AUTOMATED STORAGE & RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS

MINI-LOAD

Automated storage and retrieval systems, usually referred to as AS/RS are computer controlled systems for storing and retrieving products in a warehouse.  These systems require the use of virtually no manual labor.

Mini-Load AS/RS systems are smaller systems and typically  allow selection of items in totes, trays or cartons.  Other terms used to describe a Mini-Load system is "case-handling machine" or  "tote stacker."

AS/RS are configured with rack laid out with narrow aisles between.  There is a raised metal rail down the center and a tall mast travels through the aisle along the rail.  When the mast reaches the storage location, a carriage travels up the mast to the picking spot.  An automatic mechanism then reaches into the storage location to retrieve or return the load. 

 The system can be configured many different ways, but typically a smaller system will not use shuttles to pick and retrieve loads.  Instead they use extractors that grasp handles on metal trays with vacuums or robotic arms. 

Mini-Load systems are usually no higher than forty feet.  Whatever the application, UNARCO's time-tested engineering can design a system to meet building codes and withstand the tight tolerances required.