Reference Siemens Rastatt
AutoStore system with fully automatic small load carrier goods receipt
When established production processes meet modern warehouse technology: At Siemens Rastatt, HÖRMANN Intralogistics has developed a pioneering solution that stores small load carriers fully automatically in an AutoStore system for the first time. An innovation that overcomes system boundaries and sets new standards in intralogistics.
The concept
Combining decades-old production structures with new technology
Siemens Rastatt was faced with a complex challenge: the over 30-year-old automated small parts warehouse (Miniload system) had to be replaced, but production had been working with established small load carriers (SLCs) in four different types for decades. Although AutoStore is a state-of-the-art storage technology that offers maximum efficiency, it is a closed system - the containers of which must never leave the grid.
Conventional solutions would have meant either complex manual repacking processes from SLCs to AutoStore containers with high personnel costs and the risk of errors, or a complete conversion of the established production processes. Neither of these was an option for Siemens.
The solution in detail
Fully automated bin-in-bin technology with maximum precision
The AutoStore core system with 23,000 bin capacity and eight Red Line robots forms the basis of the solution. Six conveyor ports ensure an efficient material flow with 100 retrievals per hour for production and 60 for customer order picking.
The heart of the innovation is the specially developed robot cell: a KUKA robot with MechMind 3D vision technology recognizes four different KLT types and positions them in AutoStore containers with millimetre precision. The 3D camera automatically compensates for tolerances and ensures error-free placement.
The fully automated process sequence: AGILOX driverless transport vehicles deliver the KLTs pallet by pallet. The robot cell removes them precisely and feeds up to 55 SLCs per hour into the AutoStore grid. Integrated barcode readers and weight checks check every container - non-compliant ones are automatically ejected.
The INXPECT radar security system with multi-level airlocks, light grids and roller shutters ensures 24/7 operation without personnel. The reverse process - the removal of empty SLCs - is also fully automated.
Objectives and challenges of the project:
- Fully automated integration of four different types of small load carriers into the AutoStore system
- Replacement of the 30-year-old miniload warehouse without interrupting operations
- Continued high level of relief for warehouse personnel
- Maintaining the proven production processes with established small load carriers
- Realization of personnel-free 24/7Automated operation
- Seamless SAP EWM integration for consistent material flow control
- Highest precision with different container sizes and weights
Facts & Figures
| AutoStore system | SLC robotic picking cell |
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"We were looking to integrate our well-established system with standardized SLCs and AGV connection with the new AutoStore system. HÖRMANN proved to be the ideal partner with the necessary interface expertise for robotics and software integration."
Jonas Wilhelm
Project Manager Logistics, Siemens Rastatt
About Siemens Rastatt
Siemens AG is a global technology group with a focus on industry, infrastructure, mobility and healthcare. At its Rastatt site, Siemens develops and produces innovative solutions for automation technology (with a focus on valves) and relies on state-of-the-art logistics concepts.
Reference film
Fully automated AutoStore system with SLC picking robot cell at Siemens
Contact us
Are you already an AutoStore user or about to take the step towards automation? Feel free to contact our project planning experts without obligation. We will analyze your requirements for full automation with picking robots and Autostore and give you an initial price point.