Rack guided asrs

Abstract

Storage comprising at least two multi-level storage racks with an aisle in between and at least one automated storage and retrieval machine (ASRS) that runs on and is guided by at least two travel rails that run longitudinally in parallel to scaffolding of one of the racks and facing the aisle at differing levels to service the length and height of both racks, one travel rail located at the top or near top of the rack, and one travel rail located on the upper half of the rack, wherein the ASRS comprises a vertical ladder-type mast with cross beams, a bifacial load handling means travelling vertically along the mast for loading and unloading items to sides of the aisle, a top trolley located in the top area of the mast for engaging the upper travel rail of the at least two travel rails and an intermediate trolley located in the upper half of the mast for engaging the intermediate travel rail of the at least two travel rails, at least one of the trolleys is driven, wherein the travel rails are fixed to longitudinal support rails of the scaffolding of the rack which supports the stored loads.

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