2000 Product Review Showcase

The following pages highlight notable materials handling equipment/systems and related information technologies introduced during the past year.

By -- Modern Materials Handling, 12/1/2000

Pneumatic tire lift trucks

A family of 3,000 to 7,000 lb. capacity gas, LP gas, and diesel pneumatic tire lift trucks , models FG15K-35K (gas/LP gas) and FD20K-35K (diesel), offer added comfort and reliable performance. A spacious operator's compartment features an open-step frame, handy grab bar, and anti-slip steel plates. The seat provides thigh and lumbar support while the seat belt gives an extra measure of freedom as the operator shifts the body for reverse travel. The five-main bearing design gives the engine superior strength and long service life.
Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks
888-MIT-LIFT

An electric pallet truck

An electric pallet truck upgrades the traditional pallet jack. It's priced at just over $2,000 as compared to $3,000 for a conventional electric walkie. It's also the first electric walkie to use AC power for driving, rather than a conventional DC motor. A maintenance-free battery is standard equipment.
Multiton
804-737-7400

Three-wheel electric lift trucks

With separately excited transistor motor controls and a dual front wheel drive motor system, three-wheel electric lift trucks achieve faster travel speeds. Yet operators can manage and maneuver these forklifts more readily than they can vehicles without this control technology.

Even under loaded conditions, the control technology delivers power without sacrificing speed. The 36-volt NX Series electrics are available in capacities of 3,000 and 3,500 lbs.
Nissan Forklift
815-568-0061

Reach truck

Able to transport and stack long materials within narrow storage aisles, a reach truck offers the versatility of a standard lift truck. Electronic steering, fingertip hydraulic controls, and a fully adjustable contour seat provide an excellent mobile workstation for the operator. The four-way truck can be driven forward, backward, or sideways.
Atlet, Inc.
714-701-4949

Electric, sit-down counterbalanced forklift

The Namco 4 electric, sit-down counterbalanced forklift fits in places where most conventional forklifts cannot. With a lift capacity of 837 lbs., it is an excellent fit for light duty use. A compact design allows the vehicle to be transported with a load, up and down multilevel facilities via the freight elevator.
Schaeff, Inc.
712-944-5111

Self guided vehicle (SGV)

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.
FMC Corp.
888-362-3628

Automated tow vehicle (ATV)

By combining Hyster's tow tractor and AGV Products' automated guidance systems, the two companies have created an automated tow vehicle (ATV) for driverless transportation of bulk loads in production and warehouse applications. The same type of vehicle is already being used in distribution centers, factory assembly floors, and automated warehouses. Options include automatic hitch and unhitch, and wire, non-wire, or laser guidance methods. Tow capacities can reach 15,000 lbs.
AGV Products
704-845-1110
Hyster
252-931-5100

AC-motor-equipped trucks

The first AC-motor-equipped trucks for commercial applications in North America include the pneumatic-tired, all-electric 7FB counterbalanced model. It is fully electric with AC drive motors ranging from 7.6 kW to 11.9 kW. Top speed is 10 m.p.h. Load handling AC motors ranging from 9.5 kW to 14.4 kW lift loads from 1 to 2.5 tons. Smaller AC motors control power steering.
Toyota
310-781-3385

Casters

The EU and EL series casters are for light- to medium-duty applications. The casters are available with either a rectangle top plate or bolt hole. The swivel-only version fits a range of rubber expanding plugs and threaded stems. Also available are threadguards enclosed by a locked steel bushing.
The Revvo Caster Co., Inc.
716-852-4410

Adjustable frequency crane control

The compact crane commander ES (CCES) adjustable frequency crane control offers a unique combination of size, horsepower, and operational features that maximize performance, ease of use, and safety. Designed for performance flexibility, the CCES can support a wide range of lighter capacity traverse and hoisting applications.

It is available in 1/4 to 3 hp at 230V and 1 to 3 hp at 460V for standard crane and hoist applications. Another model features 110V input/230V, three-phase output with 1/4 or 1/2 hp for special applications.
Drivecon
800-374-8266

Portable radio remote controL

This portable radio remote control system is perfect for directing AC overhead cranes, hoists, monorails, and other types of machinery with reversing motors. An output interlocking relay permits only one closure at a time, either forward or reverse. The system is lightweight and ergonomically designed with self diagnostics.
Cattron Inc.
724-962-3571

Lightweight remote crane controls

Starting with a modular design, a family of lightweight remote crane controls range from simple single-speed standard models to sophisticated special engineered systems.

The PulseStar Jr. is designed to serve standard three-motion, two-speed overhead crane and monorail hoists.

