Hubtex enhances PhoeniX range with silence pump

Industrial truck manufacturer Hubtex is expanding its PhoeniX range with the introduction of the new PhoeniX 2825 Series. The electric multidirectional sideloader for handling long, heavy and bulky goods has been enhanced with a revolutionary piece of kit: A silence pump that reduces operating noise by up to 10dBA.

Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, the 2825 Series covers a broad range of applications in narrow aisles, for the automotive, aluminium and wood industries among others. The low-noise truck comes with an impressive array of features, including a choice of three driver’s cabins.

The modular system of the PhoeniX electric multidirectional sideloader consists of a basic model, which can be gradually expanded by adding additional features. And now Hubtex is set to enhance the modular system even further with the PhoeniX 2825 for load capacities of 3t to 4.5t.

Silence pump enhances working environment

“When it comes to reducing operating noise, the PhoeniX 2825 truly excels. This is thanks to the silence pump, which will be integrated as standard for this series of trucks in the future,” explains Hans-Joachim Finger, Managing Director of Sales and Purchasing at Hubtex. The feature particularly enhances the day-to-day working environment of the truck operators, since the noise level is significantly lower.

At full load, the pump is approximately 8dBA quieter, and in the lower load range the noise level can be reduced by as much as 10dBA. This lowers the frequency of the operating noise and makes it much more bearable for the workers. If the load is very high, an internal gear pump can still be installed. It is also possible to switch between pump types in existing Hubtex trucks without any problems.

Optional features

The PhoeniX 2825 is the successor to the 2125 Series. Described by Hubtex as a true all-rounder that can be used both indoors and out for high-volume applications in the 3t to 4.5t range, the truck is also optimally equipped for loading and unloading trucks carrying aluminium profiles or long wooden materials, for example. With a frame length of just 2,440mm and a wide range of optional features to enhance the truck, the compact powerhouse can lend itself to any task.

Hubtex says the ergonomics and design are first-rate. Users have a choice of three cabins in different sizes, which, in combination with the short frame length, provide optimal panoramic views and improved visibility. The truck can also reach lift heights of up to 8,500mm. Yet even this parameter can be enhanced to meet customer requirements thanks to the high degree of customisation of the modular system. Last but not least, the PhoeniX 2825 boasts electric steering, which allows longer operating times due to its lower energy consumption.

 

IWL and Hawesko benefit from AMR solution

In response to significant e-commerce growth and customer expectations for a seamless digital and physical shopping experience, Hawesko Group and its logistics subsidiary Internationale Weinlogistik (IWL) are investing in the optimisation of their intralogistics processes.

Within eight months, Körber will implement a scalable Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) solution that is fully harmonised with IWL’s WMS to optimise the agility and flexibility of logistics processes at the distribution centre in Tornesch, Germany.

As Germany’s largest trading house for high-quality wines and champagnes, the Hawesko Group has established itself as one of the most important wine retailers in the world. In Tornesch, in-house logistics service provider IWL handles around 25 million bottles and 600,000 gift packages each year. Due to the expected growth in e-commerce, the logistics service provider opted for a solution that will support further company growth and efficient handling of short-term, seasonal fluctuations at the same time.

“The preference for online retail has steadily increased over the past decades, forcing companies to invest more heavily in e-commerce than in brick-and-mortar retail. Following the pandemic-induced record year of 2020 with online sales of between €80-88bn in Germany, this trend is set to continue according to a projection by the Center of Research in Retailing. Sales of at least €120bn are expected in German online retail by 2024,” explains Michael Brandl, Executive Vice President EMEA Operations Software at Körber Business Area Supply Chain.

Significant improvement in efficiency

The solution combines supply chain software and robotics by bringing together a total of 35 AMRs, 440 racks and five workstations for optimised fulfilment at the end of the second expansion stage. For this purpose, Körber is integrating 21 AMR from trusted partner Geek+, along with the Körber Unified Control System (UCS). Through an integrative combination of WMS, AMR technology, pick-by-light and the holistic Unified Control System, IWL will significantly improve the efficiency and quality of its logistics processes and also better exploit the potential of C-parts handling.

In this way, Körber brings the performance of C-parts logistics up to the level of A- and B-parts. Picking performance alone is more than doubled. “The potential of C-parts logistics is often underestimated because the focus is on A and B parts,” adds Brandl. “Yet C-parts now have a strategic importance for customer experience and retention, as well as the entire process from ordering to delivery.”

