Exotec Skypod

What is Exotec Skypod?

Exotec is a global robotics company that specializes in solutions for intralogistics. Exotec’s main product is the Skypod system. It is a state-of-the-art Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) that is characterized by its innovative technology and flexibility. The Skypod System from Exotec not only impresses with its three-dimensional operation of the storage robots, but also with its easily scalable plug-and-play model. These features make the system particularly suitable for companies that need a flexible and efficient warehouse solution and want to be able to expand the system in the future.

What components does the Exotec Skypod consist of?

Warehouse robots (“goods-to-person assistant”): These robots are the heart of the Skypod system and bring the goods directly to the picking station. Their three-dimensional mode of operation enables them to navigate efficiently through the warehouse environment and to pick goods from different heights and depths.

What dimensions can an Exotec system assume?

The Exotec system (Skypod) is flexibly scalable and ranges from small, compact solutions with just a few robots to large systems with hundreds of robots. The system can be expanded on a modular basis at any time, enabling individual adaptation to existing space conditions as well as business and warehouse growth. The system can reach a height of up to 14m.

How powerful is the Exotec system?

The Exotec automated storage system achieves high throughput rates of up to 400 picks per hour and station. This is made possible by the autonomous, vertical storage robots (“Skypods”). The robots move at speeds of up to 4 m/s and reach picking stations within a few seconds, ensuring maximum efficiency and the shortest possible processing times.

Is the Exotec a closed system?

Yes, Exotec is a closed system, both in terms of hardware and software. The storage area of an Exotec system, including the pre-zones and material transport to the picking workstations, is separated from the rest of the environment by security fences. Exotec also relies exclusively on the company’s own WMS solution, Exotec Deepsky, for its software. However, it can be easily connected to existing warehouse management software(WMS) and ERP systems to ensure integration and data exchange with external IT systems.

What materials can Exotec containers store?

A wide variety of products can be stored in Exotec containers, including small parts, packaged goods, electronic items, fashion items and pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. The only restrictions are in terms of weight (up to approx. 30 kg) and dimensions, adapted to the standard containers (600×400 mm or customer-specific dimensions). The system is not limited to standard containers. It is possible to use customer-specific containers and store them on the trays.

What special requirements are necessary for an Exotec system?

The structural requirements are relatively low compared to other automated small parts warehouses. Exotec systems require level, stable floor surfaces, a reliable power supply and a WLAN infrastructure for communication. In addition, defined temperature ranges (typically 0-40°C), a low-dust environment and sufficient load-bearing capacity of the floor should be met to ensure operational capability.

Figure 8: Exotec Skypod storage and order picking system (Source: Exotec)

For which special applications is the Exotec system suitable?

The automated storage system from Exotec is particularly suitable for e-commerce warehouses, retail store supply, spare parts logistics and picking highly dynamic flows of goods. Thanks to its rapid adaptability and scalability, the system is ideal for companies and sectors that require high flexibility and short processing times, such as the electronics, fashion or pharmaceutical industries. The scalability of the Exotec system also makes it particularly suitable for projects in which the automated warehouse is to be expanded in stages.

What is particularly important in planning and procurement?

A detailed needs analysis, precise capacity planning, necessary performance requirements and consideration of future scaling options are crucial. The design variations always have an impact on the business case calculation and should be sufficiently checked before the decision to implement is made. Early involvement of the IT department for system integration is important for a smooth ramp-up phase. In addition to the early involvement of the relevant employees in the specialist department, comprehensive coordination with the manufacturer regarding delivery times, maintenance contracts and service level agreements is also important to ensure successful implementation and long-term efficiency.