Vertical Lift Module Machines for Automated Vertical Storage
Vertical Lift Module (VLM)
Automated Storage and Retrieval System
The Vertical Lift Module (VLM) is an automated storage and retrieval system from ISD. It increases warehouse efficiency by improving how workers find and store items. This system helps organizations maximize their storage capacity and improve daily work speed.
The vertical lift module uses a series of trays arranged in the front and back of a tall column. An automated inserter and extractor mechanism moves in the center to access these trays. It delivers the requested tray directly to an ergonomic pick window for the worker.
Interested in Discussing the VLM?
Save Space and Improve Picking Accuracy
With a small footprint, a VLM machine can improve storage density by up to 85%. This allows companies to store more products in less space. These vertical storage modules eliminate the time workers spend walking and searching for items. This can save up to two-thirds of your current labor needs.
Vertical lift storage systems can use any level of inventory management. This ranges from a simple controller to advanced software. The system connects easily to your warehouse management system wms, warehouse execution systems, and ERP. This provides real-time control over all your inventory.
With a quick barcode scan, operators can find and store items fast. This removes the errors that happen with manual searching. It also lowers costs from lost or misplaced products. The vertical lift module vlm can work as one unit or as part of a larger group. It integrates with workstations, conveyors, and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) to create a flexible storage and retrieval system.
VLM Key Features and Components
Vertical lift machines use several key parts to ensure they work at their best.
Vertical Columns The vertical columns are the core of the system. They hold all the storage trays. You can customize the height and depth of these columns to fit your specific building.
Storage Trays These trays hold a wide range of items, from small parts to large goods. You can add partitions, dividers, or locked boxes to the trays to keep your inventory organized. These vertical storage systems are designed to fit your specific needs.
Automated Insert/Extractor Mechanism This mechanism is the heart of the vlm machine. it retrieves and delivers trays to the access opening with high speed and precision. This reduces the time needed for storage and retrieval tasks.
Control System The control system is the brain of the machine. It tracks every tray and manages how the system talks to other automated storage systems in your warehouse.
User Interface VLM systems use touchscreen displays and barcode scanning. This allows an operator to monitor the system status and see real-time data easily.
Safety Features ISD builds these machines with light curtains and emergency stop buttons. These features protect workers and ensure the secure operation of the automated storage and retrieval system.
Want More Information on VLMs or ASRS or Goods-to-Person?
Why a VLM Automated Storage and Retrieval System Helps Your Business
Why VLM Automated Storage and Retrieval System Will Help Your Organization
Implementing a Vertical Lift Module (VLM) automated storage and retrieval system can provide a multitude of benefits for organizations seeking to optimize their warehouse operations and improve overall efficiency. Here are some key reasons why a VLM system can be a game-changer for your organization:
- Space Optimization: VLM systems utilize vertical space, enabling organizations to store more items in a smaller footprint. This is particularly valuable in facilities with limited floor space, as the compact design of a VLM can free up valuable real estate for other critical business functions.
- Increased Productivity: The automated nature of VLM systems eliminates the need for manual searching and walking, significantly reducing the time and effort required for storage and retrieval tasks. This, in turn, boosts worker productivity and allows employees to focus on more value-added activities.
- Improved Inventory Accuracy: VLM systems provide real-time inventory visibility and tracking, ensuring that organizations have a clear understanding of their stock levels and item locations. This enhanced inventory management reduces the risk of misplaced or lost items, leading to improved order fulfillment and customer satisfaction.
- Enhanced Safety: Vertical Lift Module systems are designed with robust safety features, such as light curtains and emergency stop buttons, to protect operators and prevent accidents. This creates a safer work environment, reducing the risk of injuries and the associated costs.
- Cost Savings: By optimizing space, improving productivity, and enhancing inventory management, VLM systems can lead to significant cost savings for organizations. These savings can be realized through reduced labor expenses, decreased inventory carrying costs, and minimized operational inefficiencies which all contribute to achieving a rapid return on investment (ROI). The ROI on VLMs can often be hit in under 24 months.
