Compact ASRS enables smart manufacturing logistics

A compact automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) has been implemented at Dine Inc.’s manufacturing site in Changwon, South Korea, improving material flow, inventory accuracy, and space utilisation in tooling production environments.

Automation tailored for tooling manufacturing
The deployed AutoStore system supports intralogistics operations where high part variety and precision handling are required. Tooling manufacturers typically manage dense inventories of small, high-value components, making storage density and picking accuracy critical performance factors.

The system integrates 2,420 bins, two robots, and two operator ports, forming a goods-to-person workflow that reduces manual travel and standardises picking operations. This configuration enables consistent handling processes and improves traceability across inventory movements.

Space optimisation and handling efficiency
The installation addresses one of the primary constraints in manufacturing facilities: limited floor space. By using a grid-based storage architecture, the system increases storage density compared to conventional shelving while maintaining direct access to stored items through robotic retrieval.

The use of robotic carriers allows parallel processing of storage and retrieval tasks, reducing picking times and improving throughput stability. This is particularly relevant in tooling applications, where production schedules depend on timely access to components.

Integration into a digital supply chain
The system forms part of Dine Inc.’s broader smart manufacturing initiative, where logistics processes are increasingly integrated with production planning and inventory control systems.

Automated storage contributes to a digital supply chain by enabling structured data capture on inventory status, movement frequency, and order fulfilment. This improves visibility and supports more accurate demand planning and replenishment strategies.
Additionally, reduced manual handling lowers the risk of errors and variability, which is essential for maintaining quality standards in precision manufacturing environments.

Scalable automation for mid-sized facilities
Despite its relatively compact footprint, the system demonstrates how scalable automation can deliver measurable operational improvements without requiring large-scale infrastructure investment.

The modular design allows incremental expansion, enabling manufacturers to align automation capacity with production growth. This is particularly relevant for small and mid-sized enterprises seeking to adopt smart manufacturing technologies without disrupting existing operations.

Operational impact and future outlook
The implementation improves material flow efficiency, enhances inventory visibility, and supports more reliable picking processes. These factors contribute to shorter response times in production logistics and improved overall equipment effectiveness.

The project also highlights a broader trend in intralogistics: the adoption of compact, modular ASRS solutions to support flexible manufacturing environments. As Dine Inc. continues to expand its automation capabilities, such systems are expected to play a central role in enabling data-driven and scalable production logistics.

Edited by an industrial journalist Sucithra Mani with AI assistance.

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