Development of Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) for Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS)

Abstract

Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) is an integrated, computer-controlled, and automated material handling machine for depositing, storing and retrieving loads. The operation elements of ASRS are loading, unloading, storing, retrieving, sorting, and order-picking. The storage retrieval equipment consists of a special mechanism responsible for transferring the products from input / output to a point in the shelves, a system for reading and executing an order, and a system for updating the records of the manufacturing system’s database. In this research study, the design and development of ASRS for Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) was investigated. The study activities involved the investigation on ASRS features and operating procedures, and the evaluation of related hardware, software and communication modules. The research project explored the choices of several hardware and software modules offered in current market, and presented the most suitable one for the manufacturing process. This research also presented the ASRS design considerations and the limitations faced by designers during the process of project development and implementation. At the end, a final prototype of fully-developed ASRS was tested and presented.