Courtesy of Remstar
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Horizontal
Carousel
Horizontal
Carousels are a type of automated material handling equipment used in high-volume small-parts picking operations. Generally, an operator will
run 2 to 4 carousels at a time avoiding the need for the operator to
wait while one unit is turning. Picking is usually performed
in batches with orders downloaded from the host system to the
carousel software. Pick-to-light systems utilizing a light
tree are often integrated
into carousels.
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Courtesy of Remstar
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Vertical
Carousels Vertical Carousels
consist of a series of horizontal trays on a vertical carousel. Vertical
carousels are most effective when floor space is at a minimum and
there is ample overhead clearance. Enclosed vertical carousels
offer additional security and protection for the product stored in
them. Vertical
carousels are frequently used in laboratories, offices, and specialty manufacturing
operations.
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Courtesy of Remstar
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Vertical
Lift Module (VLM) From the
outside a VLM appears to be similar to a vertical carousel however
internally it operates more like an ASRS unit using a retrieval unit
to bring the product to the operator. Application would be
similar to a vertical carousel. Advantages of a VLM over a
vertical carousel are cost, flexibility in configuration (handling
different size products within same unit), and safer for sensitive
products that may be damaged due to the constant motion of a
carousel. Disadvantage is a slower retrieval speed than a
carousel.
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Courtesy of Rapistan
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Automated
Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) A system of rows of
rack, each row has a dedicated retrieval unit that moves vertically and
horizontally along the rack picking and putting away loads. ASRS systems
are available in Mini-load types which store and
transfer product on some type of tray or in bins and Unit-load types
(shown) which transfer and store pallet loads.
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Courtesy of HK
Systems, Inc.
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Automated
Guided Vehicle (AGV) Vehicles
that can be programmed to automatically drive to designated points and perform preprogrammed
functions. Guidance system may consist of a wire embedded in the floor, special
tape, laser and optical system. Most effective where highly
repetitive tasks are performed over extended distances. The
variety in configurations of AGVs is endless, virtually any
type of material handling equipment can be converted to an AGV.
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Courtesy of Amerden
Inc.
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Automated
Guided Vehicle (AGV) This
is another version of an AGV that has added functionality to raise
and lower the pallet to allow the transfer pallet loads into and out of pallet
racking or to other equipment at different heights.
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