Modula Horizontal Carousel (HC): Goods-to-Man Picking Solution

Technology Overview

The Modula Horizontal Carousel (HC) is an automated storage and retrieval system designed to address the need for efficient, space-saving, and cost-effective order picking. As a response to the growing demand for automation in warehousing, this system implements the proven "goods-to-man" principle. It consists of a series of bins that rotate horizontally on a durable stainless steel track, automatically bringing the required items to a stationary operator. This technology is particularly suited for environments with high picking intensity and a focus on small to medium-sized goods, offering a practical automation upgrade for various industrial and distribution sectors.

How It Works

Core Principles

The system operates on a horizontal carousel mechanism. Inventory is stored in individual bins. Upon receiving a pick instruction, the carousel rotates horizontally to position the target bin directly at the ergonomic picking station, eliminating the need for the operator to move.

Key Features & Capabilities

The Horizontal Bin Rotation on a stainless steel track provides reliable and smooth movement, ensuring precise delivery of items. Its core design is centered around the Goods-to-Man Picking Concept, which is fundamental to reducing operator fatigue and increasing pick rates by bringing inventory to a fixed point. The system is explicitly Designed for Small to Medium Goods, making it ideal for a vast range of products in e-commerce, manufacturing, and distribution. As a Low-Cost Automation Solution, it offers an accessible entry point for companies looking to automate without the investment required for larger ASRS systems.

Advantages & Benefits

The primary advantage is a significant increase in picking productivity and accuracy by eliminating travel time and reducing errors associated with manual searching. It provides a strong return on investment due to its lower initial cost compared to more complex automated systems. The system optimizes floor space by utilizing vertical storage density within the carousel's footprint. It is specifically engineered for high-intensity picking environments, where speed and reliability are crucial.

Implementation Considerations

Implementing the Modula HC requires an analysis of the SKU profile to ensure items fit within the bin dimensions and weight limits for small to medium goods. Facility layout must accommodate the carousel's footprint and the operator station. While scalable by adding units, the throughput per station is finite, so planning for peak demand is necessary.

Use Cases & Applications

Ideal For

This system is ideal for operations with high-volume, repetitive picking of small to medium items where labor efficiency and space savings are key objectives.

Conclusion

The Modula Horizontal Carousel (HC) offers a focused and economically sensible approach to automating the order picking process. By effectively implementing the goods-to-man principle, it delivers tangible benefits in operator productivity, accuracy, and space utilization. For businesses, especially those in e-commerce, manufacturing, or distribution looking to take a first step into automation or to optimize existing high-intensity picking operations, the Modula HC presents a reliable and cost-effective solution. Its design, backed by decades of manufacturing experience, provides a balance of performance and value, making it a compelling choice for modern warehouse challenges.