The warehouse environment has changed a lot. The year 2024 saw a lot of transformation in warehouse spaces with automation software. We expect there will be more such changes in the way. Among the various automation implementations, ASRS is one of the significant ones. Most warehouse automation companies are watching the high demand for installation of the ASRS systems in warehouses.
ASRS is an automated storage and retrieval system. It is fully computer-based which helps in controlling the stored items from one place to another. Surely it boosts the efficiency of the workspace thus reducing manual errors and risks too.
In brief, warehouse is a space where products are being stored for easy delivery to customers. When every business is going online, so delivering the product within shortest period is only possible with ASRS implemented warehouse. The products are stored as per the inventory and also retrieved for order fulfillment in quickest possible way through ASRS systems.
But the point we will discuss here today is about the types of ASRS. Not every business needs are same and so also the warehouses too. Based on the business requirement you have to choose the system and the warehouse. In this blog we will go through the different types of ASRS system and their business requirements.
Types of ASRS Installed in a Warehouse
1. Unit- Load AS/RS system
This kind of ASRS system is mainly useful for holding larger pallets storages. in warehouses where vertical storage are made in aisle form, in such floors, unit load ASRS can be highly useful. This type of system can successfully manage 450kgs of weight to maximum of 2500kg of weight. They are so designed that they can reach up to height of nearly 50 feet.
Thus it is best for using up the vertical space of warehouses. Easily storage and retrieval of items from such a huge height can only be possible with the Unit load ASRS systems.
Unit load ASRS comes in two types- fixed aisle and moveable aisle.
The fixed one is fixed in a particular aisle either moving vertically or horizontally containing the pallets either for storing or retrieving.
While the moveable ones have cranes that can switch between multiple aisles of pallets.
This ASRS system is perfect solutions for large scale warehouse storage where high volume loads are handled.
2. Carousal Based ASRS
Carousal based ASRS is an automated system for storing and retrieving products. They work on a particular track handling a particular kind of products. When any product from that track is required, the system automatically retrieve it from specific space and carry it through the automated track system.
Carousal based ASRS can be of two types- vertical lift modules and horizontal lift modules.
VLM is the system in which the bin that carries the product moves vertically whereas the HLM is the one which moves horizontally.
VLM are mainly used for larger items whereas the HLM are used for the smaller items.
The carousal based ASRS is the most common one among various warehouse automation as they are cost effective as well as highly effective too
3. Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR)
They are more like robot which can be monitored through a computer. An AMR can works automatically in picking up the item, go to the designated aisle and can go vertically up to store that particular item. It can repeat this same method to pick up the item too.
AMR is best to overcome skilled man power demand. They are particularly programmed to do this designated task as instructed flawlessly.
Also, they are very quick one to get installation done. It is one of the most demanding ASRS types that recent warehouses are opting for.
4. Mini-load ASRS
It is one of the most common types of ASRS that the warehouse automation company works upon. Warehouse automation started with this one.
They are particularly meant for the smaller items. Each aisles have a single crane dedicated to it. items like totes, cases and trays are being loaded on the rails for automated movement.
This is still in use in many warehouses where full case picking operations are there. Though it has its implementation only in smaller warehouses only.
5. Shuttle Based ASRS
It is designed with shuttles which moves down a track that runs between the various racks. The distinct part of this ASRS system is that it can function on different layers in a particular aisle.
Based on the floor requirement, the movement of the shuttle can be designed accordingly. You need to consult with the warehouse automation company to meet the movement pattern and design it accordingly. Shuttles based ASRS can also provide vertical and horizontal movements too.
Know when to implement an ASRS system
Every warehouse is installing ASRS system does not mean your warehouse too have the latest one. It depends on the type of work and workload on the floor space.
Before hiring any warehouse automation company, make sure you ask these questions:
- Are you facing manual errors too much?
- Are facing problems in filling up positions with skilled employees?
- Are your operational processes getting slower?
- Are you lacking storage space in your warehouse?
- Do you expect more output from your process?
When you find some reliable answers to these questions, get yourself the suitable ASRS system for your warehouse space.
Conclusion
More and more technological upgradation is coming. Automation has lot more to go. Surely it has no alternative in enhancing the workspace efficiency and getting the right output of it. Warehouse automation is changing the entire scenario completely. Make sure you know your requirements clearly before installing the ASRS system. The experts of the Automation company can best help it.
