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Month: June 2023

IFOY Test Report: STILL EXH 16

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Ahead of this Thursday’s IFOY Award winner announcement in Dortmund, we turn our attention to the STILL EXH 16 pallet truck.

The EXH 14-20 Plus series consists of hand-guided low lift pallet trucks as well as derivative products with additional lift for order picking applications and comes with a unique tiller head with integrated display in two versions. The special tiller head design enables intuitive handling for every operator.

IFOY category: Warehouse Truck “lowlifter”

IFOY Test Report

With the EXH 14-20 Plus series, STILL introduces the latest edition of its electric pallet truck range. The development of the new series was focused on the operator. The operating concept is completely revised and the EXH 14-20 Plus series now features a unique tiller head with integrated display in two versions. The so-called MMI (Man-Machine-Interface) is the interface between the operator and the truck and thus the linchpin in daily operation.

The EXH 14-20 Plus series includes several pedestrian stackers with a load capacity of 1.4 to 2.0 tonnes. The IFOY stacker is an EXH 16 with a load capacity of 1.6 tonnes. The integrated lithium-ion battery enables up to 80mm shorter front dimensions and significantly smaller turning radii and aisle widths. The L2 dimension is just 429mm. Thanks to the compact dimensions, the driver retains optimum visibility. Even in confined spaces, such as retail stores. In addition, the compact dimensions improve the manoeuvrability of the truck, which is now even easier to operate.

EXH forklifts are equipped with mechanical steering as standard. Despite this mechanical steering, the long and low-lying tiller enable easy operation. During the IFOY test, the power and speed of the newcomer were convincing. The truck has a high acceleration capacity, both without and with load. The driving speed is quite snappy at 6.1km/h. Those who want to work more quietly and economically can double-click the turtle button to select turtle mode or STILL’s Blue-Q optimisation program.

The unique design of the tiller head is a true eye-catcher. The operating elements have been given a new and modern design. Extra-large buttons support intuitive operation, no matter how big one’s hands are. Even when wearing work gloves, simple and effective one-handed operation remains a breeze for both left- and right-handed operators. STILL plans to use the new controls in future trucks as well. There, the concept will bring additional benefits, such as even better proportional control. This is less relevant for electric pallet trucks.

The EXH 16 has three driving modes as standard: turtle mode, Blue Q and high performance. For each mode, the most important information is automatically displayed on the brand-new colour display integrated into the tiller head. This means that the display follows the driver at every turn and provides a clear view of all important data under all conditions. This means that the driver is always informed about the battery charge status, the operating hours or the respective driving program. The optional touch display (not available on the IFOY test truck) revolutionises operation. Drivers are used to operating smartphones by touch these days, and the touch display now bridges the gap to equipment with stock technology.

Smart fork markings make forklift positioning easier and contribute to high productivity. For even smoother operation  ̶  also on uneven floors and around obstacles  ̶  the pallet truck can be equipped with three running wheels in the fork tip. In doing so, OptiSpeed automatically adjusts the truck’s speed to the angle of the tiller. Safe manoeuvring is thus possible under all conditions. The standard crawl speed button also enables safe operation even in the tightest of spaces. An active optional foot stop ensures that the pallet truck automatically changes direction on contact with the feet. This means that the operator always remains unharmed.

IFOY test verdict: The EXH 14-20 Plus series features a unique tiller head with integrated display in two versions. The special design of the tiller head enables intuitive operation for any operator. Numerous small innovations combine to bring great progress. The compact truck is immensely powerful, fast and quiet. It is also easy to recharge between uses thanks to Li-ion technology.

IFOY Innovation Check

Market relevance: Handling goods and the internal transport of pallets includes a very wide field of application, whereby the Still EXH 16 can be seen as having great market relevance. The EXH 16 exemplifies an improvement of such products in terms of ergonomics and functionality, and it is therefore obvious that it represents a primary alternative in the market for new and replacement purchases.

Customer benefit: The Still EXH 16 offers the user more flexibility and functionality in terms of operation, field of vision and safety. Operation via the new tiller head is intuitive and comfortable for different hand sizes. The display integrated in the tiller head in two different versions provides information as well as the possibility to use different driving programs, which can be adapted to the operator on the one hand and to the transport task on the other hand, and to adjust the battery life accordingly. The very compact design through integrated Li-Ion technology leads to an improvement in manoeuvrability and ensures optimal visibility even for smaller persons.

Novelty / Innovation: The compact design together with the new functional tiller head and the resulting improvements in terms of operation and driving characteristics are undoubtedly to be regarded as new. The EXH thus shows that even in this type of vehicle, innovations have not yet come to an end.

