Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems (ASRS) members are
the Industry’s leading suppliers of automated storage/retrieval systems. They supply systems
worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector.
What is AS/RS?
An Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS) is a
combination of equipment and controls that handle, store and retrieve materials as needed
with precision, accuracy and speed under a defined degree of automation. Systems vary from
relatively simple, manually controlled order-picking machines operating in small storage
structures to extremely large, computer-controlled storage/retrieval systems totally
integrated into a manufacturing and distribution process.
Generically speaking, AS/RS refers to a variety of computer-controlled methods for
automatically depositing and retrieving loads to and from defined storage locations.
Within an AS/RS environment one would find one or more of the following technologies:
Horizontal Carousels,
Vertical Carousels,
Vertical Lift Modules, and/or
Fixed Aisle (F/A) Storage and Retrieval Systems, the latter utilizing special storage
retrieval machines to do the work needed to insert, extract and deliver loads to
designated input/output locations within the aisles being served.
The right application of AS/RS provides a long list of user benefits! It has been
demonstrated time and time again that Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems are proven
technologies capable of effectively and reliably handling and buffering raw materials,
work-in-process inventories and finished goods of all kinds, making it possible to
totally integrate material handling storage, however temporary, into the total
process being served.
What We Do
AS/RS is a member driven organization. Member companies of
the product section meet regularly to review, discuss and revise the standards for
design, performance and proper operation of Automated Storage / Retrieval Systems.
The primary goals of the product section are:
- The development and promotion of standard nomenclature.
- The development and promotion of codes for equipment operation, fire prevention, personnel safety, etc.
- Assisting and coordinating the efforts of all related trade association and product sections as apply to total systems.
- The development and promotion of a code of ethics.
- The collection and dissemination of reliable industry statistics.
- The preparation and distribution of guidelines and other educational materials that advocate widely accepted best practices.
- The establishment of liaison and cooperation with private and governmental
groups that are establishing standardsand/or safety codes which are pertinent to the
product section.