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Tag: Materials Handling

Ferag launches to UK market

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Ferag, a global leader in advanced conveying and sortation solutions, has launched its hi-tech, Swiss engineered overhead pouch and sorter systems to the UK market. The technology offers retail, ecommerce, automotive and general merchandise businesses reliable, high-performance conveying and sortation at speeds of up to 12,000 units per hour.

Based in Zurich, Ferag has its origins in the international print industry, where ultra-reliable, high-speed conveying technology is essential to the time-critical production of newspapers with daily print runs in the millions. With over 60 years’ experience designing, engineering and fabricating, high-speed overhead conveyor systems for mission-critical interlogistics operations, Ferag has now secured a strong presence in the UK intralogistics market by winning three new contracts for solutions in the apparel and retail sectors.

Heading up Ferag’s UK operations, Darcy de Thierry, Managing Director, Ferag UK Ltd, says: “British retailers and manufacturers are experiencing huge structural change. The growing focus for most is on ecommerce orders, which places a heavy emphasis on high-performance fulfilment operations capable of handling thousands upon thousands of single or few-item orders a day.

“Automated systems, such as overhead pouch and sortation solutions, facilitate fast picking, making them increasingly critical to maintaining and growing order volumes. But businesses cannot afford for them to fail – they need well engineered solutions using only the best, hard-wearing components and low-friction materials. That’s where Ferag’s extensive experience within the newspaper industry – where reliability is paramount – will be a tremendous advantage to the UK market.”

Principle products in Ferag’s extensive range of innovative sorters and conveyors include: Skyfall, an overhead pouch system that combines conveying, buffering, sorting and consolidating, suited to a wide variety of goods weighing up to 20kg. The solution makes efficient use of available overhead space; Denisort, a tilt-tray sorter that provides order picking, conveying and sorting in one seamless and scalable solution; Denisort Compact, a modular vertical sorter designed for items weighing up to 12kg; Deniway, a plate chain conveyor with low-friction rollers for long conveying distances, offering smooth transfers with the minimum number of drive units; and Easychain, a largely maintenance-free continuous and seamless conveying system with an ultra-narrow curve radii, making it well suited to complex, 3D layouts.

Ferag has installed intelligent conveyor and sortation systems for some of the world’s largest brands, such as: DHL, Auchan, Nestle, Zeiss, Cewe, Zalando, Mayoral, Viapost, Peerless Clothing International, Dumoulin, AstraZeneca, Stage, VW, Shoebox, along with many more.

The launch into the UK’s intralogistics market plays to the strengths of Ferag’s international maintenance and support network, where remote and condition monitoring are provided 24/7 and replacement components are readily available to a UK based nationwide team of service engineers.

Ferag AG employs around 550 people worldwide and is represented in more than 18 countries with its own sales and service companies. The business has installed over 3,000 systems on five continents and holds in excess of 9,000 registered patents.

Interroll releases strong 2021 figures

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Interroll achieved significant growth in the financial year 2021: sales increased to CHF640.1m/€616.6m (+20.6% year-on-year, +21.0% in local currencies). Order intake climbed significantly to CHF788.4m/€759.4m (+43.9% year-on-year, +44.2% in local currencies).

The result is expected to show a substantial increase compared to the previous year. Based on the positive order development in the full year 2021, the Group is cautiously optimistic about the financial year 2022.

Sales in consolidated currency reached CHF640.1m/€616.6m (+20.6% year-on-year) and exceeded the previous year by 21.0% in local currency. Compared to the first half of 2021, Interroll was again able to increase its sales momentum. In the second half of the year, a disproportionate growth in the project business in particular contributed to this.

Order intake in 2021 rose to CHF788.4m/€759.4m in consolidated currency (+43.9% year-on-year) and grew by +44.2% year-on-year in local currency. The second half of the year saw continued strong business momentum in the markets.

In terms of the result, Interroll expects an increase. According to preliminary figures, the company was also able to increase EBITDA and EBIT. Margins are slightly below the record year 2020 due to increased material prices and the strained supply chains.

“Interroll convinces with its innovative technology platform for material flow solutions. We have significantly expanded our market presence in 2021 and have started the new year with a record order backlog,” explains Ingo Steinkrüger, CEO Interroll Worldwide Group.

“We expect positive demand momentum, while at the same time we continue to closely monitor strained supply chains and rising material costs worldwide. Against this backdrop, we remain cautiously optimistic overall, but maintain our cost discipline and continue to do everything we can to further improve our delivery times for customers.”

