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Solutions Community members are Industry’s thought leaders on automation, software, hardware, equipment and services that support a fully integrated supply chain. This includes suppliers, integrators, consultants, media, academia and users. They collaborate on solutions worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. The philosophy of the Solutions Community is to support MHI’s mission of providing a unique venue where suppliers of material handling equipment and technology can collaboratively work with the user community to improve the marketplace for all. All participants adhere to a safe harbor no-buy, no-sell environment to openly discuss topics of mutual interest, including best practices, lessons learned and other information. Goals of the Solutions Community include: Identifying, developing and disseminating forward-looking value propositions for Material Handling and Supply Chain practitioners; Identifying market trends and challenges in Material Handling and Supply Chain operations in order to develop timely and relevant solutions; Providing a forum for discussion of business and technology trends; and, Establishing strong connections between Members of the Group with the community of Supply Chain and Material Handling product and service providers, as well as organizations and individuals interested in Solutions Community activities; A basic tenet of the Solutions Community is to create a non-commercial environment that fosters networking, relationship building and the open exchange of information. Mission To engage and collaborate with suppliers, practitioners, and stakeholders in timely discussions towards supply chain solutions. Vision Inspiring evolutionary excellence in the supply chain through diverse stakeholder collaboration. Members meet regularly to exchange ideas and develop Information Systems solutions for Supply Chains. Solutions Community Programs include: Engagement on an ongoing basis with: The User community. Adjacent communities such as: Consultants, Market Research Firms, Vertical Market Organizations, supply chain associations, academia, and regulatory agencies. Developing educational and seminar materials for presentation to interested communities. Providing public relations outreach on behalf of MHI relative to solutions. Authoring solutions blueprints and white papers Proactively responding to media to positively share information with the marketplace and position ISSG. Establish thought leadership on how information system solutions support the U.S. Roadmap for Material Handling & Logistics.. Conducting surveys on technology trends and developments To enable organizations to achieve material handling and supply chain excellence by facilitating the delivery of meaningful, innovative and practical information.
Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems (ASRS) members are the Industry’s leading suppliers of automated storage/retrieval systems. They supply systems worldwide and in virtually every major manufacturing and distribution sector. Mission: Deliver member value by collectively and collaboratively growing and supporting the Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems market. Vision: To be recognized as the independent authority on Automated Storage/Retrieval System solutions and technologies. The Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems Industry Group is a member-driven organization. Members meet regularly to create value in areas they cannot achieve independently through: Contribution to the development and promotion of standards and safety codes Delivery of market intelligence through the collection of statistics and other activities. Preparation and distribution of promotional and educational materials on key features, advantages and benefits of AS/RS for customers. Developing safe-harbor relationships through networking and collaboration. An Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS) is a combination of equipment and controls that handle, store and retrieve materials as needed with precision, accuracy and speed under a defined degree of automation. Systems vary from relatively simple, manually controlled order-picking machines operating in small storage structures to extremely large, computer-controlled storage/retrieval systems totally integrated into a manufacturing and distribution process. Generically speaking, AS/RS refers to a variety of computer-controlled methods for automatically depositing and retrieving loads to and from defined storage locations. Within an AS/RS environment one would find one or more of the following technologies: Horizontal Carousels, Vertical Carousels, Vertical Lift Modules, and/or Robotic Storage Retrieval Systems (RSR), the latter utilizing special storage retrieval machines to do the work needed to insert, extract and deliver loads to designated input/output locations within the aisles being served. The right application of AS/RS provides a long list of user benefits! It has been demonstrated time and time again that Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems are proven technologies capable of effectively and reliably handling and buffering raw materials, work-in-process inventories and finished goods of all kinds, making it possible to totally integrate material handling storage, however temporary, into the total process being served. The AS/RS Industry Group is a member-driven organization. Members meet regularly to review, discuss and revise the standards for design, performance and proper operation of Automated Storage/ Retrieval Systems, and to create value in areas they cannot achieve independently through: The development and promotion of standard nomenclature; Assisting and coordinating the efforts of related trade associations and product sections of MHI as applicable to Automated Storage/Retrieval Systems and component elements; The preparation and distribution of promotional and educational materials; The establishment of liaison and cooperation with private and governmental entities establishing standards and/or safety codes that may be pertinent to this Product Section and Working Groups The collection and dissemination of reliable industry statistics.
