Vertical Carousels

Vertical Carousels are a general class of storage machine that utilizes chain and track / linkages that rotate box structure shelving modules in a vertically. Vertical carousels resemble a ferris wheel in dynamics; the individual shelving modules are kept horizontal on their path around the vertical track with use of a paternoster mechanism. This is, simply stated, the combination of main drive chain path and a secondary guide track that couples a stabilizing arm to shelving modules. Vertical carousels are Vertical Carousels available in many load carrying capacities, shelf module dimensions and overall height. Vertical carousels range from office style document storage devices to large industrial units loaded to many tons with heights of 40 feet and more. Vertical carousels are suited for consolidating the storage of like sized small parts in a small footprint. To access stored materials, an operator simply selects a given pan from the control interface or through the optional application software. Once selected, the carousel rotates all pans via the shortest route and presents the requested pan at a convenient working height. Because the vertical carousel “footprint” occupies a relatively small area, the cubic utilization is greater than with any other automated storage and retrieval system. In addition to saving space, the ergonomically designed vertical carousel dramatically reduces the labor required in picking, because the operator walk area is greatly reduced and ergonomics are enhanced as bending is eliminated compared to standard shelving. As a result, operator fatigue is reduced, errors are decreased, supervision is enhanced and productivity is increased.