It’s no secret that automation and robotics are transforming the way businesses operate, eliminating needless manual labor and streamlining processes for faster and more efficient results. But what does this evolution look like in practice? In this article, we’ll take a close look at Vision Extrusions’ journey towards fully automated warehouse operations using MODULA VLM, one of the leaders in vertical lift module automation. Read on to discover how MODULA VLM changed the way Vision Extrusions operates!
For years, vision extrusions were manually loaded and unloaded extrusion die parts onto racks, which was a time-consuming and often dangerous process. MODULA VLM has transformed vision extrusions operations by automating the loading and unloading process. This has allowed companies to increase production efficiency and throughput while reducing costs and risks associated with manual handling.
The Need for a Modern Automation Solution to Improve Productivity and Efficiency
Over 200 lines of PVC extrusion are produced by Vision Extrusions, located in Woodbridge, Ontario, which manufactures windows in North America. To store its heavy and valuable tools, the company needed a space-efficient way to create and assemble PVC extrusion pieces securely and safely in its facility. By purchasing nine Modula VLMs, the company saved significant space and enabled employees to retrieve heavy tools safely and easily.
It was imperative that Vision Extrusions have a way to store thousands of items without taking up a large chunk of its floor space. In addition to keeping the tools secure, they also needed a way to keep them out of the hands of unauthorized users. Since the tools were large and heavy, retrieving them had to be done in a way that would not harm employees or damage them. It was difficult to retrieve the items and storing them above shoulder level was not an option.
A short time later, Vision Extrusions realized they could take advantage of their facility’s height by installing nine Modula VLMs. They saved over 30,000 square feet by doing so. With each tray holding up to 1,200 pounds, items such as aluminum blocks, vacuums, calibrators, and steel dies – weighing up to 350 pound each – could be stored and accessed within the MODULA. According to Pietro Sborlini, Plant Support Technician, the Modula system was necessary for Vision Extrusions because it provides perfect access in and out – thus reducing damages to the product. Furthermore, users can easily access parts on trays that are delivered at an ergonomically optimal level. The VLMs were also a great choice as they are fully enclosed which ensures the safety of their 4,000 tools stored within them. Moreover, traceability allows further reduction of theft risks. The combination of the VLM’s ease of use and reduced space requirement as well as improved employee protection meant that this was the ideal solution for Vision Extrusions. Pietro recalled that their decision to purchase Modulas was based on their need for more floor space – hence choosing to go upwards was a logical move for them.
