/ Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS)

Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS)

Are your storage systems slowing down your distribution center? Warehouse automation is the solution for you. Get the most out of your warehousing storage space with an integrated Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS).

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What Is An Automated Storage And Retrieval System (ASRS)?

An automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) is an industrial storage system designed to automatically place and retrieve loads from specific storage locations using computer-controlled methods. They are generally used in applications where large amounts of inventory are moved into and out of a manufacturing or distribution center.

Most systems operate in a fully automated mode, with little or no human or fork truck involvement in the process. Automated storage and retrieval system solutions consist of many varying pieces of equipment. These may include but are not limited to pallet racking, shelving, vertical or horizontal carousels, conveyors, and storage retrieval machines (S/RM).

Overhead fork stacker crane sytem for automated storage and retrieval application
Mecalux stacker crane retrieving boxes for an automated storage and retrieval system ASRS
3D rendering of stacker crane for an automated storage and retrieval system outfeeding to 2 CDLR conveyor lines
Mecalux stacker crane working in between storage racking for an ASRS system in a bottling distribution center
Overhead view of a stacker crane operating in push back storage for an ASRS system
View of automated storage and retrieval system stacker crane moving down the storage line in distribution center

Why use an AS/RS?

Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems are a great solution to hold and buffer the flow of material moving to the ultimate end user. ASRS are typically used in applications where high volumes of loads are being moved in and out of storage, in a space where storage density is important due to space constraints.

3D close up of the ASRS stacker crane fork module

Advantages

Overhead view of a stacker crane operating in push back storage for an ASRS system
  • Bringing material to the operator cutting cycle time by eliminating wait, walk, and search time.
  • Reduces work-in-progress inventory. Better inventory accuracy and better responsiveness to need result in reduction or elimination of “safety stock” in the overall inventory model. This has the net effect of inventory reduction.
  • Dramatically increases operator productivity. The “Part to Picker” model of order fulfillment is 3 to 5 times more productive that having the picker travel to the part to complete the fulfillment.
  • Provides real-time inventory control with instant reports. With near 100% accuracy and real time information about the inventory on hand, achievable commitments can be made to your customer – as opposed to “best efforts promises”.
  • Improves product quality and productivity. Real time information, faster response to a need, physical protection, and traceability of material access all contribute to a better process where time can be spent on improving the quality of the process instead of on expediting material to a point of use.