With this launch, IWL is building on its previous successes with Körber’s Warehouse Management solutions. Since 2006, the company relies on a comprehensive logistics ecosystem based on K.Motion WMS. “Körber’s innovative supply chain solutions run on a unique platform that allows us to quickly adapt our distribution processes, support the buying process and provide a seamless omnichannel experience for our customers,” said Frederick Paulsen, Head of IT IWL Internationale Wein-Logistik GmbH.

 

Plastic – an advantage in winter conditions

Construction work in cold, ice and snow – the winter months are a great challenge for the building and civil engineering sector. Advances in technology as well as the development of new materials and products mean that construction sites can now run smoothly almost without interruptions, even during the winter months.

With more than 60 years of know-how in plastics processing, the Craemer Group is actively contributing to this trend with its range of high-quality products made from injection moulding. For the construction sector, the family-owned company offers a robust range of pallets, boxes and containers made of pure polyethylene (PE). All products are easy to handle, load and fill, empty and clean.

Craemer, a leading manufacturer of durable and sustainable load carriers and containers made of robust plastic, benefits from decades of experience and its own modern technical centre at the group’s headquarters in Herzebrock-Clarholz, Germany. In this centre, research and development, design and tool making are closely interconnected – together they form the cradle for innovations.

This is the hub where new products are developed and already existing products are further improved, while practical trials are performed to determine their suitability for use, various areas of application and different framework conditions. This is also the place where cross-site teams deal with interdisciplinary approaches and sustainable solutions, using alternative materials and combinations of plastic and metal.

International presence – interdisciplinary expertise

Thanks to its international presence, a network of sales partners and close customer contacts, Craemer says it is able to anticipate and pick up market requirements and trends at an early stage. This permits the group to quickly develop solutions and implement them in innovative products and processes across various sectors of industry. In the plastics business area, this comprises pallets and pallet boxes, skips, tubs and buckets, bins and universal containers for the building and civil engineering sector.

The construction industry also benefits from Craemer’s many years of interdisciplinary experience and expertise with a wide range of materials, as well as from continuous investments in new technologies.

The construction industry is one of the most crucial economic drivers. Due to many upstream and downstream branches of industry, numerous application fields and fast processes typical for construction sites, this sector is characterised by a high turnover of materials and a large amount of transport. Robust, handy and durable items for transport and storage are therefore indispensable for ensuring smoothly running processes.

Plastic: hard-wearing and durable

As a developer and manufacturer of high-quality plastic containers for storage and transport, Craemer knows the requirements of the industry and has optimised its product range for construction works to match these. Whether sun, rain, ice or snow, in freezing and hot temperatures: With the robust and durable Craemer portfolio, the construction industry is always well prepared for every season.

Plastic products from Craemer, i. e. pallets and containers made of high-quality polyethylene (PE), are absolutely weatherproof and break-resistant – even after years of intensive use.

Compared to other materials, plastic also offers many advantages for outdoor use. Craemer has bundled these advantages in the PE portfolio for building and civil engineering. The relevant products impress with their high resistance and durability as well as their long service life – thanks to single-mould production and their stable construction. Due to the thick-walled products, the entire portfolio is highly shockproof and impact-resistant. The low weight makes daily handling considerably easier. And what’s more: the seamless manufacturing process and the smooth surfaces of the plastic products ensure easy emptying, cleaning and drying.

Craemer’s ready mortar skip

Craemer says its ready mortar skip (FMK) is the number 1 in construction. Specially developed for transporting ready mortar, this skip is incomparably impact-resistant and optimised for the tough everyday work on building sites. Massive wear ribs prevent the floor from chafing. The robust D-SMK skip for thin-bed and silo mortar is the ideal complement to the ready mortar skip.

Just like the FMK, the D-SMK has sturdy brackets and handles and a high load-bearing capacity. Provided that it is properly used and regularly maintained, the TÜV certifies a safe service life of five years for both craneable skips.

In addition to the classic FMK ready mortar skip and the D-SMK mortar tub, Craemer also offers mortar boxes, construction buckets, pallet boxes, storage containers such as stack & nest boxes and stack & nest containers for space-saving transport, universal containers for safe storage or round containers for mixing and blending with different capacities for the construction industry. Beyond that, there are various pallets for light or heavy loads.

