Vertical lifting containers and integrated automation

Vertical lifting containers and integrated automation

How Modula integrates robots, AMRs, conveyor lines, AGVs and picking systems into a connected ecosystem.

Efficiency improvements no longer come from the isolated operation of a single technology. The real opportunity lies in enabling disparate systems to communicate, share data, and function as a coordinated whole. This is exactlyVertical lift containerA place that goes beyond mere storage functionality and becomes an intelligent hub within the broader automation ecosystem.

From single tool to connected operations

Many warehouses and distribution centers have already introduced some form of automation: a VLM here, a conveyor line there, maybe a scanning system or WMS. The challenge is that these elements often operate independently, creating breakpoints in visualization, process connection, and efficiency.

Real change happens when these elements no longer work in isolation and start exchanging data, tasks, and priorities in real time. Receiving, storage, picking, internal handling, replenishment and order preparation all need to be connected for the full value of automation to be unlocked.

Modula is built on this philosophy. Through Modula WMS software, VLM can be integrated with robotic systems, AMRs, conveyor lines, AGV systems, picking workstations, and traditional warehousing areas to form a unified and coordinated operation system so that every move has a clear purpose and can be tracked.

Modula WMS: the intelligent core behind the system

Software makes integration possible. Modula WMS not only manages picking and replenishment within VLM, but also coordinates data, inventory levels, locations, tasks and material flow across the entire operation.

At any moment, the system knows where the material is, who is handling it, what priority it has, and where it needs to go next. This unified view translates into real, measurable results:

• Complete traceability from receipt to dispatch
• Synchronous collaboration between all connected technologies
• Reduce picking and handling errors
• Make better use of available space
• Maintain greater operational continuity across shifts

Modula WMS can also be extended to manual areas and traditional racking, making it a unified control layer covering automated and non-automated areas, which is particularly valuable in the hybrid operating environments common in warehousing and manufacturing in Australia and Asia Pacific.

Robots and Collaborative Robots: Automating High-Frequency Picking

Some of the most impactful integrations come from anthropomorphic robots, collaborative robots, and robotic arms. In these configurations, Modula acts as an automated feed point, delivering materials to the workport, allowing the robot to complete picking, put-away, kit preparation or line feeding tasks without human intervention.

This “goods-to-robot” approach is suitable for production and fulfillment environments that require high reliability, repeatability and around-the-clock availability. Robots take care of repetitive, high-frequency tasks, while VLM ensures that the right materials are delivered at the right time.

It’s ideal for managing small parts, assemblies, and high-traffic picking processes, as well as areas of material that are difficult to access or involve risks of manual handling. For businesses that need to comply with strict occupational health and safety requirements, this type of automation can also directly reduce the risk of injury.

Conveyor line: allows materials to continuously flow between fixed nodes

Conveyor systems remain one of the most effective ways to reliably move materials between fixed nodes, whether from storage to packaging, from picking to shipping, or from receipt to replenishment.

When connected to Modula, the VLM can automatically feed picking tables, packaging stations, shipping areas or production lines. Materials are transferred directly from the VLM to the next stage without manual handling, thereby reducing downtime and the risk of errors.

Modula WMS coordinates tasks, assigns priorities and synchronizes processes, allowing the conveyor line and VLM to operate together as one system rather than two separate pieces of equipment. This is not a choice between storage automation and conveyance automation, but a seamless collaboration between the two.

AMR: Flexible automation for dynamic environments

For operational scenarios where the layout changes frequently, space is shared by multiple teams, or routes need to be adjusted regularly,autonomous mobile robotIt provides flexibility that fixed infrastructure cannot match. AMRs can autonomously navigate, avoid obstacles, and serve multiple areas within a facility without requiring physical modifications to the ground or building structures.

When paired with Modula, AMR can take materials from the VLM and deliver them to the production line, workbench, ordering area or other technical node within the facility, as well as the reverse process. Fleet management software communicates directly with Modula WMS and triggers automated tasks based on real-time events: for example, inventory reaches a threshold, an emergency order occurs, or a replenishment request is issued.

This makes AMR’s integration with Modula ideal for businesses looking to expand their automation capabilities over time.

AGV: structured automation for repetitive tasks

In scenarios where processes are stable and routes are fixed, automated guided vehicles provide a reliable and cost-effective method for internal handling. Unlike AMRs, AGVs typically follow a more defined path and can use magnetic stripes, QR codes, laser sensors or advanced navigation systems depending on the application.

Integrating Modula with AGV systems connects automated storage with planned, repeatable handling tasks, such as transporting materials to production areas, feeding specific workstations, transferring inventory between receiving and storage, or replenishing buffers.

Its value lies not only in the physical movement, but also in the information flow behind it. Modula WMS coordinates requests, priorities and destinations so that the AGVs become part of the overall process rather than vehicles operating independently.

Picking Systems: Speed, Accuracy and Multiple Order Management

Picking is one area where integration can bring significant benefits. The goods-to-person principle already makes picking at Modula faster and more accurate than traditional methods. The process can be further improved when VLM is connected with assisted picking technology.

• Put to LightSignificantly reduces picking errors by guiding operators to the correct container after picking, indicating placement and quantity
• Picking workstationProvide an ergonomic and comfortable environment for managing multiple orders simultaneously, keeping the process smooth with push-button confirmation steps.
• Pick to Colour Carts：Associating each picking cart with a color code provides operators with simple and intuitive visual guidance without the need for additional hardware.
• smart displayMaterial pictures, pallet locations and picking details are displayed in real time at the workport.
• scanner(standard, industrial or wearable) supports accurate identification of materials in different environments.

Modula WMS connects it all, guiding every step of the process and making multi-order management intuitive, even at high throughput. For e-commerce, spare parts, retail distribution or manufacturing companies, the combination of speed, accuracy and ergonomic comfort can produce measurable improvements in throughput and employee experience.

Connected warehouse: Modula as an intelligent hub for intralogistics

In a market where speed, accuracy and adaptability increasingly determine business success or failure, VLM can no longer be viewed as a stand-alone asset.

Real competitive advantage does not come from the simple addition of individual technologies, but from the degree to which these technologies work together. A truly efficient warehouse is not just an automated warehouse, but a warehouse that is interconnected, coordinated, and can evolve with the business.