Frequently Asked Questions About the MDS ASRS
Welcome to our MDS ASRS FAQ, a focused resource detailing the technical specifications and operational benefits of our high-density storage technology. This guide addresses typical queries regarding system performance, security protocols, and sustainable automation to help organisations across the Asian region streamline their warehouse operations.
The sections below provide the essential technical clarity needed to assess the system’s role in modernising regional logistics and distribution networks.
1. What Is the MDS ASRS?
The MDS ASRS is an autonomous Multi-Directional Shuttle ASRS system designed to transport pallets within a condensed racking framework. It is a high-density storage solution, aimed at maximising efficiency and resources. The system also utilises Artificial Intelligence and sensors to enhance and maintain long-term performance.
2. Is the MDS ASRS Four-Way Shuttle Only Suitable for Greenfield Warehouses?
The MDS ASRS is engineered for both new greenfield projects and the retrofitting of existing brownfield facilities. Its modular and highly customisable architecture allows it to be integrated into established warehouses, enabling high-density automation without requiring a purpose-built structure.
3. What Are Some Applications of the MDS ASRS?
The MDS ASRS provides a high-density storage solution that optimises compact spaces to accommodate a wide variety of SKUs. The system’s flexible racking is suitable for regular or irregular warehouse layouts, supporting both high-bay and low-bay facilities. It facilitates critical functions such as stock buffering and automated sorting to enhance overall throughput.
4. What Industries Can Benefit From Using the MDS ASRS?
Pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, manufacturing, retail, and 3PL providers are the primary sectors leveraging the MDS ASRS to enhance operational throughput. The system is designed to meet the high-growth demands by providing the speed and storage density required to optimise land use and improve sorting accuracy across these key industries.
5. Can the MDS ASRS Operate in Cold Rooms?
Yes, the MDS ASRS supports a wide temperature range from -20°C to 50°C, providing a robust automation option for cold room and cold chain facilities. This versatility allows businesses to implement high-density storage in extreme environments, optimising energy efficiency and storage capacity within chilled or frozen warehouse sectors.
6. What Are Some Key Features of the MDS ASRS That Can Benefit Warehouses?
The MDS ASRS offers key technical features that directly improve warehouse efficiency and resource management. These include zero-code shuttling for flexible scaling during high-volume periods and mass shuttle swarming to dynamically manage routing and prevent traffic congestion. To maintain high safety standards in dense storage environments, the system utilises intelligent sensors for precise collision avoidance and smooth, continuous operation.
7. How Does the MDS ASRS Demonstrate High Performance and Reliability?
The MDS ASRS is engineered for high-density environments, offering three times the storage capacity of standard racking to optimise high-value industrial land. Its performance is sustained through opportunistic charging, where shuttles recharge automatically at in-built rack stations. With a sturdy structural build and predictive maintenance powered by real-time data, the system ensures long-term operational reliability and minimal service disruptions.
8. How Does the MDS ASRS Four-Way Shuttle Contribute to Warehouse Automation?
Warehouse automation is driven by an autonomous shuttle fleet that manages high-density storage with minimal manual intervention. Through swarm intelligence, shuttles communicate via real-time data exchange to find the most efficient paths and maintain high throughput. This technology facilitates “lights-out” operations, enabling distribution hubs to maintain productivity 24/7 while reducing energy consumption and operational costs.
9. How Does the MDS ASRS Demonstrate AI in Its Design and Build?
AI is central to the MDS ASRS through its decentralised “swarm intelligence” framework, which allows autonomous units to make independent, data-driven decisions. By applying machine learning to process real-time operational data, the system can optimise routing and reduce travel times across the racking structure. This intelligent design is paired with adaptable hardware to support the high throughputs required by fast-growing distribution hubs and complex logistics networks.
10. Is the MDS ASRS Energy Efficient and Sustainable?
The MDS ASRS supports sustainable warehouse goals through the use of high-efficiency lithium batteries and intelligent power management software. These components work together to ensure that energy is only consumed when necessary, significantly reducing operational waste. By leveraging opportunistic charging at integrated rack stations, the system maintains high throughput while optimising power consumption, making it a viable long-term solution for energy-conscious distribution hubs.
11. What Are the System Components of the MDS ASRS?
The MDS ASRS consists of the multi-directional shuttle, a racking system, an industrial PC for centralised control, a smart lifter, and an inbound induction and profile checker.
12. What Is the Load Capacity of the MDS ASRS?
Dexion’s MDS ASRS has a load capacity of up to 1,500 kilograms.
13. How High Is the Investment for the Initial Setup of the MDS ASRS?
Unlike conventional ASRS setups that typically require high upfront costs, the MDS ASRS offers a more moderate initial investment.
14. Can the MDS ASRS Be Integrated with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)?
Yes. The MDS ASRS supports full integration with a wide variety of WMS platforms, enabling centralised control of the automated storage environment. This integration facilitates the real-time tracking of inventory and optimises the allocation of shuttles based on current order priorities. For regional distribution hubs, this compatibility ensures that automation works in harmony with existing logistics software to improve overall supply chain efficiency.
15. Is the MDS ASRS Scalable?
The fully modular design of the MDS ASRS ensures scalability, enabling businesses to start with a compact system and scale up according to changing business goals.
16. Is the MDS ASRS Safe and Secure?
Security is built into the MDS ASRS through encrypted communication protocols, which safeguard the system against malicious cyber activities. For added protection, the software is hosted locally behind IT security systems, ensuring that regional distribution hubs maintain full control over their automated operations and data privacy.
17. What Should I Do If I’m Interested in the MDS ASRS?
Contact Dexion to arrange a detailed consultation. By conducting site visits to evaluate local warehouse processes and storage requirements, a customised plan can be developed to integrate the MDS ASRS into your facility. This collaborative approach ensures the final solution meets distribution demands and elevates the facility’s automation capabilities.