The complete Interroll Annual Report 2021 with the final audited figures will be presented on 18th March, 2022.

Safety first for warehouse automation

Posted on by David Priestman

Safe automation expert Pilz has recently been applying its wealth of experience to intralogistics applications taking a holistic approach with its portfolio of safety services, training and safe automation solutions.

With increased levels of automation, it is more important than ever to ensure that human and machine operate smoothly and safely within the warehouse environment. In key areas such as automated loading systems, Pilz consultants can work to achieve safety compliance without compromising productivity.

Getting on board as early as the design phase, when the system concept is developed, they provide support for new projects or retrofits right through to commissioning and sign-off.

State-of-the-art product solutions are also available incorporating control and sensor technology through to operating, monitoring and connectivity. These include:

  • Access management solutions – ensuring tasks such as maintenance can only be carried out by authorised and trained personnel
  • Industrial security – preventing manipulation of systems by external sources
  • Danger zone protection – bringing operations to a safe stop or safe speed if the zone is encroached by personnel
  • Safe operation of AGV or AMR systems – enabling safe stopping or navigation and interaction within shared work spaces

Terberg joins zero emission logistics testbed

Posted on by Keith McKinley

The onboarding of Terberg as a partner and the receipt of a retrofitted electric tractor unit is a huge success for 5G CAL and its mission to be the first project of its kind in the UK to deliver Zero Emission Automated Logistics.

The next step in the ambitious 5G Connected and Automated Logistics (CAL) project sees the onboarding of new project partner Terberg and next generation 5G infrastructure.

The 5G CAL project was awarded a share of £30m through 5G Create, an open competition combining British creativity with innovative new uses for 5G as part of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport’s £200m 5G Testbeds and Trials programme (5GTT).

The government is pushing ahead with its plans to unlock new economic benefits and productivity boosts from 5G while commercial rollout continues at pace. It has now funded 24 5G testbeds across the UK, which have trialled almost 70 different 5G technologies, products and applications.

The £30m package consists of £16.4m from the government match-funded by organisations ranging from large tech and telecoms companies to SMEs and local authorities.

New project partner, Terberg, is bringing a new dimension to the £4.9m 5G CAL project announced in 2020, as it provides the HGV that will be retrofitted with autonomous technology.

Driven by an ambition to be one of the first manufacturers to bring teleoperated HGVs to market, and allowing these to be controlled remotely, Terberg is all set to revolutionise the sector in the home of advanced manufacturing, Sunderland.

The Terberg YT202 (EV Model) – a fully electric yard tractor designed for moving trailers in distribution centres, transport depots and container terminals – was procured by the North East Automotive Alliance (NEAA) for the 5G CAL project. It has been retrofitted by StreetDrone with drive by wire components and myriad sensors and cameras (both standard and LiDAR).

Following further tests and a rigorous simulation study, the autonomous and teleoperation trials of the Terberg YT202 can now take place. This will involve scaling up the original trial route to incorporate numerous, typical driving challenges such as roundabouts, security gates, traffic lights, bridges and junctions – all key tests to accelerate the development of an advanced autonomous system and to help scale deployment.

Whilst recently attending Cenex, the UK’s premier low carbon vehicle event, the Sunderland’s 5G CAL project team showcased the new Terberg YT202. The fully electric drive means the vehicle is economical to operate and does not lead to emissions at the point of use, plus the electric motor is quieter and requires much less maintenance than a diesel engine.

Alisdair Couper, Managing Director at Terberg DTS UK, said: “Having the vision to look to the future and to what it may offer is allowing us to leverage the benefits that smart technology can bring to the Sunderland region and further afield. The 5G Cal project will become a measuring point for many a future development in this sector.”

Sunderland Council’s Chief Executive, Patrick Melia, said: “5G CAL’s partnership with Terberg is yet another encouraging milestone in the Sunderland Our Smart City success story and in particular, our pioneering 5G CAL project.

“We look forward to working closely with Alisdair and his team, alongside other 5G CAL project partners, to push boundaries, generate efficiencies and implement these learnings widely to benefit a wide range of businesses.”

Paul Butler, CEO of the North East Automotive Alliance, added: “This is a significant step towards an autonomous supply chain. First this will allow for such a vehicle to be teleoperated remotely, paving the way for autonomous supply chains on a much larger scale. This has huge implications across a number of sectors in addition to automotive manufacturers, creating operational efficiencies and improving productivity.”