The PulseStar NVT is a belly-box type transmitter with a sleek, compact, and ergonomic design.

Meeting the demands of special and unique applications, PulseStar GLT transmitters are built to customer specification.
Electromotive Systems
800-288-8178

Belly-box style radio transmitter

This lightweight belly-box style radio transmitter features a sealed electronics compartment for harsh industrial environments. The radio transmitter is available for non-licensed operation. Joysticks or lever controls are options. An easy-to-replace externally mounted re-chargeable nickel-metal-hydride or disposable alkaline battery provides long life.
Telemotive Industrial Controls
888-687-4400

Container

Suited to shipping, storing, and dispensing small parts, the center flow container has a 56.5 in. x 48 in. footprint with 58.3 cu. ft. capacity. It carries 2,500 lbs. fully loaded. A smooth-sided interior funnel design allows quick emptying without tipping.
AC Buckhorn
800-543-4454

Extended-height containers

Reusable, extended-height containers now hold 500 lbs. more than before. The 39 in. and 42 in. height containers have a 1,700 lb. capacity while the 48 in. and 50 in. height containers have a 1,500 lb. capacity. All containers feature forklift access from all four sides and optional open winged sidewalls.
Linpac
800-442-4892

Heavy-duty container

Two purposes are served by the WorkingTainer. It's a heavy-duty container holding up to 4,000 lbs., and operates as a parts flow dispenser. When located at workstations, the units' adjustable hopper front chute tilts in various open-to-close positions for easy access to contents. When the chute is closed, the unit securely stores the parts during handling.
Steel King
715-341-3120

Packaging system

A packaging system produces a continuous chain of air-filled cushions. The system is ideal for fast, high-volume void fill packaging applications. The packaging cushions securely lock products into place, providing outstanding protection. Injecting air into a special strong and reliable tubular film produces 5 cu. ft./min. of air-filled packaging material. The cushions can be reused and recycled.
Sealed Air Corp.
201-712-7000

Stretchwrappers

Fully automatic stretchwrappers accept AC variable frequency drives, maintaining the responsiveness to variable speed demands while extending the life of the motor.
Orion Packaging Systems
800-333-6556

Stretchwrap

Designed for fast and easy clean-up of dry or liquid spills with full access to the wrap zone area and clearance from water sensitive components, the S-3503 stretchwrap system is ideal for washdown environments or products that could potentially damage a stretch wrapper. The system handles light, tall, and unstable loads at high throughput levels for superior productivity.
Lantech.com
800-866-0322

Palle

An all-paper pallet is an economical alternative to wood pallets and is completely recyclable. The Pro-Rap family's unique design allows users to adapt the pallet to their specific strength requirements and can be manufactured to any size.

The Pro-Rap II is a two-way pallet that can withstand 28,500 lb. compression. The Pro-Rap series IV is a four-way pallet that allows easy access to the pallet from all directions. It can withstand 17,980 lb. compression.
Protecta-Pack Systems, division of Liberty Carton
800-722-1442

Pallet chipper

The Pallet Muncher reduces wooden pallets as large as 48 by 54 in. to recyclable chips. In fact, depending on the pallet size, model APM-4854 pallet chipper reduces 7 to 10 pallets per hour. Operators simply load the pallets and indicate their size.
Advance Lifts
630-584-9881

Palletizer

Designed to operate 24 hours/day, 7 days/week, an automatic case palletizer features a wrap-around apron that encircles the pallet load building frame. Traveling in one direction around the frame, the apron increases throughput, reduces component wear, and provides smoother carton handling. The system can process cartons ranging from 3- to 150-lbs. up to 80/min.
Mathews, an FKI Logistex Co.
800-628-4397

Pallets

Made of galvanized steel, the Payback Pallet eliminates problems with nails, splinters, and repairs. Transporting to 4,000 lbs., the pallets are available in standard sizes-48 by 40 in. or 48 by 48 in., or in custom sizes and colors.
Jarke Corp.
847-647-9633

Power assist

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.
Positech, a division of Columbus McKinnon Corp.
716-689-5400

Carts

Reduce back injuries, employee downtime, and compensation claims with an ergonomic workstation engineering. Smart carts use a combination of conical springs and scissors lifts to support the platform on which the load is placed inside the cart. As the cart is loaded, the platform lowers. The platform then rises as loads are removed, allowing the work height to remain constant, promoting proper posture.
McClure Industries Inc., Sani Trux & Sani Wash
800-752-2821

Power extender

A computer-controlled device enables a worker to lift loads and manipulate objects as if it was an extension of his or her own arm. The power extender senses the load and the operator's arm movement speed, then responds instantaneously to increase the worker's physical ability by supplementing mechanical power to the lifting task.
Gorbel, Inc.
800-821-0086

