Four directions
Freedom to move forward, backward and sideways
Four directions, inspired by QuadA strategic smart-logistics growth business for FIRSTEC from 2026. Transform your logistics with next-generation high-density automated storage.
A four-way shuttle is an automated warehouse robot that moves pallets or boxes autonomously along both X and Y axes, handling storage and retrieval throughout high-density racking.
Travels forward and backward within a single X-axis channel. Moving between channels requires a forklift or another transfer device, limiting flexibility.
Switches travel direction at intersections to move along X and Y axes. It can autonomously reach positions throughout the rack, offering high flexibility and scalability.
QUARVIO is FIRSTEC’s logistics automation brand, bringing together four-way freedom of movement, velocity, intelligence and optimization. It aims to make efficient use of limited space and precisely connect the flow of goods from inbound to outbound.
QUARVIO — Four values behind a coined brand name
Freedom to move forward, backward and sideways
Four directions, inspired by QuadFast, efficient material transport
VelocityPrecise control and operation
IntelligenceOptimized space and logistics flow
OptimizationValues are development targets. Rated load, safety factors, lift stroke and components will be finalized after detailed design and testing.
Blue R3 internal layout study. Colors and wheel layout differ from the silver exterior concept above. The 30 mm lift and animation timing are illustrative; this is not a manufacturing-validated model.
Open 3D viewer in a new window ↗An integrated solution connecting hardware and software
Autonomous X/Y travel with a slim, lightweight design for high-speed handling.
Vertical transfers between levels, supporting multi-tier racking.
Dedicated grid-based high-density storage racks that minimize aisle space.
Warehouse management and control software with AI-based route optimization.
Links inbound and outbound stations and integrates with existing lines.
On-site system integration supported by FIRSTEC electrical and control engineering.
A low-profile chassis reduces rack level spacing, while low weight improves travel speed and energy efficiency. More storage levels fit within the same space.
WCS route optimization prevents collisions between multiple shuttles and reduces bottlenecks, with real-time load balancing.
Add shuttles as throughput grows to expand capacity without stopping the system, reducing the initial investment burden.
Reduced aisle space offers 2–3 times the space utilization of conventional forklift operations, helping reduce warehouse property costs.
| Category | Conventional AS/RS (Stacker crane) | 1-Way Shuttle | FIRSTEC 4Way Shuttle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel | Fixed straight-rail route | X axis | X/Y axes, four directions |
| Space efficiency | Standard | High | Very high |
| Flexibility | Low; line stops on failure | Medium | High; rerouting on failure |
| Scalability | Limited; large initial investment | Medium | High; add individual vehicles |
Proven hardware and FIRSTEC engineering for a reliable Korean-market solution
Under a Korean master distribution agreement with Hegerls, a Chinese manufacturer of four-way shuttles and intelligent warehouse solutions, FIRSTEC combines proven hardware with its engineering capabilities.
Manufacturing and supply of core shuttle and lift equipment
Electrical systems, controls, installation and after-sales maintenance in Korea
Reliable deployment of smart-logistics systems for Korean customers
A Korean distribution agreement with Chinese company F supports integration of four-way shuttle storage inside warehouses with flexible AMR transport connecting external warehouse areas and production lines.
APEX · FLEX · LYNX · MAX — a full lineup for different payloads and site conditions.
End-to-end unmanned logistics from inbound/outbound stations to production lines. Four-way shuttles and AMRs work together to enable smart factories.
COMPLETED · H1 2026
FIRSTEC completed the demonstration line in H1 2026 in cooperation with SFA, a leading Korean automation equipment company.
| Client | SFA |
|---|---|
| Schedule | Completed, H1 2026 |
| Scope | Shuttle rack demo-line hardware and integrated electrical, control and mechanical engineering |
| Significance | A foothold in the Korean four-way shuttle market and stronger strategic partnerships |
Battery · Display · Semiconductor · E-commerce logistics centers · Food/cold storage · Pharmaceuticals · Inter-process WIP storage in manufacturing.
By eliminating aisles and stacking vertically at high density, secure up to 3× storage in the same footprint.
Concurrent shuttle operation and 24/7 unmanned uptime accelerate throughput and reduce labor costs.
A phased market expansion strategy over three years.
Explore how the 4Way Shuttle operates in a real warehouse through the interactive 3D simulation below. Click and drag to rotate the view and understand the system intuitively.
Our specialists will propose an optimized solution tailored to your business needs.