Tuesday, September 28, 2021

Robots and Modula Automated Storage Systems for Speed Efficiency and Safety

Robotic automated storage systems are demonstrating their utility in the age of Industry especially when high performance in warehouse logistics is required. Let's look at the characteristics and benefits of robotics in goods storage and management systems in more detail.


Robot System Types


To improve the speed and efficiency of a handling operation, a robotic storage system integrates automated storage management systems with robotic solutions. Robots can securely move huge loads and never get tired of doing so.


With Modula automated storage systems, there are two kinds of robots: Cartesian and anthropomorphic.

  • Since they handle goods using the Cartesian linear system, Cartesian robots are also known as linear robots. They follow the three axes of x, y, and z in a straight line. Cartesian robots are limited to mobility inside predefined work boundaries, although they can perform precision handling even in small spaces.


  • Anthropomorphic robots, which are commonly used in warehouse logistics as mechanical arms, offer more overall flexibility and a human-like hand. They can get to regions that are tough to get to or are on different levels.


Benefits of Robotic automatic storage systems


Using robotics in automated storage systems has a number of benefits, including:


  • Better quality and predictability of production

  • Workplace organisation improvement

  • When it's required, people and machines share picking responsibilities.

  • Working conditions improvement (repetitive actions and heavy loads)

  • Suitability for a variety of businesses and settings

  • Workplace safety improvement

  • The effective social distancing between operators (particularly important during Covid-19 and any ongoing pandemic conditions)

  • Improved reverse logistics implementation


Integrating robot system into the automated storage system

Modula has created storage solutions that can work in tandem with robots to improve inventory management and picking procedures. OnePick stands out among the Modula systems for its seamless integration of robotic technology and warehouse automation. 


In reality, OnePick is a Modula Lift automated vertical storage system with a customised picking bay and a Cartesian robot. The bay in this example has a predetermined height above ground level, allowing it to be integrated with any roller or belt conveyor system. Modula OnePick is a straightforward solution that may be coupled with external handling devices like conveyors.


The interaction of robots and automated equipment allows for the installation of a vertical storage system even in difficult-to-reach places far from the goods-receiving station. Warehouse management software (WMS) is used by Modula OnePick to map the position of the containers in the trays. Since the gripper uses the same mapping to independently pick the object requested, those places are likewise used for picking operations. This is a fantastic way to handle boxes (whether plastic or cardboard).


Anthropomorphic robots can interact with Modula storage systems. The robot is usually permanently fixed in a robotic cell in front of the Modula storage system, or mounted on a track to serve several storage systems. The robot can be mounted on a manually or autonomously operated vehicle in some instances.


Both the WMS licence (which integrates the interface with a software protocol accessing the robot's PLC memory or on server socket mode) and a robot kit placed in the electrical panel for the management of electrical signals are required for the robot to function properly. The optimal method for handling boxes is a mix of Modula storage systems and anthropomorphic robots. They can also be utilised for "each picking" processes, which involve picking individual objects from a determined container. This solution, which is commonly used in distribution centres, makes order preparation easier and more efficient.



Configuring a robotic automated storage system for your vertical storage lift modula


The automated storage system, the robot and the WMS software are the three distinct components of each robotic automated storage system that can be used to meet unique needs. Vertical Carousels, Australia can assist you in selecting the finest robotic storage solution for your needs.


Please contact us for more information about Modula vertical storage and horizontal storage systems, as well as methods for integrating robots into them. One of our advisors can assist you in evaluating possibilities for increasing production speed and efficiency while maintaining the safety and reliability that robots are known for.