Unique automated storage/retrieval system combines three capabilities in one

The Uni-Shuttle HP from Muratec is an automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) that combines for the first time three previously separate capabilities: space storage, a vertical lift with conveyor bed, and a high-speed shuttle vehicle. The UniShuttle HP will compete with miniload AS/RS and will be targeted to industries with small, high-throughput items like cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and retail.

The space storage segment continuously stores or retrieves up to 1,500 cases, totes, and other types of containers of various sizes per hour—or 3,000 per hour for input and output together. From four to seven items can be stored in each cell. Cases and totes enter the storage area by horizontal or vertical conveyor. The vertical conveyor, which can be installed at various locations around the storage system, can store and retrieve up to 900 cases per hour. A unique feature is a series of moveable racks that move up from underneath the roller bed conveyor. The shuttle vehicles access the items on the movable racks and take them to static storage racks at the end of the unit. There's no need to sequence the loads prior to induction, said General Manager Nils Hart. Instead, the system will do the sequencing prior to retrieval.