What is an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS)?
An Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS) is a sophisticated, computer-controlled, technology-driven system designed to automatically place, store, and retrieve goods within a warehouse, manufacturing, or distribution environment. Typically, the system excludes direct human access to the storage area during operation, ensuring streamlined and safe material handling.
AS/RS systems can handle a wide variety of load types and sizes—from pallets and cases to small totes and individual items—depending on the specific design, such as mini-load systems for smaller items or heavy-duty systems for pallet loads.
Originally developed in the 1960s for heavy pallet storage, modern AS/RS technology has evolved to include multiple types such as vertical lift modules, horizontal and vertical carousels, shuttle systems, and robotic solutions, enhancing storage density and throughput.
What are the core components of an AS/RS
The core components of an AS/RS include:
- Storage racks or aisles specifically designed for high-density storage.
- Storage and retrieval machines (SRMs) such as stacker cranes or robotic shuttles that move vertically and horizontally within the storage structure to pick or deposit items.
- Conveyor systems or Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) that transport goods to and from the storage area to production lines, shipping docks, or order fulfillment zones.
- A Warehouse Control System (WCS) or automation software that manages inventory, directs the SRMs, and schedules storage or retrieval tasks in real time for optimal efficiency.