Suitable for use in coldest winter

All products can be used for different trades and convince through high wall thickness and breaking resistance. They are all temperature-resistant from Arctic chill of up to -30°C to scorching heat of +40°C, with short-term heat resistance of up to +90°C, so that they can be used in every season. Due to their extreme temperature resistance, they remain dimensionally stable and reliable – day in, day out… in any weather.

Dedicated fields for prints on the products provide space for individually stamped logos, lettering or numbering. In addition to the standard colours, they are also available in special colours on request.

Craemer’s weather-resistant construction portfolio has been tried and tested for safety and durability. On top of economical aspects, the plastic products are also sustainable thanks to their recyclability.

AGVs the easy way for Ostendorf to automate

In just six months, SSI Schaefer was able to automate the existing mobile racking system at Ostendorf in Emstek using automated guided vehicles (AGV) and its WAMAS intralogistics software. Right after the go-live in the middle of 2021, the positive impact of this partially automated logistics solution was clear and quantifiable: it ensures transparent, error-free processes and makes the material flow resource-independent – and thus more efficient – in three-shift operations.

Achieving these objectives was an important step for this plastics specialist in order to meet its customers’ increasingly specific demands and strengthen its position on a highly competitive market.

Gebr. Ostendorf Kunststoffe GmbH is one of the leading manufacturers of wastewater pipe systems in Germany and has sold these plastic pipes and polypropylene fittings since 1973. Its customers come from the construction industry, which generally orders large quantities of a wide range of variants and operates in a cost-intensive environment.

Given its ongoing growth and the demand for shorter and shorter delivery times, Ostendorf had already commissioned a new distribution centre at its headquarters in Vechta in 2017 for packaging-optimised overnight goods staging. SSI Schaefer equipped the centre with an automatic channel storage system including SSI Orbiter load handling devices, WAMAS intralogistics software and a conveyor system.

The path to semi-automation for Ostendorf

At its Emstek site, Ostendorf also faced the challenge of adapting processes to increasingly demanding market conditions. It needed to optimise intralogistics, increase productivity and cut costs. At the same time, Ostendorf entered into an agreement with a major construction industry customer for pre-picking goods onto mixed pallets. That meant that suddenly, there were more packaging materials and pallets that had to be kept on-hand and moved around the warehouse.

However, it is not easy to recruit qualified staff for the additional work involved, as well as for three-shift operations – especially in the Oldenburg Münsterland region, which enjoys nearly full employment. Therefore, Ostendorf chose a partially automated plug-and-play solution from SSI Schaefer that could be installed quickly and is ideal specifically for smaller warehouses with moderate throughput rates. The new solution, combining automated guided vehicles (AGV) with the existing mobile racking system (MRS), handles the storage and retrieval processes and internal transport reliably, offering Ostendorf the advantage of high process reliability around the clock.

Single partner

Ostendorf chose SSI Schaefer because it wanted a single partner that could serve as the general contractor for the whole solution, including all the interfaces. This made communication much easier and ensured a time-optimised project schedule. Furthermore, the two companies already had good experience collaborating on other projects, such as the high bay warehouse in Vechta and the mobile pallet racking system in Rain am Lech, in which SSI Schaefer proved a reliable expert partner. Last but not least, Ostendorf was already familiar with the WAMAS intralogistics software from the Vechta site and had had good experiences with it.

“For Emstek, relying on full automation, as was done at Vechta, would have been wishful thinking and excessive,” reports Ludger Stroot, operations manager for Emstek at Ostendorf. “But we still wanted to introduce a certain degree of automation to get the benefits that come with it. In this context, the automated guided vehicles were the appropriate technology and were just right for our comparatively low throughput.”

“In addition, time was tight,” adds Lukas Varelmann, head of in-house logistics at Ostendorf. “While the planning and implementation of a fully automated high bay warehouse, including the building permit, takes at least three years, we were able to achieve our objectives in less than six months thanks to partial automation.”

A practical combination of an MRS, AGVs and software

This extremely manageable timeframe highlights the particular advantages of the scalable logistics solution that was introduced here: “The combination of a mobile racking system with automated guided vehicles is a mature standard and can be directly integrated into the customer’s warehouse structures,” explains Stefan Reichwald, sales manager at SSI Schaefer. “The automated pallet handling solution immediately has positive effects on delivery reliability and quality, as well as ongoing operating costs.”

