Choosing the right configuration for the ICAM SILO² VLM is essential to maximize its strategic benefits.
In recent years, warehouse automation has become a key driver for improving efficiency, reducing costs and ensuring operational continuity. Increasingly complex supply chains and the need to manage fluctuating volumes have led many companies to adopt automated solutions for storage management.
Choosing the right configuration is essential to maximize return on investment. In this guide, we take a closer look at the different SILO² configuration options to help you identify the solution that best fits your actual operational needs.
Vertical Lift Module (VLM): what it is, how it works and why choose SILO²
Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs) are automated storage systems designed to maximize the vertical space available within a facility, making storage and material handling more efficient. Unlike traditional storage systems, VLMs automatically deliver trays containing the required materials directly to the operator, reducing handling time and physical effort.
Key benefits:
- Space savings: up to 90% compared to traditional shelving systems.
- Improved operator safety: thanks to ergonomic workstations.
- Improved accuracy and efficiency in picking operations and inventory management.
SILO², ICAM’s VLM, combines these benefits with a modular, technologically advanced design.
SILO²: key features for automated storage and picking
ICAM SILO² VLMs combine versatility and high performance to meet a wide range of operational requirements. Key strengths include:
- Modular design: each SILO² VLM can be configured using standard modules to meet specific customer requirements and adapt to existing spaces and operational workflows.
- Flexible tray configuration: available in over 120 configurations, trays can be adapted over time using internal dividers and separators to accommodate changing storage requirements.
- High storage density: vertical space optimization frees up valuable floor space, while outdoor installation can preserve valuable indoor space.
- Advanced software integration: compatibile with ERP, WMS and eCommerce platforms for seamless integrtion of data and warehiuse operations.
- Smart picking: optional picking devices reduce picking times, guide operators through each task and shorten the learning curve.
Each SILO² VLM is designed to improve operational efficiency with every cycle, while providing the flexibility to scale as future needs evolve.
SILO² VLM configurations: 4 real-world applications
SILO² for Color Batch Picking
This configuration features four ICAM SILO² VLMs, each with three storage columns, two picking and refilling stations and a height of eight metres. The systems are equipped with 1300 × 900 mm trays and arranged face-to-face to create a centralized pod of machines, ideal for consolidating multi-item orders using Color Batch Picking.
Why choose this configuration: it is ideal for distribution centers handling high-turnover, small and medium-sized items. Color coding provides clear visual and digital separation between batches, improving accuracy and reducing picking times. Multiple picking and refilling stations maximize throughput and enable efficient order management across different lines or customers.
Ideal for:
- Multi-item eCommerce order fulfillment
- Third-party logistics (3PL)
- Regional distribution centers
Watch the Gabbiano case study video
SILO² for molds and heavy loads
This configuration features an ICAM SILO² VLM with five storage columns and one telescopic station. The 800 × 600 mm trays offer a specific load capacity of up to 1,000 kg/m². The system is designed to handle heavy and bulky materials such as molds, equipment and industrial tools.
Why choose this configuration: the telescopic station enables safe handling with pallet trucks or overhead cranes. Based on weight data, the system automatically assigns trays to the most suitable storage levels, optimizing space utilization while ensuring balanced load distribution.
Ideal for:
- Machine shops
- Automotive and molding industries
- Tooling departments in manufacturing companies
Explore the Moretto Brakes Components case study
SILO² outdoor configuration
This configuration is designed for facilities where indoor space is limited. The ICAM SILO² VLM features three storage columns and stands 12 metres high, with the main structure installed outdoors. It is equipped with 1100 × 800 mm trays and two picking and refilling stations accessible from inside the facility.
Why choose this configuration: it makes use of otherwise unused outdoor vertical space without compromising safety or efficiency. Internal components are protected from the elements and can only be accessed from inside the facility.
Ideal for:
- Storage of accessories and metal components
- Seasonal or low-frequency storage
- Facilities with indoor space constraints
SILO² with a dual function: workshop and spare parts storage
This configuration features a SILO² VLM with three storage columns, one picking and refilling station serving the workshop and two serving the spare parts area. It is ideal for companies that need to manage different operational flows within a single system.
Why choose this configuration: on one side, the system supports the production area with continuous picking operations; on the other, it enables just-in-time spare parts distribution. The software allows priorities, operating schedules and access permissions to be managed independently for each area.
Ideal for:
- Manufacturing companies with in-house service departments
- Companies with integrated production and after-sales operations
- Technical service centers with in-house storage
Watch the Regie Auto case study video
Tailored flexibility: over one billion SILO² configurations, all from standard modules
The configurations shown so far represent only a fraction of what SILO² can offer. Thanks to its fully modular design and the use of standard components, SILO² can be configured in over one billion different ways, all without the need for custom-built solutions. This makes SILO² one of the most advanced automated storage solutions on the market, ideal for companies looking for a VLM that can be closely tailored to their specific requirements. Its modular approach provides an exceptional level of flexibility, allowing each system to adapt to different spaces, materials and operational workflows.
