27 March 2025, Company News
Kardex, a global leader in automated storage and retrieval solutions, is proud to announce a key milestone in its innovation journey: the successful deployment of its latest picking solution, the Kardex Wearable Task Assistant (WTA). Czech manufacturer Altech is among the first to adopt the WTA and has seen significant improvements in accuracy, operator efficiency, and ergonomics at its production site.
Driving Growth with Smart Technology
Faced with growing production demands and an increasing number of complex orders, Altech—a manufacturer of mobility aids such as stairlifts and wheelchairs—recognized the need to modernize its order-picking process. Initially, the company considered adding Multi-User Picking to its existing system. However, they soon identified the WTA as a more flexible, scalable, and future-proof solution.
The WTA is a wrist-mounted, operator-centric device that integrates seamlessly with Kardex’s software environment. Its E-Ink display guides the operator step-by-step through each pick-and-put process, providing real-time, visual confirmation of tasks. Hands-free scanning, haptic feedback, and multi-order picking capabilities allow operators to handle large batches efficiently, maximizing throughput while minimizing errors.
“By using the Kardex Wearable Task Assistant, we’ve improved operator time utilization, reduced picking errors, and accelerated the training of new employees,” said L. Gryč, Manager of Production Technology Preparation and Production Systems Administrator at Altech. “This solution has proven to be the right choice to support our growth and ensure smooth, efficient order fulfillment.”
Seamless Integration, Measurable Impact
Altech’s WTA rollout, implemented in December 2024, includes four Kardex Shuttles and three static racks, with two WTA systems supporting the operation. Over 50 orders per batch are now processed seamlessly, with measurable improvements in accuracy and productivity.
Altech has realized the following key benefits:
- Improved picking accuracy, with step-by-step guidance and instant validation reducing error rates.
- Reduced operator mental workload, as tasks are clearly displayed and confirmed visually and through haptic signals.
- Faster onboarding, allowing new or temporary workers to quickly adapt and contribute without extensive training.
- Improved ergonomics, thanks to hands-free scanning, adjustable cuff sizes, and intuitive task prompts.
Partnering for Continued Growth
The success of the WTA implementation is just the beginning. Altech is already planning to extend the use of WTA technology to other Kardex machines and to integrate it into a new production hall currently under development. Equipped with more Kardex storage systems and WTA devices, the new facility will support Altech’s expanding operations and reinforce its commitment to operational excellence.
"We are pleased to continue our collaboration with Kardex as we expand our production capacity," added Gryč. "The seamless integration, combined with the outstanding support from the Kardex team, has enabled us to face future challenges with confidence."
About Altech
Altech is a leading Czech manufacturer specializing in barrier-free mobility solutions. Founded in 1992, the company designs, manufactures, and services stairlift platforms, stair chairs, and other accessibility aids, supporting individuals with limited mobility. Altech exports approximately 85% of its production, with a strong presence across Europe. With a focus on quality, safety, and customer-centric innovation, Altech offers tailored solutions that increase independence and improve the quality of life for users worldwide.
About Kardex
Kardex is a leading global partner for intralogistics solutions in an attractive and growing market. The Group offers premium automated products, standardized systems and lifecycle services that guarantee high availability and low total cost of ownership. Kardex provides an intelligent entry into automation with its dynamic storage and retrieval systems, offers integrated material handling systems, small parts storage systems, and automated high-bay warehouses, and acts as a global AutoStore partner, offering flexible and modular storage and order fulfillment solutions. The Group employs around 2’500 people in over 30 countries. Kardex Holding AG has been listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange since 1989.
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