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Rack-bot systems open up to twelve meters of storage height.
SSI Schäfer relies on a combination of static standard racks and autonomous mobile robots for its rack-bot systems. The modular concept is particularly intended for the automation of existing warehouse buildings and, according to the provider, can be integrated without extensive structural interventions. Racks and robots can be supplemented independently of each other. Expansions are also intended to be possible during ongoing operations.
Layout adaptable to existing buildings
The system is not bound to a predetermined overall layout. According to SSI Schäfer, for example, L-shaped arrangements or layouts for irregular building structures can be realized. This enables automation in existing buildings whose geometry is not designed for a standardized storage facility.
The Rack-Bot systems utilize storage heights of up to twelve meters. In combination with up to triple-deep storage, it is possible, according to the provider, to accommodate up to 43 containers per square meter in specific applications.
Different Load Units in the Same System
The system can accommodate different container sizes, cartons, and trays. According to SSI Schäfer, cartons can be handled directly, eliminating the need for repacking in advance. A mix of different load units within a facility is also possible.
Containers can be removed directly from the system and subsequently processed. Additional buffer stages between storage and subsequent processes are not fundamentally required, according to the provider.
Robots Access Each Container
A technical feature of the "Rack-Bot Systems" is the full-roaming function. Each deployed robot can access any container throughout the entire warehouse. According to SSI Schäfer, this concept differs from automation solutions where individual vehicles are assigned to specific aisles or storage areas.
The architecture is designed to prevent storage capacity and the performance of individual aisles from being directly dependent on each other. At the same time, the system does not require a rigid classification of items based on their turnover frequency, according to the company. Should item profiles, turnover frequencies, or order structures change, the robots can continue to access the load units system-wide.
Sequencing within the System
The robots also take over the sequencing of orders. They transport the necessary load carriers to the workplaces in the designated order. According to the provider, additional conveyor technology is not strictly necessary for this.
For time-critical orders, SSI Schäfer names the performance-optimized execution of the Rack-Bot System "Elevate". In this variant, a required container can be available at the workplace within two minutes, according to the company.
Performance Scalable through Additional Robots
An increase in performance is possible through additional robots and workplaces as well as changed operating strategies. According to SSI Schäfer, the static shelving system does not need to be changed for this. In this way, the system performance can be gradually adjusted to meet increasing demands.
This concept thus enables separate scaling of different system components. Companies can create additional transport capacity through more robots without necessarily having to change the storage structure simultaneously.
25 Rack-Bots at Desigual
As an application example, SSI Schäfer mentions an installation at the fashion company Desigual. There, 25 Rack-Bots are in use. According to the provider, the system achieves a throughput of up to 650 cartons per hour and 150,000 units per week in two-shift operation. According to SSI Schäfer, seven months elapsed from planning to commissioning the system.
Translated automatically from German.
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