QuickBin Bin-to-Person System

QuickBin is Quicktron’s patented bin-to-person automation system that combines high-density vertical storage with rapid robotic retrieval. Processing up to 200,000 order lines per day, the system addresses pharmaceutical distribution requirements where high SKU counts, strict inventory control, and order accuracy are key.

Product Overview

The QuickBin system fundamentally changes warehouse operations by bringing inventory bins directly to human operators rather than requiring workers to traverse storage aisles. This goods-to-person approach eliminates picker travel time while enabling narrow-aisle, high-density storage configurations that reportedly save up to 75% of warehouse space compared to manual operations.

For pharmaceutical applications, QuickBin supports strict lot tracking, FIFO (first-in-first-out) inventory rotation, and integration with pharmacy management systems—critical requirements for medication distribution compliance.

System Components

C56 Bin Picker

The C56 serves as the retrieval robot, accessing bins stored in high-density racking systems.

M5(X) Bin Mover

The M5 series transports bins between storage areas and workstations.

Workstation Design

QuickBin workstations can be configured with one or two picking points, allowing operators to process multiple orders simultaneously. The central workstation design keeps pickers stationary while robots deliver required inventory, maximizing throughput while minimizing ergonomic strain.

Key Features

Dual-Robot Architecture: The two-robot design (picker + mover) enables continuous operation. While one mover transports a bin to the workstation, the picker can retrieve the next required bin, eliminating wait times.

Vertical Storage Density: With picking heights reaching 8.3 meters, QuickBin maximizes cubic space utilization in warehouses where floor space is limited or expensive.

Scalable Deployment: Robot counts can be increased incrementally as order volumes grow. The system architecture supports expansion without operational disruption.

Cold Chain Capability: The M5(C) variant operates in temperatures down to -10°C, supporting pharmaceutical cold chain requirements for temperature-sensitive medications.

SKU Flexibility: Designed for environments with large numbers of SKUs, typical of pharmaceutical distribution where thousands of medication variants must be stored and retrieved accurately.

Clinical Applications

Pharmaceutical Distribution

QuickBin addresses key challenges in pharmaceutical logistics:

• High SKU Management: Pharmacies typically stock thousands of medication variants requiring precise inventory control
• Lot Tracking: System integration enables full traceability for regulatory compliance
• FIFO Enforcement: Automated picking ensures oldest inventory is distributed first, critical for medications with expiration dates
• Order Accuracy: 99.99% picking accuracy reduces dispensing errors

Hospital Pharmacy Operations

Central pharmacy installations benefit from:

• Reduced picking time for ward medication orders
• Integration with pharmacy information systems
• Support for unit-dose packaging workflows
• Returns processing automation

Medical Device Distribution

High-value medical devices and supplies require:

• Secure, controlled storage access
• Accurate inventory counts
• Fast order fulfillment for urgent clinical needs

Performance Specifications

System Integration

QuickBin integrates with Quicktron’s software platform:

• RCS (Robot Control System): Coordinates robot movements and task allocation
• WCS (Warehouse Control System): Interfaces with conveyor systems and other equipment
• WES (Warehouse Execution System): Optimizes order batching and inventory placement

The system also interfaces with third-party WMS (Warehouse Management Systems) and ERP platforms commonly used in pharmaceutical distribution.

Regulatory Status

As warehouse automation equipment rather than a medical device, QuickBin does not require NMPA or FDA clearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does QuickBin compare to AutoStore?

Both systems provide bin-to-person automation with high-density storage. QuickBin uses a two-robot architecture (picker + mover) with traditional aisle-based racking, while AutoStore employs a grid-based system with robots operating on top of stacked bins. QuickBin offers higher individual bin heights and potentially faster access to any specific bin.

What bin sizes does QuickBin support?

The system accommodates various bin sizes up to 30kg (standard) or 50kg (heavy-duty variant). Specific bin dimensions are customizable based on the stored products and facility requirements.

Can QuickBin handle controlled substances?

The system can be integrated with access control and audit trail features required for controlled substance handling. However, facility-specific regulatory compliance depends on the overall warehouse security infrastructure and procedures.