Terberg DTS (UK) Ltd is a UK subsidiary of the Royal Terberg Group. It is the market leading supplier of specialist vehicles, equipment and support to the UK logistics, distribution, port, industrial, aviation, fire and rescue, road and rail applications. Terberg is now actively working with partners in the teleoperation space to create a production model that is enabled for teleoperation as standard.

 

 

Clark introduces its first Li-ion counterbalance

Posted on by David Priestman

Clark has relaunched the GEX and GTX series. The three and four-wheel electric forklifts in 48-volt technology with load capacities of 1.6 to 2 tonnes are now also available with a lithium-ion battery (Li-Ion). With the GEX and GTX series, Clark has for the first time brought counterbalance trucks with Li-Ion battery onto the market and further expanded the product portfolio in the area of Li-Ion technology.

Customers with intensive applications in particular benefit from the properties of the Li-Ion battery, such as longevity, quick and intermediate charging capability as well as freedom from maintenance. The manoeuvrable GEX and GTX electric forklifts with Li-Ion battery are in demand wherever it is important to deliver top performance reliably and cost-efficiency day after day.

Particularly in multi-shift operations in distribution or industry, where high availability is important, also in the food, beverage, chemical and pharmaceutical industries, where clean operation is essential, the Clark electric forklifts with Li-Ion battery are an indispensable component that ensures high handling performance with low operating costs.

“The Clark lithium-ion batteries are efficient energy bundles that impress with their high availability,” explains Rolf Eiten, President & CEO Clark Europe. “When developing our lithium-ion solution, it was important to us that the customer can not only benefit from all the advantages of this technology, but that in combination with an already proven Clark electric forklift series, he receives a logistics solution at the usual price-performance ratio, which also pays off for smaller and medium-sized operations.”

Two traction motors in the parallel front drive, each with 4.4kW power and 48V three-phase technology, ensure rapid acceleration of the vehicles and travel speeds of up to 16km/h. The AC motors used are designed to be wear-free and very robust. The Zapi Dual AC control system is equipped with CAN bus technology. Three driving modes are available for energy-efficient use of the truck.

Also individually programmable are the wear-free, regenerative braking with the motor brake and the automatic reduction of speed when cornering. Safe use on ramps is guaranteed by the standard ramp function, which prevents unintentional acceleration or rolling back of the truck and ensures that the operator always has the vehicle under control.

The GTX/GEX electric trucks have lift heights of up to 7075mm. The range is available with two wheelbases. The GTX16/GEX16 has a wheelbase of 1312mm. The GTX18/GEX18 and the GTX20s and GEX20s each have a wheelbase of 1420mm.

Li-Ion – high availability with low operating costs

The Clark Li-Ion solution consists of the Li-Ion battery including battery management system (BMS) and a high-frequency charger. The battery capacity is 460Ah for all models in the GTX/GEX series. This means that both the vehicles with a smaller wheelbase and those with a larger wheelbase have the same battery power.

The 48V (160A) charger only requires a power connection (CEE 16 A plug) and fully recharges the battery in as little as 2.5 hours. The charging status of the Li-Ion battery is shown on the truck display. During the charging process, the charger’s display shows the charging status. The BMS has a safety cut-out and thus ensures safe use of the battery.

The Li-Ion battery can be temporarily charged at any time and within a very short time – whenever breaks occur and without damaging the battery or shortening its life. Approximately 6-7% of the charge quantity can be achieved in 10 minutes. Decentralised charging points directly at the place of use ensure that fast and safe charging can take place at any time.

Li-Ion trucks can thus be used around the clock without the need to change batteries. This reduces the downtimes required for battery replacement. In addition, the operator does not have to keep any exchangeable batteries or infrastructure for battery replacement. He can use the expensive storage space thus gained for other purposes.

Another advantage of the Li-Ion battery is the fact that the battery scores with a constant voltage during the entire operation. Full power is always available ⎼ even when the battery is 85% discharged. In short, Clark Li-Ion batteries bundle a lot of energy in a small space. They have an extremely long service life and are optimal for intensive use. Operators can therefore not only increase their productivity by using Li-Ion batteries, but also save costs for maintenance, infrastructure and replacement batteries.

Safe and durable

Because Clark always focuses on safety, Clark Li-Ion batteries are based on lithium iron phosphate technology (LiFePO4). With LiFePO4 batteries, no oxygen is released during the chemical reaction within the cells. This means that there is no risk of spontaneous combustion or explosion of the battery. The use of the battery is therefore very safe. Trucks with LiFePO4 battery perform efficiently even at very low and high ambient temperatures.

