Projected user interfaces optimize picking accuracy in vertical lift modules

Kardex has announced the launch of its Intuitive Picking Assistant for the Kardex Shuttle vertical lift module, engineered to optimize order fulfillment velocity and minimize validation errors within high-density intralogistics configurations. This hardware and software deployment introduces a projection-based user interface that delivers real-time workspace instructions directly into the operator field of view, establishing an adaptive human-machine interface layer.

To demonstrate these automated optical tracking and validation capabilities under variable fulfillment workloads, the warehouse optimization framework has transitioned into targeted commercial rollout. First introduced at the LogiMAT 2026 trade fair in Stuttgart, Germany, the system addresses localized onboarding blockages during peak material tracking intervals.

Spatial optical projections and real-time hand tracking mechanics
The mitigation of verification delays during manual picking sequences requires the removal of multi-screen monitoring dependencies that force operators to look away from the physical material handling space. Operating as an integrated hardware layer at the module access opening, the assistance system utilizes digital projection technology to overlay dynamic visual work instructions directly within the active picking zone. The projection highlights the exact pick locations and quantity information while introducing virtual confirmation prompts on adjacent boundaries.

By mapping the interface metrics dynamically onto the material surface, the layout bypasses the need for independent handheld terminal checks or separate control console referencing loops. The configuration incorporates integrated camera modules that track operator hand movements across the access opening plane in real time. The vision processors evaluate depth arrays, triggering immediate visual feedback loops if an operator approaches a non-targeted storage compartment to systematically prevent incorrect picks.

The terminal envelope incorporates an ergonomic interaction pad positioned at the machine opening to improve operator comfort during extended picking cycles. This physical interaction block works alongside the projected user interface to create a streamlined, modern picking environment. The optical framing assembly utilizes a low-profile mounting footprint that fits cleanly into standard access openings, protecting internal lenses from structural wear.

Controller integration parameters and modular software ecosystems
To ensure low-latency signal distribution between the optical verification layer and the underlying machine machinery, the system interfaces natively with dedicated onboard automation engines. The software stack links directly into the vertical lift infrastructure configured with the brand's proprietary Total Intelligence Concept hardware controller. This direct integration guarantees tight timing synchronization between the vertical tray positioning motors and the spatial projection matrices.

The computational subsystem is built to sync natively with centralized digital logistics infrastructure, maintaining data loops with the Kardex Power Pick Cloud network and authorized local Kardex Power Pick System software modules. This unified data network feeds live inventory changes and throughput metrics directly back to enterprise-level tracking databases. The system is initially available for selected standard machine configurations in Europe, with global availability planned for the end of 2026.

Additional Context: Technical specifications and competitive benchmarking
Within the automated storage and retrieval systems market, this integrated optical guidance platform enters direct technical competition with established light-directed fulfillment portfolios such as the Pick-to-Light hardware blocks from SSI Schaefer or the vision-guided sorting systems engineered by Modula. Objective engineering benchmarking reveals unique trade-offs regarding component flexibility and geometric adaptability.

While standard competitive hardware modules rely on fixed physical led strips and hardwired digital push-buttons that require physical layout overhauls when rearranging internal tray partitions, the Kardex platform utilizes fully reconfigurable software-defined projection paths. This digital design drops physical hardware modification outlays and allows immediate adaptation to variable storage grid layouts.

However, achieving maximum validation speeds under aggressive fulfillment schedules demands careful coordination with proper background illumination baselines and specific tray reflectivity metrics. Sub-optimal calibration of the camera exposure variables or high dust contamination across the optical viewport lenses can introduce minor tracking delays inside the vision processing bus, temporarily lowering confirmation responsiveness margins compared to traditional physical contact push-buttons.

Edited by Sucithra Mani, Induportals editor – adapted by AI.

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