Automated Vertical Lift Machine (VLM) Storage System
The automated Vertical Lift Machine (VLM) system is a modern automated storage solution that has been widely adopted, with more than 140,000 units in operation worldwide.
Overview of the Automated Vertical Lift Machine (VLM) Storage System
The automated Vertical Lift Machine (VLM) storage system is a modern automated storage solution that has been widely adopted, with more than 140,000 units in operation worldwide. All equipment is manufactured in Germany, complies with international quality standards, and meets stringent environmental requirements such as cleanroom operation, electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection, fire safety, humidity control, and low-temperature environments.
With a flexible design, the vertical lift machine allows adjustable height (up to 30 m), expanded storage capacity, and supports both manual and automated parallel operation. In Vietnam, VLM maintenance services are provided directly by ETEK, ensuring long-term system stability.
Key Benefits of Using VLM
- Warehouse space optimization
Maximizes vertical space utilization, significantly reducing floor area compared to traditional shelving - Increased picking productivity
The “Goods-to-Person” principle automatically delivers items to the operator
Processing speed reaches approximately 60 order lines per hour, minimizing travel and search time - Accurate inventory management
Integrated with WMS/ERP software for synchronized data management
Supports returns processing and depreciation-based management (used products) - Controlled storage environment
Enclosed storage compartments allow easy installation of dehumidification, cooling, or temperature control systems - Flexible integration capability
Supports connection with warehouse management systems, ERP, and Pick-to-Light solutions to ensure high picking speed and accuracy - Fast training
Intuitive HMI interface and simple workflows enable operators to master the system in approximately 3 days of training
Technical Specifications
- Basic VLM Specifications:
| Size (LWH) | 3980*2921*8450 mm |
| Required ceiling height | 8500 mm |
| Total storage capacity in carton boxes per machine | 434 carton box |
| Total storage capacity for 4 machines | 1736 carton box |
| Single-cycle tray retrieval time | ~21 seconds |
| Tray throughput per hour | 88-100 tray/hour |
| Power consumption | 0.7 – 1.8kw |
Floor area per machine: 11.6 m²
- Basic tray specifications:
| Clear internal dimensions | 3650*813mm |
| Allowable height between trays (adjustable) | 390mm |
| Total number of trays | 31 |
| Number of carton boxes per tray | 14 |
| Maximum load per tray | 390 kg |
Main components of the VLM
- Two-way access opening door
- Load and height control unit
- LCD positioning display
- Laser pointer for precise guidance
- RFID scanning and wearable devices for work performance tracking
Comparison of the situation before & after implementing the Automated Vertical Lift Machine (VLM) storage system
| Criteria | Before implementation (Traditional shelving) | After implementation (4 VLM units) |
| Occupied floor area | 65.51 m² (including aisles) | Optimized use of vertical space, reducing floor area requirements |
| Storage capacity | 1.928 carton box | Significantly higher, depending on VLM height (up to 30 m) |
| Protocol | Manual movement, zig-zag paths, time-consuming | Goods-to-person, automatically delivers items to the operator |
| Picking productivity | Low, ~12 orders per picking cycle | High, ~ 60 order lines per hour |
| Accuracy | Prone to errors due to manual operations | High accuracy enabled by Pick-to-Light and WMS integration |
| Manpower & training | Requires many workers, with complex and labor-intensive operations | Requires fewer personnel, with fast training (3 days) |
| Environmental control | Limited, open environment | Enclosed space, easy integration of humidity and temperature control |
Smart picking technology with Pick-to-Light
One of the outstanding advantages of the automated vertical lift warehouse system is its ability to integrate with Pick-to-Light (PTL), delivering high productivity and accuracy:
- Color-to-Person: Each operator is assigned a unique color; the indicator lights display the corresponding color to guide the correct person to pick the right items
- Batch picking: Enables picking multiple orders simultaneously, saving time compared to single-order picking
- Wearable device support (RFID wearables): Tracks progress, analyzes performance, and optimizes workflows
Applications of the Automated Vertical Lift Machine (VLM) Storage System
The VLM vertical lift warehouse system is suitable for a wide range of industries that require accurate and efficient warehouse management:
- Industrial manufacturing: Electronics, automotive, and precision mechanical components
- Logistics & e-commerce warehouses: Management of a large number of SKUs
- Healthcare & pharmaceuticals: Storage under strictly controlled environmental conditions
Solution
The Vertical Lift Machine (VLM) warehouse system is a smart automated storage solution that helps businesses optimize space, increase picking productivity, ensure accurate inventory management, and reduce operating costs. With ERP/WMS integration, Pick-to-Light technology, and direct maintenance support from ETEK, VLM has become a top choice for companies seeking to enhance logistics efficiency and modern warehouse management.
👉 Contact ETEK to receive expert consultation on the automated Vertical Lift Machine (VLM) storage system tailored to your warehouse needs!
