Fabric Inc. today said it has secured a new patent for its multi-tote-size automated storage and retrieval system, or ASRS. The Tel Aviv, Israel-based company said its innovative technology can store multiple totes of varying sizes within the same shelving unit to optimize warehouse efficiency.
“The growth in e-commerce is fueling pressure on retailers to expand inventory selection while keeping logistics costs low,” said Ori Avraham, co-founder and vice president of Fabric, in a release.
“Fabric is the only automated fulfillment solution offering the technology that accommodates different tote dimensions in a single storage system so businesses can maximize inventory density, reduce operational expenses, and scale to meet growing demand,” he said.
New ASRS optimizes space usage
The effective use of vertical space is key to maximizing warehouse storage capacity, said Fabric.
In a typical ASRS, each tote can hold either one SKU or a few, but each SKU must be stored in a separate bin within a tote to ensure precise tracking of product locations and quantities, it explained. When dealing with diverse SKU sizes ranging from large toilet paper to small mascara, being limited to a single tote size results in wasted storage space, the company said.
An ASRS that can store different tote sizes freely in multiple locations offers an opportunity for “smart stock management” algorithms and, ultimately, denser storage, according to Fabric. Companies could then streamline their operations, stock a wider range of products, and adapt to changing customer demands without costly and space-consuming modifications.
Fabric claimed that its ASRS is the only automated warehouse system capable of handling multiple tote sizes in one shelving unit. This flexibility allows companies to optimize their use of space, especially in micro-fulfillment centers (MFCs) in smaller local areas or within the confines of their retail stores, it said.
Fabric builds on product portfolio
Fabric said its latest patent builds on its portfolio of unique topology and robotic technologies designed to help retailers stay ahead in the rapidly evolving e-commerce market. The company’s new multi-tote size ASRS is available to customers today.
Earlier this year, ir also announced a collaboration with Maersk, which now uses its robotics and software in a 38,000-sq.-ft. (3,530.3-sq.-m) automated fulfillment center in Dallas.
To connect with Fabric at NRF 2024 in New York from Jan. 14 to 16, visit https://getfabric.com/company/