UltraStore Mid-Load Automated Storage & Retrieval System (ASRS). The ISD UltraStore ASRS delivers loads and items ranging from cases, pallets or material with unique sizes and dimensions. A wide selection of mast, platform and retrieval platform designs can be utilized to meet virtually all needs. In fact, the UltraStore ASRS system’s flexibility
UltraSert Automatic Printer & Inserter System (patented) provides a cost effective solution to placing printed documents in any order without operator labor. Invoices, manifests or documentation, can be printed and inserted automatically up to 1500 pages per hour. Eliminates labor while increasing accuracy for a fast ROI.
UltraBatch Automated Order Picking Work Station allows for continuous and dynamic batch order picking fulfillment to increase productivity and throughput while reducing labor. Lights direct the operator while the conveyor moves orders in and out of the work station automatically and effortlessly. Available for new and older systems.
ISD provides a full spectrum of integration services. From simple to multi-million dollar systems, ISD provides services from design, implementation, installation, training and service. Complete turn key operations with performance guaranteed! Free space and labor analysis available.
White paper discusses space and labor's importance. Being competitive in today’s evolving marketplace is more than gaining an edge with a better or lower cost product or service. Competitiveness is backing up good research and development with reductions in the cost of doing business. Two of the biggest cost factors are space and labor.
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URBX Robotic Storage System Delivers 500 Cases or Totes Per Hour Per Robot, Reaches 125 Feet High, and Eliminates Traditional Aisle RequirementsWIXOM, MI – October 8, 2025 – Integrated Systems Design (ISD) announces the launch of its URBX automated storage and retrieval system, a Cube robotic ASRS system that fundamentally changes how distribution centers, warehouses and manufacturers operations approach high-density storage and rapid fulfillment.The URBX Cube Robotics ASRS system addresses three critical pain points facing warehouse operators: insufficient floor space, unsustainable labor costs, and inadequate throughput capacity to meet ecommerce and omnichannel delivery demands."Traditional ASRS systems require aisles for cranes or forklifts. This robotic cube system eliminates that waste," states Bob Jones, Senior Analyst and Consultant at ISD. "You're storing inventory in what used to be empty air. That matters when you're paying $15 per square foot."The Floor Space Problem Gets WorseDistribution centers and warehouses face a fundamental constraint—they're running out of room. Adding square footage increases inefficiencies and wastes valuable time. Industrial real estate rates continue climbing. Building new facilities takes 18-24 months and requires capital expenditures that strain budgets.Meanwhile, inventory requirements increase. SKU proliferation forces warehouses to stock more items in more variations. Ecommerce returns add to storage demands. Safety stock levels rise to buffer against supply chain disruptions.The math doesn't work. You need 40% more storage capacity but can't expand your footprint. Traditional solutions—racking configurations, mezzanines, off-site storage— don't solve the core problem."We've seen operations store inventory in trailers parked in their lots," Romaine explains. "That's not a storage strategy. That's desperation. You can't efficiently pick from a trailer 200 yards from your packing stations. I’ve seen a facility that parked trailers permanently at non-essential dock doors and just kept the doors open and utilized it as storage. This creates hazards and congestion and simply indicates a much larger problem… lack of floor space."How URBX Cube Robotics ASRS Changes the EquationThe new ISD URBX Cube robotic ASRS operates on different principles than conventional crane and aisle and other Cube automated storage systems.Instead of using cranes moving through fixed aisles, autonomous robots traverse a three- dimensional grid structure. They climb vertically and move horizontally without dedicated travel lanes. Each robot accesses any storage location within the grid. The system stores totes in a dense Cube arrangement—eliminating the wasted aisle space that traditional ASRS requires.The storage density improvements are significant. A Cube robotic system typically achieves 3-4 times the storage capacity of conventional racking in the same