- Scalability and Flexibility: Vertical Lift Module systems can be designed and configured to meet the specific needs of an organization, whether it’s a small-scale operation or a large-scale warehouse. This scalability and flexibility allow businesses to adapt to changing demands and future growth without the need for major infrastructure overhauls.
By leveraging the benefits of a VLM automated storage and retrieval system, organizations can streamline their operations, improve their bottom line, and gain a competitive edge in their respective markets.
Benefits of Using a VLM System
The implementation of a Vertical Lift Module (VLM) automated storage and retrieval system can provide a wide range of benefits for organizations, significantly enhancing their operational efficiency and overall performance:
- Space-savings up to 85%
- Improved picking accuracy to 99.9%
- Reduced labor costs by up to 2/3
- Increase picking speeds for a single VLM up to 175 lines/hour; Multiple units up to 550 lines/hour
- Increased storage capacity increasing available floor space and eliminating new construction or moving costs
- Enhanced inventory management
- Faster order fulfillment by up to 2/3
- Ergonomic workstations eliminate worker fatigue and injuries
- Secure inventory storage by password or work ID
- Improved safety helps eliminate work comp litigation
- Optimized workflow efficiency
- Scalability, flexibility, and agility
How VLMs Work: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Vertical Lift Module (VLM) is a high-density automated storage and retrieval system that streamlines the process of storing and accessing items within a compact vertical footprint. To understand how VLMs work, let’s take a step-by-step look at the process:
- Inventory Placement: The operator or robotic arm places items to be stored into the VLM trays, which are arranged vertically within the system’s column. Trays can be equipped with partitions and dividers, totes, cases, roll out drawers, and special fixtures to accommodate each type of inventory’s unique requirements. Each tray is assigned a specific location or “address” within the VLM. This assignment can be based on smallest height available, closest or furthest to the pick window, random or other custom requirements.
- Storage and Retrieval: When an item needs to be stored or retrieved, the operator or warehouse management system or software sends a command to the VLM’s control unit. The automated insert/extractor mechanism then locates the correct tray and brings it to the access opening, allowing the operator to pick or store inventory accordingly.
- Inventory Management: The VLM’s control system tracks the location and contents of each tray, providing real-time inventory visibility and enabling efficient inventory management. This data can be integrated with a warehouse management system (WMS) or enterprise resource planning (ERP) software for comprehensive inventory control.
- Optimization and Efficiency: The VLM’s vertical configuration allows for a high-density storage solution, maximizing the use of available space within the facility and saving up to 85% of your otherwise wasted floor space. Additionally, the automated retrieval process eliminates the need for manual searching and walking, significantly improving worker productivity and reducing operational costs by up to 2/3.
Applications for VLM Systems
Vertical Lift Module (VLM) automated storage and retrieval systems have a wide range of applications across various industries, each with its unique storage and operational requirements:
- Order picking
- Inventory storage
- Parts storage
- Tool management
- Kitting operations
- Goods-to-person picking
- Batch picking
- Buffer storage
- Quality control
- Returned goods processing
- MRO (Maintenance repair operations)
- Spare parts storage
- Assembly line support
- Manufacturing
- Packaging materials storage
By understanding the diverse applications of VLM systems, organizations can better evaluate and implement the right solution to meet their specific storage and operational requirements, ultimately enhancing their overall competitiveness and performance.
Industries that Benefit from Vertical Lift Module VLMs
Factors to Consider When Implementing a VLM System
When considering the implementation of a Vertical Lift Module (VLM) automated storage and retrieval system, there are several key factors that organizations should carefully evaluate to ensure a successful deployment. Let’s explore some of the critical considerations:
- Serviceability: You will need an organization that can provide 24/7 local service with a phone call. VLMs are incredibly reliable and require scheduled maintenance, but on occasion an operator or the system can have a problem. Knowing that you are one phone call or email away from having a local service team available makes a big difference.
- Facility Layout and Space Constraints: The physical layout of the facility and the available floor space are crucial factors in determining an appropriate VLM configuration. What is your available clear height? Organizations must assess their current and future storage requirements to ensure that the VLM system can be seamlessly integrated into the existing infrastructure.
