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Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs)
Vertical Lift Modules are enclosed storage and retrieval systems that use tray-based systems to deliver items to a pick window. These are high-density storage solutions that store a wide variety of inventory from small to large parts.
VLMs take advantage of your facility’s clear height, minimizing “stored air” and allowing for maximum storage while taking up a small footprint. The Hanel Lean-Lift is the vertical lift module that sets the standard for up-time, safety, robust software capability, and multi-decade operations.
What are the Benefits of Vertical Lift Modules?
Vertical Lift Modules, especially the Hanel Lean-Lift, offer significant improvement in floor space savings, accuracy, efficiency, safety, and ergonomics. Below are five main reasons why these automation solutions are great investments for operations.
- Over 60% Floor Space Savings – this high-density storage solution allows you to reclaim over 60% floor space savings, freeing up a large footprint and allowing you more space for production.
- Higher Productivity – items are stored in one central location, cutting down picking and putting time, including travel and search time. Items can be selected and delivered directly to the picker, a true “goods-to-person” approach.
- Inventory Accuracy – these automation solutions can communicate directly with your ERP or DMS to deliver over 90% inventory accuracy, including directed picking/putting operations, minimizing pick error and providing a more reliable awareness and flow of inventory.
- Ergonomics – using a pick system allows items to be presented at an ergonomic height known as the “Golden Zone”, eliminating overstretching or injuries that workers might receive when picking items from traditional systems, including reducing ladder-related injuries as well.
- Security System – access to inventory is restricted by a keycard or keycode, and every interaction is logged into the system for higher visibility. Permissions are set to control access to each individual tray, increasing accountability for your team and your critical and high-value inventory.
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Key Features of Vertical Lift Modules
Vertical Lift Modules can be heavily customized to best meet your needs. Based on your current facility, VLMs can be designed to fit into your current space or can be configured to integrate into a new space.
- Tray Size – wide variety of widths and depths of tray and machine sizes, including differing weight capacities as well.
- Extra High Access Openings – your inventory may need to exceed the standard height (2.92 ft) of the access opening. This customization allows for large and bulky items.
- Directed Picking – the Hanel Pick-o-Light and Digital Picking Display provide significant benefits in high-speed and high-accuracy environments.
- Crane or AMR Integration – to relieve heavy lifting, many customers include a workstation crane near the VLM, or an AMR can communicate directly with the VLM to pick or put material automatically.
- Fire Protection – the Hanel Lean-Lift meets several industry safety standards, can be equipped with fire-resistant enclosure panels and can be factory-modified for easy integration sprinkler systems and other types of fire extinguishers.
- Cold Storage – the Hanel Lean-Lift can be provided as a turn-key environmentally controlled system including Dry-Air requirements, or to function withing a cold storage facility, handling temperatures as low as -112 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pro Tips: Vertical Lift Module Blogs
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The Top 5 Benefits of Integrating VLMs into Your Manufacturing Facility
For manufacturing facilities, employees at all levels are always talking of how to make operations quicker, maximize space, and increase inventory accuracy. VLMs bring all of these benefits and more to manufacturing facilities. We break down five key reasons why VLMs are positive strategic investments.
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5 Reasons Why VLMs Make Sense in Parts Departments
Automotive and truck parts departments often need a wide range of parts on hand, making it difficult to store everything without compromising space. That’s why high-efficiency storage solutions like VLMs can greatly benefit parts departments.
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What Are Common Industries You Might See Vertical Lift Modules In?
- Automotive Parts & Service Departments
- Aerospace
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Distribution Center
- Industrial Supply
- Government
Want to Chat About Vertical Lift Modules?
Our automation division, ISS Material Handling specializes in the integration of vertical lift modules, specifically the Hanel Lean-Lift. These automation solutions can greatly increase efficiency and workflow within your facility.
Whether you want to learn more about how a vertical lift module would integrate into your current facility setup or you’re ready to get designing, our team is here to help. Our team, trained in AutoCAD, will help you make the most of your space, ensuring you have the most effective setup.
