Inside the Ocado Storage and Retrieval System

On Grid Robotic Pick is an automated picking solution available 24/7 to alleviate the effect of labour fluctuations and unlock significant cost savings. Robotic pick uses cutting edge computer vision sensing and machine learning to pick and pack products more efficiently than traditional methods by maintaining consistency, accuracy and availability.

Our Warehouse Execution System (WES) software uses advanced algorithms and live operational data to optimise tote storage and retrieval while coordinating the efficient use of bots and pick stations for the rapid picking of customer orders.

WES constantly monitors warehouse operational health and seamlessly adapts to manage operational challenges.

Battery swap provides high capacity automated battery exchange and charging for maximum bot uptime. Bots are in service more than 99% of operating hours with sub one minute battery hot swaps typically occurring every two hours via robotic handling.

The OSP Bot is a high speed, high productivity worker that does the time-consuming job of fetching and dropping off totes with inventory, whether to human operated pick stations or our fully automated robotic pick arm. Our patented single grid cell footprint design allows bots to pass one another unobstructed, follow the most optimum routes and maintain industry leading availability.

Decant stations help operators perform the critical task of transitioning products from inbound pallets into the grid, leveraging automation for high inventory processing efficiency, security and traceability.

A modern user interface steps operators through the entire stock induction process with imagery and clear instructions for the detrash of each product. Decant stations can process over 1,000 units per hour.

The Combine + Separate Machine (CSM) replaces complex, costly and risky integration of extra equipment and processes by automating the insertion and removal of delivery totes into plastic and metal storage totes for secure, traceable transport in the grid.

It optimises the flow of these containers to and from pick stations and to outbound processes, reducing human touch points.

Automating the insertion of plastic and paper bags into totes, this technology ensures consistently high throughput and reduces labour cost and dependency. In addition it minimises downstream issues caused by incorrectly placed bags. Wide bag openings maximise pick productivity.