Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) are automated systems that come in many different variations, but generally, they’re designed to automatically organize and retrieve items by name, information content or other property. These AS/RSs provide a catalog of items for use in the library, laboratory, archive and museum contexts. They also serve as an inventorying tool for organizations that need to keep track of what they have. Examples of AS/RSs include online libraries like Google Books or online databases like the Encyclopedia Britannica.
Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) are self-sufficient pieces of equipment designed to store and retrieve items in a safe, sanitary, and efficient manner. In general, an ASRS is made up of three subsystems: the storage system, the retrieval system, and the control system.
The storage system typically contains racks for storing pallets of merchandise; an access aisle for on-hand product; high bay shelving for long term storage; or any combination thereof. The retrieval system consists of at least one robot with associated hardware including a moveable platform mounted on rails that moves stock to a point where it can be retrieved from the system by an operator or other personnel.
How is it designed?
These AS/RSs are designed with special purpose software and control systems. The software is designed to interface with the physical system’s mechanical structures, sensors, drives and other components. Control systems are used to automate the movement of items between different locations within the AS/RS. Typically, the control system takes orders from an incoming request for a specific item and then retrieves that item from storage. The control system then delivers it to either an output folder or directly to the requester.
Shelving systems may be manual or automated by using conveyorized carriers known as “motor-stage”. A traditional manual system uses a hasp and staple to clasp the item. Thus requiring a human’s attention and therefore slowing down the retrieval of items. A motor-stage AS/RS affords a much better retrieval rate while not requiring the attention of a human, thus reducing downtime.
Artificial intelligence or computer intelligence systems are already being used in the field of automated storage and retrieval systems. These types of systems search for logical relationships between items via an external interface, or by an internal inference engine. This “knowledge representation” is then used to provide feedback for the control system regarding what items to retrieve or move next.Improves efficiency. An ASRS helps teams save time by automating processes previously completed manually, so they are able to focus on more important tasks. – Creates consistency across multiple sites or facilities. This is particularly true for companies that have multiple distributions or fulfillment centers. – Aids in building efficiency and automation. By employing an ASRS, a company can use the same system throughout its entire supply chain to create a more consistent flow of product and processed goods throughout the entire system. Reduces errors by giving employees other tasks to complete.
Maintenance features
A reduction in errors means improved accuracy, which leads to a reduction in costs. –
Increases the number of products available to consumers. You’ll have more inventory on hand and ready for sale than ever before. Automated logistics systems have lots of benefits.
- Provides better customer service. Because your customers can always count on you to have the right product at the right time, they are more likely to make repeat purchases.
- Provides maintenance features such as alerts and schedulers that helps keep track of all maintenance needs throughout your facility. Allowing you to schedule maintenance quickly and efficiently. – Minimizes employee turnover. For every improvement that you make, you’ll see a decrease in employee turnover.
Improves reliability for your employees
When people perform a process on a consistent basis and with discipline, they can focus on other tasks. – Reduces electromagnetic interference (EMI) and noise from customers’ machines and equipment. With no need to send items via conveyors, there is no noise or dirt that can be transferred or caused by the transfer process. – Protects against employee injuries or injuries to customers. Because there’s no active conveyor system, there are no moving parts that can be damaged or become dangerous.
ASRS System
Allows companies to comply with Health & Safety regulations. Most ASRS systems offer customized equipment and controls tailored to the needs of your company. This will help ensure your employees are properly trained so that you can achieve occupational health and safety compliance. Eliminates storage space requirements because of the automated logistics systems that help to identify the features an ASRS provides. You don’t need to worry about finding space for storing inventory that is waiting to be processed. This also eliminates the need to have extra space on hand in case your equipment ever goes down, storage becomes full or you have other maintenance needs.
Consumer standards
Allows your company to charge customers a premium price and still offer affordable prices. Because your company can always provide products on time and with the right materials. You’ll be able to charge a higher price for your goods without worrying about whether or not anyone will want them. Provides better quality control. By keeping track of all orders and inventory, you’ll ensure that the facility is compliant with standards set by the government or consumer standards set by industry and retailers. – Can help your company in the event of a fire or flood.
Conclusion
ASRS systems can streamline recovery procedures and aid in minimizing damage to your facility during a fire or flood. An ASRS system can help protect staff against thieves and vandals, especially if the theft is due to employees leaving their belongings in an open area for too long. An ASRS makes it easier for people to protect themselves by simply picking up their belongings as soon as they are finished rather than waiting for a manual transfer process.
Makes it easier to clean and maintain your facilities. As you can see from the above list of benefits, ASRS can benefit every department of your company. Many of them may not even realize the benefit that this technology has to offer.