Functionality / Type of implementation: With many details and configuration options, the EXH 16 shows that it is without doubt at the top of this vehicle class. The functionality can be ordered with several variants of design details and can thus be optimally adjusted for the customer. Moving pallets is a piece of cake with the EXH 16, while at the same time offering a high level of safety. The overall impression of the implementation on the unit appears flawless.

Verdict: The EXH 16 impresses with its outstanding further development in this vehicle class. Its market lead is significant.

Market relevance +
Customer benefit ++
Novelty / Innovation +
Functionality / Type of implementation ++
[KEY: ++ very good / + good / Ø balanced / – less / — not available]

IFOY Test Report: STILL EXH 16

Posted on by David Priestman

Ahead of this Thursday’s IFOY Award winner announcement in Dortmund, we turn our attention to the STILL EXH 16 pallet truck.

The EXH 14-20 Plus series consists of hand-guided low lift pallet trucks as well as derivative products with additional lift for order picking applications and comes with a unique tiller head with integrated display in two versions. The special tiller head design enables intuitive handling for every operator.

IFOY category: Warehouse Truck “lowlifter”

IFOY Test Report

With the EXH 14-20 Plus series, STILL introduces the latest edition of its electric pallet truck range. The development of the new series was focused on the operator. The operating concept is completely revised and the EXH 14-20 Plus series now features a unique tiller head with integrated display in two versions. The so-called MMI (Man-Machine-Interface) is the interface between the operator and the truck and thus the linchpin in daily operation.

The EXH 14-20 Plus series includes several pedestrian stackers with a load capacity of 1.4 to 2.0 tonnes. The IFOY stacker is an EXH 16 with a load capacity of 1.6 tonnes. The integrated lithium-ion battery enables up to 80mm shorter front dimensions and significantly smaller turning radii and aisle widths. The L2 dimension is just 429mm. Thanks to the compact dimensions, the driver retains optimum visibility. Even in confined spaces, such as retail stores. In addition, the compact dimensions improve the manoeuvrability of the truck, which is now even easier to operate.

EXH forklifts are equipped with mechanical steering as standard. Despite this mechanical steering, the long and low-lying tiller enable easy operation. During the IFOY test, the power and speed of the newcomer were convincing. The truck has a high acceleration capacity, both without and with load. The driving speed is quite snappy at 6.1km/h. Those who want to work more quietly and economically can double-click the turtle button to select turtle mode or STILL’s Blue-Q optimisation program.

The unique design of the tiller head is a true eye-catcher. The operating elements have been given a new and modern design. Extra-large buttons support intuitive operation, no matter how big one’s hands are. Even when wearing work gloves, simple and effective one-handed operation remains a breeze for both left- and right-handed operators. STILL plans to use the new controls in future trucks as well. There, the concept will bring additional benefits, such as even better proportional control. This is less relevant for electric pallet trucks.

The EXH 16 has three driving modes as standard: turtle mode, Blue Q and high performance. For each mode, the most important information is automatically displayed on the brand-new colour display integrated into the tiller head. This means that the display follows the driver at every turn and provides a clear view of all important data under all conditions. This means that the driver is always informed about the battery charge status, the operating hours or the respective driving program. The optional touch display (not available on the IFOY test truck) revolutionises operation. Drivers are used to operating smartphones by touch these days, and the touch display now bridges the gap to equipment with stock technology.

Smart fork markings make forklift positioning easier and contribute to high productivity. For even smoother operation  ̶  also on uneven floors and around obstacles  ̶  the pallet truck can be equipped with three running wheels in the fork tip. In doing so, OptiSpeed automatically adjusts the truck’s speed to the angle of the tiller. Safe manoeuvring is thus possible under all conditions. The standard crawl speed button also enables safe operation even in the tightest of spaces. An active optional foot stop ensures that the pallet truck automatically changes direction on contact with the feet. This means that the operator always remains unharmed.

IFOY test verdict: The EXH 14-20 Plus series features a unique tiller head with integrated display in two versions. The special design of the tiller head enables intuitive operation for any operator. Numerous small innovations combine to bring great progress. The compact truck is immensely powerful, fast and quiet. It is also easy to recharge between uses thanks to Li-ion technology.

IFOY Innovation Check

Market relevance: Handling goods and the internal transport of pallets includes a very wide field of application, whereby the Still EXH 16 can be seen as having great market relevance. The EXH 16 exemplifies an improvement of such products in terms of ergonomics and functionality, and it is therefore obvious that it represents a primary alternative in the market for new and replacement purchases.

