Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems

Automated Storage and Retrieval Machines | High Speed AS/RS Systems

Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems ( AS/RS ) are an integration of several material handling products and software designed for automatically depositing and retrieving loads to and from defined storage locations. Within the AS/RS family several subgroups exist: Horizontal Carousels, Vertical Carousels, Vertical Lift Modules, and Fixed Aisle (F/A) Storage and Retrieval Systems.

An Automated Storage and Retrieval System ( AS/RS ) is a combination of material handling equipment and software controls that work in conjunction to handle, store and retrieve materials on demand. Automated Storage and Retrieval Machines vary from relatively simple, manually controlled order-picking machines to extremely large, computer-controlled storage/retrieval systems.

Horizontal Carousels

A horizontal carousel consists of a fixed number of adjacent storage units that are mechanically linked to either an overhead or floor mounted drive mechanism to form horizontal loop. The carousel loop rotates to allow access to each storage unit without the need to walk and pick.  The containers or totes in the storage units may be inserted and retrieved either manually or by an automatic inserter/extractor mechanism.

Vertical Carousels

A vertical carousel provides for a mechanically connected closed loop controlled rotation of the basic storage unit.  The basic storage unit for a vertical carousel in most cases is a shelf that can be subdivided into multiple bin locations. However the unit could also be a rod to handle fabric or carpet or other specialty device.  Because storage is vertical, such systems are popular when conserving floor space. Although automatic insertion and extraction of individual items or loads is possible, it is not as common as it is with horizontal carousel applications.  Vertical Carousel Page>>

Vertical Lift Modules

A Vertical Lift Module, consists of two vertical parallel shafts each of which are divided into shelf storage locations.  Each storage location can hold a single storage unit, generally a tray or tote module. The tray or tote modules are inserted, extracted and transported between storage levels and picking locations via an elevator-like device with an automatic extractor that travels up and down within the space between the storage shafts.  Vertical Lift Modules>>

Fixed-Aisle Storage Retrieval Systems

Fixed Aisle Storage & Retrieval Systems consist of one or more aisles framed on both sides by a high density storage rack structure.  The storage loads are generally automatically stored and retrieved under computer control via a crane system. The crane system is most often a machine that consists of a floor running, vertical frame or mast that guides a hoisting carriage on which loads are handled. Insertion / extraction devices on the crane system manipulate loads into and out of the storage rack system.

American Warehouse Systems, through our extensive client list, have demonstrated time and time again that Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems are proven technologies capable of effectively and reliably handling materials of all kinds.  These systems make it possible to completely integrate material handling storage into the unique application and specific needs of the client.