e function of a material storage system is to store materials for a period of time and to permit access to those materials when required. The storage function is often accomplished inefficiently in terms of human resources, factory floor space, and material control. More effective approaches and automated methods are available to improve the efficiency of the storage function. In highly automated systems, loads are entered or retrieved under computer control, with no human participation except to input data to the computer. 2.1.1 Design an automatic storage and retrieval system for a product of your choice.