FAQ & Glossary
Empower Your Understanding of Warehouse Automation
Absolutely. Many modern facilities use ASRS for dense storage + AMRs for downstream transport.
For example:
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ASRS retrieves totes for picking
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Workers pick items into outbound pallets
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AMRs move completed pallets to packing, wrapping, or staging
This hybrid model allows warehouses to automate end-to-end workflows more efficiently.
AMRs excel in environments requiring flexibility and fast deployment, including:
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High SKU variability
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3PL warehouses with constantly changing layouts
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Manufacturing facilities moving WIP materials
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Cart-based or person-to-goods picking workflows
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Oversized or irregular products that do not fit standardized totes
AMRs are often chosen as a cost-effective first step in warehouse automation.
ASRS is ideal when:
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Storage density is a critical priority
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Throughput must scale without adding labor
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Operations handle small bins, totes, or standardized cartons
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Workers should not enter the storage area (security/safety)
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Space constraints require vertical expansion
If your primary goal is maximizing space and increasing order picking efficiency, ASRS is typically the better fit.
ASRS (Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems) are fixed, high-density storage and picking systems designed for maximum throughput with minimal human interaction. They automate tote or pallet retrieval inside an enclosed structure.
AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots), on the other hand, are mobile robots that navigate freely around the warehouse, supporting human pickers and transporting goods dynamically.
In short, ASRS = high-density automated storage; AMRs = flexible mobile transport.
Smooth integration ensures faster order processing, higher accuracy, consistent delivery times, and real-time inventory visibility—directly improving customer satisfaction.
Poor integration leads to system downtime, inaccurate inventory, inefficient picking sequences, delayed order processing, and higher operating costs. In some cases, automation performance becomes worse than manual operations.
Integration reduces process bottlenecks, improves picking accuracy, increases throughput, and ensures equipment is utilized to its full capacity. This leads to shorter payback periods and faster operational scaling.
Warehouse automation system integrators handle planning, system design, equipment selection, software integration, testing, orchestration logic, and ongoing support. Their role ensures all automation components—from robots to conveyors to software—work together seamlessly.
Warehouse systems integrators evaluate operational needs, design automation architecture, and connect robots with WMS/ERP. Without an integrator, equipment may not synchronize correctly, resulting in poor throughput, data gaps, or inefficient workflows.
Storeroom material handling system integration refers to connecting warehouse software (ERP/WMS), automation control systems, and material handling equipment so they operate as one coordinated workflow. Proper integration ensures accurate data flow, efficient picking and replenishment, and scalable warehouse operations.
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Machine vision (MV) is the technology and methods used to provide imaging-based automatic inspection and analysis for such applications as automatic inspection, process control, and robot guidance, usually in industry.
A passage between two racks, where the stacker moves.
ACR refers to an autonomous robot designed to handle and transport cases or containers within a warehouse or distribution center without the need of human intervention. These robots are equipped with advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, and navigation capabilities to autonomously navigate through the facility, pick up and drop off cases, and optimize the movement of goods. ACRs are commonly used to automate repetitive and labor-intensive tasks such as order fulfillment, inventory replenishment, and material handling.
AGV stands for Automated Guided Vehicle, which refers to a self-operating mobile robot used for material handling and transportation tasks within a controlled environment such as a warehouse or manufacturing facility. These vehicles are equipped with various sensors, navigation systems, and control technology to navigate through predefined paths or use real-time data to dynamically plan their routes. AGVs are commonly used to transport goods, pallets, or other materials between different locations, reducing the need for manual labor and improving efficiency.
AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot) refers to a type of robot that is capable of navigating and performing tasks without human intervention. These robots are equipped with sensors, cameras, and other technologies that allow them to perceive their environment and make decisions based on that information. AMRs are designed to operate in various environments, such as warehouses, factories, hospitals, and even public spaces. They can navigate through obstacles, avoid collisions, and carry out tasks autonomously, such as material handling, inventory management, and transportation. AMRs are often programmed with algorithms and artificial intelligence capabilities to adapt to changing conditions and optimize their performance.
An on-board device that can be used to prevent the lifting mechanism from falling suddenly.
The measure of how effectively the available space in a warehouse or logistics facility is utilized to maximize storage and operational efficiency.
AS/RS stands for Automated Storage and Retrieval System, which refers to a computer-controlled system used for automatically storing and retrieving goods or materials from a designated storage area. AS/RS typically consists of racks or shelving units, automated cranes or shuttles, and a central control system. These systems utilize advanced software and hardware components to manage inventory, track locations, and optimize storage and retrieval operations. By automating these processes, AS/RS systems enhance efficiency, accuracy, and space utilization in warehouses or distribution centers.
A structure under the safety fence to withstand the main impact force.
The measure of how effectively and efficiently warehouse equipment, technology, or resources are utilized or put into operation to support various warehouse or logistics operations.