SSI Schaefer successfully completed this partial automation project together with AGV specialist DS Automotion, an SSI Schaefer Group company, in the middle of 2021. In the process, the partners set up an interface to the existing mobile racking system. At the same time, they were responsible for the integration of the AGVs and conveyor system and for the overall integration into Ostendorf’s WAMAS software environment. “This was a comprehensive solution package, including software, so the decision to implement it in this form was an easy one,” emphasises Varelmann.

Improved workflow and continuous material flow

“The AGVs ensure a constant material flow in three-shift operation at Ostendorf; the processes are clearly structured, and this approach virtually eliminates defects,” explains Roland Hieslmair, sales engineer at DS Automotion. This reduces the workload of employees, whose current responsibilities include cross-process activities in the control centre. All the processes are also clearly traceable via WAMAS. Furthermore, the secure, reliable communication between the MRS and AGVs eliminates waiting times; as a vehicle approaches its destination aisle, the system opens the aisle already. The software communicates with the mobile racking system via ProfiNet with barcode support.

“WAMAS sends the orders to DS Automotion’s fleet controller, which you can think of as a kind of ‘dispatcher’,” explains Hieslmair. The system simultaneously checks which vehicle is free and issues the transport command. For a retrieval order, WAMAS makes sure the aisle opens promptly so the AGV can drive right in, pick up the requested pallet and move it to the transfer point on the conveyor system. The fleet controller notifies WAMAS that the order is complete, and the AGV is now ready for its next task.

Linking DS Automotion’s solutions with SSI Schaefer’s portfolio offers customers the opportunity to reap the benefits of integrated solutions without interface problems; a central contact person is always available, and laborious coordination among different systems is eliminated.

Additional benefits for Ostendorf

When companies grow and seek to increase the efficiency and quality of their order processing, they – like Ostendorf at its Emstek site – often consider introducing software in conjunction with automated processes. The combined system solution, consisting initially of an MRS and two AGVs, increases efficiency for this plastics specialist by having the AGVs operate continuously, with no breaks. With the vehicles used, SSI Schaefer not only met Ostendorf’s time target for double cycle use, but actually exceeded expectations; the AGVs complete the double cycles about 30% faster than even required.

If even higher performance is required in the future, additional vehicles can be added without difficulty. Modern sensor technology makes the vehicles safer for employees than conventional forklifts. In addition, the AGVs pay for themselves quickly. The same is true of the extremely space-efficient mobile racking systems, which SSI Schaefer offers in combination with AGVs as a solution package from a single source exclusively.

Continuing a successful project partnership

Together with SSI Schaefer, its partner of many years, Ostendorf hopes to repeat the success achieved in Emstek at another location. There as well, the aim is to establish a solid operational foundation to perfectly meet the growing demands of the construction industry – for example, through order-specific pre-picking. It is also considering initial scenarios for construction of an automated small parts warehouse in Vechta.

Ludger Stroot and Lukas Varelmann agree: “The professional project management and fast implementation impressed us once again.” “The two sides worked in harmony, the approach was always solution-oriented, and the cooperation was always positive. The results we achieved were thoroughly positive and speak for themselves.”

In partnership with SSI Schaefer, Ostendorf has implemented an impressive partially automated warehouse solution. They automated the existing mobile pallet racking by combining it with the new AGVs and connected both components to the new WAMAS software. This solution gives Ostendorf an efficient, optimised storage, transport and picking process and strengthens its competitive edge.

 

 

Hyster big trucks: productive with reduced emissions 

Hyster 8-18 tonne capacity lift trucks include Stage V engines to help businesses comply with emissions legislation while heightening productivity and lowering the Total Cost of Ownership.

The new H8-18XD series of Hyster Big Trucks features Stage V engines and delivers low running costs in terms of fuel and AdBlue® consumption, with no compromise on performance or durability.

“We are constantly evolving our range of Hyster solutions, according to technological developments, changes in legislation, and above all, our customers’ needs,” says Jan-Willem van den Brand, Direct Global Market Development Big Trucks. “Customers can expect high uptime and low TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) in demanding applications where cost pressures are having a big impact.”

Tyre repair and replacement is in fact the second largest cost for most materials handling operations. For this reason, the Hyster trucks feature an adjustable maximum steering angle. This decreases friction when the operator selects the reduced angle, resulting in reduced tyre wear and cost.

Hyster service intervals

“A key way to increase productivity and maximise the profitability of an operation is to prevent downtime for service and maintenance,” says van den Brand. “Therefore, improved serviceability is built into the design of all models in the series.”

