Ultra-high density automated storage system relies on overhead robots and a standardized reusable container system.
AutoStore, inventor, and provider of the grid-based, scalable warehouse automation system, has signed a strategic global agreement with Dematic. The system relies on standardized reusable containers to help achieve ultra-high density storage.
As a result of the contract, the extreme high-density storage and goods-to-person picking system designed and manufactured by AutoStore will become part of the respected system integrator’s supply chain optimisation solutions portfolio. Dematic will offer, configure, engineer, install and support AutoStore® as a sub-system within its overall supply chain installations, or as a standalone storage and fulfillment solution. The partnership will enhance AutoStore’s market presence, as well as position it to keep pace with the growing demand for its warehouse automation systems.
The AutoStore system is a logical fit for the Dematic portfolio, providing a greater selection for customers tasked with optimising their storage and order fulfillment capabilities.
AutoStore is a modular piece picking system. It consists of five standard modules: robot, port or workstation, grid, bin and controller. The robots drive on the top of the grid to access inventory stored in the bins below. The bins are put-away, retrieved and delivered to the ports or workstations as required.
When compared to conventional storage density, AutoStore can store up to 2-3X more inventory in the same space. The solution can be installed in oddly shaped buildings, around pillars or on several levels and fills out the warehouse space potential to its maximum. The AutoStore infrastructure is independent of the building structure; disassembly and relocation are feasible and cost effective.
AutoStore is an eco-friendly solution. Overall power consumption is low, energy recovery occurs during bin lowering and robot braking. Ceiling lighting is not needed. It requires less space due to the compact structure.
The AutoStore solution is built around the “goods-to-person” principle. The key benefits of goods-to-person include: eliminate worker travel time to pick locations, picking productivity, omit dedicated pick faces (no slotting, re-slotting, manual replenishment), product security/inventory accuracy, order processing speed, and order accuracy. Furthermore, the worker environment is ideal. AutoStore technology supports a quiet, clean environment with reduced fatigue factors. Workstations are designed for ergonomic operation.
“The Dematic suite of solutions is comprehensive; adding AutoStore to the mix enables users to obtain the ideal storage, buffering and piece picking solution” according to Jeff Moss, CEO, Dematic International. “The ability to design and implement a wide variety of system configurations is critical to effectively accommodate the growing demands of omnichannel distribution in this age of acceleration.” Moss continued, “The Dematic expanded solution will be a sure way for our customers to serve their customers better and faster.”
Karl Johan Lier, CEO and president at AutoStore, said: “AutoStore continues to grow at a substantial rate, and as a result, we are delighted to work in partnership with Dematic. They will enhance our market presence and give us the excellent global support we need to keep pace with expansion. We believe that AutoStore fits very well into their portfolio of products, and we are looking forward to a fruitful relationship with Dematic.”