AutoStore: flexible, efficient & space-saving
AutoStore is a highly flexible, space-saving solution concept for storing and picking single items and small parts. AutoStore’s most significant benefit is its straightforward modular installation and optimal use of existing storage spaces. Goods are stored in bins stacked directly on top of each other. The system is operated by robots traveling along an aluminum grid above the bins. They are able to reach each bin and service each picking station, making AutoStore a high-performance solution with maximum availability.

What customers say about AutoStore:

”AutoStore not only offers impressive efficiency, it also adapts perfectly to the building structure. This results in optimized use of existing storage space. Another important aspect for us is the fact that the system capacity can be expanded without having to shut down operations.” Jürg Frefel, Supply Chain Director, Antalis More reference projects >>

Benefits of the solution:

• Efficient storage: compared to other systems, high-density storage reduces space requirements by up to 60%
• Flexibility: AutoStore supports a variety of possible configurations and adapts to the existing building structure
• Productivity: AutoStore can be connected to a high-speed goods-to-person picking station, allowing up to 1 000 picks per hour
• Modular design; easy adaptability; grid expansion without interrupting ongoing operations
• Energy efficiency: low power consumption
• Low maintenance costs

How AutoStore works:
Storage and transport: AutoStore stores goods in bins directly stacked on top of each other in a self-supporting modular aluminum grid. The grid is not only used to house the bins, it also provides the track along which the robots travel. The battery-operated robots are controlled wirelessly and handle the bins in the grid. They transport the bins to and from the workstations where goods are placed into and out of the bins. Bins containing fast moving are located above the storage system (stack) while low moving are in the lower section.

Picking: Bins are available for picking and shipping to customers right after they have been put in storage. When a customer places an order, the warehouse management system sends a pick list to the control system. As soon as the picking process is ready to begin, this list is displayed on the screen, and the robots automatically transport the right bins to the picking station. Within one minute, a picking employee can access up to four different bins from the same workstation. Once all items on a pick list have been assembled, the order can move to the next step in the logistics chain. In addition, it is possible to package orders right at the picking station and to affix all labels necessary for shipping.