Automated Storage

Vertical Storage Solutions to Manage Space, Automate & Organize!

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Vertical Lift Module (VLM)

MWS has a great deal of experience with selling and installing VLM machines, our start in the industry in the 80’s & 90’s with White System Carousels and eventually into the VLM world, Servicing across the U.S. NOT just limited to the state of Iowa!

VLM machines reduce the storage footprint greatly by squeezing out the air and wasted cube shelving often realizes. We offer two drawer depths – 25.5” & 32.5”, three drawer widths – 122”, 146”, & 170” with drawer capacity up to 1,500 #.

3D rendering of a Vidir Vertical Lift Module (VLM) tower storing color-coded bins and boxes on pull-out trays
3D rendering of an enclosed white Vidir Vertical Lift Module (VLM) tower with branding

Features & benefits

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Ergonomic Access

Pick and Stock items at a comfortable, ergonomic height.

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Industry First Servo Motors

Offers higher velocity and accuracy, along with Best in Class 10 HP lift capacity.

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Chain Drive

For Best in Class performance, durability and safety.

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One Piece Tray

Sturdy steel construction. Available in up to 1500lbs capacity.

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Variable Tray Spacing

Automatic height sensing allows tray to be stored efficiently, maximizing available space.

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Modular Design

Add and Remove trays as needed to maximize storage.

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Front Facing Maintenance Access

Provides quick and easy maintenance access, and Eliminates multi-unit downtime during repairs.

Technical diagram of a Vidir VLM tower with numbered callouts 1 through 7 pointing to key components
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Auto Learning

Faster setup, along with easy and dynamic resets.

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Vidir Remote Service

Provides Software Assistance, Troubleshooting, and Training by Remote Access.

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Full Inventory Control System (VIP)

Allows detailed tracing and control for parts and data, with a simple and quick setup.

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Vidir Rapid Install

Making use of unique architecture, providing industry leading installation timelines.

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Partnered with Schneider Electric

Worldwide access to local parts supply, standardized, and thus faster to service.

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Dual Redundant DC Power

Keep full functionality in case of power supply failure

Sheel Metal VLS

The Sheet Metal Vertical Lift System (VLS) is an automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) that utilizes an elevator to climb the front of the tower to deposit and retrieve cartridges weighing up to 5,000 lbs and deliver them directly to the ground level for further processing, increasing material storage and improving production flow.

Further, integration of the storage process can eliminate costly retrieval steps, increase production machinery uptime, and reduce labor costs.

3D rendering of a red Vidir Sheet Metal Vertical Lift System (VLS) with an extended loading cart
3D rendering of a red Vidir Sheet Metal Vertical Lift System (VLS) with an extended loading cart

Features & benefits

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Load Size

Fits standard 5’ x 10’ sheets, up to 5,000lbs.

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Spacing

3.5” spacing up to 32 spaces or 5” spacing up to 27 spaces.

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Access Restriction

Fencing around the perimeter and light curtains provide safe operation.

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Emergency Stops

Located left and right of the towers.

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Loading Table or Motorized Cart

For easy loading and unloading.

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Safety System

Designed to SIL3/ C14/PL e.

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Controls

VLS operation controls featuring pallet selection and movable cart control.

Technical diagram of a Vidir Sheet Metal VLS with numbered callouts 1 through 13 pointing to key components
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Motors

2 x SEW KAF87 5hp motors & 1 x SEW KAF47 3/4hp

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Rack & Pinion Drive System

Precisely aligns and balances lift automatically.

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Braking System

Features a process brake and a redundant brake engaged with the safety system.

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Overload Sensing

Lift returns to the home position when overloaded.

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Pallet Safety

Each pallet is individually locked in place until released by the elevator.

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Overhead Space

Fully maximizes overhead space for storage to recover valuable floor space.

Vertical Pan Carousel

The Vidir Pan Carousel is a fully automated vertical storage system that brings products directly to the operator at an ergonomic height, improving productivity and safety.

By utilizing overhead space, it can recover up to 80% of your floor area—ideal for operations looking to maximize storage capacity without expanding their footprint. The system boosts inventory accuracy, enhances security, and simplifies access to stored items.

With intuitive controls and seamless integration with ERP and WMS platforms, the Vidir Pan Carousel delivers a smart, connected storage solution built for modern warehouses.

