A traditional warehouse will normally have shelves for storing goods. The AutoStore solution is based on the system where the bins are stacked on top of one another. This means that the goods can be stored in a much more compact way and that the storage area is now used in a completely different way.
The principle could put one in mind of a Rubik's Cube where the goods are stored in a compact cube. Furthermore, the system can be adapted to different heights (the number of bins determines the height) so that the system can be easily implemented into an existing building.
The solution is as simple as the principle. The system stores the goods in bins (BIN) that are stacked according to height. These bins are placed in an aluminium grid (GRID). On the top of the grid there is the rail section that the robot runs on. This robot manages the correct placement of the bins when they are taken out and put back in the grid.
The robots (ROBOT) run on top of the grid and, because they have two sets of wheels, they have the option of running both ways. In addition, the robots have a lift that can hoist up the bins.
If goods are to be collected from a bin that is stored low down in the grid, the robots will need to move the bins on top to get to this bin. Several robots can carry out this operation by working together on the task.
A port (PORT) is used to get goods out of the grid. This brings the bin out to the operator who can carry out the desired task (picking, receipt of goods, checking etc.) before the bin is returned to the grid.
The bins do not have a fixed place in the grid and will always be put back at level 1 (the uppermost level); this means that the bins that are frequently used will be stored high up in the grid, which again makes it easier to retrieve them.
When a bin is on a lower level and needs to be taken out, the robots will move the bins that are stored above to gain access to the relevant bin; these are then put back in the same order as they were taken out (but at one level below) The effect of this solution is that bins that are used infrequently will be low down in the grid, while those that are frequently used will be high up in the grid.
In theory, the system is simple, but makes big demands on the software that controls the solution. The developers of the system have had considerable experience of complex logistical solutions, and the control system can be easily adapted for different needs. It is important that the robots are properly controlled so that they do not come into conflict with each other, and at the same time it is also important that the goods come out quickly and in the right order to the operator.
The system is based on data that comes from the customer's warehouse system (WMS) and it plans the operation according to this data.
An interface has been developed that makes it possible to connect the customer's warehouse system and AutoStore in an efficient way.