The functions of storage systems are pretty intensive, covering multiple activities at once. From receiving and identifying the goods to retrieving them from storage, packaging, shipping, and maintaining records, the tasks are too many and equally time-consuming. Fortunately, ASRS, or automated storage and retrieval systems, can save the day for you. How?
We are here to answer this question. Additionally, we will be exploring the following points:
- What is ASRS?
- Functions of ASRS
- Types of ASRS
Quick Recap: What is ASRS?
An ASRS is simply a combination of equipment and controls that stores and retrieves materials with a defined degree of automation. The extent of automation decides how precisely, accurately, and quickly these systems can operate.
Functions of ASRS
The specific functions of ASRS are as follows:
- Automatic storage of an item at a predetermined location after receiving it from a predefined point
- Retrieving an item from the storage location
- Transporting the item between predefined point A and point B within your warehouse, factory, or manufacturing unit.
Types of ASRS
Automated storage and retrieval systems differ across certain features and, more importantly, applications. Below is a brief overview of the different types of ASRS.
| Unit Load | These systems are generally used for palletized loads or those that are stored in standard-size containers. |
| Miniload | Used for small loads. For instance, individual parts, tools, or supplies. |
| Person-on-board | These systems are designed to accommodate a person who rides with the ASRS machine. As a result, it offers an in-aisle picking option. |
| Deep Lane | Another alternative to Unit Load ASRS, deep lane is ideal for units where there is deep storage. For instance, 10 items per row. Here, the racks allow for controlled flow-through of items. |
| Automated Item Retrieval System | This is particularly for individual items in a flow-through system that can be automatically released from storage and brought to a point. |
How Does ASRS Enhance Workplace Safety and Reduce Manual Labor?
There are various ways in which ASRS can impact your process. Let’s take a look at them.
- ASRS removes the need for manual labor to retrieve and store items. When handling heavy loads manually, the chance of injuring yourself is high. Moreover, regular handling of loads takes a toll on the back, shoulders, and other body parts, leading to long-term physical health issues for your workers. Over time, due to physical concerns, these workers may get into accidents at the workplace.
- To err is to be human. Sometimes, your employees make errors while storing and retrieving items, leading to inefficiency and inaccuracy in task completion. Moreover, you will spend more time correcting the error, increasing the time it takes to complete the process. Automated systems, when set to precision, significantly reduce the chance of mistakes.
- Vertical storage spaces often go underutilized at many warehouses. An automated vertical carousel or lift module can allow warehouses to store more inventory within the same footprint.
- Challenges around inventory tracking and locating items can be easily solved, given that ASRS allows for real-time inventory visibility and control.
- It makes it easier to implement ‘just-in-time’ concepts by getting the right items you require at the right place in the desired time due to automatic storage and retrieval control.
Conclusion
Automag’s ASRS Systems boast advanced robotics and computerized control systems to enhance space utilization, operational efficiency, and minimize labor requirements. It is a flexible solution to overcome modern warehousing challenges.
Our systems use a combination of conveyors, lifts, and shuttle vehicles to direct goods to their appropriate storage space or retrieval point, aligning them with your warehouse management systems for real-time control.
Get in touch with us today to design customized solutions that are meticulously tailored to your individual needs.
