Types of AS/RS:

• Unit Load AS/RS

  The unit load AS/RS is used to store and retrieve loads that are palletized or stored in standard-sized containers. The system is computer controlled and the S/R machines are automated and designed to handle the unit load containers.

• Mini Load AS/RS

  This system is designed to handle small loads such as individual parts, tools, and supplies that are contained in bins or drawers in the storage system. Such a system is applicable where the availability of space is limited.

• Deep-lane AS/RS

  This is a high-density unit load storage system that is appropriate for storing large quantities of stock. The items are stored in multi deep storage with up to 10 items in a single rack, one load behind the next.

• Man-on-board AS/RS

  This system allows storage of items in less than unit load quantities. Human operator rides on the carriage of the S/R machine to pick up individual items from a bin or drawer. The system permits individual items to be picked directly at their storage locations. This provides an opportunity to increase system throughput.

• Automated Item Retrieval System This system is designed for retrieval of individual items or small product cartons. The items are stored in lanes rather than bins or drawers. When an item is retrieved from the front by use of a rear-mounted pusher bar, it is delivered to the pickup station by pushing it from its lane and dropping onto a conveyor.

Components of AS/RS:

An AS/RS consists of one or more storage aisles that are serviced by a storage/retrieval (S/R) machine. The stored materials are held by storage racks of aisles. The S/R machines are used to deliver and retrieve materials in and out of inventory. There are one or more input/output stations in each AS/RS aisle for delivering the material into the storage system or moving it out of the system. In AS/RS terminology, the input/output stations are called pickup-and-deposit (P&D) stations.

• Storage Space: It is the three-dimensional space in the storage racks used to store a single load unit of material.
• Storage Racks: This structural entity comprises storage locations, bays and rows.
• Bay: It is the height of the storage rack from floor to the ceiling.
• Row: It is a series of bays placed side by side.
• Aisle: It is the spacing between two rows for the machine operations of AS/RS.
• Aisle Unit: It encompasses aisle space and racks adjacent to an aisle.
• Storage Structure: It is the rack framework, made of fabricated steel that supports the loads contained in the AS/RS and is used to store inventory items.
• Storage/Retrieval Machine: It is used to move items in and out of inventory. An S/R machine is capable of both horizontal and vertical movement. A rail system along the floor guides the machine and a parallel rail at the top of the storage structure is used to maintain its alignment.
• Storage Modules: These are the unit load containers used to hold the inventory items. These include pallets, steel wire baskets and containers, pans and special drawers. These modules are generally made to a standard base size capable of being stored in the structure and moved by the S/R machines.
• Pickup and Deposit (P/D) Stations: P/D stations are where inventory are transferred into and out of the AS/RS. They are generally located at the end of the aisles to facilitate easy access by the S/R machines from the external material-handling system. The location and number of P/D stations depends upon the origination point of incoming loads and the destination of output loads.