Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS)

Increase storage density, reduce picking travel and create a scalable flow from storage to dispatch. Valor designs and integrates goods-to-person AS/RS solutions using RackBot and GroundBot technology from Rainbow Dynamics, combined where required with our modular Qliqflow conveyor systems.

1. Retrieve — RackBot accesses the requested tote in a multi-level storage rack.
2. Transport — GroundBot carries the tote between the storage interface and an ergonomic picking workstation.
3. Pick and verify — Operators pick or replenish stock, supported by pick-to-light or put-to-light guidance and barcode confirmation where specified.
4. Route onward — Totes return to storage or transfer to subsequent processes, potentially via Valor’s Qliqflow conveyors for consolidation, packing, sorting or dispatch.

The sequence and interfaces are engineered around the actual warehouse layout and workflow. We assess peak-hour demand, tote circulation and station balancing rather than designing around a headline robot specification.

AS/RS deserves serious consideration when labour-intensive travel consumes picking capacity, storage aisles occupy valuable floor space, SKU ranges are expanding or peak demand is difficult to absorb. It is relevant to e-commerce, 3PL, retail distribution, spare parts and other tote-based operations. It is not automatically the best answer for every product profile or throughput requirement.

Valor evaluates order lines, SKU velocity, tote dimensions and weights, replenishment, warehouse height, available footprint, interface requirements and future volume scenarios. The outcome is a system concept with clear assumptions on capacity, investment, operating cost and expansion.

→ A complete material flow, not an isolated robot installation

Our expertise in person-to-goods automation, conveyors, sortation, controls and material flow software helps us connect automated storage to the rest of the operation. We consider the handovers between storage, picking, consolidation and dispatch from the first design stage.

→ Straightforward technology with a strong business case

We selected Rainbow Dynamics because its modular, functional approach to robotics matches Valor’s engineering philosophy. We favour reliable, understandable technology and the optimal balance between operators and automation — not complexity for its own sake.

→ Modularity that protects ROI

Start with the storage locations, robots and workstations justified by today’s workload. Plan a clear route for adding capacity when demand rises. This helps avoid premature investment while preserving the opportunity to protect ROI as the warehouse grows. Actual payback depends on your volumes, labour model and operating conditions.

→ Rapid, coordinated implementation

Valor’s Qliqflow platform uses tested, standardised conveyor modules and configurable controls. Where an AS/RS is integrated with Qliqflow, we coordinate mechanical interfaces, software, commissioning and operational handover to reduce avoidable complexity and disruption.

Qliqflow can connect goods-to-person picking with accumulation, sorting, packing and outbound transport. Valor’s material flow control capabilities provide a coordinated view of routing and system interfaces. The appropriate architecture is defined during engineering and aligned with the customer’s warehouse management system.