Westfalia Technologies, Inc. announced the availability of a standardized vertical lift station (VLS) camera as part of its Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS) technology. As an add-on to the Storage/Retrieval Machine (S/RM), the camera allows warehouse personnel to view pallets remotely, increasing safety and accuracy in product storage and retrieval, while adding efficiency to warehouse and distribution center operations.

The VLS transports pallets resting on Westfalia’s Satellite® rack entry vehicle vertically within the rack structure. Situating the camera on the VLS offers flexible, comprehensive views of the VLS, Satellite®, rack structure, storage lanes and input/output conveyors. Full lane depth can be seen on the side of the S/RM with the camera as well as the opposite side. The camera helps optimize warehouse performance by allowing maintenance personnel to identify any S/RM disruptions quickly.   The VLS camera is fully integrated with Westfalia’s component solutions via wireless connection. The camera records in 1080p HDTV, while remote control allows 360° pan, 200° tilt and 36x optical zoom with electronic image stabilization. The camera can operate under extreme temperature conditions (-40°F to 120°F) and can be augmented by LED lights for dark environments. Notably, the camera feature is retrofit capable, allowing current Westfalia customers to install cameras onto existing S/RMs.   Dan Labell, owner and president of Westfalia Technologies, said, “Westfalia is always searching for ways to optimize safety, accuracy, efficiency and convenience in the warehouse and distribution center. Our commitment extends across the system life cycle, encompassing past, present and future customers equally. So, as in the case of VLS camera, Westfalia will always attempt to make new technology available not only as a new add-on feature but also as a retrofit option.