3D rendering of a white Vidir Pan Carousel with a tray extended showing boxed and bagged parts
3D rendering of a white Vidir Pan Carousel cabinet with shelves of color-coded bins and parts

Features & benefits

Side-view technical diagram of a Vidir Pan Carousel showing the vertical rotation path with directional arrows
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Recovers average of 80% of your floor space

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Can operate and track inventory as an individual database or integrate with enterprise level ERP systems

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Increased workplace safety

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Improved productivity with more efficient SKU picking  

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Improved security with optional gates, password protection, and access logs

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Access to stored products at all times with the emergency rotation feature

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Flexible carrier configuration options to meet changing inventory needs

Vertical Tire Carousel

The Vidir Tire Carousel is a motorized vertical carousel designed for high density storage and retrieval of tires. The storage system will maximize overhead space to save up to 80% of your floor space with every tire accessible at the touch of a button.

The Tire Carousel delivers tires directly to the operator at an ergonomic height reducing chances of injuries from lifting, bending, and pulling at sub-optimal positions.

3D rendering of a white Vidir Tire Carousel storing tires in wire cage compartments
3D rendering of a white Vidir Tire Carousel storing tires in wire cage compartments

Features & benefits

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Overhead Space

Fully maximizes overhead space for storage to recover valuable floor space.

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Tire Sizes

Accommodates tires up to 44” in standard models.

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Carrier Design

The carrier is made up of 3 pipes in a triangular configuration.

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Small Footprint

High density storage within a 60ft2 footprint.

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Ergonomic Design

Wire bays rotate up and down to deliver spools to the operator at an ergonomic height.

Technical diagram of a Vidir Tire Carousel with numbered callouts pointing to key components
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Controls

2 x SEW KAF87 5hp motors & 1 x SEW KAF47 3/4hp

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Standard push button controls

Precisely aligns and balances lift automatically.

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Security

Enhance security with a keypad access system and an optional security gate for added protection.

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Tire Style

Designed to store tires both with and without rims.

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High Density Storage

Up to 352 tires can be stored on a single standard carousel.

How we keep your
Automated Storage & Retrieval
Project on Track

Two people reviewing warehouse shelving blueprints

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Consultation & Estimating

Two people reviewing warehouse shelving blueprints

With Automated Storage & Retrieval a typical project starts with review of workflow process, time study, space and handling challenges identified with a push to develop a concept for the quoting process. It's critical to the implementation process to fully identify problem areas and how the Automated Equipment will improve the operation.

Warehouse employee holding blueprints during order processing

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Understanding ROI, Submitting Capital Expense and Ordering Equipment

Warehouse employee holding blueprints during order processing

The final steps in the quoting phase are fully understanding the Return of Investment which often, we see 24 months or less, getting through the investment phase and to the point where the investment is making you money. Lead times for specific equipment can sometimes be lengthy, but we see many other steps have to happen ahead of the new equipment arrival.

MWS crew installing green pallet racking outdoors

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Mechanical Installation, Electrical, Software and Testing

MWS crew installing green pallet racking outdoors

MWS has the experience to quickly advance through the mechanical installation phase and manage the rest of the implementation requirements like Electrical & Software. All project proposals will include a complete turnkey project with sign off acceptance essential to having success and handing off the equipment for full ownership.

One Of Our Preferred Automated Storage Equipment Partners

Vidir logo

As a global material handling company, Vidir Solutions designs and manufactures industry-leading vertical automated storage and retrieval systems. Our versatile line of motorized storage carousels and display systems is trusted by industries ranging from construction, retail, and medical to warehouse, government, automotive, printing, and manufacturing.

Automated Storage FAQ’S

How do I justify the investment costs of automation?

We will consult with your team and fully understand all aspects of your storage and picking operation. You justify the equipment purchase by fully understanding the ROI and when that equipment starts making you money.

Is there a lot of maintenance required?

There is often minimal routine maintenance required, along with good housekeeping practices to ensure your equipment stays operational. MWS will identify daily responsibilities and offer a preventative maintenance plan aligned with the suggested service rate requirements.

What software is available, and will it work with our system?

For most automation equipment sold today, there are options ranging from basic to full inventory management systems—sold with the equipment to support the defined processes. Software can often be upgraded, and different warehouse management processes can be added.

MWS warehouse consultant and client reviewing inventory on a laptop

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