The service intervals on the new Stage V engine have increased from 500 hours to 1000 hours. In accordance with regulations, the new Hyster trucks use a combination of a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), a Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) like AdBlue and a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). For easy access, both after-treatment units are packed in one box and conveniently positioned on the outside of the truck.

To speed up general maintenance and minimise downtime, the truck series is designed with easy service access, with a display providing key truck performance data and on-board diagnostics on one clear screen.

The Hyster H8-18XD truck series is available with a variety of wheelbase sizes.  Businesses can specify a truck for optimal manoeuvrability in tight spaces, boosting productivity and reducing tyre wear. Where space isn’t an issue, applications can select a model with a larger outer turning radius and lower truck weight to help reduce fuel consumption and costs.

Different truck configurations are available, as well as special engineering options, to accommodate other application-specific requirements, from a reversing fan to improve cooling in dusty paper or construction operations, or different handling attachments to accommodate the load variation encountered in the wood industry.

Good Design Award

The truck series also features a redesigned front end and operator-friendly XD cabin, for which the Hyster H16XD-6 lift truck received a 2020 GOOD DESIGN Award.

“The cab and front-end design focuses on visibility, ergonomics and comfort to help drive operator productivity throughout an entire shift,” says van den Brand. “Not only is a comfortable operator often more productive, but comfort also keeps them happy. This is more important than ever as many markets are encountering a shortage of skills in this area.”

The quiet and comfortable cab has the largest cabin entry area in the industry making it easy to get on and off, and it is spacious enough to wear a hard hat inside.

The cab’s redesigned mast and carriage creates a wider view for the operator, providing greater visibility of fork tips at ground level and trailer height. Operators of the new Hyster H8-18XD range benefit from an improved sense of stability thanks to the new cast counterweight. This has shifted the trucks’ centre of gravity downwards and towards the rear, minimising bounce.

“Precision handling of fragile, heavy loads in tight spaces is required throughout applications, such as the chemicals, metals and construction industries. These trucks are sometimes required to work closely alongside materials and workers,” says van den Brand. “In these operations, a truck needs to deliver powerful performance, but with accuracy, for maximum productivity and less costly damage to loads.”

“With our new series of 8-18 tonne lift trucks, we have simplified the range, while simultaneously offering more choice to customers in their specific application requirements,” adds van den Brand.

“Perfect” storage and handling solution for Furniturebox

Furniturebox, established in the UK by Monty George and Dan Beckles in 2015 at the age of 17, operated from its old warehouse at Mere in Wiltshire until September, when it opened a new facility in Chippenham. In recent years, Furniturebox has seen a rise in ecommerce, indirect sales, and 3PL opportunities, resulting in the need to expand into its new warehouse.

Furniturebox is a growing online furniture store dedicated to selling beautiful, quality, and affordable products, and providing exceptional customer service. Furniturebox says it prides itself on forming outstanding customer experience, a factor it believes is responsible for the company’s fast growth. This has already been a life-changing year for the company, as the founders made the Forbes “30 Under 30 2022” list for retail and ecommerce entrepreneurs in Europe.

SSI Schaefer, one of the world’s leading providers of storage systems with multiple manufacturing sites across the world, was able to offer what is described as the perfect solution for Furniturebox. The new logistics centre’s layout hosts a five-level pallet pick tower and a combination of VNA (very narrow aisles) and wide aisles racking systems to ensure maximum efficiency and immediate selectivity. Furniturebox had a clear vision of the solution it wanted for its new 7,700 sq m facility from the start. The new system provides the retailer with 5,700 pallet locations, meeting its current needs and space for future growth.

Furniturebox sought forklift supplier

To add up to its warehouse’s efficiency and to complement the thought-through racking layout, Furniturebox sought a new forklift truck provider. SSI Schaefer introduced UniCarriers as its potential partner for this type of equipment. UniCarriers, a growing industry specialist, says it uses a customer-centric and consultative approach when selecting the best solutions for each request.

It offered Furniturebox a range of high-quality, innovative warehouse equipment and IC/electric counterbalance forklifts which, in conjunction with the racking solutions, will ensure improved safety, minimise the unnecessary costs, provide transparency, and optimise its warehouse operations. UniCarriers’ professional and individual approach supported Furniturebox’s strategy and vision, providing it with equipment and solutions to support its everyday needs.