Despite the high level of configurability, design and delivery times remain fully in line with market standards. This smart design approach allows the ICAM SILO² VLM to combine efficiency, scalability and fast implementation without compromising on flexibility.
How to choose the right ICAM SILO² configuration
Choosing the right SILO² VLM configuration always starts with a thorough analysis of operational flows, the types of materials to be stored and the company’s business goals. SILO² offers an exceptionally high level of configurability thanks to its modular design, but accurate data is essential to develop an efficient solution.
Key factors to consider:
- Value, volume and weight of the materials to be stored: how many SKUs need to be managed? What is their value? How critical are they to business operations if they become unavailable? What are their dimensions and weight? Do they require temperature-controlled storage?
- Picking frequency and throughput: what level of performance is required? Are there seasonal peaks, or is demand relatively consistent throughout the year?
- Available space (floor area and height): where will the VLM be installed? Is there enough indoor space, or should an outdoor installation be considered? Does the system need to be located next to a specific operational area?
- Ergonomics and safety requirements: are the items heavy or difficult to handle during picking? Are operators working in ergonomically appropriate conditions, or is there room for improvement?
With the simulation tools provided by ICAM consultants, companies can visualize realistic layouts and compare alternative scenarios before making an investment.
What are the most common mistakes?
Choosing an automated storage system requires careful evaluation. To help you make the right decision, we have covered the most common mistakes to avoid in a dedicated article. Find out what to consider before configuring your SILO² VLM.
Tax incentives for investing in a Vertical Lift Module
Investing in SILO² may also provide access to tax incentives and financing opportunities designed to support digital transformation and innovation in logistics processes.
Current opportunities include:
- Industry 4.0 compliance
- Italian regional and NRRP funding opportunities
- Operating leases and tailored financing solutions through specialized partners
Together with its financial partners, ICAM supports customers in evaluating the available financing options and identifying the most suitable investment terms.
Digitalization and Industry 4.0: the future is now
SILO² plays a key role in the digitalization of logistics processes. Each configuration is designed to exchange data in real time with the company’s management systems, supporting the transition towards Industry 4.0 operating models. At the same time, ICAM automated storage systems embrace the principles of Industry 5.0, where human-machine collaboration contributes to a more sustainable and human-centric approach to automation. SILO² VLMs make operators’ work easier, more intuitive and more valuable by combining human expertise with advanced technology.
Key features of SILO² VLMs:
- MonitReal-time performance monitoringoraggio continuo delle performance
- Direct integration with ERP and WMS systems
- Data collection and analytics for continuous improvement
- Integration with quality management, maintenance and supply chain planning systems
Choosing SILO² VLM means investing in a solution that not only meets today’s operational needs, but also prepares your business for the future of automated logistics.
Which SILO² VLM configuration is right for you?
Every ICAM SILO² VLM configuration is designed around specific operational needs. It is not simply about storing materials, but about making better use of space, time and resources. With its modular design and a wide range of proven applications, SILO² can deliver tangible, measurable improvements to warehouse operations.
Want to find the right VLM configuration for your needs?
- Talk to an ICAM consultant to discuss your requirements.
- Explore your options with a tailored layout simulation
- Explore available incentives and financing options to get started.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
The right VLM configuration depends on several key factors: available space, the type, dimensions and weight of the items to be stored, handling frequency, and picking and refilling flows. ICAM’s SILO² VLM can be configured by combining tray size and load capacity, number of storage columns, and picking and refilling stations to meet specific operational requirements.
The starting point is the weight, size, quantity, and variety of the items. These factors determine dimensions and load capacity, as well as the overall storage capacity required. ICAM’s SILO² VLM offers over 120 tray size configurations and a specific load capacity of up to 1,001 kg/m².
Yes. By using the available vertical space, a VLM can concentrate storage capacity within a limited footprint. ICAM’s SILO² VLM can be configured with 2 to 7 storage columns, adapting its dimensions and capacity to the available warehouse layout.
Yes. Picking/refilling stations can be positioned on different sides and floors, allowing the same VLM to serve multiple operational areas. ICAM’s SILO² VLM can therefore be configured to connect the warehouse, production area, or other departments within the same building.
Yes. The number, position, and type of picking/refilling stations can be defined according to material flows, the number of operators, and the required performance. ICAM’s SILO² VLM can feature up to 8 picking and refilling stations, positioned side by side or on opposite sides to create highly efficient workstations.