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Day: 20 April 2022

Global Materials Handling joins Toyota network

Posted on by David Priestman

Toyota Material Handling UK (TMH UK) has appointed a new addition to its national dealer network. Saint Helens-based Global Materials Handling Ltd became the official Toyota dealer for the north west of England when managing director Andy Evans (pictured right) put pen to paper at a signing ceremony at the company’s premises at Haydock attended by TMH UK’s managing director, Nick Duckworth (pictured left), and dealer manager, Robert Wright.

Established in 2010, Global Materials Handling is the fastest-growing independent forklift dealer in the UK’s north west. Joining the Toyota dealer network means that the company can now offer the full Toyota range of intralogistics solutions as well as used Toyota forklift trucks and warehouse equipment, service, parts, a range of flexible and highly competitive finance and rental packages as well as operator training.

Andy Evans, who prior to forming Global Materials Handling, began his career with Birchwood Mechanical Services, commented: “When I was with Birchwood the first forklift truck that I ever sold was a Toyota, so I am very excited to have joined the Toyota network once again.

“Global Materials Handling provides a personalised, local service tailored to our clients’ business needs. The combination of a local dealership supported by an internationally recognised manufacturer such as Toyota means that we can deliver excellent levels of service support to all of our clients – regardless of whether they operate a single truck or the largest fleet.”

Duckworth added: “Toyota has a dedicated, strategically positioned dealer network and we are extremely pleased to welcome Global Materials Handling as part of our network. Global has developed an impressive business in the region and we look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship with the company.”

Global Materials Handling joins Toyota network

Posted on by David Priestman

Toyota Material Handling UK (TMH UK) has appointed a new addition to its national dealer network. Saint Helens-based Global Materials Handling Ltd became the official Toyota dealer for the north west of England when managing director Andy Evans (pictured right) put pen to paper at a signing ceremony at the company’s premises at Haydock attended by TMH UK’s managing director, Nick Duckworth (pictured left), and dealer manager, Robert Wright.

Established in 2010, Global Materials Handling is the fastest-growing independent forklift dealer in the UK’s north west. Joining the Toyota dealer network means that the company can now offer the full Toyota range of intralogistics solutions as well as used Toyota forklift trucks and warehouse equipment, service, parts, a range of flexible and highly competitive finance and rental packages as well as operator training.

Andy Evans, who prior to forming Global Materials Handling, began his career with Birchwood Mechanical Services, commented: “When I was with Birchwood the first forklift truck that I ever sold was a Toyota, so I am very excited to have joined the Toyota network once again.

“Global Materials Handling provides a personalised, local service tailored to our clients’ business needs. The combination of a local dealership supported by an internationally recognised manufacturer such as Toyota means that we can deliver excellent levels of service support to all of our clients – regardless of whether they operate a single truck or the largest fleet.”

Duckworth added: “Toyota has a dedicated, strategically positioned dealer network and we are extremely pleased to welcome Global Materials Handling as part of our network. Global has developed an impressive business in the region and we look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship with the company.”

Ferag shows efficient fulfillment technology at LogiMAT

Posted on by David Priestman

Intralogistics specialist Ferag, based in Hinwil, Switzerland, is presenting its combined Skyfall pouch sorting solution and automated storage system at this year’s LogiMAT trade fair in Hall 3, Stand C05. By directly connecting storage to the pouch sorter the entire system improves throughput and increases efficiency. Ferag is also giving a live demonstration of the Denisort Compact modular vertical sorter with downstream transport robot.

The focus of the presentation by Ferag AG at this year’s LogiMAT in Stuttgart will be on the #perfectmatch. The company will show that, even when multiple applications are involved, the right combination of existing intralogistic solutions can offer customers clear added value. In particular, the demonstration will be geared to the e-commerce and retail areas, but interesting innovations will also be presented for the B2B and 3PL sectors as well.

Skyfall accelerates the overall order fulfilment process

Visitors to the company’s booth will be mesmerized by the insights into the highly powerful Skyfall pouch sortation system. The system allows Ferag to demonstrate its role as an innovator and an integrator. Current concepts are optimised with the addition of flexible new approaches.

