The chief goal of the project was to build a light-weighted version of a VLM AS/RS that can reduce the cost and space requirements of conventional systems. To achieve this, I changed the traditional design for the inserter/extractor by using sliders instead of conventional rack and pinion gears. This significantly brought down the cost of the project by 35%, as the cost of 136 gears of 32 teeth each was replaced by just 12 pairs of horizontal sliders. Moreover, this design also improved the speed and accuracy of the system, as the sliders eliminated the backlash and friction problems associated with gears. The system was tested and validated using SolidWorks and MATLAB simulations, and the results showed that it can perform reliably and efficiently under various load conditions. 

An automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS or AS/RS) consists of a variety of computer-controlled systems for automatically placing and retrieving loads from defined storage locations. AS/RS systems are designed for automated storage and retrieval of parts and items in manufacturing, distribution, retail, wholesale and institutions.