With 2,500 guaranteed charging cycles, the service life of the Li-Ion battery is at least twice as long, and depending on the application even many times as long, as the service life of a lead-acid battery. And even after that, the battery can still be used for 10+ years for further uses. In addition, LiFePO4 batteries are more environmentally friendly than, for example, lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides (NMC batteries), because these require problematic raw materials, such as cobalt. Moreover, NMC batteries can burn if they leave certain operating parameters.

“The investment in a Li-Ion truck is not only worthwhile for intensive applications, but also for all drivers who want to operate a maintenance-free, long-lasting and fast-charging battery with a high safety standard,” says Eiten.

In addition to high availability and high performance, the GTX/GEX series also has a lot to offer the operator: The extremely spacious operator workplace with a generous footwell and plenty of leg and headroom ensures that operators can feel comfortable at work. A choice of adjustable comfort seats with air or mechanical suspension contribute to the high level of operator comfort. The tilt of the steering column can be individually adjusted to suit the operator.

The pedals are car-compliant. The truck can be operated either by adjustable mini-levers integrated in the armrest or by ergonomically arranged hydraulic levers on the truck bonnet. A change of direction is made via the steering column, the armrest or via a double pedal. The multi-coloured, high-contrast display provides information on all important driving parameters. Storage options for documents and mobile phones round off the workplace. In addition, thanks to the nested mast profiles, the vehicle offers the operator a very good view through the mast to the forks and the load.

Manoeuvrable and effortless to operate

The power steering ensures that the operator needs only low steering forces and few steering wheel turns when manoeuvring. With a steering angle of 101°, the GEX16-20s four-wheel forklift turns on the spot almost like a three-wheel forklift. The inner front wheel runs in the opposite direction when the steering angle is high. The rear wheel is thus not pushed over the ground. Tyre wear is thus significantly lower than with other trucks. The GTX16-20s three-wheel truck has double tyres on the steering axle as standard. With a steering angle of 90°, the three-wheel trucks therefore turn on the spot.

Tailor-made for the application

The Clark three- and four-wheel electric forklifts are available with extensive additional equipment so that they can be individually adapted to a wide range of operating conditions. The optional equipment includes, among other things, different cabs, such as rain protection (steel roof), weather protection (steel roof and front windscreen), partial (steel roof, front and rear windscreen as well as PVC side panel) and full cab, mini-levers or mechanical levers, blue LED warning lights, orange safety belt, attachments as well as additional safety options.

 

UK attachments firm to exhibit in Oman

Posted on by David Priestman

B&B Attachments, a leading UK material handling manufacturer, will exhibit for the first time at the BIG Show (Builders International Gathering), together with its official dealer for the region; GOTRADE of the GORICA GROUP. The BIG Show takes place on the 14th – 16th March at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, Muscat.

Mike Barton, Managing Director at B&B Attachments, explains the importance of the Middle Eastern market: “It is very encouraging to see that the construction industry in Oman is expecting rapid growth once again in coming years. It plays an important role in the economic uplift and development of the region. This market provides B&B with an abundance of new prospects, as our BlockMaster range becomes more sought-after within the industry.”

The BlockMaster range manufactured by B&B Attachments in Northumberland, England comprises a collection of specialist forklift truck attachments designed for material handling within the building products industry.

The BIG Show is an annual international exhibition that caters to the building and construction industry in Oman, the Middle East, and global markets. The event features an extensive range of the latest building materials, construction equipment, wood machinery, interior furnishings and other products, equipment and technology for building and construction operations.

The BIG Show is incorporated with Oman’s Design & Build Week. It is the biggest and most important building, construction, and interior design event in Oman.

 

 

Doosan launches ultra-low emission forklift range

Posted on by David Priestman

Doosan, a leading manufacturer of robust high performance forklift trucks, has further extended its powerful new 9-Series world-class Euro Stage V compliant IC engine counterbalance forklift trucks with the launch of the advanced heavy-lifting D70S-9 range.

Built to perform in the most demanding industrial environments, and available in four models across a capacity range of 6 – 9 tonnes, Doosan says these tough diesel-powered trucks offer an unbeatable combination of outstanding fuel efficiency, performance, driver comfort and safety.

Powering the D70S-9 is the new highly fuel-efficient DM03V(A) Stage V Doosan-built diesel engine, bringing huge benefits in terms of ultra-low emissions and dramatically lower operating costs – saving almost half a litre of fuel per hour when compared with other models in the market. The new engine also provides high torque at low rpm, facilitating improved forklift acceleration, drive and climb performance – making the trucks ideal for loading and unloading using ramps.

