Interlake Mecalux Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems AS/RS

For quick, repeatitive in and out pallet transfers

By definition, a shuttle is a fast means of transport that travels between two fixed points at frequent intervals. Mecalux’s Pallet Shuttle fits this description precisely. However, its journey starts at the front of the racks up to the first available space in the storage channel, and back again (vice versa operation to unload).

Eventually, the evolution of compact storage systems raised important questions. Such as, why not use a motorized shuttle to handle pallets, instead of a forklift that drives into the storage channel? Why not use technology to increase loading and unloading speeds and optimize the effective capacity of a warehouse?

The smart choice was the Pallet Shuttle. Adapted rack structures mean an electric run shuttle can move inside storage lanes along a track, following the commands given by the operator using a WiFi control tablet.

The forklift simply leaves the load on the tracks, and the Pallet Shuttle picks it up and moves it autonomously. Pallets are kept as compact as possible, while each pallet is slotted in its location. Since forklifts do not need to drive into the lanes, handling times are lower, storage capacity is higher and deeper. Additionally, damage to the metal shelves is negligible, operator movements are streamlined and in-warehouse operations moderized.

In other words, the Pallet Shuttle system offers a compact storage solution that reduces operating costs and improves supply chain performance. Intelligent warehousing at its best.

Step 1

A forklift places the Pallet Shuttle into the channel where work is to be done.

Step 2

Next, the forklift is used to position pallets one by one in the channel entrance, resting them on the load-bearing beams.

Step 3

Using the tablet, the operator sends a command to the shuttle to start the loading operation. Once the pallet's location has been identified, the Radio Shuttle lifts the pallet slightly upward. It then moves horizontally until it reaches the first available location, where it deposits the pallet. Different sensors accurately control the movement of the load being stored.

Step 4

The Pallet Shuttle returns to the front of the lane to repeat the operation with the next pallet, and so on, as many times as needed until the channel is full. Before the front position is filled, the shuttle is removed from the lane and the sequence repeated in the next channel where work is required.

LIFO (Last In, First Out)

Where the last pallet loaded is the first to be unloaded. Loading and unloading is carried out from the same aisle. It is the most commonly used solution with the Pallet Shuttle system.

FIFO (First In, First Out)

Where the first pallet loaded is the first to be unloaded. Two access aisles are needed, i.e. one to load the goods and another to unload them. As a FIFO or a storage by batch system, it is recommended for completely loading or unloading a level.

Pallet Selector

Select the type of pallet to be handled.

LIFO/FIFO Configuration

Select the load management strategy.

Change Work Aisle

Select which side of the structure you want to work on (i.e. FIFO mode).

Locking System

Activate the additional locking system, which increases contact between the Pallet Shuttle and the forklift's forks.

Space Savings

Group pallets at the beginning (LIFO) or end (FIFO) of the channel.

Continuous Loading/Unloading

Loads or unloads a channel without stopping.

Partial Unloading

Select the number of pallets to be extracted.

Inventory

Count the number of pallets stored in the channel.

Location Signal

Activate the acoustic and light signals to identify the selected shuttle's location.

User Management

Manage shuttle user permissions for authorized personnel.

Operating Mode Selector

Automatic or manual (for maintenance tasks).

Shuttle Indicator

Shows the number of shuttles in operation and their statuses.

Tiltmeter

Detect if the shuttle is incorrectly positioned in a channel.

Rescue

Recover a damaged shuttle from inside the channel.

Position Camera (Optional)

Facilitate the Pallet Shuttle's insertion on the rails.

• -Companies with few items and a large number of pallets..
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• -Companies with massive loading and unloading activity.
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• -Cold storage systems are highly-suited to warehouses where products need low temperatures, since storage volumes are fully used and handling times reduced. Installing an AS/RS makes the system even more efficient, through stacker cranes and shuttles.
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• -Buffers for picked orders or temporary storage.
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• -Seasonal product warehouses, where inflows and outflows depend on the season. So, goods accumulate over a period until a deadline when all must be released en masse, for example, ice cream or toys.
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• -Warehouses that already use a high-density system and need to access a greater number of SKUs, store more pallets deep, or increase the number of incoming and outgoing movements, all with the aim of increasing productivity.