6-fold depth as an efficiency lever

Compact System Architecture for Greater Space Efficiency and Cost Effectiveness

Rocketsolution has developed a highly automated shuttle system that enables maximum storage capacity within a minimal footprint through its 6-deep storage concept, without compromising performance, availability, or future scalability.

According to Rocketsolution, the Rocket Shuttle System is one of the most compact bin and tray-based shuttle systems on the market. Thanks to its cross-storage design, minimal clearances, and exceptionally narrow aisles, the system achieves a width of just 4.1 meters in the 4-deep configuration and 5.7 meters in the 6-deep configuration, while maintaining a high storage density.

Conventional longitudinal storage systems with two- or three-deep storage typically require around five meters of system width while offering lower storage density or requiring additional space. In single-aisle applications, the solution can either reduce floor space requirements or create additional storage capacity. In multi-aisle systems, the number of aisles can be reduced. Overall, companies can save up to 30% of warehouse space or achieve up to 30% more storage locations.

The Rocket System supports:

• 4-deep storage with container or tray weights up to 50 kg
• 6-deep storage with container or tray weights up to 35 kg

Both configurations are designed for installation heights of up to 26 meters and aisle lengths exceeding 100 meters. The system supports standard container footprints of 600 × 400 mm and 650 × 450 mm for 4- to 5-deep storage applications.

High Availability Through Standardized Technology

The Rocket System is designed for reliable and resilient operation. The system does not rely on batteries within the warehouse. Instead, power is supplied through conductor rails operating at 230 volts, eliminating charging cycles, battery replacement, and energy losses across long aisles.

Within the racking structure, no conveyor technology is required. This eliminates additional mechanics, electrical components, sensors, and software otherwise needed for transfers between lifts and shuttles. Containers are transferred via simple support angles.

The lifts are integrated directly into the rack structure, designed for cost efficiency and capable of bidirectional operation. This allows multiple lifts per aisle to balance shuttle and lift performance while increasing redundancy.

The shuttle utilizes a telescopic satellite mechanism that lifts containers directly from the rack structure using intelligent drive technology. This load-handling method is gentle on both the shuttle and the containers, contributing to overall system stability.

System control is based on a standard Siemens PLC, avoiding proprietary, manufacturer-specific electronics. Integrated camera systems on both shuttles and lifts support rapid recovery from disruptions by enabling remote fault identification, assessment, and acknowledgement. In addition, the accessible aisle design allows for quick shuttle replacement when required.

Furthermore, Rocket systems do not experience so-called “dancing tote” effects. Containers are positioned with extremely small clearances and nearly directly adjacent to one another. The bolted steel structure further enhances system stability. Even if containers shift slightly, the selected load-handling technology ensures continued operation, including in long aisles, multi-lift configurations, and multi-level installations.

Roaming Performance Without Roaming Components

While many shuttle systems rely on roaming shuttles, roaming lifts, and additional mechanisms to increase performance flexibility, Rocketsolution achieves similar benefits without requiring level or aisle changes.

Each shuttle serves:

• 8 storage positions in the 4-deep configuration
• 12 storage positions in the 6-deep configuration

This enables high access speeds within its dedicated level.

By eliminating roaming functionality and the associated components, single points of failure are avoided and the risk of system disruptions is significantly reduced.

Cost Optimization Throughout the Entire Lifecycle

The system’s compact design substantially reduces space requirements. In many projects, entire aisles can be eliminated, reducing both construction and investment costs.

Operating expenses are also reduced through:

• Fewer system components
• Reduced maintenance requirements
• No recurring software licensing models

Standardized, proven interfaces enable straightforward integration into existing warehouse management systems, lowering both project and integration costs. Together, these advantages contribute to a faster return on investment.

At a Glance

With the EffiX Configurator from Rocketsolution, companies can quickly gain a reliable first assessment of their shuttle project. In just a few steps, users receive an initial system concept including a layout proposal and indicative budget estimate.

Learn more: EffiX Configurator