Customer benefit: The Still EXH 16 offers the user more flexibility and functionality in terms of operation, field of vision and safety. Operation via the new tiller head is intuitive and comfortable for different hand sizes. The display integrated in the tiller head in two different versions provides information as well as the possibility to use different driving programs, which can be adapted to the operator on the one hand and to the transport task on the other hand, and to adjust the battery life accordingly. The very compact design through integrated Li-Ion technology leads to an improvement in manoeuvrability and ensures optimal visibility even for smaller persons.

Novelty / Innovation: The compact design together with the new functional tiller head and the resulting improvements in terms of operation and driving characteristics are undoubtedly to be regarded as new. The EXH thus shows that even in this type of vehicle, innovations have not yet come to an end.

Functionality / Type of implementation: With many details and configuration options, the EXH 16 shows that it is without doubt at the top of this vehicle class. The functionality can be ordered with several variants of design details and can thus be optimally adjusted for the customer. Moving pallets is a piece of cake with the EXH 16, while at the same time offering a high level of safety. The overall impression of the implementation on the unit appears flawless.

Verdict: The EXH 16 impresses with its outstanding further development in this vehicle class. Its market lead is significant.

Market relevance +
Customer benefit ++
Novelty / Innovation +
Functionality / Type of implementation ++
[KEY: ++ very good / + good / Ø balanced / – less / — not available]

IFOY Test Report: Sentics ORTLS

Posted on by David Priestman

With just a few days to go before the IFOY Award winners are announced in a glittering ceremony in Dortmund on June 22nd, we look at the optical real time locating system (ORTLS) from Sentics GmbH.

The start-up Sentics has developed and launched the first optical, AI-based real-time location system for industrial applications. The complementary software products significantly increase safety and efficiency in intralogistics.

IFOY category: Start-up of the Year

IFOY Test Report

Sentics optical real-time localisation system is based on infrastructure sensors installed in the industrial environment. The sensor system detects and localises relevant objects such as forklifts, people or machines and makes this information available for numerous applications. Real-time analysis of the locations and movement profiles of people and industrial trucks enables critical situations to be detected at an early stage and accidents to be prevented by means of warnings and automated reduction of travel speed. With the help of a targeted configuration of the driving strategy, users can also preventively reduce the driving speed in hazardous areas. Conversely, industrial trucks can continue to operate with high productivity if there are no people or other obstacles in the travel area.

The localisation system can also be used for autonomous transport systems, which can currently only be operated with limited productivity due to the challenges of mixed traffic with manual vehicles and people. For this purpose, information about all driving areas is provided in real time and made available to the fleet managers of the autonomous transport vehicles. An analysis of historical movement profiles also enables safety and productivity to be increased.

Alternative real-time localisation systems are based on additional technical devices (transponders) that must be worn by people or installed on industrial trucks. Besides the administration and maintenance effort (issuing to employees and visitors, recharging batteries, replacing defective devices, etc.), these systems have a disadvantage for security applications. If a person is not wearing the transponder or if it is defective, then that person cannot be protected. Sentics’ system does not require any additional technical devices. Thus, there can be no failures in the condition of the system. At the same time, the system is scalable in any way, because compared to transponder solutions, devices are not limited.

IFOY test verdict: In German companies, there were about 32,000 reportable accidents with industrial trucks in 2020, 10 of which ended fatally. This is according to statistics from the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV). Sentics’ optical, AI-based real-time localisation system provides a solution that can help improve these figures. In addition, collaborative concepts can be implemented by integrating people, manually operated and autonomous machines – an aspect that should not be underestimated against the background that forecasts assume further growth in the AGV/AMR sector.

IFOY Innovation Check

Market relevance: The field of in-process identification technologies and their applications will be of great importance in the future in even more digitalised and automated industrial and commercial environments. Sentics not only offers a camera-based, i.e., optically working solution, but also shows safety-relevant applications of the technology, which make an amortisation possible over multiple benefits. This area of occupational safety is emphasised by Sentics itself. Certainly, the feasibility of occupational safety measures with other applications (identification, tracking & tracing) is of particular importance.

Customer benefit: The product and the applications shown offer multiple customer benefits by implementing parallel functionalities. On the one hand, the localisation of automated devices (AGVs, AMRs, etc., which themselves use localisation technology) and non-automated objects (humans, forklifts, etc.) is combined. The objects do not necessarily have to be equipped with their own devices. If control interventions such as speed reduction are to be implemented, the objects are equipped with their own hardware.

Novelty / Innovation: Optical recognition using computer vision methods is well known but is not yet widely used for comparable applications. The combination of localisation, recognition of people and active intervention in the controls is a good innovation leap.

