Geely Auto Group (Geely), a China-based automotive manufacturer, has implemented a four-way shuttle automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) at its dark factory in Xi’an.
The solution was selected to automate storage and picking processes during car production.
The system was designed to optimise storage throughout the upper levels with the X1200 four-way shuttle and an ‘intelligent’ high-speed lift, while ground-level picking is handled by P800 robots.
The Xi’an site measures 100,000m2, with the company claiming to store parts from more than 400 suppliers there.
To introduce the solution, Geely partnered with with Geek+, a specialist in warehouse robotics, and JD Logistics, a technology-focused supply-chain solutions provider.
In a company statement, Geely reported that 8,000m2 of space had been saved, efficiency had been increased by 60% and inventory accuracy levels had reached 99%.
It added that the ASRS has enabled dual-effect storage and picking optimisation, with the system’s algorithms introducing full automation to the picking workflow to achieve precise stock replenishment based on real-time production line orders, supermarket inventory levels and order demands.
According to Geely, some of the major benefits of this include minimised travel distance, optimised equipment efficiency and streamlined inventory management.
Ma Xiaolong, project lead, highlighted how the intelligent logistics solution has not only boosted operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness, but has also helped introduce integrated logistics management at the site.
