Avanta × Spacemaker — 4‑Way Pallet Shuttle Systems (QuadAxis Pro®)

Automated, high density storage with bi directional cart based movement

The Spacemaker QuadAxis Pro® delivers fully automated, high‑density storage for palletised loads with bi‑directional shuttle movement in deep‑lane configurations. Operating on a proven Lift & Run mechanism, it combines flexible throughput with exceptional scalability—ideal for multi‑SKU, high‑volume DCs and temperature‑controlled facilities.

Building on the dependability of the Spacemaker Pallet Mole platform, QuadAxis Pro® extends beyond linear travel by enabling shuttle translation across a two‑dimensional plane. A vertical elevator (lift) transfers pallets between levels, providing access to any location across a multi‑level, high‑density racking layout.

The system is engineered for precision and seamless expansion, with straightforward interface integration to conveyor systems and AGVs/AMRs, ensuring the solution can grow as your operation evolves.

System Architecture & Operation

Each shuttle runs on on‑board batteries along rails within a dedicated racking structure comprising Travel Lanes (longitudinal) and Cross‑Travel Lanes (lateral). Intelligent in‑rack chargers are positioned strategically; when the shuttle’s State of Charge (SoC) reaches a threshold, it automatically navigates to the nearest charging station, charges, and returns to the task queue.

Using a lifting platform and positioning sensors, the shuttle transports each pallet to its designated lane and level. Storage and retrieval are automated by a WES (Warehouse Execution System), coordinating fleet tasks, lane logic, and stock rotation (FIFO/LIFO) across the installation.

Core Features

Dynamic 2D Movement
Multidirectional navigation across Travel and Cross‑Travel lanes, with vertical access to multiple levels via an integrated shuttle + elevator system.

AC Regenerative Braking Control
Energy recovered during deceleration to reduce operating and maintenance costs and enhance battery efficiency.

Electro‑Mechanical Lifting & Traction
All‑electric actuation—no hydraulics, no leaks, simplified maintenance.

Opportunity Charging
When idle, the shuttle uses available windows to top up batteries, maximising uptime.

Bi‑Directional RF Control & Telemetry

QuadAxis selection indication
Error feedback and diagnostics
Pallet counting functions
Active task status indicator
Sensor path indication for route validation

Optional Functions

Stock Count System
High‑density stock‑taking is traditionally slow and labour‑intensive. The Stock Count function can be initiated via the WES or scheduled to run automatically during off‑peak periods, capturing lane and level counts for accurate inventory.

Battery Low Fail‑Safe
The QuadAxis Pro® monitors SoC continuously; on low charge, the shuttle will complete the current command or pause at the nearest in‑rack charger to replenish before continuing, protecting operations from unexpected stops.

Pallet Shuffle (Capacity Optimisation)
In FIFO lanes, the Pallet Shuffle function automatically moves remaining pallets forward to the aisle face, creating additional inbound capacity without manual intervention.

Advantages

Dynamic storage & retrieval via 2D axis movement (longitudinal + lateral), with vertical level access
Less downtime through opportunity charging and regenerative braking
Lower cost per pallet stored compared with many high‑density systems
Supports FIFO & LIFO operational strategies
Reduced product damage—minimal forklift entry into racking
Faster than drive‑through racking in high‑demand environments
Higher SKU density compared with block stacking
Superior to push‑back in high‑level or deep‑tunnel applications
Typical configurations: multiple levels high and ~50 pallet positions deep (on average)
Minimises human error through automation and WES orchestration

Integration, Delivery & Support (Avanta UK)

Avanta UK will design, supply and install the racking system, and—in partnership with Spacemaker—deliver the shuttles, software integration, commissioning, training, and ongoing support. Where required, Avanta can act as Principal Contractor (CDM 2015), managing programme, coordination and compliance.

Design: layout, lane strategy, throughput modelling, safety integration
Integration: WES configuration, WMS/ERP interfacing, conveyor/AGV connectivity
Commissioning: functional/site acceptance testing and documentation
Support: preventative maintenance, spares, performance optimisation