Dive Brief:
- Combining automated storage and retrieval systems (AR/RS) with layer picking systems can help reduce the time needed in the pick/pack process and allow companies to meet increased e-commerce demand, according to a Westfalia white paper published on Modern Materials Handling.
- AS/RS systems function as inventory transporters and handlers through a conveyor belt, load handling device and retrieval devices. Automated layer picking systems use a single machine to access inventory and create orders while picking up several layers of pallet loads.
- Combining the two systems allows AR/RS to replenish the inventory needs of layer picking systems, reducing time spent in replenishment while increasing accuracy, speed, and space management, the report claims.
Dive Insight:
Warehouses are getting bigger to keep up with the increased all-around demand spurred by e-commerce, but instead of building larger warehouses or decreasing unessential inventory, the report suggests warehouse space use can be increased by combining two pick/pack technologies.
A case study in the report shows the automated technology helped a dairy factory scale production according to shifting seasonal demand, without investing heavily in space that would otherwise remain unused. Using the combined system allowed the factory to install a high-bay and low-bay AS/RS which could easily be accessed by the robots and take advantage of the facility's vertical space.
In addition to the space benefits and seasonal scaling, which promises increased benefits for food and beverage manufacturers, the technology promises increased traceability of SKUs through various pallet layers and a lower energy footprint.
