Orbiter Information

Dynamic and compact

The Orbiter and the Docking Station designed for storage using a fork-lift form an inseparable function unit that enables highly efficient provision of goods using a simple working principle. The fork-lift picks up the Docking Station incl. the Orbiter and places on the front centring console of the rack aisles. The Docking Station is easy, safe and fast to use, without operator stress thanks to generous entry tolerances. Fitted with high performance condensers and thanks to the integrated power supply in the racking system, the Schäfer Orbiter System stands out in the aisle thanks to its amazing dynamics. The innovation from SSI SCHAEFER: The Orbiter System Power Cap technology is extremely long-life and also means it can be used in the deep freeze area without any problems. This system requires no battery change, the system life cycle costs are optimised to the maximum.

Simple to operate

The Schaefer Orbiter system can be used with every conventional fork lift. The Orbiter works in the shelves fully independently. The shuttle vehicle receives its commands via a remote control (complete with easy to understand icons), which the fork-lift driver uses. The possible functions such as storage, retrieval, inventory, shuffle mode, etc. are triggered by the fork lift driver who carries out the command automatically and returns to the station after each procedure. Each function unit is connected to an operating device. This means several Orbiters can be administered by the same fork-lift driver. Use of several shuttle vehicles at the same time and the above average speed of the Schaefer Orbiters in the aisle means that not only are the goods available much faster, but also that other activities can be carried out, whilst the goods are stored or retrieved.

Unique Safety Concept

Last year the Verband für Lagertechnik und Betriebseinrichtungen (Association for Warehouse Technology and Operating Equipment) discovered blatant safety gaps in shuttle systems and pointed out the necessity for new safety guidelines. The safety concept of the Schaefer Orbiter System takes into account this knowledge as well as own observations from the point of view of SSI Schaefer.
Thanks to the Docking Station the unit can be localised and the work procedures in the racking system are visible immediately. The aisle is blocked by the station, which is placed across the racking aisle on the 2 consoles placed at the side, this makes access very difficult. A hazard warning light additionally signals when and where the system is active. The Docking Station is fitted with and Emergency Off switch, the Orbiter with redundant safety relevant components. The system operation is maintained by means of permanent communication between the Orbiter and Docking Station thanks to safety and light barriers. If this communication is interrupted the machine will stop and thus guarantees safety at work in line with current valid regulations.

Optimum protection for goods and components

The technical design of the Orbiter Shuttle with sprung side rollers for straight track running, as well as a variably adjustable distance control when storing pallets, adjustable via light sensor, provides careful treatment of the goods. Rough shaking of the goods due to end to end storage is no longer applicable. This is supported by the shuttle having eight wheels, this leads to optimum load distribution and improved driving properties. The four high resolution controlled drives on the Orbiter provide a high dynamic.

The innovative lifting technology works quickly and precisely. When the core unit is transferred the Orbiter is in the Docking Station and thus protected from all sides against any third party effect, in particular against collision with the fork lift teeth in everyday fork lift operation in a warehouse.

Once again SSI Schaefer provides an innovative solution proving their competence as one of the worldwide leading providers of material flow systems.