The AutoStore Connector creates seamless integration and maximum efficiency.

S&P brings AutoStore and warehouse management software SuPCIS-L8 on a harmonious course.

The AutoStore boom prompted the development department at S&P Computersysteme GmbH, manufacturer of warehouse management software from Leinfelden-Echterdingen and, since 2022, a subsidiary of the first and largest Autostore distributor Element Logic, to create its own technical component for AutoStore. The AutoStore Connector enables a smooth connection from AutoStore to the S&P warehouse management system SuPCIS-L8 and has the ability to master the most complex challenges. This solution offers a completely new dimension of transparency and control, especially in large AutoStore systems.

Simple operation and unlimited connection options
The AutoStore Connector is fully and seamlessly integrated into the SuPCIS-L8 warehouse management software. Thanks to the direct connection, data is automatically synchronized between the warehouse management software and the AutoStore system. It is even possible to connect several AutoStore systems of different sizes. The AutoStore Connector shares the tasks with the AutoStore. For example, if picking is required, the warehouse management software informs the AutoStore which container is needed at the port. The AutoStore then takes care of all transports and the pre-optimized provision of the bins to avoid waiting times for the bins for an order. The warehouse management software knows the stock levels in the individual bins and the AutoStore knows the fill level. Thanks to the native integration, all information and workstation dialogs have the same user interface. For the warehouse control center, this means a holistic overview and full transparency across the entire warehouse. This overview also enables flexible personnel deployment, as the identical operating principle is used in all warehouse areas. To this end, S&P has developed the functions generically, i.e. universally, so that they can be used for different data types and data structures. Technologically, the AutoStore Connector is designed in such a way that it runs through automatic tests when changes are made. This means that the component can be updated at any time and offers a very high level of security for new software imports. This means that even the performance requirements of large systems can be met, for example those of a system with more than 170,000 bins, 30 ports and 300 robots.

Horst Reichert, Managing Director at S&P, takes his hat off to the development team and enthuses: "The AutoStore Connector is a real warehouse revolution. The AutoStore and our warehouse management software merge into one team. I love the variety and simplicity. Our customers love that too."

Extra feature for central workstation control
When it comes to integrating very large AutoStore systems, some customers want central workstation control. Why? Because the AutoStore is self-organizing, i.e. it is controlled decentrally. If an order is to be picked at the port, the employee normally chooses whether, for example, the express or standard orders should be processed first. This works well for small and most medium-sized systems. For very large systems with dozens of ports, some of which are spread across different storage areas and buildings, this principle reaches its limits. In order to offer customers a solution for such systems, S&P has created the central workstation control as AutoStore Dialog. This allows the control center to determine what is done at the individual ports. For example, port one handles express orders, port two handles standard orders and port five concentrates on storage. Workstation control is designed as an add-on. This means that as long as no restrictions are configured, the self-organizing principle continues to apply. However, the warehouse control center still has control at all times over how much control intervention is required.

Combined solution comprising external logistics system and material flow computer
Before the AutoStore Connector, S&P connected AutoStore to the warehouse management software as an external logistics system (ELS) in the form of a black box. The problem: although it is integrated, it is separated due to the different functions and the different user interface, a middleware then required. Users want software for their intralogistics with the various automated warehouses without additional systems and less complexity in operation. S&P normally connects automated warehouses with the highly flexible material flow computer (MFC). However, as automated storage systems are usually rather individual, apart from AutoStore, the MFC must be commissioned for each project with the system manufacturer and their PLC programming staff. This is different with AutoStore, which is a standardized plug-and-play system and can be used productively in a very short time. However, the flexibility of the MFC in combination with the AutoStore Connector can also be used in solutions in which the containers are to leave the AutoStore. This combines the best of both worlds for the optimum customer solution.