Product focus on Ergonomics
Modern features a sampling of products to improve ergonomics.
Staff -- Modern Materials Handling, 11/1/2009
Inverter rotates full pallet loads
The PalletPal inverter uses a massive anti-friction turret bearing—stoppable at any point—to safely rotate fully loaded pallets 180°. Ideal for replacing broken pallets, the inverter can also be used for switching to or from in-house/shipping pallets, transferring loads to slip sheets, and replacing damaged goods at the bottom of a load without manual restacking. Handling loads measuring up to 48 × 48 × 60 inches, the system's maximum capacity is 4,400 pounds. The clamping mechanism features adjustable pressure control to prevent crushing lighter loads. Southworth Products, 207-878-0700,www.southworthproducts.com.
Pneumatic scissor lift positions carts
For use with carts, a pneumatic positioner reduces ergonomic problems for workers by allowing operators to easily raise and lower material on the carts to the desired height for loading or unloading. Ideal for fork-free facilities, the scissor lift can be customized to precisely fit an existing cart's size and capacity. For safety, a whisker-style cart-present switch allows the lift to operate only when a cart is loaded correctly. A green wink eye on the control pedestal visually indicates proper loading. To protect operators from pinch points, steel skirting is attached between the cart and the floor, while lead-in angles guide the cart onto the lift. A removable safety bar secures the cart in place. Herkules Equipment, 800-444-4351,www.herkules.us.
Tool lift arm enhances ergonomics
The pneumatic ReactionArm absorbs shock, torsional forces and impact force from power tools to eliminate carpal tunnel injury and cumulative trauma disorders. A power tool mounted on the arm can easily be moved and positioned throughout the workcell. Overhead, trolley, pedestal, wall or mobile/portable base mounting options are offered. Features include balance configuration for zero-gravity control, precision bearings, and thrust washers at joints for smooth motion, as well as a variety of tool holders and end joints. Vertical axis brakes, remote start circuitry, and twist grip controls may be specified as options. Positech, 800-831-6026,www.positech.com.
Pneumatic leveler adjusts pallet height
The P3 pneumatic leveler allows operators to build or break down pallet loads with minimal bending, reaching, stretching or walking around. Using a heavy-duty, reinforced rubber airbag and permanent spring, the leveler automatically adjusts pallet height as boxes are added or removed. The system handles load weights from 400 to 4,500 pounds and works anywhere shop air is available. Features include a large turntable with anti-friction bearings, extra wide base to eliminate lagging, and fork pockets for relocation by fork truck or stacker. Presto Lifts, 800-343-9322,www.prestolifts.com.
Single system for pallet pickup, transport, positioning
Featuring electronically actuated outrigger deployment, the UniLift enables both transport and ergonomic positioning of a standard GMA pallet without straddle legs to hinder maneuverability or take up space. This enables a worker to pick up a pallet or skid without straddling it, transport it to the work area, and ergonomically position the load. The lift offers the handling and steering characteristics of a standard pallet jack with operator-actuated outriggers. Pallets or skids may be raised up to 34 inches high for manual transport. Bishamon Industries, 800-358-8833,www.bishamon.com.
Raise loads up to second floor, mezzanine
For moving large items or multiple pallets from floor to floor or up to high stages and mezzanines, the BFL series of lifts is offered. The lifts travel from 8 to 18 feet. They may be specified with platform dimensions ranging from 6 × 8 feet to 8 × 12 feet. Advance Lifts, 800-843-3625,www.advancelifts.com.
Lift assemblies weighing 120,000 pounds
Capable of handling 120,000-pound assemblies measuring up to 15 feet long, Arbor lifts reduce the setup time for large manufacturing and repair operations. The lifts may be used in pairs, with one set in a fixed location and a second positionable with air casters. Ball screw actuators adjust the height. Larger capacity lifts can be developed for unique handling requirements. Bushman Equipment, 800-338-7810,www.bushman.com.
Vacuum lifter adjusts to uneven surfaces
The UniMove vacuum lifting system allows one operator to pick up and move items that weigh up to 1,000 pounds. The system features a patented valve that enables it to automatically adjust to uneven, flexible, rough and porous surfaces. Constructed of stainless steel, the equipment handles corrugated cartons, bags, metal, plastic or fiber drums, and large, heavy sheets of metal or wood. UniTech Industries, 610-826-7855,www.unimove.com.