footprint. The system reaches heights up to 125 feet—utilizing vertical space, which most facilities leave empty.Each robot handles up to 100 pounds and completes up to 500 presentations per hour. That's 1000 transactions hourly when counting both storage and retrieval operations.Multiple robots work simultaneously within the same grid structure, scaling throughput based on demand."Think of it as three-dimensional chess," notes Ed Romaine, VP Marketing and Business Development at ISD. "The robots know where every tote or case sits. AI-driven software constantly optimizes their pathways.They're storing popular SKUs in easily accessible locations and moving slow-movers to deeper positions—automatically, continuously, without human intervention."Technical Specifications That MatterThe system's capabilities address real operational requirements:Storage Performance• Handles cases and/or totes• Maximum height: 125 feet• Load capacity: up to 100 pounds per tote• Tote or case handling rate: 500 per hour per robot• Transaction rate: 1000 storage/retrieval cycles per robot hourly• Tote and case dimensions: accommodates 6-inch to 24-inch containers for maximum flexibilityIntegration Capabilities• Compatible with standard conveyor systems• Interfaces with warehouse management software (WMS), warehouse control systems (WCS) and/or warehouse execution systems (WES)• Integrates with existing pick-to-light and goods-to-person technologies• Integrates with palletizers and outbound shipping systemsOperational Features• Machine learning algorithms optimize robot tasking and routing• AI-driven grid technology maximizes throughput• Vision systems detect dimensions, anomalies, and barcodes• Redundant robot fleet ensures continuous operationSystem Architecture• Modular design allows phased implementation• Scalable configuration grows with business requirements• Fault-tolerant operation continues during individual robot maintenance• Remote monitoring enables predictive maintenanceReal-World ApplicationsThe Cube robotic ASRS serves multiple industries facing storage and throughput challenges.Ecommerce operations benefit from rapid order fulfillment speeds and high inventory visibility. The system handles split-case picking efficiently—a critical requirement for direct-to-consumer fulfillment.Case handling applications allows organizations to cost-effectively store, sequence, buffer, stage, and retrieve cases automatically without any human intervention.Retail distribution centers use the technology for omnichannel order processing. The same system fulfills store replenishment orders and individual customer shipments without reconfiguration.Third-party logistics providers leverage the system's flexibility to serve multiple clients from shared facilities. They reconfigure storage allocations quickly as customer requirements change.Pharmaceutical distributors appreciate the system's accuracy and inventory control capabilities. The technology provides real-time location tracking and supports first-expired-first-out (FEFO) picking strategies.Electronics manufacturers utilize the system for component storage and kitting operations. The high-density storage accommodates thousands of low-volume SKUs in minimal floor space."One automotive parts distributor we worked with needed to double their SKU count without expanding their building," Romaine states. "Traditional racking couldn't deliver that. The Cube robotic system gave them 3.5 times their previous storage capacity in the same footprint. They canceled a planned facility expansion that would have cost $12 million."URBX Cube Robotics ASRS Implementation ApproachISD's OptimalOps-Process framework guides Cube robotic ASRS implementations from initial assessment through system validation.The process starts with comprehensive data analysis. ISD examines order profiles, SKU velocity, inventory characteristics, and workflow patterns. This analysis determines optimal system sizing and configuration.Design work considers both upstream and downstream operations. The Cube ASRS doesn't operate in isolation—it connects to receiving processes, picking workstations, packing stations, and shipping sorters. ISD designs these integration points for seamless material flow.Implementation planning addresses operational continuity. Most facilities can't shut down for system installation. ISD develops phased deployment strategies that maintain operations during construction and commissioning.Training programs prepare staff for new workflows. Technology changes how workers interact with inventory. Comprehensive training