Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs) in Florida

Vertical lift modules (VLMs) are enclosed, automated systems made up of an inserter/extractor tool in between two columns of trays. With a simple button push or barcode scan from an operator, the central tool locates stored trays and retrieves them from the unit’s front and rear. These modules quickly deliver goods directly to an operator through a pick window that’s positioned at an ergonomically optimal height, minimizing the physical stress on the worker. As an operator won’t need to walk around and search for a product, VLMs are capable of increasing productivity by as much as two-thirds.

Whether you’re looking for a vertical lift module in Florida, another U.S. state, or across the world, Kardex can help. Read on to learn about VLM features and their benefits in supporting efficient, accurate picking and storage operations.

Features

In terms of design, VLMs are quite versatile. They’re modular, making them both adjustable and scalable to best fit your operations now and in the future. To maximize floor space, VLM designs utilize space at floor-to-ceiling height, increasing vertical cube by as much as 85%. This means that, without increasing facility space, you can maintain an inventory of SKUs in the thousands.

Also, trays are applicable for larger items on their own, or you can insert tray partitions to segment them off, allowing you to insert even more items within a single tray. The result is a truly efficient storage system for extremely high capacity with a minimal footprint.

Controls within a VLM aid in optimal inventory handling management. For example, every time the VLM goes to store a tray, it can measure density and automatically choose the tray storage location in a way that prioritizes space. This can be based on size, weight, or any other parameter to customize it for your needs. Also, incorporating components like laser pointers, pick-to-light, and augmented vision helps VLMs provide nearly 100% picking accuracy.

Benefits

VLMs provide three key benefits:

Boosted productivity. VLMs deliver goods and parts to an operator for increased throughput using automation. By simply scanning a barcode or selecting the desired item on a console, it will come directly to the worker, virtually eliminating retrieval mistakes. This decreases the amount of time that the operator would otherwise need to walk back and forth through the storage space to search for, pick, and replenish goods.

Space savings. By stacking vertically rather than using conventional storage methods, VLMs can free up a tremendous amount of floor space and make the most of room height. This modular, scalable equipment can save you as much as 85% of your valuable storage or warehousing space, which you can then use for other applications or business expansion in the future.

Time savings. Perhaps the greatest benefit of a VLM is its ability to save operators time. They’ll now be able to fulfill even the most complex of orders in far shorter time frames as compared to traditional methods, all without sacrificing accuracy. Even at the busiest times, VLMs can retrieve components without requiring the operator to wait and lose time between jobs.

Partner With Kardex for Vertical Lift Modules in Florida and Beyond

Kardex designs its enclosed, shelf-based VLMs to enhance productivity and storage capacity, all within a compact footprint. We offer an array of add-ons for pre- or post-installation for added versatility, including double tray function, a position indicator, a display LED-Navigator, an ESD version, and automatic or semi-automatic extraction for trays. Our VLMs also have capabilities for integration with forklifts, conveyors, barcode scanners, computer software, and robotics to better customize the units for your needs. To learn more about our VLM offerings for our clients in Florida and across the world, contact us today.