Abstract: An automated storage/retrieval system is proposed. The system includes a control system, at least one storage unit having several levels at which loads can be picked or deposited and at least one interface conveyor for entries/exits of loads into and out of the system, and at least one elevator for a transfer of loads between said at least interface conveyor and the at least one storage unit. The at least one elevator is a multi-level elevator, and the automated storage/retrieval system furthermore includes at least one multi-level transfer device capable of simultaneously receiving, on several levels, a set of loads intended for or coming from at least one elevator; and at least one sequencer provided with elements of vertical moving and capable of transferring loads between the at least one multi-level transfer device and the at least one interface conveyor.

Abstract: A method is provided for preparing instructions that each list unit loads. The method includes: obtaining unit loads; inputting the unit 11 loads into a sorting system under the supervision of a control system; sorting the unit loads using a sorting system in accordance with the instructions from and under the supervision of the control system; and, for each instruction, providing, via the sorting system, unit loads listed in the instruction. The step of obtaining unit loads is followed by forming logistical units, each including one or more unit loads, on the basis of the instructions from and under the supervision of the control system. The inputting, sorting, and providing steps are carried out by handling the logistical units obtained.

Abstract: There is proposed a unit including a station for preparing orders, controlled by a control system. The station has a first circuit that includes a first outward conveyor, which receives containers for storing products, and an accumulator for accumulating a predetermined quantity of storage containers received on the first outward conveyor. The accumulator includes: at least one first shaft comprising superposed mobile positions that can each receive and downwardly move at least one storage container, the at least one first shaft vertically accumulating and sequentially dispensing storage containers previously placed in the positions; and at least one first elevator moving vertically along the at least one first chute up to each of the locations of the at least one first chute.

Abstract: There is proposed a unit including a station for preparing orders, controlled by a control system. The station has a first circuit that includes a first outward conveyor, which receives containers for storing products, and an accumulator for accumulating a predetermined quantity of storage containers received on the first outward conveyor. The accumulator includes: at least one first shaft comprising superposed mobile positions that can each receive and downwardly move at least one storage container, the at least one first shaft vertically accumulating and sequentially dispensing storage containers previously placed in the positions; and at least one first elevator moving vertically along the at least one first chute up to each of the locations of the at least one first chute.