Automatic small parts storage unit
An automatic small parts storage device is used in so-called automatic small parts warehouses (AKL). It is particularly effective in tight spaces and can currently be used at heights of up to 30 meters. The mostly self-contained storage systems only store small-volume items.
As a rule, a small parts storage system consists of a storage and retrieval machine, the rail and the load handling attachment (LAM). With the appropriate loading equipment and the matching load handling attachment, loads of up to 300 kilograms can be picked up, depending on the respective system. There are different designs for picking up containers:
- Pulling technology: cassette pusher
- Underride technology: telescopic table
- Gripping technology: lateral pick-up gripper
The small-volume items are, for example, screws or electronic parts, which are then stored in cardboard boxes or plastic crates in the respective shelf compartment – as single or double-deep storage, depending on the application. On average, a small parts storage device achieves horizontal travel speeds of six meters per second (m/s). The acceleration is between three and four m/s². These speeds are particularly important when the so-called single clearance or, in combination, the double clearance of storage and retrieval processes comes into play.
Advantages of small parts storage devices:
- Investment can be variably adjusted downwards
- Flexibility in hall layout
- Storage at great heights possible
- High reliability
- High speeds
- Maintenance possible during operation
- Single/multi-deep storage
- Scalability of picking performance
More information on the topics of storage and retrieval can also be found under Storage – basics and under Shuttle.
Image source: TUP