As a response to the sharply increased demands of modern distribution centres, the combination of well-known storage solutions and reliable overhead conveyors has also proven to be successful for higher loads and product volumes. In particular, increasing product diversity (SKUs), more detailed order structures, accelerated delivery and return processes and constant cost pressure in e-commerce present major challenges for service providers.

Ferag offers a direct connection from the sorter and buffer system to any storage system and a sophisticated order picking principle known as wave picking. The public will learn more about this #perfectmatch at Ferag’s presentation in Hall 3, Stand C05.

Modular, efficient and practical

The Denisort Compact logistics solution provides highly efficient sorting services for incoming goods, order picking, shipping, the integrated return process and cross-docking. Of all the flexible tray sorter’s advantages, on first inspection the system’s modular design stands out. The standard modules provide a compact form that can be expanded with any additional elements. This concept enables quick assembly of pretested modules and thus immediate commissioning of the system.

In particular, an evaluation of the sorting system’s performance reveals improved efficiency. The induction station can be operated automatically and combined with feeder belts. But the area where the #perfectmatch is most obvious is the unloading area. The sorted containers are immediately sent to the next station by an automatic guided vehicle (AGV), which visitors to the trade fair in Stuttgart will be able to see for themselves in person.

Ferag shows efficient fulfillment technology at LogiMAT

Posted on by David Priestman

Intralogistics specialist Ferag, based in Hinwil, Switzerland, is presenting its combined Skyfall pouch sorting solution and automated storage system at this year’s LogiMAT trade fair in Hall 3, Stand C05. By directly connecting storage to the pouch sorter the entire system improves throughput and increases efficiency. Ferag is also giving a live demonstration of the Denisort Compact modular vertical sorter with downstream transport robot.

The focus of the presentation by Ferag AG at this year’s LogiMAT in Stuttgart will be on the #perfectmatch. The company will show that, even when multiple applications are involved, the right combination of existing intralogistic solutions can offer customers clear added value. In particular, the demonstration will be geared to the e-commerce and retail areas, but interesting innovations will also be presented for the B2B and 3PL sectors as well.

Skyfall accelerates the overall order fulfilment process

Visitors to the company’s booth will be mesmerized by the insights into the highly powerful Skyfall pouch sortation system. The system allows Ferag to demonstrate its role as an innovator and an integrator. Current concepts are optimised with the addition of flexible new approaches.

As a response to the sharply increased demands of modern distribution centres, the combination of well-known storage solutions and reliable overhead conveyors has also proven to be successful for higher loads and product volumes. In particular, increasing product diversity (SKUs), more detailed order structures, accelerated delivery and return processes and constant cost pressure in e-commerce present major challenges for service providers.

Ferag offers a direct connection from the sorter and buffer system to any storage system and a sophisticated order picking principle known as wave picking. The public will learn more about this #perfectmatch at Ferag’s presentation in Hall 3, Stand C05.

Modular, efficient and practical

The Denisort Compact logistics solution provides highly efficient sorting services for incoming goods, order picking, shipping, the integrated return process and cross-docking. Of all the flexible tray sorter’s advantages, on first inspection the system’s modular design stands out. The standard modules provide a compact form that can be expanded with any additional elements. This concept enables quick assembly of pretested modules and thus immediate commissioning of the system.

In particular, an evaluation of the sorting system’s performance reveals improved efficiency. The induction station can be operated automatically and combined with feeder belts. But the area where the #perfectmatch is most obvious is the unloading area. The sorted containers are immediately sent to the next station by an automatic guided vehicle (AGV), which visitors to the trade fair in Stuttgart will be able to see for themselves in person.

Technology to cut workplace injuries

Posted on by David Priestman

A revolutionary Artificial Intelligence [AI] based wearable technology that helps employees avoid physical injury at work is being rolled out across the UK by Stanley, one of the leading providers of innovative technology in the workplace.