Pete Butcher, Regional Sales Manager at UniCarriers UK, describes the procedure: “Following on from several customer visits, demonstrating how UniCarriers VNA equipment performed in limited space, we provided Furniturebox with several solutions to retain their capacity but to give them back immediate selectivity.”

Range of equipment

As a result, the customer selected a range of equipment to be delivered to its new location, together with a supportive full-service preventative maintenance contract, providing the highest level of tailored after-sales service.

Furniturebox ordered two EK Man-up Very Narrow Aisle Trucks to serve its full-pallet storage units and order picking in VNA applications. Thanks to a smart design concept and modular construction, the EK Series is suitable for all kinds of VNA applications. Two TERGO UHX Reach Trucks, with a high lifting capacity, will support the employees with full rack heights of 14m during storage and retrieval operations, bringing Furniturebox’s operational efficiency to the highest level.

Furniturebox also needed equipment for heavy lifting handling. For this purpose, UniCarriers offered four PLF Powered Pallet Trucks equipped with dampened folding platforms, and traction, damping and stability (TDS) concept, ensuring excellent truck performance and comfort in all conditions for operators, even when the driving surfaces are wet or uneven.

For Furniturebox, the only way is up, as it continues to grow, having recently expanded to supplying the US market. UniCarriers and SSI Schaefer say they will be there to share its journey, a partnership delivering solutions that offer the best integrated value for its ongoing demands.

AGV Mesh-Up 2023: Testing for practice

The AGV Mesh-Up will again bring automated guided vehicles to the Test Camp Intralogistics in Dortmund in 2023 and will feature several premieres.

Frankfurt, 6 December 2022 – For the third time, the AGV Mesh-Up will take place as a live test of the VDA 5050 communication interface for automated guided vehicles as part of the Test Camp Intralogistics. For the first time, two master control systems provided by KINEXON and SIEMENS will be used at Messe Dortmund on 29 and 30 March 2023. The vehicles on site will drive with one of the two control stands on each of the two event days.

“In 2023, the participating companies would primarily like to show realistic applications with the vehicles. That means there will be even more handling and storage and retrieval processes on show than last year,” explains Andreas Scherb, project manager of the AGV Mesh-Up in the VDMA Materials Handling and Intralogistics Association. A total of nine units will be operating in the area in 2023. They will be provided by Bosch Rexroth, DS AUTOMOTION, ek robotics, Fraunhofer IML, Grenzebach Group, MLR, OMRON, SAFELOG and STILL.

In addition, the trade association was able to gain an important partner in Nokia, which is providing a 5G campus network for the AGV Mesh-Up. “With the increasing use of IoT and automation solutions in the logistics industry, the need for reliable wireless connectivity with low latency is also growing. This is required by Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) or Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) to interact with their fleet management software and Warehouse Management System (WMS).

Turning theory into practice

There is also a trend towards collecting telemetry, sensor and video data in real time, shifting computing power away from AGVs and towards on-site edge computing resources, supported by 5G connectivity. Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (Nokia DAC) and Mission Critical Industrial Edge (MXIE) form the 5G campus network here, which is specifically designed for industrial applications,” explains Venkatesh Ramakrishnan, Head of Logistics Vertical, Nokia Enterprise.

The AGV Mesh-Up was created by the VDMA trade association together with its members to test the practical suitability of the interface. For the participating member companies, the worldwide unique event offers the optimal environment to put their vehicles and software through their paces in terms of VDA 5050. For spectators, the AGV Mesh-Up offers the opportunity to experience the functions of the interface as well as vehicles and control systems live. In addition, a personal exchange with the developers and product managers is possible on site.

For the first time, driverless transport systems drove together under one control system via VDA 5050 at the world premiere in 2021. The interface project was initiated by the VDMA Association for Materials Handling and Intralogistics and the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) and implemented as an open-source project with the support of the KIT Institute for Materials Handling and Logistics Systems (IFL).

Test Camp Intralogistics

The AGV Mesh-Up will take place in a special exhibition area of the Test Camp Intralogistics 2023 from 29 – 30 March 2023 in Exhibition Hall 3 in Dortmund. Info and tickets for trade visitors are available HERE. All information and background on the AGV Mesh-Up can be found HERE.

The Test Camp Intralogistics is a test event with an accompanying congress organised by impact media projects GmbH. Test-driving forklifts, working with exoskeletons, operating all kinds of warehouse technology yourself, interacting with automated guided vehicles and logistics robots, trying out software – at Test Camp Intralogistics everything revolves around hands-on testing of selected innovations and new developments in warehouse and material flow technology. Decision-makers from industry, trade and the service sector with a concrete interest in innovation and investment have the opportunity to extensively test the exhibits on display for themselves on 10,000 square metres of hall space and to obtain information from experts about the relevant trends.