Importantly, Doosan’s latest engine design is fully compliant with Euro Stage V regulations and is fitted with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). In normal operation, regeneration of the DPF takes place automatically during driving – maximising uptime and ensuring uninterrupted all-round performance.

A cost-saving standard feature of the new range is the multi torque function, allowing the operator to select the performance most suited to the task. ECO mode minimises fuel consumption, cutting down on unnecessary acceleration; High mode increases power output to match the demands of heavy-duty work; and Standard mode maintains output at levels suited to everyday tasks.

Increased in-cab visibility

A new sleek cab design offers 40% increased visibility, greater comfort and enhanced ergonomics, giving the driver the perfect conditions for safe, efficient operation.

The cab has been cleverly designed using curved front, top, and rear glass panels to reduce blind spots and provide greater all-round visibility. And with an all-new ‘full floating’ cabin design, with improved sound insulation, noise has been reduced to just 74dBA and vibration to an absolute minimum.

In-cab air quality has been enhanced too. By introducing positive air pressure within the cabin and installing two internal filters the driver is protected against the harmful effects of dusty working environments, making the D70S-9 ideal for brick works and foundries. In addition, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system offers fully automatic temperature control and can be easily adjusted in manual mode.

When it comes to ergonomics, Doosan says the new cab layout of the D70S-9 firmly places the operator in the command driving position. An integrated 7” full LCD multi-functional display positioned close-to-eye level, along with clearly arranged switches incorporating status indicators and finger-tip controls for effortless actions, all help to boost productivity and enhance on-site safety

Along with offering easy to view data on the truck’s status, the multi-functional display panel includes an integrated maintenance management programme, diagnostic functions and PIN code security. When used in conjunction with optional front and rear cameras the panel can be used to display forward and reverse views, helping to improve safety on site. A weight indicator is another optional extra.

Powerful performance

Doosan says powerful, robust performance is assured. Its D70S-9 range has a new, highly durable reinforced steering axle and is equipped with an electronically controlled 3-speed ZF transmission, providing the driver with a smooth gear change every time and precision control when handling heavy loads. In addition, the sensitivity of the inching pedal is adjustable, ensuring accuracy when handling heavy and fragile loads such as glass bottles.

Included as standard is Doosan’s industry-leading sealed, oil-cooled disc brake system, which is virtually maintenance free and lasts up to five times longer when compared to conventional shoe brakes. The sealed units protect against outside elements such as dirt, water and grit, ensuring top-rate braking performance for enhanced safety and increased productivity.

Safety first

Safety is foremost across Doosan’s entire new 9-Series, as reflected in many of the design features already outlined. In addition, some further prominent safety features are: An operator sensing system; rear object detection system (option); auto tilt levelling (option); and blue safety light projection.

Doosan takes ease of maintenance into account too, with improved accessibility to the engine and service areas – the cab tilts back automatically, opening 20% more than on the previous model. The transmission oil filter and pressure check port are placed on top of the transmission for easy inspection and maintenance and electronic components are centralised for convenience.

Maintenance costs on the D70S-9 are dramatically reduced, with hours between servicing double those of the previous model when using upgraded lubricants – for transmission (1,000hr to 2,000hr) and engine (500hr to 1,000hr).

IFOY 2022 Finalists revealed

Posted on by David Priestman

The finalists for the worldwide IFOY AWARD 2022 (International Intralogistics and Forklift Truck of the Year) have been determined. The judges admit 14 products and solutions from 12 manufacturers to the competition for the most innovative intralogistics products and solutions from a total field of 29 entrants in the 10th staging of the competition.

“The nominees reflect where the journey of intralogistics is heading in the future: in addition to forklifts and warehouse technology, automated, integrated solutions, software and autonomous mobile robots (AMR) for high-performance warehouses play a central role. The final round with top-class international finalists will be very exciting,” emphasises Anita Würmser, Chairwoman of the IFOY jury.

The intralogistics specialists Cargotec Engineering, Jungheinrich, Locus Robotics, Magment, NAiSE, Noyes Technologies, robominds, SICK, SSI SCHÄFER, STILL, stow robotics and SYNAOS want to win one of the trophies.

The company Cargotec Engineering from Ireland is allowed to enter the final in 2022 with the MOFFETT E5 25.4 NX. The new development is the latest addition to the all-electric truck-mounted forklift series and part of the second generation of the world’s first all-electric truck-mounted forklift. The truck is also available with four-way steering (multidirectional). Its main advantage fits the times: emission-free customer deliveries.

