URBX 3D Robotic Vertical Automated Storage and Retrieval System ASRS
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Why the URBX ASRS Will Help Your Organization
The URBX robotic inventory storage and retrieval system represents a paradigm shift in the automated storage and retrieval systems ASRS world and more specifically warehouse automation. The URBX ASRS is engineered to meet the escalating market demands of increasing: space utilization, throughput, reliability, agility, and return on investment (ROI) all while reducing labor. At its core, URBX ASRS leverages advanced 3D automated storage and retrieval ASRS technology to optimize how organizations approach inventory management and order fulfillment.
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By intelligently utilizing both vertical and horizontal space, URBX 3D robotic system creates a high-density storage environment that dramatically increases your facility’s storage capacity without expanding its footprint. This innovative approach to spatial utilization allows for seamless integration with existing infrastructure, providing a scalable and adaptable solution that grows with your business.
The true power of URBX lies in its ability to significantly accelerate order fulfillment processes while maintaining exceptional accuracy. Through a sophisticated network of AI-driven robots and conveyor systems, URBX navigates its three-dimensional storage grid with unprecedented efficiency, storing and retrieving SKUs at speeds that far surpass traditional methods. This not only reduces order processing times, but also minimizes errors and excessive labor associated with manual picking, leading to improved customer satisfaction, and reduced operational costs.
Furthermore, URBX’s adaptability ensures that your organization remains agile in the face of evolving market demands. Whether you’re dealing with peak and valley fluctuations, expanding product lines, or shifting consumer behaviors, URBX’s ASRS flexible design allows you to quickly reconfigure your storage and retrieval strategies without major disruptions to your operations.
By implementing URBX, your organization gains a competitive edge in the fast-paced world of e-commerce and omnichannel retail, positioning itself at the forefront of logistics innovation and operational excellence.
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How The URBX Automated Storage and Retrieval System Works
The URBX system combines cutting-edge robotics, AI-driven software, and innovative storage racking to deliver superior performance in goods-to-person order fulfillment:
- 3D Storage Grid and Rack: A high-density rack storage structure capable of stacking up to 75+ totes high (*consult ISD) and up to 125 feet tall.
- TowerBots: AI-driven robots that navigate the top of the storage grid and access inventory through strategically placed columns and shafts.
- Embedded Conveyor and GridBot Robots: Integrated conveyor and robots that facilitate smooth transport of totes to order fulfillment workstations and consolidation or shipping areas.
- AI Coordinator: Advanced software that optimizes task management and robot routing for maximum throughput.
The URBX 3D System Operates:
- Orders queue in the WMS/WES software.
- A wave of orders and replenishment transactions go to the URBX system.
- For replenishment, the software determines the optimal storage locations based on many criteria including velocity, size, weight, fragility, etc.
- For order picking, the software determines which orders should be picked and in which sequence creating an optimized batch.
- The system deploys TowerBots to retrieve requested items using the shortest 3D path.
- The TowerBots present the totes for transportation and picking to the embedded robot and/or conveyor system for delivery at an integrated workstation.
- The process is then repeated.
This innovative approach eliminates the need for labor or forklift aisle navigation and allows for instant access to inventory stored in every level within the system, resulting in exceptional fulfillment speeds.
Key Features of URBX 3D Vertical ASRS
- High-Density Vertical Storage: Utilizes vertical space efficiently, with storage capabilities up to 125 feet high.
- Throughput: Each robot is capable of presenting 100 totes per hour (200 transactions/hour).
- Advanced Mobile Robotics: Proprietary TowerBots with distributed control architecture for precise navigation and handling.
- Software and Controls Optimization: AI and machine learning software for task management and optimal storage allocation.
- Scalable Design: Adaptable to various warehouse configurations and sizes.
- Flexibility and Agility: Robots can be added and subtracted as your business needs change.
- High Weight Capacity: Supports up to 100 pounds per tote, accommodating a wide range of inventory types.
- Double-Deep Storage: Maximizes storage density while maintaining a small horizontal footprint.
- Integrated GridBot and Conveyor System: Seamlessly transports goods throughout the fulfillment center.
Benefits of Implementing URBX ASRS
- Increased Efficiency: Up to 500 lines/hour/operator.
- Space Optimization: Maximizes vertical space utilization, ideal for urban distribution centers.
- Improved Accuracy: Reduces errors associated with manual picking.
- Scalability: Easily adapts to growing business needs and changing inventory requirements.
- Reduced Labor Costs: Automates repetitive tasks, allowing staff to focus on higher-value activities.
- Enhanced Throughput: Significantly increases order fulfillment capacity.
- Flexibility: Handles various goods and packing types with multiple tote height options.
- Integration Ease: Designed to work with existing warehouse setups and material handling equipment.