ensures smooth transitions and rapid productivity ramp-up."The technology works beautifully—when it's implemented correctly," Romaine emphasizes. "Poor integration kills ROI. We've seen expensive systems underperform because nobody thought about how totes move from receiving to the ASRS input, or how picked orders flow to packing stations. You need integrators who understand the entire workflow, not just the equipment."Return on Investment Factors for URBX Cube Robotics ASRSCube robotic ASRS investments typically deliver ROI through multiple operationalimprovements:Labor Reduction Manual picking requires workers to travel, search, and retrieve items. The Cube system brings inventory to stationary picking positions. Labor productivity typically improves 3-4 times compared to manual operations.Space Optimization Increased storage density eliminates expansion requirements.Organizations avoid capital expenditures for building additions or new facilities. Some operations consolidate multiple locations into single automated facilities.Accuracy Improvement Automated storage and retrieval eliminates location errors. Vision systems verify tote contents. Pick accuracy typically exceeds 99.9%—reducing returns, customer complaints, and reshipment costs.Throughput Capacity The system scales throughput by adding robots to the grid structure. Organizations handle peak volumes without temporary labor surges or overtime expenses.Inventory Visibility Real-time location tracking provides accurate inventory data. Organizations reduce safety stock requirements and improve inventory turns."One Ecommerce operation calculated their payback at 22 months," notes Romaine. "They eliminated 18 picking positions, gained 12,000 additional pallet positions, and improved order accuracy from 98.1% to 99.7%. Those aren't hypothetical benefits. They're documented results measured six months post implementation."Why ISD as Your URBX Cube Robotics ASRS Integration PartnerISD brings 60-plus years of warehouse automation experience to Cube robotic ASRS implementations. The company's OEM-agnostic approach ensures clients receive optimal solutions rather than vendor-locked specifications.ISD's expertise extends beyond equipment installation. The company analyzes entire facility operations—from receiving through shipping—designing integrated solutions that maximize performance across all processes.The OptimalOps-Process framework provides systematic methodology for assessment, design, implementation, and validation. This structured approach minimizes risk and accelerates time to full productivity.ISD maintains relationships with leading material handling equipment manufacturers. This network provides access to proven technologies and ensures long-term support availability."We're integrators who happen to manufacture some products—not manufacturers trying to be integrators," Romaine concludes. "That difference matters. We recommend Cube robotics if it's the right solution. We recommend other technologies when they fit better.Your operational success is our success. We're partners, not vendors."For organizations evaluating automated storage solutions or seeking to optimize existing warehouse operations, ISD offers free consultations to assess operational performance and identify improvement opportunities.About ISD - Integrated Systems DesignISD is a leading systems integrator specializing in warehouse, distribution, and manufacturing operations, as well as an OEM provider of the UltraStore Mid-Load ASRS system. Our proprietary OptimalOps-Process™ features an 8-step framework designed to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, expedite ROI, and future-proof operations by optimizing picking, sorting, packing, and shipping processes.At ISD, we prioritize collaboration, working closely with clients to define objectives, conduct comprehensive data analyses, and implement strategic planning. This partnership creates high-performance, tailored solutions that align with operational and business KPIs.Our extensive offerings encompass conveyor systems, Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS), Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), robotics, sortation systems, warehouse software, pallet handling, packaging automation, and order fulfillment technologies.With 60-plus years of experience and an OEM-agnostic approach, ISD delivers customized solutions that maximize ROI and operational effectiveness. For more information, visit www.isddd.comVideo Link: https://youtu.be/vfHuAcZZpNQContactEd RomaineChief Marketing Officereromaine@isddd.com.
