FIFO Storage Systems

Intelligent material flow technology for trouble-free, automated production

Rotte develops efficient material flow systems for optimized production to increase output and prevent disruptions. Especially in automated manufacturing and logistics, the continuous availability of components, semi-finished products, or perishable goods is critical. Rotte’s FIFO storage systems (First In, First Out) ensure that materials are supplied in a defined sequence through demand-oriented shelving systems, keeping production processes perfectly synchronized.

Custom FIFO Solutions for Maximum Efficiency

Every industrial and logistics environment has specific requirements for material buffering and supply. Our FIFO systems are fully tailored to customer needs, allowing optimal decoupling of individual production steps. This makes it possible to compensate for delays in upstream or downstream processes without interrupting the entire line.

We develop customized FIFO storage systems designed precisely for your needs. Our solutions allow for structured interim storage of parts, modules, or components and ensure—without manual checks—that the first item stored is the first item retrieved. This improves process stability, eliminates sorting errors, and increases the overall efficiency of your production line.

A key advantage of our systems is the flexible storage and retrieval strategy. While conventional FIFO systems often rely on fixed sequences, our solutions use intelligent automation to enable a dynamic storage concept. As a result, the storage and retrieval order can be adapted to specific production needs, storage strategies, material properties, or the characteristics of loading units.

Product Example

Description:

With the FIFO 20, you decouple your module line from the stringer and laminator. Additionally, it makes your production less susceptible to disruptions and increases output. The lifting unit with its telescopic fork services 20 rack slots in any order. Storage and retrieval are independent of the current rack occupancy. Buffer and storage strategies can be freely defined. Dwell times are monitored individually per slot. Adjustable maximum dwell times ensure timely retrieval—for example, of sheets with EVA film—within their processing window. Sheets and laminates are transported on integrated belt conveyors, positioned precisely, and stored as compactly as possible. The servo-driven lift places sheets gently on surface-protecting tray supports. Conveyor speeds are optimized for the gentle handling of loose, unlaminated matrix layers. The FIFO 20 can be integrated into existing conveyor systems and control software or retrofitted with its own control unit into existing production lines.

Storing, buffering, and retrieving laminates using the FIFO principle

20 buffer slots for sheets, laminates, modules, etc.
Decouples the module line from stringer and laminator
Decouples the module line from stringer and laminator
Freely selectable storage and retrieval order
Adjustable dwell times
Targeted individual access to each laminate
Combined movement for storage and retrieval

Technology for Smooth Material Flow

Our FIFO systems are built on a combination of intelligent conveyor technology, precise control systems, and flexible storage concepts. Thanks to optimized lifting units, parts, modules, or components can be placed into or retrieved from storage compartments with maximum precision. Depending on the customer’s requirements, we place great importance on gentle material handling with minimal force to safely store and process delicate items. Our systems feature surface-protecting tray supports and adjustable conveyor speeds to securely handle sensitive parts such as glass sheets, film modules, or electronic components.

Naturally, your tailored storage solution also includes intelligent dwell-time monitoring. Our FIFO systems automatically record how long an item or container has been stored, ensuring that time-sensitive materials are retrieved on schedule. For example, adhesive-coated materials can be removed in time for further processing before their specified window expires.

Flexible Integration into Existing Production Lines

Our FIFO storage systems can be seamlessly integrated into existing conveyor paths and control systems. They can be incorporated into new production lines or retrofitted as standalone units into existing operations. These systems are scalable and can be reprogrammed with minimal effort to adapt to changes in production or intralogistics environments.

Control is managed via modern servo technology, allowing precise positioning of items in the storage compartments. The systems are fully networked and can communicate with higher-level production controls, making them ideal for integration into Industry 4.0 environments.

Application Areas for Our FIFO Storage Systems

Rotte’s customized FIFO solutions are used across many industries, particularly in operations that require continuous production processes with defined material flow.

In the solar industry, for instance, sensitive modules, laminates, or sheets are buffered in storage trays to decouple production between the stringer and laminator. In the automotive sector, our FIFO systems organize components or assemblies for downstream assembly steps. In electronics manufacturing, they ensure PCBs or sensitive components are delivered in the correct sequence to the production line.
In packaging and logistics, our systems support efficient product staging for automated picking and shipping processes. FIFO-based storage is especially important in handling perishable goods, such as in the food and pharmaceutical industries, where LIFO (Last In, First Out) storage could result in expired batches being shipped before they reach the end customer or point of sale.

Custom Automation by Rotte – The Ideal Solution for Loading, Unloading, and More

Every production environment has different needs for material buffering and supply. With our tailored FIFO storage systems, you are prepared for all operations and challenges in this area.

From detailed analysis of your logistics and production requirements to custom design, integration, and commissioning, we support you with years of cross-industry expertise. Even after setup and startup, we remain your partner with a complete service and maintenance portfolio.

Our FIFO systems enable efficient, flexible, and secure material provisioning. Benefit from continuous production flow, reduced downtime, and increased productivity.

Talk to us today—we’re happy to answer all your questions personally!

One Company, Many Advantages

Ulrich Rotte Anlagenbau & Fördertechnik GmbH is your specialist in custom machinery. In addition to our innovative solutions in special-purpose machinery and automation technology, you also benefit from a wide range of customer and after-sales services:

Your Advantages at a Glance:

Decades of experience in special-purpose machinery
Extensive know-how across all areas of automation technology
High expertise in the latest technologies and applications for Industry 4.0
All services from a single source—from development and design to manufacturing, assembly, commissioning, and regular on-site maintenance
Optional training of your machine operators, technicians, and supervisors at your facility
Mechanical engineering made in Germany – we design and manufacture exclusively in Germany
Personalized customer support – you will always have a qualified contact person available