Grid

What is a Grid?

A grid refers to the three-dimensional lattice that forms the physical foundation of a cube-based automated storage system. The grid consists of a uniform network of vertical shafts in which storage bins are housed in stacks. On the top surface of the grid, autonomous robots travel along horizontal rails to lift bins from the shafts, transport them, and deliver them to workstations. The term is closely associated with cubic shuttle storage systems, where the grid largely determines both storage capacity and system performance.

How does a Grid work in practice?

The grid is dimensioned based on the available floor space, the desired storage capacity, and the required throughput. The following parameters play a central role:

• Footprint: The number of grid cells in the X and Y directions determines how many shafts the grid contains and therefore the maximum number of bins.
• Height: The depth of the shafts determines how many bins can be stacked on top of one another. More levels increase storage capacity but also extend access time for bins located deeper in the stack.
• Robot density: The number of robots on the grid influences how many bins can be retrieved per hour. More robots increase throughput but also raise capital and operating costs.
• Port positions: At defined locations along the edge of the grid, openings allow robots to transfer bins to conveyor systems or workstations.

Extensions to the grid are generally possible by adding additional grid modules. However, this requires sufficient available floor space as well as forward-looking planning with regard to floor load capacity and building geometry. Whether and how easily an expansion can be carried out during ongoing operations depends on the specific system vendor and installation configuration.

What matters when planning a Grid?

When planning a grid, storage logic should be considered from the outset. A shallow grid with few levels offers fast access speeds but does not make full use of the building height. A very deep grid maximizes capacity but, with a poor sorting strategy, can result in frequently needed bins being buried beneath rarely used ones, creating additional repositioning effort. The bin management software therefore plays a decisive role: it controls how bins are positioned within the grid and directly influences the efficiency of the system. In addition, fire protection requirements, maintenance access, and integration with existing conveyor technology should be incorporated into grid planning at an early stage.