Functionality / Type of implementation: The integration of automated technology and manual process participants in a closed system shows very good potential for implementation and is an important step into the future world of networked Industry 4.0. Especially the implementation with relatively simple cameras and the avoidance of wearables or other devices for the people participating in the process offers many advantages. The combination of several sensors in a defined environment and the joint use of their data (sensor fusion) is an intelligent solution for the multiple use of the technology employed in several applications.

Verdict: Nice application for camera-based detection and localisation of moving objects. Can neatly increase safety, but can also be used for rule-based actions for control. With this, the forklift learns to “see around the corner”! Certainly in the future, much more innovative goals are achievable with the system (detection of specific containers and load).

Market relevance +
Customer benefit +
Novelty / Innovation +
Functionality / Type of implementation ++
[KEY: ++ very good / + good / Ø balanced / – less / — not available]

IFOY Test Report: Sentics ORTLS

Posted on by Keith McKinley

With just a few days to go before the IFOY Award winners are announced in a glittering ceremony in Dortmund on June 22nd, we look at the optical real time locating system (ORTLS) from Sentics GmbH.

The start-up Sentics has developed and launched the first optical, AI-based real-time location system for industrial applications. The complementary software products significantly increase safety and efficiency in intralogistics.

IFOY category: Start-up of the Year

IFOY Test Report

Sentics optical real-time localisation system is based on infrastructure sensors installed in the industrial environment. The sensor system detects and localises relevant objects such as forklifts, people or machines and makes this information available for numerous applications. Real-time analysis of the locations and movement profiles of people and industrial trucks enables critical situations to be detected at an early stage and accidents to be prevented by means of warnings and automated reduction of travel speed. With the help of a targeted configuration of the driving strategy, users can also preventively reduce the driving speed in hazardous areas. Conversely, industrial trucks can continue to operate with high productivity if there are no people or other obstacles in the travel area.

The localisation system can also be used for autonomous transport systems, which can currently only be operated with limited productivity due to the challenges of mixed traffic with manual vehicles and people. For this purpose, information about all driving areas is provided in real time and made available to the fleet managers of the autonomous transport vehicles. An analysis of historical movement profiles also enables safety and productivity to be increased.

Alternative real-time localisation systems are based on additional technical devices (transponders) that must be worn by people or installed on industrial trucks. Besides the administration and maintenance effort (issuing to employees and visitors, recharging batteries, replacing defective devices, etc.), these systems have a disadvantage for security applications. If a person is not wearing the transponder or if it is defective, then that person cannot be protected. Sentics’ system does not require any additional technical devices. Thus, there can be no failures in the condition of the system. At the same time, the system is scalable in any way, because compared to transponder solutions, devices are not limited.

IFOY test verdict: In German companies, there were about 32,000 reportable accidents with industrial trucks in 2020, 10 of which ended fatally. This is according to statistics from the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV). Sentics’ optical, AI-based real-time localisation system provides a solution that can help improve these figures. In addition, collaborative concepts can be implemented by integrating people, manually operated and autonomous machines – an aspect that should not be underestimated against the background that forecasts assume further growth in the AGV/AMR sector.

IFOY Innovation Check

Market relevance: The field of in-process identification technologies and their applications will be of great importance in the future in even more digitalised and automated industrial and commercial environments. Sentics not only offers a camera-based, i.e., optically working solution, but also shows safety-relevant applications of the technology, which make an amortisation possible over multiple benefits. This area of occupational safety is emphasised by Sentics itself. Certainly, the feasibility of occupational safety measures with other applications (identification, tracking & tracing) is of particular importance.

Customer benefit: The product and the applications shown offer multiple customer benefits by implementing parallel functionalities. On the one hand, the localisation of automated devices (AGVs, AMRs, etc., which themselves use localisation technology) and non-automated objects (humans, forklifts, etc.) is combined. The objects do not necessarily have to be equipped with their own devices. If control interventions such as speed reduction are to be implemented, the objects are equipped with their own hardware.

Novelty / Innovation: Optical recognition using computer vision methods is well known but is not yet widely used for comparable applications. The combination of localisation, recognition of people and active intervention in the controls is a good innovation leap.

Functionality / Type of implementation: The integration of automated technology and manual process participants in a closed system shows very good potential for implementation and is an important step into the future world of networked Industry 4.0. Especially the implementation with relatively simple cameras and the avoidance of wearables or other devices for the people participating in the process offers many advantages. The combination of several sensors in a defined environment and the joint use of their data (sensor fusion) is an intelligent solution for the multiple use of the technology employed in several applications.