The wearable technology, which has been developed by Soter Analytics and is being implemented in the UK by Stanley, comes as two integrated products  – Soter Coach and Soter Task.

Soter Coach delivers personalised coaching to workers using a wearable device and provides recommendations via a mobile app. It directly challenges the traditional classroom style of manual handling training by identifying, addressing, and monitoring unsafe movement and posture whilst carrying out everyday activities as part of an employee’s role.

Using Soter Coach, a typical worker improves their ergonomic safety by reducing the hazardous back and shoulder movements they make by up to 55%.

Soter Task  is an AI-driven vision processing technology to assess ergonomic risk within tasks in minutes and on-the-go. This cloud-based solution combines video captured through a mobile application with AI-driven data analysis to accurately measure risk movements in the workplace, and help with ​implementing tools that keep workers safe. In this way it allows employees to manage their own physical wellbeing and helps businesses reduce the risk of injury.

Graham Sharp, MD of Stanley, said: “Workplace injuries are on the rise, meaning the use of AI tech and wearable devices will be increasingly important over the coming years to help reduce this risk. Combined with litigation claims and worker shortages, using the small wearable device to improve business productivity, reduce company absenteeism and create a safer and healthier workplace makes for a compelling proposition.

“The intuitive system also allows for real-time learning and improvement, providing personalised coaching to encourage behaviour change. So, for example, if the wearer moves awkwardly or dangerously, the device provides feedback via audio or vibration.”

The new devices are already being trialled successfully with a global energy company which is now looking at rolling them out comprehensively across its business.

Dail Wiens, Head of Partnerships at Soter Analytics, said: “It’s exciting to be working with Stanley. With our aligned consumer-centric goals, this collaboration brings together a powerful combination of leading products, broad technical expertise, and strong customer relationships, all dedicated to the same cause, to protect the well-being of employees.”

 

Technology to cut workplace injuries

Posted on by David Priestman

A revolutionary Artificial Intelligence [AI] based wearable technology that helps employees avoid physical injury at work is being rolled out across the UK by Stanley, one of the leading providers of innovative technology in the workplace.

The wearable technology, which has been developed by Soter Analytics and is being implemented in the UK by Stanley, comes as two integrated products  – Soter Coach and Soter Task.

Soter Coach delivers personalised coaching to workers using a wearable device and provides recommendations via a mobile app. It directly challenges the traditional classroom style of manual handling training by identifying, addressing, and monitoring unsafe movement and posture whilst carrying out everyday activities as part of an employee’s role.

Using Soter Coach, a typical worker improves their ergonomic safety by reducing the hazardous back and shoulder movements they make by up to 55%.

Soter Task  is an AI-driven vision processing technology to assess ergonomic risk within tasks in minutes and on-the-go. This cloud-based solution combines video captured through a mobile application with AI-driven data analysis to accurately measure risk movements in the workplace, and help with ​implementing tools that keep workers safe. In this way it allows employees to manage their own physical wellbeing and helps businesses reduce the risk of injury.

Graham Sharp, MD of Stanley, said: “Workplace injuries are on the rise, meaning the use of AI tech and wearable devices will be increasingly important over the coming years to help reduce this risk. Combined with litigation claims and worker shortages, using the small wearable device to improve business productivity, reduce company absenteeism and create a safer and healthier workplace makes for a compelling proposition.

“The intuitive system also allows for real-time learning and improvement, providing personalised coaching to encourage behaviour change. So, for example, if the wearer moves awkwardly or dangerously, the device provides feedback via audio or vibration.”

The new devices are already being trialled successfully with a global energy company which is now looking at rolling them out comprehensively across its business.

Dail Wiens, Head of Partnerships at Soter Analytics, said: “It’s exciting to be working with Stanley. With our aligned consumer-centric goals, this collaboration brings together a powerful combination of leading products, broad technical expertise, and strong customer relationships, all dedicated to the same cause, to protect the well-being of employees.”

 

ConFoot sponsors Agoria Solar Team

Posted on by David Priestman

ConFoot Ltd is sponsoring Agoria Solar Team, the solar car building team from the University of Leuven in Belgium, by providing the team with the latest ConFoot CFU model for lifting and lowering shipping containers.