- Inventory Characteristics: The nature and volume of the items to be stored in the VLM system will influence the design and configuration of the system. Factors such as item size, weight, and velocity must be considered to ensure that the VLM can accommodate the specific storage needs. Every individual tray can be set to operate at an efficient speed based on the inventory’s fragility.
- Operational Requirements: Organizations must carefully consider their operational requirements, including the frequency of storage and retrieval, the need for temperature-controlled environments, and the integration with other warehouse management systems.
- Scalability and Flexibility: As business needs and storage requirements evolve over time, the ability to scale and adapt the VLM system becomes crucial. Organizations should evaluate the system’s scalability, allowing for future expansion or modifications to accommodate growth and changes in the business.
- Integration with Existing Systems: In many cases, the VLM system will need to integrate with the organization’s existing warehouse management system (WMS) or enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. Careful planning and coordination are required to ensure seamless data exchange and real-time inventory visibility across the entire operation.
- Training and Support: Proper training and ongoing support for the VLM system are essential for ensuring optimal performance and maximizing the benefits of the technology. Organizations should consider the availability of training resources, technical support, and maintenance services offered by the VLM manufacturer or supplier.
By carefully considering these factors, organizations can make informed decisions and implement a Vertical Lift Module automated storage and retrieval system that align best with their specific operational requirements and strategic business objectives.
Vertical Lift Module Options & Accessories
Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs) come in a variety of configurations and can be customized with a range of accessories to meet the specific needs of different industries and applications. One of the key options available is the choice between single-sided and double-sided VLM designs.
Specifications for Vertical Lift Modules (VLM)
| Standard Vertical Lift Module (VLM) Specifications** | ||
| Criteria | Minimum | Maximum |
| VLM Height | 10 ft (3 meters) | 98 ft (30 meters) |
| Tray Width | 3.3 ft (1 meter) | 13 ft (4 meters) |
| Tray Depth | 1.6 ft (0.5 meters) | 4.1 ft (1.25 meters) |
| Tray Load Capacity | 220 lbs. (100 kg) | 2,200 lbs. (1,000 kg) |
| Cycle Speed per Unit | 75 picks/hour | 250 picks/hour |
| Vertical Speed | 3.3 ft/sec (1 m/sec) | 8.2 ft/sec (2.5 m/sec) |
| Power Consumption | 1 kW | 10kW |
| Temperature Range | 41°F (5°C) | 60 feet/min (18 m/min) |
| Noise Level | 50 dB | 70 dB |
| Control Interface | Basic Keypad | Touchscreen and software integration |
| Picking Accuracy | 99.90% | N/A |
| Tray Height Adjustment | 1-inch increments | N/A |
| Integration Capabilities | Standalone | Fully Integrated WMS/ERP |
| Lifespan | 10 years | 25 years |
Why Select ISD as Your Systems Integrator
Like all warehouse and distribution center automation, there are a tremendous number of variables such as manufacturer, models, capacity, software integration, system volume and flow analysis, and post installation service and support.
ISD is a systems integrator with 1000’s of business partners from around the world that supply world class equipment… when applied properly. ISD helps assure that your organization reaps the decades of experience from ISD to make sure that your VLM as well as all other technologies and processes are exactly what you need to hit your operations and business requirements. Call or email us today to set up a free consultation.
Future Trends in Automated Vertical Storage
The demand for space-saving storage continues to grow. Because of this, vertical lift storage systems are evolving. We expect to see more use of artificial intelligence to help these machines make better decisions.
These technologies will help a vlm machine predict demand patterns and adjust tray locations automatically. This will lead to even better inventory management and a more streamlined supply chain.
Another trend is a focus on energy efficiency. Manufacturers are building systems with LED lighting and better power management. These changes help reduce the environmental impact and lower operating costs for a warehouse manager. This provides long-term cost savings for any business using VLM solutions.
Contact Us for More Information About Vertical Lift Module (VLM)