WIXOM, MI - ISD - Integrated Systems Design today announced the Robotic 3D Sorter Mini Putwall System, an advanced sortation solution that transforms warehouse operations through its innovative three-dimensional design. The system delivers impressive metrics including 70% labor savings and return on investment in under a year.The 3D Sorter Mini utilizes both vertical and horizontal space to minimize footprint while maximizing sortation capabilities. With a throughput of up to 1,500 pieces per hour and 3 to 5 times greater sorting efficiency compared to manual methods, the system addresses critical challenges facing modern warehouses."What makes the 3D Sorter Mini truly exceptional is its ability to deliver enterprise-level sortation performance in a compact footprint," said Ed Romaine, VP Marketing and Business Development at ISD. "We're seeing clients achieve dramatic improvements in efficiency while significantly reducing labor costs. This system represents a fundamental shift in how warehouses approach the entire sortation process."The system's intelligent design accommodates up to 100 customizable sort positions and integrates seamlessly with existing warehouse technologies, including Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS), conveyor systems, and shelving solutions.By automating the sortation process, operations can significantly reduce reliance on manual labor while processing items at previously unattainable rates in comparable spaces. The combination of labor savings, improved throughput, and reduced error rates contributes to the system's notably fast return on investment.In today's competitive real estate market, the 3D Sorter Mini addresses space constraints through vertical design, requiring significantly less floor area than traditional sorting systems. Its modular, customizable configuration makes it ideal for operations experiencing seasonal fluctuations in demand.The system features advanced intelligence with seamless integration capabilities for major Warehouse Management Systems, Warehouse Execution Systems, and Enterprise Resource Planning platforms. Despite its sophisticated technology, the 3D Sorter Mini is designed for rapid deployment with minimal training requirements.Its versatility makes it suitable for diverse applications across numerous sectors including e-commerce, apparel and footwear, third-party logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing. The underlying technology includes high-speed sorting robots operating at 1.0 m/s with vertical lifting ranges from 500mm to 2100mm, intelligent routing, and gentle handling through high-friction conveyor belts.As warehouses face increasing pressure to process more orders faster while controlling costs, solutions like the Robotic 3D Sorter Mini Putwall System represent essential technology for competitive operations. The system's combination of space efficiency, labor savings, and cross-industry adaptability positions it as a key advancement in warehouse automation.About Integrated Systems Design - ISD Integrated Systems Design is a comprehensive systems integrator of automated solutions for warehouses, manufacturing, distribution centers, retail, assembly, and wholesale applications improving processes and productivity while reducing operational costs. Whether providing consulting services to meet current issues or developing future scalable plans to address industry challenges, ISD creates value by designing systems to our clients' specific requirements. ISD expertise ranges from handling, storing, and picking pieces (eaches), cases, pallets, build lines, and special or custom handling solutions. Products and services include: automatic storage and retrieval (ASRS), conveyor, AMRs, robotics, batch stations, shuttles, pick-to-light, carousels, vertical lift modules (VLMs), sortation systems, truck loading/unloading systems, controls, software (including inventory management, WCS, WMS, MES, and ERP).ContactEd RomaineVP Marketing & Bus. Dev.215-512-2613eromaine@isddd.com
Wixom, MI – September 2024– Integrated Systems Design (ISD), a leading innovator in material handling solutions, is proud to announce an alliance with URBX, pioneers in high-density robotic automation. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the world of warehouse and distribution center technology, as ISD is now authorized to design, implement, and support URBX's automated vertical goods-to-person AS/RS solution. The URBX system, born from the innovative minds at Mass Robotics, represents a quantum leap in fulfillment technology. With its ability to reach heights of 125 feet and accommodate 75 levels of double-deep tote storage, the system offers unparalleled storage density, velocity, and throughput capabilities. The system’s fleet of free-roaming, dual-robots can fulfill complex, multi-line orders up to eight times faster than traditional systems. Another key benefit is the system’s cost-effectiveness allows organizations to meet OPEX restrictions while obtaining a rapid return on investment (ROI). Tony Morgott, VP of ISD, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership: "At ISD, we've always been at the forefront of warehouse automation. The URBX system aligns perfectly with our mission to provide our clients with the