How does the ASRS system relate to manufacturing?

Retrofitting a warehouse with AS / RS can be an expensive job, so you need to know enough relevant knowledge before making a decision. What is the relationship between the ASRS system and manufacturing? How to judge whether you need to use Automatic Storage and Retrieval System in your enterprise?

• Relationship between ASRS and manufacturing

• How can I tell if the ASRS system is right for me?

• in conclusion

Relationship between ASRS and manufacturing

Modern innovation and technology have revolutionized the way factories operate. Labor-intensive manual processes have given way to the most automated processes with minimal or no manual intervention. Computer-controlled automation systems are part of every value-added area in the entire production chain, and software based on various applications is also used to manage them, enabling higher production in modern factories at faster speeds and lower costs Level. A warehouse or warehouse is a relatively late and modest area in a factory where automation and technology have entered. However, given the scope of applications and the expected added value it can achieve throughout the production chain, there has been an upsurge in the use of Automatic Storage and Retrieval System and technologies.

Automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) is one of such important parts in modern warehouses. Primarily, ASRS includes storage shelves, storage and retrieval equipment, and a warehouse management system (WMS) as a software application. Compared to conventional storage and retrieval equipment in warehouses such as AGV, Automatic Storage and Retrieval System systems are programmed to operate according to the load size and delivery speed of a particular load type. ASRS sends information related to the movement of goods to a warehouse management system, which processes the data and directs the automated warehouse control system (WCS) to operate other warehouse equipment in series. Conventional material handling systems involve manual or small machinery to move and store products in a warehouse using pallets stored in single or dual deep racks. This method is tedious because it requires manual maintenance of a large amount of data about the location and amount of storage products. Maintaining conventional material handling systems requires a lot of resources; it also takes a lot of time, which slows down the process chain in the warehouse.

How can I tell if the ASRS system is right for me?

1.Available space.

If you find that you don't have enough space in your current facility, automatic storage may be the solution you want. With AS / RS, you have the option to increase the amount of storage by retrofitting or expanding an existing facility, which may be cheaper than investing in a new facility. AS / RS can take advantage of the available vertical space to increase the storage capacity of existing facilities. This not only stores more products, but also eliminates the need for new, larger buildings. AS / RS is capable of deep storage trays in single, double or multiple layers to increase storage density. Some systems can even store up to 18 deep pallets and retrieve them efficiently using dedicated material handling equipment that can enter the rack from either side. This high-density storage translates into a smaller building footprint, reducing the impact on the environment.

2. Tray speed. 

Pallet speed is the speed at which pallets enter and leave the warehouse. By calculating the number of inbound and outbound orders moved during peak operating hours, you can determine the number of storage and retrieval machines (S / RM) needed to effectively handle the amount of SKUs.

3. Business hours. 

If your warehouse runs only one or two shifts per day, you can achieve the required throughput by adding additional shifts. However, you also need to consider whether there is enough temporary storage space to accommodate incoming and outgoing materials waiting to be picked or put on the shelf. Conversely, if you are currently performing three shifts and are still struggling, adding AS / RS can help save labor costs and make better use of your current warehouse space. In conventional systems, throughput determines the level and number of forklift staffing required. But in an automated system, the throughput determines the number of S / RMs required in AS / RS. When processing one load at a time, a single S / RM can typically handle 60 to 70 unit loads per hour.

4. Special storage needs.

Even if your product requires temperature-controlled storage, use AS / RS. The human body is not designed to work continuously at extreme temperatures, but automated systems can meet these unique storage needs. One of the advantages of implementing AS / RS over traditional storage is that it can operate over a wide temperature range-typically between -35 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Products that require LIFO (last-in-first-out) or FIFO (first-in-first-out) processing are great for AS / RS because you can customize the solution to pick items in the required order. If you need to maintain freshness or shelf life, you can also ensure that trays are picked in an order that maximizes freshness and minimizes damage or obsolescence.

5. integral.

Integration with warehouse control system (WCS) or warehouse management system (WMS) software is essential to ensure optimal efficiency and throughput when using AS / RS. Companies considering automating their warehouses should also consider how Automatic Storage and Retrieval System integrates with their existing WMS software. For companies that have an existing WMS and want to introduce WCS to assist automation, they should consider choosing a warehouse execution system (WES). This will allow the company to use their familiar WMS, integrate it with the new WES, and "turn on" WCS capabilities when automation is introduced. Working with experienced software vendors will help minimize startup costs and ensure efficient integration with the new AS / RS.

in conclusion

Obviously AS / RS systems are now widely used in various industries, and one often overlooked aspect of implementing Automatic Storage and Retrieval System is the reputation of automation vendors. If you are looking for a company that will take the time to understand your personal business needs, products, future growth plans and space requirements, Jiangsu NOVA Intelligent Logistics Equipment Co., Ltd. will be a wise choice.