Verdict: Nice application for camera-based detection and localisation of moving objects. Can neatly increase safety, but can also be used for rule-based actions for control. With this, the forklift learns to “see around the corner”! Certainly in the future, much more innovative goals are achievable with the system (detection of specific containers and load).

Market relevance +
Customer benefit +
Novelty / Innovation +
Functionality / Type of implementation ++
[KEY: ++ very good / + good / Ø balanced / – less / — not available]

Retail Supply Chain Prioritising Sustainability

Posted on by David Priestman

New research from DHL Supply Chain and The Retail Hive reveals that retail supply chain leaders are facing challenges when it comes to understanding and achieving improved sustainability practices in the supply chain.

The in-depth, qualitative research was conducted by The Retail Hive and included one to one interviews, as well as survey-based research with 58 retail supply chain leaders.

While supply chain sustainability is considered a priority for businesses (72%), majority of supply chain leaders (70%) are unaware of how much their organisation is actually investing in low- or zero carbon products and services across their supply chain.

Over half of respondents (54%) say that the pressure to make the organisations’ supply chain operations more sustainable comes from end-consumers and more than a third (36%) agree that their main goal of improving sustainability in the supply chain is to be a more resilient organisation.

38% of supply chain leaders claim that the main barrier to adopting practices and solutions that would make their supply chain more sustainable is cost, with 100% of respondents stating that they would like to see their partners doing more to help them provide a greener fulfilment offering.

Tutu Akinkoye, GoGreen Lead, UKI, DHL Supply Chain said: “Becoming a more responsible business is top of mind for both consumers and retailers today, but this latest piece of research makes it clear that for many supply chain leaders in the retail sector, successfully understanding and implementing a sustainability programme still feels challenging. The insights clearly show that retailers are in need of support from their partners to drive significant change across their operations, and we will continue to work closely with our customers to help achieve this.”

Sally Green, Co-Founder & Editorial Director, The Hive Network said: “Retailers can find themselves struggling with ‘analysis paralysis’ as they try to work out the most effective starting points for a supply chain sustainability programme. While this research shows that few have clear visibility on what this should look like, key lessons from retailers who have started on their journey include setting a manageable goal, introducing reporting structures, and working with partners to help increase the impact of sustainability initiatives.”

Retail Supply Chain Prioritising Sustainability

Posted on by David Priestman

New research from DHL Supply Chain and The Retail Hive reveals that retail supply chain leaders are facing challenges when it comes to understanding and achieving improved sustainability practices in the supply chain.

The in-depth, qualitative research was conducted by The Retail Hive and included one to one interviews, as well as survey-based research with 58 retail supply chain leaders.

While supply chain sustainability is considered a priority for businesses (72%), majority of supply chain leaders (70%) are unaware of how much their organisation is actually investing in low- or zero carbon products and services across their supply chain.

Over half of respondents (54%) say that the pressure to make the organisations’ supply chain operations more sustainable comes from end-consumers and more than a third (36%) agree that their main goal of improving sustainability in the supply chain is to be a more resilient organisation.

38% of supply chain leaders claim that the main barrier to adopting practices and solutions that would make their supply chain more sustainable is cost, with 100% of respondents stating that they would like to see their partners doing more to help them provide a greener fulfilment offering.

Tutu Akinkoye, GoGreen Lead, UKI, DHL Supply Chain said: “Becoming a more responsible business is top of mind for both consumers and retailers today, but this latest piece of research makes it clear that for many supply chain leaders in the retail sector, successfully understanding and implementing a sustainability programme still feels challenging. The insights clearly show that retailers are in need of support from their partners to drive significant change across their operations, and we will continue to work closely with our customers to help achieve this.”

Sally Green, Co-Founder & Editorial Director, The Hive Network said: “Retailers can find themselves struggling with ‘analysis paralysis’ as they try to work out the most effective starting points for a supply chain sustainability programme. While this research shows that few have clear visibility on what this should look like, key lessons from retailers who have started on their journey include setting a manageable goal, introducing reporting structures, and working with partners to help increase the impact of sustainability initiatives.”

IFOY Test Report: Raymond 8910 End Rider Pallet Truck

Posted on by Keith McKinley

It’s time to put the Raymond 8910 End Rider Pallet Truck under the spotlight as we continue our run-through of all the IFOY Award finalists ahead of the announcement ceremony in Dortmund on June 22nd.

The next-generation Raymond 8910 end rider pallet truck is ideal for heavy-duty and high-throughput applications. This comfortable pallet truck features intuitive, easy-to-use controls and enhanced ergonomics, especially for long hauls.

