Product Focus

By Staff -- Modern Materials Handling, 6/1/2000

Here's a look at products introduced at many of the special events at NA 2000 in Detroit. Our show coverage will finish next month.

Power assist for better ergonomics

PowerTouch, a new power assist, virtually eliminates push- and pull-forces needed to operate a materials handling manipulator. A computer-controlled servo system with proprietary software permits smooth rotational and linear movement through the use of amplifiers, motors, and a processor.

Benchmarking the ergonomic standards set by OSHA, NIOSH, and the Ford Ad-vanced Manufac-turing Group, the company developed the new product in collaboration with Iowa State University.

It can be purchased as an optional attachment for all new and existing simple air manipulators.
Positech, a division of Columbus McKinnon Corp.
716-689-5400

Durable containers

The Xytec Gemini container features durability, high capacity, repairability, and optimum cleanliness due to a smooth wall and base design that provides an 80% reduction in surface area. Self-bailing hinge pockets and smooth radius transitions facilitate the cleaning process.

Another container series, the Xytec SC containers, are available in 48 by 40 in. and 45 by 40 in. footprints. The AcraBase technology offers an advanced weight to strength ratio at a 2,500 lb. capacity. The containers have a smooth-surface base that provides an optimized design for cleaning and ribbed sidewalls that are available in varying heights and door options.

The SC series features a two-part replaceable forkstrap system that is interchangeable and can be replaced independently. The forkstrap technology lowers maintenance costs because it allows customers to replace the forkstrap instead of substituting the entire base of the container when it becomes damaged. Features include the capability of stacking one on top of another, safely and securely. Interlocking design strengthens corners for durability under rough handling.
Arca Systems
+46 435 377 00

Self guided vehicle system

The self guided vehicle (SGV) system is available either as a riderless forklift vehicle or conveyor deck model. Standard payload is 4,000 lbs. with special models able to carry up to 20,000 lbs. SGVs run reliably and safely, utilizing guidance technology to achieve accurate and timely load movements in demanding just in time manufacturing environments.

Benefits of SGVs include rapid return on investment, maximum system flexibility, minimal field installation for quicker start-up, and ease of reconfigurability to meet changing needs.
FMC Corp.
888-362-3628

Mail retrieval system

A novel mail item retrieval system (MIRS) facilitates delivery of important mail 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Located at a common gathering point such as a supermarket or mall, the MIRS receives the mail items and the recipient notified by e-mail that the item is available for pick-up. To retrieve mail, the customer uses a touch screen kiosk to enter a pin number or uses a card swipe for identification. An adjacent storage carousel is then triggered to locate the parcel and bring it to a delivery station.

Each carousel unit has 550 storage locations in a space only 10 by 8 by 5 ft. Multiple carousels can be linked into the system to provide even greater storage capacities. Besides convenience, security, and full traceability to the delivery point, the system can also be used in reverse for returns.
Northrop Grumman Corp.
516-575-5941

Controls for automated storage

Controls 2000 enable the complete lines of vertical lift modules (VLMs) and vertical carousels to provide high levels of serviceability, productivity, and storage density. With easy push button controls, VLMs can be customized on the fly. Tray speed, height, and location within the unit can all be adjusted.

Specific features of C2K uniquely applicable to vertical car-ousels include automatic load imbalance detection, variable speed control, cycle count, remote diagnostics, and individually programmable level stops. The C2K system also enables customization of each tray in the VLM.
Remstar International Inc.
207-854-1861

Cable air balancers

The Demag Balancer System (DBS) is a pneumatic lifting and balancing unit. It is offered in 125 lb. and 250 lb. capacities. The cable air balancers feature low breakway friction to reduce the force required to put the load in motion. The result is a cost-effective alternative means of balancing, transferring, and positioning loads.

Both DBS 55 and DBS 110 offer three control package options-single load balance, dual load balance, and variable weight handling. The latter features an ergonomic control handle.

Designed to protect against contamination or damage from the plant environment, the packages are completely enclosed. Balancers are equipped with a lift lock load hook and are virtually maintenance-free. A variety of mounting options for use on K BK track and other rail systems is available.
Mannesmann Dematic Corp.
800-321-6560

Case flow system is versatile

SelecDeck is a case flow system with broad adaptability. With a variety of bed widths and staggered wheels, the system can adjust spacing to meet special situations. Axle and/or wheel spacing can be changed based on size, weight, and varieties of cartons.

Large, wide heavy-duty plastic wheels have offsetting ribs on each side for greater strength. These are supported by continuous steel axles, eliminating traditional axle failure. Positioning adjacent to channels increases durability. The large diameter wheels permit freer flow with less pitch resulting in reduced height of top shelf elevation. Restocking becomes easier. SelecDeck uses shelf beams for support to maximize module rigidity and stablity.
Frazier Industrial Company
315-539-9256