Agoria Solar Team is competing in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge with its Bluepoint Atlas car, and has so far won the World Championship in 2019, as well as the European Championships in 2020 and 2021, being the first team ever to have won both titles.

However, winning is not the only goal; the team aims to promote renewable energy, introduce innovative techniques and ideas, promote entrepreneurship and inspire young people.

The three-wheeled Bluepoint Atlas has an entirely self-built engine, with microstructure containing solar panels to increase efficiency, and artificial shark skin to improve aerodynamic performance.

The biannual Bridgestone World Solar Challenge is the world’s toughest and most prestigious solar car event, and it has been inspiring the most brilliant minds in engineering and pushing the limits of technological innovation for 30 years.

In 2019 the competition had 44 teams participating from 21 countries.

The ConFoot CFU model has manually operated hydraulic bottle jacks incorporated into the leg structure, enabling for the container holding the solar car to be lowered all the way to the ground from the truck’s trailer and lifted back again without any additional container handling equipment.

The co-operation between ConFoot and Agoria Solar Team is a continuation of ConFoot’s work with various pioneers and innovators in the renewable energy sector.

Agoria Solar Team Car Facts:

  • Length – 5,000mm
  • Width – 1,300mm
  • Height – 900mm
  • Weight – 190kg
  • Maximum speed – 150km/h
  • Range – 700km
  • Number of solar cells – 292
  • Solar panel power – 900-1,000W
  • Solar panel surface area – 4 sq m
  • Solar cell efficiency – 28%
  • Motor efficiency – 98%

 

ConFoot CFU Facts:

  • Capacity – 20t
  • Lifting/lowering range – 0-1,400mm
  • Single leg weight – 46kg (consists of several pieces, individual piece weight under 25kg)
  • Number of legs in CFU set – 4
  • Operational temperature – -20 +40°C

ConFoot sponsors Agoria Solar Team

Posted on by Keith McKinley

ConFoot Ltd is sponsoring Agoria Solar Team, the solar car building team from the University of Leuven in Belgium, by providing the team with the latest ConFoot CFU model for lifting and lowering shipping containers.

Agoria Solar Team is competing in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge with its Bluepoint Atlas car, and has so far won the World Championship in 2019, as well as the European Championships in 2020 and 2021, being the first team ever to have won both titles.

However, winning is not the only goal; the team aims to promote renewable energy, introduce innovative techniques and ideas, promote entrepreneurship and inspire young people.

The three-wheeled Bluepoint Atlas has an entirely self-built engine, with microstructure containing solar panels to increase efficiency, and artificial shark skin to improve aerodynamic performance.

The biannual Bridgestone World Solar Challenge is the world’s toughest and most prestigious solar car event, and it has been inspiring the most brilliant minds in engineering and pushing the limits of technological innovation for 30 years.

In 2019 the competition had 44 teams participating from 21 countries.

The ConFoot CFU model has manually operated hydraulic bottle jacks incorporated into the leg structure, enabling for the container holding the solar car to be lowered all the way to the ground from the truck’s trailer and lifted back again without any additional container handling equipment.

The co-operation between ConFoot and Agoria Solar Team is a continuation of ConFoot’s work with various pioneers and innovators in the renewable energy sector.

Agoria Solar Team Car Facts:

  • Length – 5,000mm
  • Width – 1,300mm
  • Height – 900mm
  • Weight – 190kg
  • Maximum speed – 150km/h
  • Range – 700km
  • Number of solar cells – 292
  • Solar panel power – 900-1,000W
  • Solar panel surface area – 4 sq m
  • Solar cell efficiency – 28%
  • Motor efficiency – 98%

 

ConFoot CFU Facts:

  • Capacity – 20t
  • Lifting/lowering range – 0-1,400mm
  • Single leg weight – 46kg (consists of several pieces, individual piece weight under 25kg)
  • Number of legs in CFU set – 4
  • Operational temperature – -20 +40°C

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