A device and method for inserting of storage containers with temperature-sensitive goods into a temperature controlled section of an automated storage and retrieval system

A container insertion device for inserting storage containers containing temperature-sensitive goods laterally into a column of a storage volume of an automated storage and retrieval system, the device comprising:

• a compartment that has an entrance and an exit, and a passage for conveying storage containers between the entrance and the exit, wherein the compartment comprises a temperature controlled section comprising refrigeration equipment for reducing the temperature of the container and/or contents of the container,
• a conveyor arranged for transporting storage containers through the passage from a rear part of the insertion device to a forward part of the container insertion device,
• a support extending from the exit of the compartment, the support being arranged to receive and support a storage container, wherein the support is dimensioned for lateral insertion into the storage column and thereby support a storage container within the storage column for retrieval by a container-handling vehicle of the system, and
• one or more of a label affixing device for affixing an identification label to a container, an ID scanning device for scanning an identification label, and a dimension scanning device arranged to measure the physical dimensions of the container, the one or more of said devices being in electronic communication with a control system of the storage and retrieval system.