Bring dock to trailer with hydraulic lift
Ideal for loading operations that service a variety of truck styles or where space is restricted, Hulk hydraulic dock lifts bring the dock to the trailer, regardless of height. Rugged and powerful, the lifts move loads up to 50,000 pounds. For pinpoint manipulation, lift-mounted controls permit the operator to set the platform for a level interface between the truck and dock. Pit- or surface-mountable, the lift can be located inside the building or in front of the loading dock. An upper travel limit switch prevents damage to the hydraulics. Safety features include removable, mandrel-formed tubing handrails, a maintenance safety strut, safety tread steel deck, safety chains across the operating ends of the platform, four sided electric toe guards and an ergonomic spring assist. Kelley, 877-558-6960,www.kelleycompany.com
Telescopic column lifts 4,800 pounds
Weighing 150 pounds, the Ergo-I electric lift column delivers smooth, quiet and precise lifting of up to 4,800 pounds in stand-alone or synchronized multi-column applications. The telescopic column lifts at 3.6 inches per second. Extension and retraction of the column is driven by an electric linear actuator system and controlled from a push-button hand pendant, foot pedal, programmable controller or notebook computer. Compact and self-contained, the system is housed in anodized aluminum, which also serves as a structural support. ErgotecH, 203-790-4100,www.ergotechinc.com.
Electric chain hoist easy to install, relocate
The DC-Com-petitor electric chain hoist is equipped with standard two speed motors and plug-and-lift connections for the pendant and power supply for easy installation and relocation. The hoist's field-adjustable, push-button control provides 10 feet of adjustment to easily adapt to an operator's ergonomic requirements. To reduce the risk of repetitive motion injuries, the control is ergonomically optimized. The maintenance panel simplifies installation with access to the chain lubrication point, power quick disconnect and cable storage. Other features include a five or six pocket sprocket chain guide, upper and lower limit switches, and die cast aluminum gearbox and motor. Demag Cranes and Components, 440-248-2400,www.demag-us.com.
Self-propelled cart with elevating platform
For order picking or interfacing with conveyors or workbenches, the self-propelled Moto-Cart has an electric elevating platform top. The system offers 1,000 pounds of lifting capacity and reaches lift heights of 62 inches. An on-board battery and charger system are integrated into the unit. Solid state variable speed control is included standard. Lift Products, 262-521-5720,www.liftproducts.com.
Position work for assembly line, machining
With a platform measuring 96 × 48 inches, the Uni-Tilt positions two 48 × 48 inch containers within easy reach of assembly line workers and machine operators, reducing fatigue and increasing production. Offered in two configurations—portable or nonportable—the system minimizes repetitive bending and stretching by presenting product at a 40° angle. A selector pedal allows the operator to lift while tilting, or tilt then lift. Vestil Manufacturing, 800-348-0868,www.vestilmfg.com.
Flexible, vacuum-assisted lifting
For fast, ergonomic handling of loads weighing up to 75 pounds, the JumboFlex vacuum tube lifter permits one-hand handling of plastic bags, sacks, barrels, cans, buckets and pails. Ideal for use at transfer stations or in palletizing, the lifter mounts on crane systems, on wall or column-mounted slewing cranes or on existing overhead cranes. Features include a quick-change adapter for switching between the various vacuum grippers, endless rotation with detents every 90°, and intelligent valves that release the workpiece easily. Schmalz, 919-713-0880,www.schmalz.com.
Electric-powered cart and lift for light handling
The electric EJ20 utility cart and EJ15 ride-on lift enhance efficiency and worker safety in light materials handling applications. The EJ15 stand-on, battery powered utility cart handles loads too small for a pallet lift, but too heavy to lift and load manually. Traveling at up to 5 miles an hour, the lift carries up to 330 pounds. It is compact, weatherproof, durable, and equipped with a hydraulic scissor lift with a cover for operator safety. The EJ20 carries a payload of 440 pounds. Measuring 24 inches wide, it's ideal for transporting materials through standard size doors and tight quarters. Independently rotating wheels keep the cart traveling smoothly outdoors through unstable ground. Canycom USA, 888-450-0381,www.canycomsales.com.
Industrial fan cools smaller workspaces
Ideal for smaller industrial spaces needing improved comfort and energy savings, the Isis fan weighs less than 100 pounds and is offered in diameters of 8, 9 or 10 feet. Intended for applications with ceilings as low as 12 feet, the fan's size and 10 airfoils are used instead of speed to move large volumes of air for comfort and a more productive work environment. Engineered to save energy, the fan's power requirement is the equivalent of a refrigerator light bulb. Features include wall-mounted, slim line controls pre-wired to the motor, eliminating special wiring and conduit requirements. Big Ass Fans, 877-244-3267,www.bigassfans.com.
End-effector handles different diameter loads
Capable of picking up 330 pound loads of tires, the Liftronic is equipped with an end effector that automatically adjusts to lift items of different diameters—from 12 to 22 inches. Equipped with a laser pointer placed on the end effector jaws, the system marks the position of the jaws inside the tire pile. Features include arm joints with end of stroke that can interface with conveyors to prevent damage to the unit or injury to the operator. S.I.T. Indeva, 704-357-8811,www.SIT-indeva.com.
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