AccuLiFT™ — Automatic SMT Reel Storage System (VLM)
Robotic putaway and retrieval for up to 8,300 reels — stack the loading unit and walk away. Runs lights-out, no operator required.
Overview
Fully Automatic, No Manual Reel Handling Required
AccuLiFT™ is an automatic SMT reel storage system designed to maximize storage and minimize labor in the highly competitive electronic assembly marketplace. Users simply stack reels onto loading units and walk away. The robotic arm picks each reel and places it into the correct storage location without individual manual placement.
The system processes up to 150 reels simultaneously. A double-pallet in/out buffer runs loading and retrieval in parallel. While the robot works on one pallet, the extractor is already handling the next, which eliminates wait time between operations.
AccuLiFT™ accommodates reel diameters from 7 in (180 mm) to 15 in (380 mm) and tape widths from 4 mm to 44 mm, with dynamic slot reconfiguration. Every reel is automatically barcode-scanned before stocking, and a label applicator on the output side ensures all outgoing reels are properly identified.
Footprint & Capacity
Very High Storage Density with Very Small Footprint
The Vertical Lift Module concept coupled with a precision motion system and direct drive (patent pending) enables AccuLiFT™ to provide the highest storage density and capacity within a footprint of just 88 × 92 inches (2.25 m × 2.33 m). Without the robot, the footprint is only 88 × 64 inches (2.25 m × 1.62 m).
Maximum storage capacity is 8,300 reels at a maximum height of 16 ft 7 in (5.1 m).
Production Integration
Central Storage Hub for the Entire SMT Floor
AccuLiFT™ sits at the center of the production floor as a shared storage hub serving multiple SMT lines simultaneously. When a line runs low on a component or a job change requires new parts, a delivery request is generated automatically. An AGV retrieves the correct reels from AccuLiFT™ and delivers them directly to the line.
The scheduler connects incoming orders to local inventory, triggering replenishment from suppliers before shortages occur. Unused reels are returned to stock automatically, keeping inventory accurate without manual intervention. Material flows in a closed loop from supplier to placement machine, with AccuLiFT™ at the center.
Key Capabilities
Robotic Bulk Loading
Stack up to 150 reels onto loading units and walk away. The robot picks each reel and places it into the correct storage slot automatically. Handles reel diameters from 7″ to 15″ and tape widths from 4 mm to 44 mm.
Double-Pallet Buffer
Two in/out pallets operate simultaneously. The operator loads or unloads one while the robot works on the other, which eliminates wait time and maximizes throughput.
Automatic Barcode Scanning
Every reel is identified by barcode scan before stocking. Inventory records are created and updated automatically, with no manual data entry and no scanning errors.
Label Applicator on Output
A barcode label applicator on the output side ensures every reel leaving the system is properly labeled and ready for use on the line or in kitting.
MES Integration & Modular Design
Flexible software with custom plug-in interfaces connects AccuLiFT™ to your MES, ERP, or custom systems. The modular mechanical design allows the machine to ship at approximately 7 feet height in a standard container.
Output Sorting
Reels retrieved for a kit are automatically sorted by job, placement program, line number, FIFO parameters, quantity, date code, or supplier, then delivered in the exact order your operators need them.
Dual-Motor Direct Drive
The dual-motor direct drive design eliminates the need for periodic calibration, reducing maintenance requirements and keeping the system running reliably over its service life.
Lights-Out, Unattended Operation
No operator required to run putaway or retrieval. Queue up jobs and let AccuLiFT™ work through nights, weekends, and off-shift hours, effectively gaining your warehouse an extra shift without adding headcount.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many reels can AccuLiFT store?
AccuLiFT stores up to 8,300 component reels at a maximum height of 16 ft 7 in (5.1 m), the highest storage density available today.
What reel diameters and tape widths does AccuLiFT handle?
It accommodates reel diameters from 7 in (180 mm) to 15 in (380 mm) and tape widths from 4 mm to 44 mm, with automatic slot reconfiguration.
What is the footprint of the machine?
The full system, including the robot, fits within an 88 x 92 in (2.25 x 2.33 m) footprint; without the robot it is 88 x 64 in.
Does AccuLiFT integrate with MES or ERP systems?
Yes. Flexible software with custom plug-in interfaces connects AccuLiFT to your MES, ERP, or custom systems, and every reel is barcode-scanned automatically before stocking.
Can AccuLiFT run unattended, lights-out?
Yes. AccuLiFT requires no operator to perform putaway or retrieval, so it can keep working through nights, weekends, and off-shift hours — effectively adding a shift of warehouse capacity without adding staff.