The intralogistics supplier Jungheinrich has secured two final places. In warehouse technology, the Hamburg-based company is moving into the final round with the ERD 220i electric high-lift truck. Due to the lithium-ion battery concept, the dimensions of the double-deck stacker are ultra-compact for the simultaneous transport of two pallets. In addition to smart features that make everyday work much easier, the fixed platform in particular offers high side protection from three sides and plenty of space for the driver.

The jury also gave the EKS 215a from Jungheinrich the green light. The driverless transport vehicle with a lifting height of up to six metres is the first AGV from the Hanseatic company that was developed for purely automated use in logistics and production. The integrated safety concept enables smooth use in inventory environments where there is also manual traffic. The Hamburg-based company also developed a 24-volt energy concept with automatic charging function.

US manufacturer Locus Robotics has reached the final round in Dortmund with its Locus Robotics AMR Solution. The solution consists of a platform that uses proprietary optimisation algorithms and real-time operational performance data to coordinate workers and AMRs. According to the manufacturer, customers achieve a return on investment (ROI) within six to eight months and a two- to threefold increase in productivity through the Robots-as-a-Service (RaaS) model.

The Unterhaching-based start-up Magment reached the final with dynamic wireless charging for intralogistics vehicles. The company developed a wireless charging infrastructure for the electrification of industrial floors. Based on the patented magnetizable concrete in combination with special winding and casting technologies, robust inductive charging plates are produced that enable loss-free charging while driving. This reduces or even completely eliminates the charging pauses of industrial trucks.

Also nominated as a start-up was NAiSE TRAFFIC, a manufacturer-independent traffic and order management software from NAiSE in Stuttgart. The elementary feature of this application is that the patented localisation network (NAiSE RTLS) includes the entire mixed operation – i.e. all persons and vehicles in the warehouse – in the traffic control and analysis, thus ensuring a more efficient and safer material flow.

The third start-up in the final is called Noyes Technologies. With NoyesStorage, the Munich-based company launched the first robotics-powered, ultra-dense, automated and highly flexible nano-logistics system for urban logistics. The goal is to solve complex problems sustainably through simple approaches: To this end, the technology is reduced to what is necessary and attention is paid to a high degree of standardisation and modularisation. Thanks to the modular structure, areas as small as ten square metres can be used for the system.

The company robominds also comes from Munich: it is in the final with the AI-based robobrain.NEUROS (Neural Robotic Operating System) – an industrialised operating system for intelligent robotics. The credo of the robotics specialists is: parameterise and configure instead of programming. The basic principle: on the industrialised operating system, every function of the robotic components becomes a skill, i.e. an application – easy to obtain via the robominds Skill Store, individually adaptable or to develop yourself thanks to the robominds Skill SDK.

The jury nominated the sensor specialist SICK with PACS (PAllet Classification System), a Deep Learning-based pallet identification system. The development was triggered by a customer’s challenge that employees in goods receiving have to manually determine whether incoming pallets belong to a pallet pool and have a deposit. With the new solution, users can easily automate this previously manual process based on a modular kit of hardware and software.

SSI SCHAEFER made it into the final round with the IKEA Project Flat Pack Picking. With Flat Pack Picking, the manufacturer offers an automated and turnkey system solution for the efficient and volume-optimised palletising of large items that are typical for the furniture trade. The order-picking module with gantry robots enables efficient handling of a heterogeneous range of articles and is characterised by high scalability.

In the same category, STILL is in the running for a trophy with the automated warehouse extension at Hase Safety Workwear. The Hamburg-based company expanded the facility to a total of 10,000 pallet spaces. At the same time, existing STILL industrial trucks were replaced with automated and more powerful trucks with telescopic forks. Optimised driving courses also contributed to the increase in performance.

The Hanseatic company also successfully applied for the Special of the Year category with DSR (Descend Speed Regulation). This is a three-stage assistance system for trailers and tuggers that makes it easier for the driver to descend safely – especially with heavy trailer loads. The system regulates – manually or automatically – the speed of the vehicle to a value that can protect against dangerous situations.

With e.scala, the company stow robotics, part of the Belgian stow Group, is in the final round. This is a standardised, robot-based goods-to-person storage and picking system for small and medium-sized applications. With a robot that moves three-dimensionally in the cube via rails and a patented ramp system, it replaces all the classic components of an automated storage system. This makes a realisation time of only three months possible. Further advantages: a low investment and low running costs.

