AutoStore unveils efficiency-boosting tech for fulfilment sector

AutoStore has unveiled several new technological solutions designed to bolster efficiency and safety in the order fulfilment sector. The announcement introduces the Multi-Temperature Solution, an expanded 18-Level Grid, a Motorised Service Vehicle, and enhancements to the cube control software.

Mats Hovland Vikse, CEO of AutoStore, said, "AutoStore is shifting to a regular cadence of product announcements, focusing on innovation and execution to better serve our customers. This autumn, our new products directly address the challenges our customers face, while providing them with new tools to improve operational efficiency."

The Multi-Temperature Solution allows businesses to manage different temperature zones within a single AutoStore cube, catering specifically to frozen and chilled environments. This solution ranges from -25°C in frozen areas to +6°C in cooled areas. The design aims to keep workers in chilled rather than freezing conditions, potentially enhancing picking speed and operator comfort. The company reported that two Multi-Temperature Solutions are already in progress. The first, operational at Haugaland Storhusholdning, was installed by StrongPoint. The second will be set up for La Réserve des Saveurs by Swisslog. This solution will be available for order from the first quarter of 2025.

The expanded 18-Level Grid increases the height of the current system, allowing for higher storage density. With 330 mm bins, the grid levels are extended from 16 to 18, and with 220 mm bins, from 24 to 26 levels. This results in a storage density increase of up to 12.5%, permitting fulfilment centres to reduce the grid floor space by up to 11% without sacrificing accuracy, flexibility, or modularity. This expanded grid capability is available for new installations going forward.

The Motorised Service Vehicle introduces an easier and safer way to conduct routine maintenance on top of the AutoStore Grid. This vehicle focuses on ensuring system reliability while prioritising worker safety. It will also be available for order starting in the first quarter of 2025.

Enhancements to AutoStore's cube control software were also announced. The updates include features that allow super users to proactively address issues, potentially turning unplanned stoppages into scheduled maintenance. Additionally, the company has improved its Unify Analytics platform to provide more comprehensive system oversight, enhancing operational reliability.

Parth Joshi, CPO at AutoStore, said, "We continue to lead in automated fulfilment, innovating technology to tackle complex operational challenges. Today's announcements will enhance efficiency, reliability, and speed. We're particularly proud to introduce the Multi-Temperature Solution, which will be a game changer for grocers and open new use cases for AutoStore." 

Joshi also noted, "It's been one quarter since I joined AutoStore, and we're now moving towards an exciting Product 2.0 strategy. Our goal is to solve more complex problems for our customers through robust technology and a strong feedback loop. With approximately 70,000 Robots in our fleet and growing, the future is bright."

These innovations are part of AutoStore's ongoing strategy to maintain a competitive edge in the automated fulfilment market. The company plans to showcase more about these developments during its Capital Markets Day event in Manchester.