IFOY category: Warehouse Truck “lowlifter”

IFOY Test Report

With its new generation Raymond 8910 electric pallet truck, the US manufacturer offers a stand-up pallet truck for intensive use. The stacker has been completely redeveloped based on its predecessor (8900). Due to intensive use, Raymond has paid particular attention to ergonomics. The cabin is 20% roomier than its predecessor. In addition, the workplace can be set up flexibly. The entire console can be moved to adapt to the operator’s position. The console cannot yet be moved by the operator, which is a disadvantage when working multiple shifts. This is coming in the new versions of the lift truck, according to Raymond. For operators who require more space, Raymond offers a smaller steering concept with an additional more than 3cm of extra space.

For intensive use, the IFOY testers are still missing a seat option in the backrest, which has also been announced. The pallet trolley is equipped with a vibration-damping base plate. The dead man’s switch integrated into the base plate requires 61% less effort.

The toolbar has been moved from the battery side behind the steering console. This makes it easier to read terminals and other peripherals, and they are no longer in view of the direction of driving. The controls are intuitive and known from the manufacturer’s order picking portfolio. However, this is the first time that this control system has been used by Raymond on a lift truck.

Raymond has also introduced some innovations in the technical area. For example, sensors have been built into the chassis to constantly check that the operator is within the safe contours of the truck. If this is not the case, the truck’s speed is greatly reduced and an acoustic warning signal sounds. Once both feet are back within the work area, the truck automatically returns to normal settings. In addition, the 8910 features automatic steering centring when the truck is started  ̶  another novelty for this type of truck from the US manufacturer.

According to Raymond, the energy consumption of the truck is 24% lower than that of its predecessor. This is mainly due to the electric steering system, which replaces the hydraulic steering. In addition, the new steering system enables a shorter turning radius and thus better manoeuvrability in tight spaces. Another advantage: thanks to the new steering system, the pallet truck is more silent.

The IFOY stacker is equipped with a conventional lead-acid battery. On request, Raymond can also supply the 8910 with a Li battery.

The forklift could not be fully tested by the IFOY test team because the forks commonly used in the US do not fit under the available test weights. However, the test team did test drive the truck. By European standards, the steering needs to get used to. The steering works exactly opposite to what the driver expects. However, the steering character setting can be adjusted via service if necessary.

IFOY test verdict: The truck offers a spacious operator’s cab for added comfort and is equipped with intuitive, user-friendly controls. For the US market, this is a significant improvement; by European standards, the improvements are somewhat less innovative. The controls require adaptability from operators who are not used to the US steering system.

IFOY Innovation Check

Market relevance: The transport of goods on pallets over longer distances as well as fast turnover on trucks still has an enormous share of the market. This is why further developments of pallet trucks with stand-on platforms, such as the Raymond 8910, are highly relevant to the market. With its improvements, it focuses on the American market and sets new standards there in terms of ergonomics and energy efficiency, which promises a positive customer response.

Customer benefit: The Raymond 8910 represents a significant evolution for the customer from its predecessor in terms of ergonomics and safety. The operator is better protected in the more spacious cabin with ergonomic details. Other features, such as light barriers as platform limitation, automatic speed reduction when cornering and the centring of the drive wheel when starting operation, increase the benefit in terms of safety. The electric power steering also increases energy efficiency, giving the user more uptime.

Novelty / Innovation: The innovation level can be regarded as high in relation to the American market due to all the enhancements. In an international comparison, the Raymond 8910 has reached a level of technology that puts it on a par with comparable pallet trucks.

Functionality / Type of implementation: The Raymond 8910 impresses with its robustness and good finish. As an operator, you feel the increase in comfort on the platform and can expect a long-lasting overall product.

Verdict: The overall impression of the Raymond 8910 pallet truck undoubtedly makes it a worthy nominee for the IFOY Award, promising a pleasant increase in pallet handling output for the user.

Market relevance +
Customer benefit +
Novelty / Innovation Ø
Functionality / Type of implementation ++
[KEY: ++ very good / + good / Ø balanced / – less / — not available]

IFOY Test Report: Raymond 8910 End Rider Pallet Truck

Posted on by David Priestman

It’s time to put the Raymond 8910 End Rider Pallet Truck under the spotlight as we continue our run-through of all the IFOY Award finalists ahead of the announcement ceremony in Dortmund on June 22nd.

The next-generation Raymond 8910 end rider pallet truck is ideal for heavy-duty and high-throughput applications. This comfortable pallet truck features intuitive, easy-to-use controls and enhanced ergonomics, especially for long hauls.

