automated storage and retrieval system

 BY-RANI BHATI

automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS or AS/RS) consists of a variety of computer-controlled systems for automatically placing and retrieving loads from defined storage locations.


 The systems operate under computerized control, maintaining an stock of stored items.Providing dense storage that maximizes floor space, automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS). Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) are inventory management systems that are widely used in manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, and warehouses throughout the United States and the world.

 AS/RS brings with it a number of advantages that help you make your warehouse or order fulfillment operation more efficient, but perhaps the best thing about it is it allows you to concentrate on the key areas of your business. By automating labor-intensive and repetitive tasks—such as product retrieval and replenishing, Ex- with an AS/RS, those labor hours can now be provided to other important areas of your business.

ADVANTAGES OF AUTOMATED STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM(ASRS)

• Ideal for any environment - These systems can work in dry, wet or frozen conditions which is especially handy if you are storing frozen goods.
• Perfect for hazardous materials - AS/RS systems are safe and can handle the moving and storage of hazardous materials.
• Customizable - You can set your AS/RS system up to exactly fit the needs of your warehouse and company. 
•   Higher stock keeping capacity within limited space 
•   Protection of storage goods from theft and damage
•   Automation of dangerous and hard work of storage and retrieval process

DISADVANTAGES OF AUTOMATED STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM(ASRS)

•  High Initial Investment-The the long run, implementing an automated storage and retrieval system is likely to reduce labor costs and by increasing productivity. But these benefits come at a cost.
•  Maintenance-As with any kind of equipment or technology, AS/RS will need to undergo routine maintenance and occasional repair.
•  Not Suitable for Highly-Variable Operations-AS/RS, like all automation technologies, are best suited for operations that have regular, predictable, and repetitive tasks.
•  Can Require Technical Skill and Retraining-As with any new warehouse equipment, your employees will need to be adequately trained to safely handle your new AS/RS systems and get the most out of the technology.

Types of AS/RS Technology

 Unit-load automated storage and retrieval systems:

 Quick and reliable AS/RS Unit Load technologies are cost-effectively engineered to handle unitized loads in and out of high density storage. Dependable 24/7 operation comes as a benefit to common applications such as buffering of supply chain deliveries and finished goods, storing and controlling the inventory until it has been released from QC or use in downstream processes.

Finding the right AS/RS Unit Load is easy with a variety of horizontal and vertical speed options. Additionally, lightweight cranes allow for variable acceleration rates to ensure the fastest speeds are possible while maintaining load stability and quiet operation.

 mini-load automated storage and retrieval systems:

 Storing products doesn't have to mean compromising floor space — mini load AS/RS is designed to store small parts in less space with faster performance than its technical ancestors. These AS/RS systems are designed with strong, lightweight alloys making the mini load less expensive to install, operate, and maintain. More specifically, the lightness of these alloys allow for much faster performance, making these machines significantly more productive than their technical ancestors.

The most common usage of this class of AS/RS is for small parts storage and management for picking and order fulfillment. Often paired with a hybrid combination of flow lanes and static racks or shelves, the Mini load provides the best solution for those SKU's that represent the mid-range of activity.

AS/RS Mini Load is available in many different horizontal and vertical speeds to match your requirements. In addition, variable acceleration rates ensure load stability. Despite the AS/RS’s high speed, the machine remarkably quiet, operating at usual office sound levels.

For maintenance efficiency, AS/RS Mini Load’s drives and components have been carefully placed for easy access and quick repairs making installations simpler and faster.