SYNAOS is also looking forward to the final with its SYNAOS IMS – Vehicle Localization solution. With this, the position of manually controlled industrial trucks can be displayed – among other things thanks to a sensor kit with camera. For this purpose, SYNAOS uses state-of-the-art computer vision technology to enable its accurate and robust tracking system, which can be easily installed and scaled. Instead of UWB or LIDAR, the Visual Odometry technology known from robotics is used.

The 26-member jury from 20 countries will make the decisions in the competition, also known as the “Oscar of intralogistics”, after the IFOY TEST DAYS from 18th – 23rd March at Messe Dortmund.

In Hall 3, all finalists will go through the three-stage IFOY audit. In the IFOY test, experts determine the key figures of the finalists in a standardised procedure. In the IFOY innovation check, scientists assess the innovative value of the nominated devices and solutions. The innovation check is carried out by specialists from the Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (IML), the Chair of Technical Logistics at the University of Dresden and the Chair of Materials Handling, Material Flow and Logistics (fml) at the Technical University of Munich. For the first time, an expert from the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation (IPA) is also part of the research team. At the end of the IFOY TEST DAYS, jurors from all continents travel to the Ruhr region to test or inspect the nominees on site.

The international jury consists of trade journalists from leading logistics media. Peter MacLeod, News Editor of Logistics Business, is the sole UK representative on the IFOY Jury, having been a member of the original Jury when the event was established 10 years ago.

Among other things, innovation value, technology, ergonomics and handling, safety, marketability, design and customer benefits as well as economic efficiency and sustainability are evaluated. An important principle is that the finalists are not compared with each other in their respective categories, but with their competitors on the market.

The trophies will be awarded on 30th June. Details on the venue will be published soon. Until then, the result will remain a secret – both for the finalists and for the public.

Test Camp Intralogistics for B2B guests

Not only the jurors have the opportunity to test the finalists on site, but also intralogistics decision-makers from industry, trade and logistics services. Under the motto “Spot on Innovation and Business”, the TEST CAMP INTRALOGISTICS with the IFOY finalists, IFOY partners and internationally renowned manufacturers is open to a limited number of B2B trade visitors as a 2G-Plus event. The sustainable, innovative event format on a total area of 9,800 sq m has been extended from two to three days to offer participants even more time for test drives and intensive technical discussions with company representatives.

Between 21st and 23rd March, guests can not only take part in guided highlight tours. For the first time, there will also be panel discussions on the trend topics of innovation management, intralogistics 4.0 and VDA 5050, featuring well-known executives from the logistics and intralogistics sectors. The VDMA is also preparing a new edition of the live test of the VDA 5050 communication interface as part of the AGV Mesh-Up.

2022 Finalists at a glance

Cargotec Engineering
MOFFETT E5 25.4 NX

Jungheinrich
EKS 215a
ERD 220i

Locus Robotics
Locus Robotics AMR Solution

Magment
Dynamic wireless charging for intralogistics vehicles

NAiSE
NAiSE TRAFFIC

Noyes Technologies
NoyesStorage

robominds
robobrain.NEUROS

SICK
PACS (PAllet Classification System)

SSI SCHAEFER
IKEA Project Flat Pack Picking

STILL
DSR (Descent Speed Regulation)
Automated warehouse extension at Hase Safety Workwear

stow robotics
e.scala

SYNAOS
SYNAOS IMS – Vehicle Localization

Fabric specialist invests in articulated forklifts

Posted on by David Priestman

Manufacturer, importer and supplier of high-quality fabrics to the fashion industry, Jerseytex Ltd, has developed a new very narrow aisle high-density storage solution at its Midlands warehouse facility based on Flexi Truck articulated VNA forklift technology from Narrow Aisle Ltd.

A long-standing Flexi Truck user, Jerseytex has operated Flexi Truck VNA trucks at its site in Tipton for the past two decades.

“We bought our first Flexi Truck nearly 20 years ago and have used them ever since, so we had no hesitation in turning to Narrow Aisle when we needed a new materials handling solution to support the continued growth of our business,” said Jerseytex owner and managing director, Pritpal Singh Sidhu.

“We have proved that Flexi Truck technology represents the most efficient and cost-effective materials handling solution for us. The Flexi Truck’s design allows us to save valuable space when operating and is generally far more efficient than traditional ‘reach’-type trucks.”

John Maguire, managing director of Narrow Aisle Ltd, commented: “Flexi Truck products are renowned the world over for their reliability and build quality. Jerseytex has long realised the space and throughput efficiency benefits that Flexi Truck technology brings and we are delighted to have such a long and successful relationship with the company and their team at Tipton.”