Applications of URBX
- High Density Storage and Retrieval
- High Speed Order Fulfillment
- Omnichannel Retail Distribution
- GOH – Garment on Hangers
- Store Replenishment
- Manufacturing Sequencing, Buffering, Kitting and End of Line Operations
- Work In Process (WIP)
- Reverse Logistics or Return Handling
Industries that Benefit from URBX
- Retail and E-commerce
- Grocery and Food Distribution
- 3PL Facilities
- Automotive
- Electronic
- Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare
- Fashion and Apparel
- Industrial Manufacturing
- Aerospace and Defense
Factors to Consider When Implementing URBX In Your Facility
- Warehouse Configuration: Assess your current layout and ceiling height to determine optimal URBX system design.
- Throughput Requirements: Analyze your order volume and complexity to ensure the system meets your needs.
- Integration with Existing Systems: Consider how URBX will interface with your current WMS and other automation tools.
- Scalability Needs: Plan for future growth and potential changes in your business model.
- Training Requirements: Factor in time and resources for employee training on the new system.
- Implementation Timeline: Typical installation takes 4-8 months, depending on your specific requirements.
- ROI Analysis: Calculate the long-term cost savings and efficiency gains to justify the investment.
Options and Accessories for URBX
- Multiple tote height options to accommodate various product sizes
- Tote dividers to create multiple cells/SKUs per tote
- Customizable pick station configurations
- Integration with existing conveyor systems
- Advanced software modules for specific industry applications
- Tailored safety features and access control systems
- Custom racking configuons for unique facility requirements
Specifications for URBX ASRS Systems
**All specifications are nominal and subject to change without notice. Specific models and OEMs will be different. Consult ISD with questions or special needs.
Future Trends in URBX
As we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of warehouse automation, we anticipate several exciting developments for the URBX system:
- Enhanced AI and Machine Learning: Further optimization of storage and retrieval processes, predictive maintenance, and adaptive workflows.
- Increased Energy Efficiency: Development of more sustainable robotic systems and power management solutions.
- Expanded Industry Applications: Adaptation of URBX technology for specialized industries such as cold chain logistics and hazardous materials handling.
- Integration with Emerging Technologies: Exploration of potential synergies with technologies like augmented reality for improved picking processes and blockchain for enhanced traceability.
Advanced Human-Robot Collaboration: Development of more sophisticated interfaces and safety systems to enhance cooperation between URBX robots and human workers.
Why choose Integrated Systems Design (ISD) for Your URBX Implementation?
Implementing a cutting-edge ASRS like URBX requires more than just installing new hardware; it demands a holistic approach and analysis to your entire facility’s workflow both upstream and downstream.
This is where Integrated Systems Design (ISD) excels as the premier integrator for URBX ASRS systems. With ISD’s extensive experience in warehouse automation and deep understanding of the URBX technology, ISD brings a unique perspective to the implementation process. ISD doesn’t just focus on the ASRS as a “black box” system; instead, ISD takes a comprehensive view of your entire operation, ensuring that the URBX system seamlessly integrates with your existing processes and technologies.
ISD’s expertise lies in their meticulous approach to analyzing, designing, and planning. They carefully analyze your current workflows, identify potential bottlenecks, and design optimized pathways for inventory movement both into and out of the URBX system. This attention to detail extends beyond the ASRS, encompassing your entire facility to create a harmonious and efficient operational ecosystem.
By choosing ISD, you’re not just getting an installer; you’re partnering with a team of experts who will tailor the URBX implementation to your specific needs, maximizing the system’s potential and ensuring that your entire facility reaps the full benefits of this revolutionary technology. The result is a seamlessly integrated, highly efficient warehouse operation that positions your business at the forefront of logistics and warehouse innovation.
Common Questions and Answers (Q&A) for URBX ASRS Systems
What efficiency improvement can I expect using URBX?
Each robot can present 100 totes per hour (200 transactions/hour).
Can the URBX system be integrated with existing warehouses or material handling equipment?
Yes, URBX is designed to seamlessly integrate into virtually any existing warehouse configuration. It’s simple and reliable design ensures compatibility with current material handling equipment.
Can the URBX ASRS handle a variety of goods and packing types?
Absolutely. URBX totes support weights up to 100 pounds and are available in multiple heights, allowing for storage of a wide range of products and configurations.
What is the typical lead time for deploying the URBX robotic system in a warehouse?
URBX builds on ASRS principles but offers significant advantages in speed, height utilization, storage density, and scalability. Its unique 3D navigation allows for faster retrieval times and more efficient use of vertical space.
What kind of support and maintenance does URBX provide?
URBX and ISD offers comprehensive design, development, implementation, and ongoing support for each solution. We provide an extensive network of material handling automation systems organizations to ensure reliable local support.
How does URBX handle system failures or downtime?
The URBX system is designed with redundancy and fault tolerance in mind. In the event of a robot failure, other robots can take over its tasks. Regular preventive maintenance and our advanced monitoring systems help minimize downtime.
Can URBX be used for cold storage or other specialized environments?
While the standard URBX system is designed for ambient temperatures, we are continuously developing solutions for specialized environments. Please contact us to discuss your specific requirements for cold storage or other unique conditions.
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