AutoStore: Automated storage solutions and the role of trays

Introduction

The world of logistics has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Automated systems such as AutoStore have revolutionized the efficiency and precision of warehousing. AutoStore is a state-of-the-art, automated storage and picking system that optimizes space, increases processing speed and reduces costs at the same time. These innovative systems are of particular interest to companies that work with a wide variety of items and a high order frequency.

In this article, we explain exactly what AutoStore is, how it works and how workpiece carriers within such systems help to increase efficiency and safety. Whether as an inlay or stackable solution, workpiece carriers also play a crucial role in facilitating the handling of specific components or goods.  

What is AutoStore?

AutoStore is an automated storage and picking system that is particularly impressive due to its compact design and high efficiency in the handling of stored goods. It works with a cube-shaped grid in which containers, also known as "bins", are stacked on top of each other. The bins are removed by robots moving on rails on the top of the system and taken to picking stations.

The great advantage of AutoStore lies in its space-saving architecture. As the bins are stacked on top of each other, the available storage space is optimally utilized. This means that AutoStore offers far more storage capacity in the same space than conventional shelving systems. In addition, the system does not require wide aisles for forklift trucks or other manual means of transportation, which further increases efficiency.

How the AutoStore system works

The AutoStore system is based on a modular design. It consists of bins, which are stacked in a confined space, and robots that travel on the upper rails of the system. These robots retrieve the required bins from the system by pushing the bins above them to the side until they reach the target bin. The removed bin is then taken to a picking station where the warehouse worker or another automation unit picks the required items.

As soon as the bin has been emptied or the required items have been removed, the bin is returned to the system. This process is highly automated and requires minimal manual intervention, resulting in high efficiency and a low error rate.

AutoStore systems are scalable and can be expanded according to the company's needs, both in terms of width and height. This means that both small and large warehouses can be optimized in the smallest of spaces, which is particularly beneficial for companies with limited storage space.  

Areas of application for AutoStore

AutoStore systems are used in a wide range of industries, particularly in areas where there is a need for fast, flexible and space-saving storage.

1. E-commerce: In the e-commerce industry, where high order frequency and fast picking are crucial, AutoStore systems offer an optimal solution. They enable orders to be processed extremely quickly, as the robots are able to provide the required items efficiently and without human intervention.

2. Automotive and mechanical engineering industry: AutoStore is used here to store a large number of spare parts and components that are required for production and repair. Automated picking and space-saving storage make AutoStore an attractive solution for companies that work with a large variety of items.

3. Electronics and high-tech industry: When storing small, sensitive electronic components, it is important that they are stored safely and clearly. AutoStore offers a flexible solution for picking even the smallest components quickly and reliably.

4. Pharmaceutical industry: The fast and precise provision of medicines and medical products plays a central role in pharmaceutical logistics. AutoStore enables efficient and error-free picking, which is particularly suitable for pharmacies and wholesalers.  

The role of workpiece carriers in AutoStore systems

While AutoStore optimizes the storage and retrieval of bins, workpiece carriers play a crucial role in optimally securing and protecting the stored goods within the bins. Especially when it comes to sensitive, expensive or specialized components, workpiece carriers ensure that the items remain in the correct position throughout the storage and picking process and are not damaged.

Workpiece carriers can be used in AutoStore systems in two ways:

1. As an inlay in the bins: In this case, the workpiece carriers serve as precisely fitting inlays in the AutoStore bins. This enables the parts to be held securely in place, especially if they have different shapes and sizes. For sensitive components in particular, it is important that they do not slip or become damaged during transportation through the AutoStore system.

2. As a stacking solution on the bins: Workpiece carriers can also be stacked on the bins to store additional parts securely or to make optimum use of space. This offers companies greater flexibility and makes it possible to use the available space in the warehouse even more efficiently.  

Advantages of combining AutoStore and workpiece carriers

The combination of a highly automated storage and picking system such as AutoStore and the flexible workpiece carriers offers a number of advantages:

• Safety and protection of stored goods: Workpiece carriers ensure that sensitive or irregularly shaped parts are stored safely in the bins. This minimizes the risk of damage, which is particularly important in industries such as electronics or mechanical engineering.

• Efficient use of space: Workpiece carriers as inlays in the AutoStore containers enable precise placement of the components so that the available space is used optimally. This helps to increase storage capacity without taking up additional space.

• Improved automation: By combining workpiece carriers with AutoStore systems, the entire process can be further automated. The precise fixing of the parts ensures that the robot always knows exactly where the items are and can remove them easily.

• Protection against environmental influences: In combination with workpiece carriers, the robust AutoStore bins offer additional protection against external influences such as dust, moisture or temperature fluctuations. This is particularly important in sectors such as electronics or the pharmaceutical industry, where products are often sensitive to environmental influences.  

Optimization of logistics with AutoStore and workpiece carriers

The implementation of an AutoStore system brings a number of logistical benefits. Picking efficiency is significantly increased as the robot brings the required bins quickly and precisely to the picking stations. The use of workpiece carriers reinforces this effect, as they ensure that the items are arranged safely and neatly within the bins. This reduces the error rate during picking and ensures a smooth process.

In addition, the compact design of the AutoStore system and the use of workpiece carriers allow storage space to be significantly optimized. Companies can maximize their storage capacity without having to rent additional space. This increase in efficiency also leads to cost savings and better use of existing resources.  

Conclusion

AutoStore is an innovative solution for companies that want to take their warehousing and order picking to the next level. The combination with workpiece carriers makes the system even more efficient and secure. Whether as inlays or stackable components, workpiece carriers ensure that stored items are securely fixed and can be processed efficiently. Companies that use AutoStore in conjunction with workpiece carriers benefit from increased storage capacity, faster picking and a lower risk of damage.

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