Storage Equipment (II) - Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS)

AS/RS is an array of computerized routines for automatically receiving and shipping materials from defined storage locations without manual labor, generally used in distribution centers and warehouses all over the world. It generally include machines moving up and down one or multiple parallel storage aisles, receiving and shipping products and materials for distribution to internal and external locations.

It's advantages:

• Grant users with increased tracking and inventory control, plus greater flexibility having room for changing business conditions.
• Specialized construction and installation systems, providing seismic and rack supported buildings.
• Feed-in and feed-out systems, very high tolerance racking, automatic fire protection strictly controlled weight checking and load sizing.
• Systems comprising modular subsystems easily substituted reducing downtime and expanding the life of the whole system.
• Produces key reserves in inventory storage costs, as greatly improved both vertically and horizontally warehouse space utilization creating larger storage density.
• Reduces labor costs, lowering essential labor force necessities, improving workplace safety, and eliminating staff from complex operational conditions.

However, there are the disadvantages of it as well;

• Requires significant investments of a company's capital; Particularly for maintenance and updating of different subsystems. Also, capital expenses can tempt some business owners to cut financial corners, buying "bargain" systems that are ill-equipped for extensive, long-term use à end up costing far more in the long run
• Not without occasional frustrations for maintaining highly integrated systems; Requires knowledge, skills and experience.

However, interrupted AS/RS service extends from the measurable such as lost in manufacture and delivery revenue, increased labor costs for repair, to the intangible such as the shrinking workforce confidence in the company's operations as well as the client’ confidence.