The Benefits of Automating Your Warehouse with AutoStore

The Benefits of Automating Your Warehouse with AutoStore

 

By: Cory Clifford

As the world increasingly becomes more automated and tech-driven, warehouses look for ways to become more efficient, and still provide the same quality service. A popular option is the use of Goods to Person (GTP) robotic picking systems like AutoStore, a high-density cube storage system. In this post, we will learn about AutoStore, what we can pick with it, and the benefits compared to manual/legacy systems.

What Is AutoStore?

AutoStore is a robotic GTP system designed to streamline warehouse operations by automatically picking storage bins and delivering them directly to operators at workstations/ports. This is done through a network of robots that can quickly and accurately transport bins from one place to another, eliminating the need for manual labor, improving productivity, increasing storage density, and reducing costs.

Warehouse worker entering inventory from AutoStore bin

What are the Components of Autostore?

Autostore is made up of 5 main components that work together to seamlessly automate warehouse management, including inventory storage and retrieval. Read on to learn more about each of the Autostore components and how they function together to reduce errors and increase storage capacity.


1. Grid

The grid is the framework on which the inventory bins are stacked. The grid also acts as a guide for the robots to follow. The layout of the grid can be customized to best fit the needs of your warehouse, saving up to 80% of floor space on average.

2. Bins

The bins are used to store all of the warehouse inventory, and are able to manage a variety of items. The Autostore database has total control over the contents of the bins at all times, increasing visibility into warehouse inventory.

3. Ports

The ports act as an elevator-like mechanism. They deliver the picked goods to the operator using a conveyor belt that raises and lowers to the necessary locations within the framework. Upon delivery, the warehouse worker is told which item to retrieve from the selected bin at the port.

4. Robots

The robots are essentially small carts with wheels that glide across the grid framework. They are used for picking and delivering the inventory bins using the best routes in the grid as calculated by the controller.

5. Controller

The Autostore control center is the heart of your warehouse. It is in constant control of your infrastructure and also conducts real-time logging of inventory. This helps to reduce inventory errors and ensure a strong supply chain.

 

Autostore is transforming warehouse management across numerous industries, and there are several benefits to leveraging this innovative technology.

 

What Can Be Stored in an AutoStore?

The type of items that can be placed in an AutoStore depend on the size and weight of what you’re looking to store. AutoStore systems are well-suited for handling items such as: 

  • consumer products
  • electronics
  • parts distribution
  • grocery
  • apparel 
  • bio/medical 

Can you use AutoStore for hazardous materials, sensitive electronics/components, fragile items, liquids, and high value products?

Yes! If your items fit into one of the three bin sizes, you can automate your picking in a secure and safe environment. SDI Element Logic uses extensive data analysis of your order structures and products to suggest and build the most efficient system possible for your operation.

AutoStore bin size comparison

Who Benefits from Using Autostore?

While e-commerce is often the first use that comes to mind, AutoStore is also applicable, and used extensively, for retail and wholesale. Discrete order picking, batch picking, and automatic order consolidation are all possible with AutoStore– making it one of the best all-around GTP systems on the market today.

AutoStore robot picking inventory

How will AutoStore benefit your operations?

AutoStore will:

  1. Reduce human error by automating many processes that would otherwise be manual labor
  2. Drastically decrease labor costs associated with warehouse operations as fewer people are required to operate the system
  3. Boost productivity in a warehouse as goods can be stored and retrieved more quickly than if they had been handled manually

By eliminating human error and reducing costs associated with warehousing activities, you can improve your bottom line and still maintain high levels of quality service for your customers. AutoStore allows you not to sacrifice quality or customer satisfaction.For more information, contact me:  cory.clifford@sdi.systems or visit our website: https://sdi.systems/solutions/goods-to-person/autostore/

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