The Test Camp Intralogistics also provides the exclusive setting for the IFOY TEST DAYS, where the finalists of the IFOY AWARDS are tested, as well as the AGV Mesh-Up of the VDMA Materials Handling and Intralogistics Association.

 

Linde offers explosion protection at highest level

Since their introduction in 2021, the latest electric counterbalance trucks from Linde Material Handling (MH) have been setting new standards with regard to ergonomics, visibility, safety and energy efficiency. Now, the Linde E25 to E35 models are also available in explosion-proof versions.

Operators can thus benefit from the extensive range of advantages offered by these series-production trucks. The vehicles for ATEX zone 2/22 are already available, with the versions for zone 1/21 to follow in mid-2023.

It was one of the crowd-pullers at the Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Substances trade fair in Leipzig at the beginning of November: the new Linde E25 to E35 EX electric forklift truck for ATEX zone 2/22. With the models of this series, the fundamentally improved generation of Linde counterbalance trucks is now also available for use in hazardous areas.

Close collaboration

“The close collaboration between series and Ex truck development at Linde Material Handling has proven its worth once again,” emphasizes Elke Karnarski, Product Manager Ex-Proof Trucks. The design of the chassis, cab and mast provides an optimal view of the vehicle, load and working environment, thus serving both increased handling performance and greater operational safety. Additionally, drivers benefit from an optimized operator’s workplace which is even more generously dimensioned than in the previous models and offers more headroom, for example.

“Thanks to the complete integration of the explosion protection measures, the advantages of the series-production trucks are fully retained for all ATEX zones,” affirms Karnarski.

At the same time, operation in hazardous environments is taken into account. Protection against static charge is provided by plastic trim, floor mats and tires, as well as seat upholstery and armrests made of dissipative material. For the first time, the front, rear and roof wipers for zone 1/21 are electrically operated as standard. As with the standard vehicles, drivers of explosion-proof models can read important information – such as the battery charge status, error codes or when the next service is due – on a 3.5-inch display (standard for zone 2/22) or the generous 7-inch TFT colour display (optional for zone 2/22, standard for zone 1/21).

Safety-relevant values, such as the temperature of various components, are also monitored and alerts are shown on a separate display. Additionally, the EX-Monitoring app provides the driver with specific recommendations for action such as letting the vehicle cool down for 15 minutes, for example. The app also enables predictive maintenance, by way of monitoring safety-critical wear parts and prompting the customer at an early stage to schedule a service appointment.

Comfortable, economical, safe and agile

In addition, the driver’s workplace is largely decoupled from the drive unit and mast, and an elastomer ring bearing is used for shock absorption on the front axle. This is particularly noticeable when driving over thresholds, guide rails or uneven ground, as it makes driving more comfortable and also safeguards the operator.

Efficient motors ensure reduced energy consumption. In turn, the electronic temperature monitoring system on the traction motors, which is linked to a safety warning and shutdown function, is a typical explosion-protection feature. Furthermore, all electronic controls, sensors, fuses and relays are centrally located in a pressure-resistant control housing, which is integrated into the rear of the vehicle for easy servicing. For fast, convenient charging of the lead-acid battery, optional access is provided via the rear of the vehicle.

Another special feature of the new explosion-proof E-Trucks is the great number of optional assistance systems and lighting solutions. As with the standard trucks, customers can choose from many equipment variants. Both LED headlights, BlueSpot, LED strips and VertiLight are available in non-sparking versions or as sealed components. The same applies to assistance systems such as the Linde Load-Assist, Safety Pilot, electronic seat belt monitoring and Linde Safety Guard. Added to this are the benefits of the Linde:connect fleet management solution with access control and electronic damage monitoring. The data transmission unit fitted as standard makes the explosion-proof trucks fit for digital logistics processes such as software updates.

Explosion protection from Linde

With the new Linde E25 to E35 EX E-Trucks, customers also receive qualified customer service, a 24/7 supply of standard and ATEX spare parts, as well as the respective ATEX certificates and detailed operating manuals, in addition to individual vehicle configurations.

 

 

Pallite expands to meet demand

Pallite, the award-winning international designer and manufacturer of high-density storage bins, has taken on bigger premises in Milwaukee, US to facilitate the demand for its honeycomb cardboard pick bin units.