IFOY category: Warehouse Truck “lowlifter”

IFOY Test Report

With its new generation Raymond 8910 electric pallet truck, the US manufacturer offers a stand-up pallet truck for intensive use. The stacker has been completely redeveloped based on its predecessor (8900). Due to intensive use, Raymond has paid particular attention to ergonomics. The cabin is 20% roomier than its predecessor. In addition, the workplace can be set up flexibly. The entire console can be moved to adapt to the operator’s position. The console cannot yet be moved by the operator, which is a disadvantage when working multiple shifts. This is coming in the new versions of the lift truck, according to Raymond. For operators who require more space, Raymond offers a smaller steering concept with an additional more than 3cm of extra space.

For intensive use, the IFOY testers are still missing a seat option in the backrest, which has also been announced. The pallet trolley is equipped with a vibration-damping base plate. The dead man’s switch integrated into the base plate requires 61% less effort.

The toolbar has been moved from the battery side behind the steering console. This makes it easier to read terminals and other peripherals, and they are no longer in view of the direction of driving. The controls are intuitive and known from the manufacturer’s order picking portfolio. However, this is the first time that this control system has been used by Raymond on a lift truck.

Raymond has also introduced some innovations in the technical area. For example, sensors have been built into the chassis to constantly check that the operator is within the safe contours of the truck. If this is not the case, the truck’s speed is greatly reduced and an acoustic warning signal sounds. Once both feet are back within the work area, the truck automatically returns to normal settings. In addition, the 8910 features automatic steering centring when the truck is started  ̶  another novelty for this type of truck from the US manufacturer.

According to Raymond, the energy consumption of the truck is 24% lower than that of its predecessor. This is mainly due to the electric steering system, which replaces the hydraulic steering. In addition, the new steering system enables a shorter turning radius and thus better manoeuvrability in tight spaces. Another advantage: thanks to the new steering system, the pallet truck is more silent.

The IFOY stacker is equipped with a conventional lead-acid battery. On request, Raymond can also supply the 8910 with a Li battery.

The forklift could not be fully tested by the IFOY test team because the forks commonly used in the US do not fit under the available test weights. However, the test team did test drive the truck. By European standards, the steering needs to get used to. The steering works exactly opposite to what the driver expects. However, the steering character setting can be adjusted via service if necessary.

IFOY test verdict: The truck offers a spacious operator’s cab for added comfort and is equipped with intuitive, user-friendly controls. For the US market, this is a significant improvement; by European standards, the improvements are somewhat less innovative. The controls require adaptability from operators who are not used to the US steering system.

IFOY Innovation Check

Market relevance: The transport of goods on pallets over longer distances as well as fast turnover on trucks still has an enormous share of the market. This is why further developments of pallet trucks with stand-on platforms, such as the Raymond 8910, are highly relevant to the market. With its improvements, it focuses on the American market and sets new standards there in terms of ergonomics and energy efficiency, which promises a positive customer response.

Customer benefit: The Raymond 8910 represents a significant evolution for the customer from its predecessor in terms of ergonomics and safety. The operator is better protected in the more spacious cabin with ergonomic details. Other features, such as light barriers as platform limitation, automatic speed reduction when cornering and the centring of the drive wheel when starting operation, increase the benefit in terms of safety. The electric power steering also increases energy efficiency, giving the user more uptime.

Novelty / Innovation: The innovation level can be regarded as high in relation to the American market due to all the enhancements. In an international comparison, the Raymond 8910 has reached a level of technology that puts it on a par with comparable pallet trucks.

Functionality / Type of implementation: The Raymond 8910 impresses with its robustness and good finish. As an operator, you feel the increase in comfort on the platform and can expect a long-lasting overall product.

Verdict: The overall impression of the Raymond 8910 pallet truck undoubtedly makes it a worthy nominee for the IFOY Award, promising a pleasant increase in pallet handling output for the user.

Market relevance +
Customer benefit +
Novelty / Innovation Ø
Functionality / Type of implementation ++
[KEY: ++ very good / + good / Ø balanced / – less / — not available]

Clad-rack Warehouse for Hardware Company

Posted on by Keith McKinley

The hundred-year-old hardware products company EHLIS recently celebrated the launch of its new logistics centre in Illescas (Spain), where AR Racking has played a leading role with the installation of an automated clad-rack warehouse and an adjustable pallet racking warehouse. It is a logistics platform that required an investment of 30-35 million euros, and which will complement the one that the hardware leader has in Barcelona.

