Photo: wl
Interesting steering systems (without a steering wheel…), the announced electric whisper giants in the payload range of 10 to 18 t and Green Power in goods handling - but also scorching heat were already present at the opening on the Maimarkt grounds in Mannheim at the World of Material Handling by Linde MH.
The developers are absolutely convinced that Linde Steer Control, based on steer-by-wire technology, significantly improves driver ergonomics. In fact, virtually every option is now available: the "good old" steering wheel, the joystick, or, optionally, the mini-wheel. According to Frank Bergmann, product manager for counterbalance forklifts, the material handling equipment manufacturer is essentially implementing what has long been standard practice for much larger commercial vehicles.
Mini-wheel instead of steering wheel
Instead of a steering wheel with its relatively direct directional control of the vehicle's wheels, the driver's commands are converted into electrical signals and transmitted to the hydraulic actuators. Of course, the user has to adapt, says Bergmann. This is significantly easier, especially for the younger generation and forklift operators already familiar with the digital age. He notes a steep learning curve with the Mini-Wheel, for example, in typical everyday forklift applications such as long-distance transport, maneuvering, or storage and retrieval processes. When the driver releases the control, the steering wheels automatically return to the straight-ahead position.
The author himself regards the joystick steering system, which also automatically returns to the straight-ahead position, with skepticism on the gravel grounds of the May Market, preferring not to rely entirely on the speed control's rapid implementation of the steering command remaining within safe limits. Thedriver's left arm rests on the left armrest, while the right arm controls the lifting mechanism and forks. As always, switching from simpler, everyday machines with direct steering and levers requires a moment of reorientation. "We reduce body movements and relieve the driver," says Bergmann. He is convinced that what has already become established in excavators, cranes, rail vehicles, and aircraft could be used more and more frequently in industrial trucks in the future and develop into an industry standard.
We remain somewhat skeptical and counter with our experience using a computer mouse, which, while easy to move, doesn't protect some users from tendonitis. Further long-term results will likely emerge, allowing for more conclusive findings. Linde's engineers, for their part, have already put the new concept through a whole series of tests and are convinced of the new solution's viability, especially among younger people. In any case, those who want it have a choice.
For nine days of events, Linde has rolled out the red carpet for customers and prospective clients in Mannheim. Several thousand guests are expected over the next few days. Aside from its prominent location and dependence on unpredictable weather, such as blazing sunshine and the rapidly alternating thunderstorms with torrential rain that have been occurring recently, the Maimarkt grounds are once again ideal for presentations that require ample outdoor space.
In the exhibition hall, classic intralogistics solutions are demonstrated – including those using Dematic and the example of bottle production, from goods receipt to the last mile to the point of sale. A complete material flow for glass bottle manufacturing has been recreated in the large exhibition hall. In a "control center," visitors can see the advantages of digitizing and networking warehouse processes. Other themed areas showcase the comprehensive security portfolio, various energy concepts, the "connect" fleet management solution, and automation options.
The products and solutions of the partner companies are integrated at appropriate locations. At the "goods receiving" area, you'll find the A-Safe security barrier, while the "warehouse" area features a heavy-duty racking system from Bito and the "AutoStore" automated small parts storage system from Dematic. The "order picking" area includes a mobile weighing system from Ravas, and the "last mile" station has a lifting platform from Palfinger. EnerSys, Fronius, Hoppecke, and Plug Power focus on the topic of "energy."
“Over the past two years, the overall economic environment, and consequently the demands on internal material flow, have changed noticeably,” said Stefan Prokosch, Senior Vice President Brand Management Linde Material Handling, at the start of the event. “Rising energy costs, a shortage of skilled workers, increased demands on operational safety, and the search for solutions for greater sustainability – these are just some of the challenges our customers face. At the same time, it is essential to leverage the optimization potential that digitalization and networking offer.” According to the top brand manager, forklifts and warehouse equipment alone are no longer sufficient to meet today’s requirements (more reports to follow).
