Reference
Intralogistics glossary
Definitions of the essential warehouse-automation terms — from AS/RS and AMR to cross-belt and WCS. A quick reference for operations and project teams.
- AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle)
- An AGV is an internal transport vehicle that moves along fixed, predefined routes, following physical guides (magnetic tape, buried wire) or markers. It is used to move pallets and containers between warehouse zones.
- AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot)
- An AMR is a mobile robot that navigates freely in a warehouse using sensors and digital maps, without fixed guides. Unlike an AGV, it dynamically recalculates its path to avoid obstacles.
- AS/RS (Automated Storage and Retrieval System)
- An AS/RS is a technology system that automatically stores and retrieves goods units (totes, trays, pallets) from high-density racking, using shuttles, cranes or robots. It increases storage density and picking throughput.
- Automated sorting
- Automated sorting is the process of routing products to destinations (routes, chutes, bins) without manual intervention, using sorters and diverters controlled by a control system.
- Conveyor
- A conveyor is a mechanical system that continuously transports products between work points, using rollers, belts or chains. It is the backbone of material flow in an automated warehouse.
- Cross-belt sorter
- A cross-belt sorter is a high-throughput sorter made of independent carriers, each with its own transverse belt. When the destination is reached, the belt activates and ejects the parcel sideways, with high precision and gentle handling.
- Greenfield
- A greenfield project is an automation deployment in a new building, with no existing infrastructure constraints. It allows optimal flow design from scratch.
- MDR (Motor Driven Roller)
- An MDR is a conveyor roller with an integrated low-voltage electric motor that drives adjacent rollers via a belt. It enables zero-pressure accumulation conveyors that are energy-efficient and quiet.
- Pick-to-light
- Pick-to-light is a light-guided method that shows the operator which location and quantity to pick from. It increases order-picking speed and accuracy.
- Picking (order picking)
- Picking is the process of retrieving products from storage locations to assemble an order. It is the most labor-intensive operation in a warehouse and the primary target of automation.
- Put-to-light
- Put-to-light is a light-guided method that shows the operator which location (bin, order box) to place a product into. It reduces errors when sorting and consolidating orders.
- Retrofit (brownfield)
- A retrofit is the integration of automation into an existing, operating warehouse. It requires careful design around current infrastructure and flows, often phased, without stopping operations.
- RollerDrive
- RollerDrive is Interroll's name for its 24V integrated-motor roller (a type of MDR). It powers modular zero-pressure accumulation conveyors with low energy use and minimal noise.
- SKU (Stock Keeping Unit)
- A SKU is a unique code identifying a distinct stock item. The number of active SKUs determines the complexity of a warehouse's storage and picking strategy.
- Spiral conveyor
- A spiral conveyor moves products between height levels on a compact helical path, saving space compared to long inclined ramps. Useful in multi-level operating buildings.
- WCS (Warehouse Control System)
- A WCS is the software that controls automation equipment (conveyors, sorters, shuttles) in real time, translating business instructions into machine commands. It sits between the WMS and the PLCs.
- WES (Warehouse Execution System)
- A WES is software that dynamically optimizes and orchestrates work and material flow in a warehouse, combining WMS and WCS functions to balance resources in real time.
- WMS (Warehouse Management System)
- A WMS is the software that manages a warehouse's inventory, locations and operational processes: receiving, putaway, picking, shipping. It is the administrative brain of the operation.