Description

Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) are inventory management systems that are widely used in manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, and warehouses. AS/RS systems generally consist of machines that move up and down one or multiple parallel storage aisles, storing and retrieving products and materials for dissemination to internal and external destinations alike.

Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) are typically used in applications where:

• There is a very high volume of loads being moved into and out of storage
• Storage density is important because of space constraints
• No value is added in this process (no processing, only storage and transport)
• Accuracy is critical because of potential expensive damages to the load

Advantages

• An efficient AS/RS system helps companies cut expenses by minimizing the amount of unnecessary parts and products in storage, and improving organization of the contents of a warehouse. Due to automated processes, it also allows for more storage space due to high-density storage, narrower aisles, etc.
• Automation reduces labor costs while lowering workforce requirements and increasing safety.
• Modeling and managing the logical representation of the physical storage facilities (e.g. racking, etc.). For example, if certain products are often sold together or are more popular than others, those products can be grouped together or placed near the delivery area to speed up the process of picking, packing and shipping to customers.
• Enabling a seamless link to order processing and logistics management in order to pick, pack, and ship product out of the facility.