Fully automated video rental machines from V & L Tool Inc are revolutionizing the video rental industry. And Pacific Bearing's Redi-Rail® rolling element linear guides keep the automated DVD retrieval and return process working smoothly.

"In the last 10 years, the big 3 movie chains -- Blockbuster, Hollywood, and Movie Gallery -- have grown dramatically," states Randy Schaefer, vp of operations for Waukesha, WI-based V & L Tool, "and many more independent, 'mom-and-pop' video stores have gone out of business."

To address the resulting dramatic drop in total rental locations, V & L designed its automated system. "Our Video Interactive Distribution System (VIDS) DVD vending machine concept will fix this problem," adds Schaefer. "The VIDS offers video rental consumers many more thousands of locations where they can rent DVD movies." In addition, lacking the overhead of video rental stores yet capable of housing up to 630 of the latest video releases, the VIDS offers a low-cost, convenient distribution alternative for hotels, universities, stores, and other consumer sites.

The VIDS is simple and convenient to operate. Dual monitors on the top face of the machine advertise rental promotions, in-store specials, and other custom advertising while the user browses more than 100 DVD covers. Once a movie selection has been made, the user navigates through prompts on the touch screen display, inputting DVD choice, and inserting a credit card for processing. Once dispensed, the VIDS produces a vendor-specific receipt or coupons to complete the transaction. Returning a DVD is simple -- the intelligent electronics of the VIDS ensure the DVD is returned to its original slot within the machine.

V & L designers sought out high quality, reliable components for the VIDS to handle the repeatability and robustness demanded of the system. Pacific Bearing's Redi-Rail® rolling element linear guides were chosen because they provided the smooth and precise motion essential for DVD retrieval and return. Driven by state-of-the-art electronics, the x-y guide system maintains 360 deg rotational freedom and z-axis movement as it travels on a pivoting shaft that runs the length of the machine.

"With the ability to utilize products like the Pacific Bearing Redi-Rail," says Randy Schaefer, "V & L Tool can look forward to many more years of continued success in developing precise, economical, and robust electromechanical products for the marketplace."