02 May ASRS Guide
Automated storage and retrieval systems, also known as ASRS, are designed for automated storage and retrieval of products, parts, and items with better precision, speed, and accuracy than manual retrieval. Automated storage solutions help manufacturing, warehouses, and distribution centers compete in a time of rapid technological advances.
What Is ASRS?
ASRS provides fully automated solutions to help keep the flow of products across the entire supply chain while improving throughput. ASRS refers to the many computer-controlled, racking, and robotics systems for placing and retrieving loads from specific storage locations automatically. They can be designed to accommodate standard and nonstandard loads.
What Are The ASRS Types?
The types of ASRS racking systems include:
Unit-load
Unit-load ASRS technology includes the storage and retrieval of full pallet loads executed by robotic cranes or a shuttle system. This type of ASRS can store large loads over 1,000 pounds single deep, double deep, or more. Unit-load solutions are ideal for storage rack structures over 100 feet tall.
Mini-load
A mini-load ASRS is used for the storage of items in bins, trays, or totes. They handle light loads weighing less than 1,000 pounds.
Vertical lift modules (VLM)
VLM storage is an efficient goods-to-person solution for high density small product and parts storage. VLMs feature a column of trays with an inserter extractor in the center to store and retrieve trays.
Shuttles
Shuttles are used for handling totes, trays, and cartons. These solutions are common in warehousing and manufacturing applications.
Horizontal carousels
A horizontal carousel module stores small parts and pieces. A series of bins rotate around a track.
Vertical carousels
Vertical carousels are the opposite of a horizontal carousel as they rotate vertically. The shelves and carriers provide high density storage.
Cube-based storage
Cube-based storage modules are one of the highest density storage goods-to-person picking systems available. Inventory bins are stored in a cubical storage system, and robots retrieve the containers.
Applications of ASRS
ASRS solutions are ideal in applications with the following characteristics:
- A high volume of loads moving in and out of storage
- Storage density is crucial
- Space constraints
- No processing, only storage and transport
- Accuracy is critical to prevent expensive damage to the load
Automated storage systems can support these processing and picking areas in a facility:
- Assembly to store components for later production
- Order picking to retrieve the inventory pickers need
- Replenishment to store extra inventory or restock products
- Storage for items that move slowly in production
Potential applications for ASRS include the food and beverage, cold storage, and agriculture industries.
ASRS Benefits
The benefits of automated storage systems include:
More accurate tracking of inventory
ASRS meets the trend towards “Just in Time” production and is a much faster way of organizing the storage of smaller items next to production lines. It maximizes efficiency by auditing the inventory of contents within a specified space, rather than undergoing a thorough search of the entire facility, for a single item.
Increased storage density
An automated warehouse solution increases storage space due to the high density storage it provides. ASRS pallet racking also improves storage efficiency by eliminating wasted floor space.
Reduced labor costs
Automation reduces labor costs while increasing safety and labor productivity. These workflows reduce human error and free employees to focus on more complex tasks.
Increased efficiency
ASRS pallet racking improves a facility’s efficiency by linking order processing with logistics management.
Improved ergonomics
Automated retrieval solutions can improve warehouse working conditions.
Increased throughput
ASRS works faster and more precisely, so warehouses can improve their throughput rates.
Contact Us About Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems
The automated storage solutions at Twinlode Automation help warehouses work faster and more efficiently to reduce operational costs and keep up with demand. We have more than 40 years of industry experience and offer professional services for design, consultation, and implementation.
Learn about ASRS solutions for your warehouse by contacting us online.