure of speaking to. Everything they did was very professional, helpful, and they answered more questions than I’m sure they would ever want. For every single thing I would bother them with, they would always be more than willing to help me out and explain pretty much every aspect of information I needed. Also, we are very happy with these shelving units. They look, feel, and perform so much better than I ever expected. I just wanted to let you know!”
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