Since launching its strong, flexible warehouse storage solutions in the US 12 months ago and success following MODEX, Pallite has seen huge demand from a growing number of customers, including Quiet Platforms.

Over its 13-year operating history, Quiet has become the chosen fulfilment provider to the most successful and progressive digitally native companies seeking to maintain their brand identities.

With facilities located in key regions including Boston, St Louis, Chicago, Dallas & LA, working with Pallite it has been able to transform its storage and picking efficiencies.

Pallite brings business benefits

With the installation of Pallite’s PIX SLOTS storage solution, Quiet has reported considerable business benefits, including the reduction in the price per pick location, increased durability compared to previous corrugated bin boxes that would break down and need to be replaced, and also tangible improved ROI.

PIX has also provided Quiet with the flexibility it needed, scalability and customisation of the pick location dimensions, another major factor provided for by Pallite storage solutions.

“The biggest impact of installing PIX was the ability to have a storage solution able to be used for picking in our Atlanta launch,” said a spokesperson from Quiet Platforms. “From the date we acquired the building to the date we had inventory in storage ready to be picked was six weeks. Storage density has improved and picking locations per square foot has increased.

“Another major impact is inventory accuracy. There are no bin boxes being crushed and ripped causing inventory to fall on the floor. The sustainability of the units provided an additional benefit.”

Pallite PIX and PIX SLOTS is a range of lightweight, flexible, and robust storage units constructed from honeycomb paper cardboard. Designed to flex to the ever-changing demands of the modern warehouse, this innovative range of modular storage bins can be produced to each customer’s inventory requirements. PIX units maximise every inch of warehouse space, revolutionising picking efficiencies, improving pick accuracy as well as helping businesses fulfil on their sustainability goals.

Recent innovations to the range include rearward angled shelving to further alleviate stock spilling from pick faces. Rigid shelf edges with space for labels and bar codes are included for easy integration into existing pick systems.

Fives automates Italian logistics centre

Fives, a preferred partner for transforming supply chain facilities, continues to grow in the micro-fulfilment sector and is set to implement an AutoStore solution.

The new automation project for a logistics centre in Italy demonstrates once again Fives’ leadership in intralogistics and the success of its micro-fulfilment-based strategy, which supports the growth of the retail, e-commerce and 3PL sectors.

Fives has been chosen by KEY-4 to integrate the AutoStore technology into a 3,000 sq m extension to the existing 8,000 sq m warehouse in Fasano (province of Brindisi, Italy) for a leading distributor of electrical and lighting equipment.

The distributor wants to optimise the automation of the processing of its multiple items in stock and to develop its e-commerce activity; the “AutoStore empowered by Fives” solution therefore fully meets this need.

Unparalleled performance

The AutoStore technology is complementary to Fives’ technology portfolio and allows it to expand its offering to piece picking to support its customers in the challenges of omnichannel automation, while giving AutoStore an extra boost to tackle the French, Spanish and Italian markets where Fives demonstrates leading positions.

Thanks to Fives’ expertise as a supplier and integrator of advanced automation technologies and its intimate understanding of its customers’ processes and objectives, the new “AutoStore empowered by Fives” warehouse, consisting of 9,000 bins for two picking stations, has been specially designed in an ergonomic way to increase the current storage capacity in a reduced space and to offer optimal work safety and conditions for the operators.

AutoStore empowered by Fives

Each station will allow the preparation of two orders simultaneously and to process a flow of approximately 1,500 orders/day.

The facility equipped with the “AutoStore empowered by Fives” solution will be operational in July 2023.

“These solutions for optimising order preparation are one of the differentiation and competitiveness criteria for our customers. As we continue to grow in Southern Europe, we are proud to contribute to the business development of our customers, supporting their industrial performance. We’ve enjoyed a great partnership with AutoStore over the past year and look forward to future projects,” says Zakariae Haoudi, Sales Director of Fives Intralogistics SAS, specialised in automated picking solutions and advanced technologies for micro-fulfilment.

“We are thrilled with this project and particularly welcome Fives‘ strong presence in Southern Europe and its position as a leader in intralogistics, which helps us to grow,” declares Antonio Ammirabile, CEO of KEY-4, a general contractor with significant experience in managing integrated and complex projects and technological innovations in the fields of Industry 4.0 and Industrial-IoT.

 

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