Faster picking of small parts from new Kardex vertical buffer

The LR 35 is suited to handling single-part or small-volume orders - providing fast and accurate access together with secure storage. The LR 35 can speed up performance, enabling up to 500 order lines per picking station an hour, and is suited for picking small parts from bins, cardboard boxes, and trays in small and medium-sized warehouses. The unit design consists of a shelf system with automatic bin handling, picking stations, and its own logistics software.

The LR 35 uses its own replenishing solution and each station can be fitted with several access openings in different designs. At the heart of each station is the turntable. Tilted at an angle of 20 degrees, it has been ergonomically designed. While the operator picks one order, the LR 35 prepares the next bin and places it on the rear shelf of the turntable. As soon as the picking process is complete the turntable turns through 180 degrees and the next bin is ready for picking. This permanent access to goods keeps waiting times to a minimum and goods can be stored in standard mini-load systems compatible bins. Each load carrier can hold up to 35kg.

The unit consists of a shelf system with an aisle. Within the aisle, a movable mast with a rotating gripper loads the picking stations. Reducing the number of components and using state-of-the-art technology guarantees the scalability of the unit, and saves energy. The LR 35 only consumes a third of the energy of a mini-load system, and thus dispenses with the need for recovery energy systems. Modern drive technology, highly efficient motors, and optimally configured frequency converters also contribute to the energy-saving concept. In addition to the environmental benefits, the LR 35 slots seamlessly into existing processes and can be adapted to fit individual buildings, linking to existing conveyor technology with no extra effort. The conveyor connection can be fitted on the front, rear, or end face of the unit. The LR 35 comes in a variety of versions, designed to meet the evolving needs of companies. All versions of the LR 35 are based on the same components and technology.

The architecture of the unit software has also been updated. New and enhanced functions include bin handling, prioritised storage/retrieval, the option to adjust the speed for each bin and material, and user login via RFID. Kardex Remstar is developing wider product ranges, smaller batch sizes, and offers 24-hour service.

Tom Findlay, sales director for Kardex UK and Ireland says: “We are seeing developments in our industry particularly with the growth of online distribution and a need for solutions that provide greater efficiencies and accuracy in both B2B and B2C. I believe the demand for greater dynamism, ergonomics, and energy efficiency in intralogistics will only grow further and here at Kardex we continue to develop solutions that will meet the changing needs of our customers.”