AutoStore Ensures Product Safety Through Rigorous Testing in Collaboration with RISE

AutoStore, a Norwegian company that has developed an automated cube-storage system, has worked with RISE since 2010 to test and guarantee the safety of its products. As there are no internationally established standards for this type of system, the company has relied on RISE’s expertise in areas such as fire safety, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and machinery safety.

Joakim Franzon, Director of Product Compliance at AutoStore, explains:

“There aren’t established standards for our products. A technical committee is reviewing our category of warehouse systems, but it is going to take some time before that work is complete.”

RISE has played a central role in helping AutoStore ensure the quality and safety of its products. Monika Fuller, Division Manager for Vehicles and Automation at RISE, says:

“When AutoStore approached us initially, fire safety was the first area they wanted to test. RISE was able to support them with testing to demonstrate to regulatory authorities that this type of solution is safe. Afterwards, AutoStore became aware that we could also test for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), assist with electrical safety, and conduct environmental durability testing on their products,” explains Monika Fuller, Division Manager for Vehicles and Automation at RISE. She continues:

“Sometimes we didn’t have immediate answers to AutoStore’s questions, but together we have been able to determine what is required. Today, we are deeply involved in their product approval process. This is more of a partnership than a traditional customer–supplier relationship.”

AutoStore’s product approval process now covers 19 different areas, with RISE involved in testing for fire safety, EMC and machinery safety, to name a few examples. Recently, AutoStore also engaged RISE to test the cybersecurity of its storage system.

AutoStore uses these tests as a means to enter international markets. Joakim Franzon remarks: 

“For us, the tests are a way to be able to sell in various countries. We simply cannot access certain markets unless we can present a certificate showing that our products have been tested by an independent third party. We also place very high demands on the safety of what we deliver. There are undoubtedly many aspects we could test ourselves, but we choose to use a third party in order to receive an independent review of our work.”

He also emphasises the importance of working with external experts:

“I have very capable people on my team, but we need individuals who have truly deep expert knowledge in each area. That’s where RISE comes in and helps us ensure that we meet all requirements.”

Read the full story ‘AutoStore Tests Everything to Ensure Safety’ on RI.se >