EHLIS, which this year celebrates its 125th anniversary, has a facility in Illescas that covers a total area of 60,000 m2, of which 40,000 m2 and 22,000 m2 are urbanised and built and where a miniload warehouse is located, plus a 36 metre high clad-rack warehouse for 30,000 pallets and a warehouse with adjustable pallet racking with a capacity for 15,000 pallets, the latter two being equipped with AR Racking racking systems. The clad-rack warehouse and warehouse designed with an adjustable pallet racking system cover an area of 3,220 m2 and 8,200 m2, respectively.

Delays in material deliveries, COVID and other matters meant that the launch of the logistics platform did not happen until the first quarter of 2023. A launch which will now improve the service that the company offers to its customers “firstly, by reducing delivery times, and secondly, by increasing the product range”, explained EHLIS’s managers at the opening held at the end of March.

“We have provided our expertise to the EHLIS logistics centre with our technical-logistics advice, our reliability as racking manufacturers and our engineering knowledge through our strong commitment to R&D&I”, commented Manel Bustos, AR Racking sales representative.

The logistics centre in Illescas has a capacity to prepare 1,000 order lines per hour. As confirmed by EHLIS’s management at the opening, the forecast is to increase the number of references with the increase in the logistics capacity. It currently has 16,000 permanent stock references plus a further 3,000 additional ones that fluctuate throughout the year.

AR Racking has a long track record in automated warehouse projects. These are projects that are always developed in collaboration with leading integration engineering companies that provide the automated and robotic means and where AR Racking designs and manufactures all the racking that supports the unit loads and/or building structure itself, such as with clad-rack warehouses. Likewise, in the warehouses with pallet racking solutions AR Racking fully develops the turnkey project concept, taking care of all the phases that cover the implementation of its storage solutions.

AR Racking is part of the Arania Group, an industrial group of companies with extensive experience and scope, and with a multi-sectoral activity based on the transformation of steel that dates back more than 80 years. AR Racking provides the market with a wide range of solutions with high certified quality standards and a comprehensive project management service. AR Racking’s industrial storage systems stand out for their innovation, reliability and optimum efficiency.

Clad-rack Warehouse for Hardware Company

Posted on by David Priestman

The hundred-year-old hardware products company EHLIS recently celebrated the launch of its new logistics centre in Illescas (Spain), where AR Racking has played a leading role with the installation of an automated clad-rack warehouse and an adjustable pallet racking warehouse. It is a logistics platform that required an investment of 30-35 million euros, and which will complement the one that the hardware leader has in Barcelona.

EHLIS, which this year celebrates its 125th anniversary, has a facility in Illescas that covers a total area of 60,000 m2, of which 40,000 m2 and 22,000 m2 are urbanised and built and where a miniload warehouse is located, plus a 36 metre high clad-rack warehouse for 30,000 pallets and a warehouse with adjustable pallet racking with a capacity for 15,000 pallets, the latter two being equipped with AR Racking racking systems. The clad-rack warehouse and warehouse designed with an adjustable pallet racking system cover an area of 3,220 m2 and 8,200 m2, respectively.

Delays in material deliveries, COVID and other matters meant that the launch of the logistics platform did not happen until the first quarter of 2023. A launch which will now improve the service that the company offers to its customers “firstly, by reducing delivery times, and secondly, by increasing the product range”, explained EHLIS’s managers at the opening held at the end of March.

“We have provided our expertise to the EHLIS logistics centre with our technical-logistics advice, our reliability as racking manufacturers and our engineering knowledge through our strong commitment to R&D&I”, commented Manel Bustos, AR Racking sales representative.

The logistics centre in Illescas has a capacity to prepare 1,000 order lines per hour. As confirmed by EHLIS’s management at the opening, the forecast is to increase the number of references with the increase in the logistics capacity. It currently has 16,000 permanent stock references plus a further 3,000 additional ones that fluctuate throughout the year.

AR Racking has a long track record in automated warehouse projects. These are projects that are always developed in collaboration with leading integration engineering companies that provide the automated and robotic means and where AR Racking designs and manufactures all the racking that supports the unit loads and/or building structure itself, such as with clad-rack warehouses. Likewise, in the warehouses with pallet racking solutions AR Racking fully develops the turnkey project concept, taking care of all the phases that cover the implementation of its storage solutions.

AR Racking is part of the Arania Group, an industrial group of companies with extensive experience and scope, and with a multi-sectoral activity based on the transformation of steel that dates back more than 80 years. AR Racking provides the market with a wide range of solutions with high certified quality standards and a comprehensive project management service. AR Racking’s industrial storage systems stand out for their innovation, reliability and optimum efficiency.

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