Jerseytex uses its Flexis to support the unloading of textile rolls from incoming vehicles before delivering the fabrics directly to the new bespoke VNA racking scheme within its Midlands storage facility. By unloading incoming vehicles and delivering loads directly to the storage system, the Flexi Trucks eliminate ‘double handling’ which allows more product to be transferred in less time. As a result, Jerseytex is able to minimise its materials handling costs and speed-up operational throughput, with fewer forklift trucks in its fleet.

More than 10,000 Flexi Trucks are in operation at logistics sites across the world and there are models in the Flexi Truck VNA Digital range to suit every product type and warehouse size.

New Toyota forklifts have multiple power options

Posted on by David Priestman

Toyota Material Handling UK has launched a new range of electric counterbalance forklifts. Designed for both indoor and heavy-duty outdoor applications, the Traigo80 80V electric counterbalance range is offered with a choice of lithium-ion, lead-acid or fuel cell power solutions.

Customers that opt for lithium-ion batteries can select two intelligent energy packs based on Toyota’s own high-density lithium-ion battery solutions. This flexibility enables users to calculate the lithium-ion battery and charger combination that is best suited to their particular application.

At most sites, a lithium-ion-powered Traigo80 will operate continuously during multiple shifts without a battery change – saving the cost of additional batteries and battery changing equipment. For example, a new Traigo80 equipped with a small lithium-ion battery can work a full 8-hour shift, with just two 15-minute charging breaks during the main operating periods, and 45 minutes of additional charging during the mid-shift meal break. Furthermore, Li-ion-powered Traigo80 trucks require zero battery maintenance.

Meanwhile, for users that choose the traditional lead-acid battery option, the new truck offers quick and easy sideways battery changing, while improved motor and component technology means the lead acid battery-driven Traigo80 consumes 15% less energy when compared to the previous model – even in the most intense and demanding applications.

In addition to lithium-ion and lead acid batteries the Toyota Traigo80 is also available with hydrogen fuel cells. For users that have the benefit of an on-site hydrogen supply, hydrogen fuel cells can be refuelled in just a few minutes and allow emission-free operation.

As well as selecting their preferred truck power source, Traigo80 customers can also choose between a compact chassis design for applications where space is confined, or a longer chassis with a larger battery for those operations where trucks are in continuous use. In addition, two models with a chassis suitable for longer load handling on 600mm load centres have also been introduced.

Available in capacities from 2 to 3.5 tonnes with lift heights up to 6.5m, the Traigo80 is designed for the toughest environments and features high-level protected motors that  deliver best-in-class performance and durability in all weather conditions.

And, for the ultimate outdoor performance, a fully enclosed cabin is available to ensure optimum operator comfort and, therefore, productivity.

The Traigo80’s new operator compartment has been ergonomically designed and features an updated adjustable armrest and lots of storage compartments. An optional integrated colour touchscreen display provides key information such as lift height, load weight and mast position, while a multifunction display screen with push-button controls is also available.

A completely new range of controls – including mini-levers, a single multi-function joystick, or multifunction levers – allow operators to choose the system that best suits their driving style, while the Traigo80’s fully floating driver compartment reduces noise and vibrations highly effectively for extra comfort.

For even greater efficiency and the ultimate in truck operator safety, the Toyota Traigo80 is equipped with Assist functions, such as Toyota’s well-known and proven System of Active Stability (SAS). The multi-award winning Toyota SAS maintains truck stability by continuously monitoring the load weight, lift height and truck speed during operation.

Integrated telematics have been standard on the Toyota warehouse range since 2018 and a number of new connected smart truck features which allow customers to monitor and improve the operational safety, productivity and cost-efficiency of their materials handling equipment, are available with the new Traigo80 models.

These include an all-new pre-operation check function and the ability to recognise when the truck is being driven without a load. The system also monitors the condition of the Li-ion or lead-acid battery, which not only increases safety but also extends the battery’s lifetime.

Sam Gray, Sales Training and Product Development Manager, Toyota Material Handling UK, commented: “The launch of Toyota’s new Traigo80 counterbalance  range means companies that run the most intensive indoor or outdoor operations or whose applications demand trucks that deliver peak performance in the harshest environments, can make the transition to emission-free electric- powered forklift technology with no compromise on reliability or durability.

“Toyota Material Handling is committed to sustainability across its business and this new range of electric trucks has an important role to play in reducing the environmental impact of all companies that rely on forklifts within their business – from single truck users to the biggest fleet operators.”

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