most efficient and innovative solutions. This technology's ability to complete 50-line orders in under 3 minutes is not just impressive – it's revolutionary." The collaboration between ISD and URBX is set to address the growing complexities faced by modern warehouses and distribution centers. "Our clients are constantly seeking ways to optimize their operations in the face of increasing-commerce demands and the need for rapid store replenishment," Rudi Lueg, Chief Commercial Officer at URBX added. "The URBX system, integrated with our advanced warehouse execution systems, offers a scalable, flexible solution that can adapt to our clients' evolving needs." Morgott highlighted the strategic advantage this partnership brings to ISD's clients: "In today's fast-paced retail and e-commerce landscape, speed and accuracy are paramount. The URBX system, combined with our expertise in systems integration, will empower our clients to meet and exceed the intense demands of modern fulfillment. We're not just offering a product; we're providing a competitive advantage." As the warehouse and distribution industry continues to evolve, the ISD-URBX partnership stands ready to lead the charge in innovative, efficient, and scalable automation solutions. About Integrated Systems Design - ISD Integrated Systems Design is a comprehensive systems integrator of automated solutions for warehouses, manufacturing, distribution, retail, and wholesale applications improving processes and productivity while reducing operational costs. Whether providing consulting services to meet current issues or developing future scalable plans to address industry challenges, ISD creates value for a broad range of industries tailoring systems to clients' specific requirements. ? ISD expertise ranges from handling, storing, and picking pieces (eaches), cases, pallets, build lines, and special or custom handling solutions. Products and services include automatic storage and retrieval (ASRS), conveyor, robotics, batch stations, shuttles, pick-to-light, A-Frames, carousels, vertical lift modules (VLMs), controls, software (including inventory management, WCS, WMS, MES, and ERP). Contact Ed Romaine VP Marketing & Business Development 215-512-2613
Wixom, MI – August 2024 – Integrated Systems Design (ISD) announces the release of its cutting-edge Warehouse Control System (WCS) software for the UltraStore™ Mid-Load Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS) and the entire warehouse. This new software represents a significant leap forward in inventory management technology, offering enhanced flexibility and cost-effectiveness for warehouse operations. The UltraStore™ WCS is a comprehensive inventory management solution that provides users with complete control over their warehouse inventory. Its sleek, user-friendly interface ensures ease of navigation, reduced training time, and operation, making it accessible to users of all technical levels. The UltraStore™ WCS software provides real-time stock levels, allowing management to eliminate stock-outs and schedule replenishment as labor becomes available. The system also boasts easily configurable options, enabling users to tailor the software's behavior to their specific needs and processes. Additionally, ISD offers round-the-clock support to ensure customers can maximize the potential of their UltraStore™ WCS software at any time. Brian Parent, Software Engineering Supervisor at ISD, emphasized the customer-centric approach behind the software's development: "We pride ourselves on using customer feedback to consistently strive to make better products. This new release combines features that many customers have requested into a single solution. These enhancements will reduce startup and development costs for our customers while improving the quality of our products and service to the standards our customers have come to expect from ISD." The new UltraStore™ WCS software is designed to evolve with customer needs, with plans for advanced services to be rolled out in the future. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the system will continue to meet the changing demands of modern warehouse management. About Integrated Systems Design - ISD Integrated Systems Design is a comprehensive systems integrator of automated solutions for warehouses, manufacturing, distribution, retail, and wholesale applications improving processes and productivity while reducing operational costs. Whether providing consulting services to meet current issues or developing future scalable plans to address industry challenges, ISD creates value for a broad range of industries tailoring systems to clients' specific requirements. ? ISD expertise ranges from handling, storing, and picking pieces (eaches), cases, pallets, build lines, and special or custom handling solutions. Products and services include: automatic storage and retrieval (ASRS), conveyor, robotics, batch stations, shuttles, pick-to-light, A-Frames, carousels, vertical lift modules (VLMs), controls, software (including inventory management, WCS, WMS, MES, and ERP). For more information about the UltraStore™ Mid-Load AS/RS system and its new WCS software, please visit www.isddd.com. Contact Ed Romaine VP Marketing & Bus. Dev. 215-512-2613 eromaine@isddd.com
