Automated Miniload System (AMS / MLS) – Automatic small parts warehouse (AKL)
Published on: March 13, 2021 / Update from: August 4, 2021 - Author: Konrad Wolfenstein
Automated small-parts storage or warehouse – Miniload System (MLS) – Automated small parts warehouse (AKL) – Vertical Buffer System / Modules
Automated Vertical Buffer System / Modules – Image: Xpert.Digital / Baloncici|Shutterstock.com
Some warehouses are fully automated, requiring only operators to complete the entire task. Products move on a system of automated conveyors, cranes and automated storage and retrieval machines coordinated by programmable logic controllers and computers with logistics automation software. These systems are often installed in cold storage facilities where temperatures are kept very cold to prevent products from spoiling.
This is especially true for electronics bearings, which require specific temperatures to prevent damage to parts. Automation is also common where land is expensive or storage space is scarce, as automated storage systems can make efficient use of vertical space.
📦 AKL - Automated small parts warehouse solutions for logistics managers and warehouse managers
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An automatic small parts warehouse (AKL) is an automated warehouse that is suitable for storing small parts using small parts containers. In contrast to high-bay warehouses, an AKL is always automated.
An AKL usually consists of:
Automatic small parts warehouse (AKL) – Photo: Andreas Praefcke, Automatic small parts warehouse , CC BY 3.0
- a shelving system with one or more aisles
- one storage and retrieval machine (RBG) per aisle
- Small parts containers, trays or other loading aids in or on which the small parts are stored
- one or more picking stations
- Conveyor technology to transport the containers from the RBG to the picking point and back
- an assembly station where storage containers are filled
- Control software to generate the corresponding outsourcing orders for specified orders
Miniload System (MLS)
Thomas Philippi, Miniload System (MLS) – ASRS , CC BY-SA 3.0
Automatic small parts warehouse (AKL) – Photo: Andreas Praefcke, Automatic small parts warehouse , CC BY 3.0
Automated storage and retrieval system - AS/RS (Automatic storage and retrieval systems
A list of the required small parts is transferred to the warehouse management system (e.g. from an inventory management system or an ERP system). The warehouse management system tells the control software which storage containers are to be transported to the picking location. The control software ensures that the appropriate storage containers are moved forward. An order picker removes the parts from the container according to instructions and places them in the target container or containers. The container is then transported back to the shelf (goods-to-person picking).
Depending on the specific requirements, there are a variety of versions: If turnover is low, two or more containers can be in one compartment. If there are two containers, this is called double deep storage. The storage and retrieval machines are then equipped with telescopic load handling devices. If there is little turnover or if parts are very small compared to the container, e.g. B. separated by compartments, several different items are in one container. However, this type of mixed occupancy of a loading unit must be able to be supported by the warehouse management system. If the handling capacity is very high, the RBG is equipped with several load-carrying devices.
Suitable for:
Automated storage and retrieval system – AS/RS (Automatic storage and retrieval systems)
More about it here:
High bay warehouse (HRL)
More about it here:
Suitable for:
Use Xpert.Plus for advice and planning of an automated miniload system for small parts warehouses
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Konrad Wolfenstein
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