Ocado expands access to its automated fulfillment technology

Brands in health care, retail apparel and footwear, consumer packaged goods and third-party logistics can now access end-to-end automated fulfillment technology from Ocado Group via its new division, Ocado Intelligent Automation (OIA).

The Ocado Storage and Retrieval System (OSRS) is a robot-on-grid ultra-high-density cubic Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) that simplifies and streamlines modern supply chains to minimize costs and maximize productivity. The hardware and software technology of OSRS emerged from the Ocado Smart Platform–a system that automates the whole grocery value chain from end-to-end.

OSRS employs a lightweight grid structure that supports bin storage capacity and density in multiple configurations to maximize space utilization and minimize real estate costs. Ocado says the flexible and durable bin storage system accommodates multiple item sets from various industries and stock-keeping units (SKUs) to increase order throughput, speed and accuracy.

• 21-bin stack height provides greater cubic storage capacity.
• 33-51 per cent greater vertical storage capacity per floor than the leading alternative cubic ASRS.

Selecting a storage solution with suboptimal bin specifications can drive unexpected costs – from inefficient warehouse usage to building code compliance and insurance expenses. Made from galvanized steel, OIA’s metal safety bins are an industry-first. Metal safety bins:

• Have a 20-year lifespan.
• Can be used alongside plastic bins within the same grid.

Featuring an ultra-light robot frame, the system allows for a lower-cost grid design while reducing long-term wear and tear. Robots work efficiently to automate and accelerate bin fetching and drop-offs to human-assist pick stations or fully automated robotic pick arms. Patented, single-grid cell footprint design allows robots to pass unobstructed, follow optimized route plans and ensure availability and stock access.

• Built from 50 per cent 3D printed materials, the robots have a strong carbon fiber frame for durability as well as speed.
• 3D printing and carbon fiber construction drive 39 per cent energy savings and a safer system for customers.

Human-assist pick stations guide employees through the process to drive productivity and support cluster picking for multiple concurrent outbound orders. Robotic arms swap batteries to provide high-capacity, high-speed battery exchange and charging for maximum robot uptime and availability. Twenty-four hours a day, automated robot picking provides continual operation and productivity enhancements.

Warehouse Execution System (WES) software uses advanced algorithms and live operational data to orchestrate and optimize storage density, streamline processes, and maximize assets. At the same time, the OSRS employs a series of intelligent features that drive continual improvements.

• The system automatically self-sorts bins to prioritize order, speed and position, placing faster-moving SKUs at the top of the grid.
• Using cutting-edge computer vision and sensing, the robotic pick identifies, picks and packs items from storage bins efficiently and accurately.
• Using AI, the robotic pick continually trains itself to handle new, potentially delicate items to prevent damage.

Ocado says the scalable and modular OSRS platform supports easy system expansion with zero downtime to meet rapidly changing business requirements and customer demand. The modular design allows for quick and easy installation into any size or shape facility and in multiple thermal zones.

• Grids are modular and configurable up to 21 bins high (7.6 metres or 24.9 feet).
• Large areas of the grid can be chilled consistently to store perishable items.
• Zero-touch design protects employees from hazardous items and helps secure high-value inventory.