Table of Contents
What is a Conveyor System Take-Over?
A conveyor system take-over occurs when Lafayette Engineering acquires responsibility for an existing conveyor system that was originally installed by another company. We evaluate the current system, implement necessary upgrades and modifications to meet the customer’s current needs, and assume all ongoing support and maintenance responsibilities. Once the take-over is complete, the system becomes fully supported by Lafayette Engineering.
Why Would a Facility Consider a System Take-Over?
There are several common scenarios that lead facilities to pursue a system take-over:
- The original system integrator is no longer in business or cannot provide adequate support
- The facility’s operational needs have evolved beyond the original system’s capabilities
- Response times for service and support from the current provider are unsatisfactory
- The existing system requires modernization with current technology and controls
- The facility wants to consolidate multiple systems under a single support provider
- Cost savings can be achieved through more efficient system operation and maintenance
What Does the Take-Over Process Involve?
The take-over process typically follows these steps:
1. Initial Assessment
- Comprehensive evaluation of the existing conveyor system
- Documentation review (if available)
- Identification of system components, controls, and software
- Assessment of current performance and operational issues
2. System Analysis
- Detailed review of system functionality
- Identification of upgrade requirements
- Development of improvement recommendations
- Creation of a take-over proposal with scope and timeline
3. Implementation
- System documentation creation or updates
- Hardware upgrades or replacements as needed
- Control system modernization
- Software updates or migration
- Integration with existing facility systems
4. Testing and Validation
- Complete system testing
- Performance verification
- Operator training
- Final documentation delivery
5. Ongoing Support
- 24/7 support availability
- Preventive maintenance programs
- Spare parts management
- System optimization services
What Types of Systems Can Lafayette Engineering Take Over?
We have experience taking over various conveyor system types, including:
- Sortation systems
- Accumulation conveyors
- Parcel handling systems
- Baggage handling systems
- Unit load conveyors
- Pallet handling systems
- Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS)
- Legacy control systems requiring modernization
How Long Does a Typical Take-Over Process Take?
The timeline varies significantly based on system complexity, required modifications, and operational constraints. Simple take-overs might be completed in a few weeks, while complex systems requiring significant upgrades could take several months. We work closely with each facility to minimize disruption to operations during the transition.
What If We Don’t Have Documentation for Our Current System?
Lack of documentation is a common challenge with system take-overs. Lafayette Engineering has extensive experience reverse-engineering existing systems. We create comprehensive documentation as part of our take-over process, including:
- System layouts and schematics
- Control system documentation
- Equipment specifications
- Maintenance procedures
- Spare parts lists
- Operating instructions
Can You Take Over a System While It’s Still Operating?
Yes, we understand that most facilities cannot afford significant downtime. We develop implementation strategies that minimize operational impact, which may include:
- Phased implementations during off-peak hours
- Temporary work-arounds during transitions
- Weekend or holiday installations
- Parallel system testing before cutover
- Careful scheduling around peak operational periods
What About Proprietary Systems or Obsolete Technology?
Lafayette Engineering specializes in modernizing legacy and proprietary systems. We can:
- Replace obsolete components with current technology
- Migrate proprietary software to open platforms
- Upgrade controls to modern PLC/HMI systems
- Integrate older equipment with new control systems
- Provide solutions for discontinued components
How Does Support Work After the Take-Over?
Once the take-over is complete, the system becomes fully supported by Lafayette Engineering. Our support includes:
- 24/7 technical support hotline
- On-site service response
- Remote diagnostic capabilities
- Preventive maintenance programs
- Emergency repair services
- System optimization and improvements
- Spare parts inventory management
- Software updates and upgrades
What Are the Cost Considerations?
System take-over costs vary based on several factors:
- Current system condition
- Required upgrades or modifications
- System complexity and size
- Documentation requirements
- Timeline constraints
- Ongoing support level requirements
We provide detailed proposals outlining all costs associated with the take-over and ongoing support. Often, the improved efficiency and reduced downtime result in significant long-term cost savings.
How Do I Know If a System Take-Over Is Right for My Facility?
Consider a system take-over if you’re experiencing:
- Frequent system breakdowns or reliability issues
- Inadequate support from your current provider
- Inability to get spare parts or technical expertise
- System limitations affecting productivity
- High maintenance costs
- Lack of system documentation
- Need for system modernization or expansion
What Happens to Existing Warranties?
When Lafayette Engineering takes over a system, we typically assume responsibility for all aspects of system support. Existing warranties from original equipment manufacturers may still apply to specific components. We work with customers to understand warranty implications and ensure proper coverage moving forward.
How Do I Get Started?
The first step is to contact Lafayette Engineering for an initial consultation. We’ll discuss your current system, challenges you’re facing, and objectives for the take-over. From there, we can schedule an on-site assessment to evaluate your system and develop a comprehensive take-over proposal.
Does Lafayette Engineering Have Experience with My Industry?
Lafayette Engineering has extensive experience across multiple industries, including:
- E-commerce and distribution
- Manufacturing
- Airports and baggage handling
- Postal and parcel processing
- Food and beverage
- Automotive
- Pharmaceutical
- Retail distribution
What Certifications and Qualifications Does Lafayette Engineering Have?
Our team includes certified engineers, experienced technicians, and skilled programmers. We maintain partnerships with major equipment manufacturers and stay current with industry standards and best practices. Our qualifications include:
- Professional engineering licenses
- Control system certifications
- Safety certifications
- Industry-specific training and credentials
- Manufacturer-authorized service capabilities
For more information about conveyor system take-overs or to schedule a consultation, visit lafayette-engineering.com or contact our team directly.
