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16

Sep-2019

Automated Storage and Retrieval System Doesn't Have To Be Hard

Automated Storage and Retrieval System Market was worth USD 7.6 billion in 2019 and estimated to be growing at a CAGR of 7.8%, to reach USD 11.9 billion by 2024.

Automated Storage and Retrieval System Market Introduction:

An automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS or AS / RS) consists of a variety of computer-controlled systems that automatically place and retrieve loads from defined storage locations. Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS / RS) are typically used in applications where:

  • The volume of loads entering and leaving the storage is very high
  • Storage density is important due to lack of space.
  • No value is added in this process (no processing, only storage and transport)
  • Precision is essential because of the costly damage to the load.

An AS / RS can be used with standard loads as well as non-standard loads, which means that each standard load can fit into a uniformly sized volume. For example, the movie containers in the Visual Defense Information Center image are stored in the contents of uniform-sized metal boxes, as shown in the image. Standard shipments simplify the processing of an item request. In addition, content inventory accuracy audits may be limited to the content of an individual metal box, rather than performing a top-down search of the entire facility for a single item.

Advantages:

  • An efficient automated storage and retrieval system offers several benefits for supply chain management:
  • An effective AS / RS system helps businesses reduce expenses by minimizing the number of unnecessary parts and products stored and improving the organization of warehouse content. Thanks to the automated processes, it also allows more storage space due to high density storage, narrower aisles, etc.
  • Automation reduces labor costs while reducing labor requirements and enhancing safety.
  • Modeling and managing the logical representation of physical storage facilities (eg shelves, etc.). For example, if some products are often sold together or are more popular than others, these products can be bundled or placed near the delivery area to speed up the collection, packaging and shipping process to customers.
  • Allow a continuous link with order processing and logistics management to collect, package and ship products off premises.
  • Track where products are stored, their suppliers, and how long they are stored. By analyzing this data, companies can monitor inventory levels and optimize the use of warehouse space. In addition, businesses are better prepared for the demands and needs of the Automated Storage and Retrieval System Market, especially in special circumstances, such as high season in a given month. With reports generated by an AS / RS system, companies can also collect important data that can be incorporated into a model for analysis.

INSTALLATION CONCERNS:

Automated storage and retrieval systems require significant up-front investment and ongoing financial commitment. "The maintenance of highly integrated systems requires training and experience and is not free of occasional frustrations," said Michael Wigington, Plant Engineering Division Manager. "Even the most experienced AS / RS users are struggling to cope with the changing demands of aging technology and mechanization." The cost of purchasing and implementing an automated automated storage / retrieval system is also important, since it covers everything from pre-procurement analysis to supply chain needs and procurement needs. inventory management at the actual purchase price of the equipment. and AS / RS software. In addition, experts in the use and maintenance of AS / RS systems point out that companies often have to bear significant ongoing costs for the maintenance and updating of various subsystems.

Types of AS / RS technology:

Automated storage and recovery systems are available in two main varieties: single-load AS / RS and low-load AS / RS. Some of the most popular types of AS / RS technologies include:

AS / RS unit load

Automated unit load recovery and storage systems generally handle larger loads of goods and equipment (including weights in thousands of pounds). This often means that the AS / RS technician handles and moves full or partial pallets or boxes.

AS / RS Single-Load is an excellent option when pallet storage is limited and fast recovery is essential.

AS / RS mini-load

Compared to the unit load AS / RS, the mini load AS / RS generally handles smaller product loads. Instead of full pallets, this often results in the handling of AS / RS in mini cargo, containers or cardboard boxes. These systems are sometimes referred to as "case processing" or "bag stacking" systems.

The reduced AS / RS load is particularly suitable for operations that require storage locations for a large number of SKUs, but that lack the floor space required for traditional cardboard rack shelves to provide a collection face for each SKU. AS / RS reduced load systems can also be used to cushion and release / order the product at order picking or palletizing stations, and can be used to automatically replenish order picking locations, such as performance. cardboard boxes.

Like AS / RS single-load AS / RS mini-loads, they can take many forms, including:

  • AS / RS mini cargo crane: The AS / RS mini cargo crane works in the same way as single-load AS / RS cranes, a crane that operates between narrow rows of goods. Instead of pallets, this system moves bags, cartons or trays.
  • AS-RS Mini-Load Shuttle: AS / RS Mini-load minibuses route the product through a ferry that rolls on a rail between a frame structure. They can operate on a single level or on multiple levels depending on the needs of the operation and can be powered by battery or capacitor. When an item is requested, the transport service goes to the location of the product and retrieves its packaging. It will then transport the tray / cardboard directly to a workstation or transfer it to a conveyor to route the tray / cardboard to a workstation.
  • AS / RS carousel: In this type of AS / RS, trays or cartons are stored and retrieved from horizontal or vertical sorters by means of a device called an insert extractor. The system rotates until the container containing the shelf in which the product is to be stored or retrieved is in position with the insert extractor.
  • Vertical lift module (VLM): Vertical lift modules are closed systems with a centrally inserted puller and a column of containers on each side. The insert extractor locates the necessary container and delivers it to an operator who completes a command before the container is returned.
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WRITTEN BY: Karthik Thelakula

Karthik Thelakula is a Content Writer in Market Data Forecast, one of the world’s leading research and consulting for various business domains, individuals and corporate clients