Articulating arm

This 150 lb. capacity articulating arm reaches up to 7 ft. and has a 54 in. vertical reach. Both carriage mount and floor or ceiling mounting posts are available. It features a 360 degree end pivot and a 180 degree secondary pivot.
Jomat Industries
810-336-1801 

Turn tables

Non-powered, freestanding turn tables reduce fatigue and potential accidents that often result from lifting, bending, and twisting when assembly workers reach for their work. With weight capacities of 2,000 to 10,000 lbs., standard square platforms range from 2 ft. by 2 ft. to 8 ft. by 8 ft.
Advance Lifts, Inc.
800-843-3625

Lifting and balancing unit

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.
Mannesmann Dematic Corp.
440-248-2400

Over-and-under work stations

Over-and-under work stations position parts containers by tilting them to the operator and discharges containers without using an external power source. The unit is self-contained and works exclusively with gravity and counterweights. It enables parts containers to be available for the production line, lowered to a convenient working height, and removable when the operation is complete. A storage and discharge feature allows for a consistent flow of ready containers.
Topper Industrial
800-529-0909

Conveyor system

A modular conveyor system is for manufacturing and distributing applications that demand precise product handling and system flexibility. The system provides accumulation zones that are individually powered and controlled for accurate placement of conveyed product, one unit per zone. The system can transport up to 75 lbs. per zone, at speeds ranging from 30 to 240 ft./min.
Alvey Systems, an FKI Logistex Co.,
314-995-2363

Merge conveyors

High-speed merge conveyors process thousands of boxes per hour with improved reliability due to a precise control system. Sensors measure the box length and the position of boxes on the feed lanes. The system then adjusts the speed of the conveyor belt to prevent boxes from colliding.
Eskay
801-359-9900

Wheel conveyors

A line of wheel conveyors can be used to move light loads in a variety of situations. They can be used on loading docks or in rail cars and trucks on a temporary basis. In addition, the wheel conveyors are effective on a permanent basis in live storage, order picking and packing.
Buschman, an FKI Logistex Co.
513-874-0788

Move heavy unit loads.

The model RB is designed to move heavy unit loads . Roller bed design reduces belt friction and provides greater capacity. Applications include assembly, inspection and packaging operations. The bed is 6 1/2 in. deep with a 12 gauge formed steel frame. Belt widths range from 10 in. to 48 in.
Hytrol
870-935-3700

Lineshaft conveyor

Offering quiet operation at high speeds, the lineshaft conveyor model 1254 is ideal for conveying small and hard to handle items. This product features 1.4 in. galvanized rollers for straight beds and plastic tapered rollers for curves. Available in three conveyor widths, 12, 18, and 24 in., model 1254 is easily adaptable to existing systems.
Rapistan Systems
616-451-6200

Conveyors

Suited to applications with run-on demand requirements, PoweROL conveyors save power and money while reducing noise levels and minimizing wear and extending motor life. A low-profile, modular construction enables the conveyor to fit in tight spaces.
Ermanco
231-798-4547

Electric hoists

A variety of improvements that increase and enhance worker productivity are offered on the NER and ER series of electric hoists . Available in capacities through 20 tons, these hoists have a low-headroom design, heavy-duty construction, H4 duty rating, and an advanced pull rotor brake with a cooling fan, providing accurate and reliable stopping.
Harrington Hoists and Cranes
800-233-3010

Chain hoist

For safe and gentle lifting, lowering, and positioning of sensitive goods and valuable products, look at the variable-speed chain hoist . The quiet-running unit offers extremely fine control at low speeds. Loads up to 1,100 lbs. can be safely and conveniently moved and re-positioned with ease.
Mannesmann Dematic
440-248-2400

Monorail and top-running trolley hoists. Using pulse-width modulation technology, the hoists

SpaceVector controls are the newest addition to a line of monorail and top-running trolley hoists . Using pulse-width modulation technology, the hoists maximize energy use efficiency. This results in motors running up to 20% cooler, increasing reliability and durability.
Columbus McKinnon
716-689-5400

Dock door

Developed for cold storage, the Thermal-weight dock door combines energy-saving 4 in. thick panels with a knockout concept to reduce door maintenance, repair costs, and dock downtime. When the door is exposed to forklift damage, the panel releases from its guides rather than resisting and breaking.
TKO Doors
800-575-3366

Dock leveler

The air bag lifting technology previously available in the full-size FX dock leveler is now offered in a smaller, more affordable size. The FX Edge-of-Dock dock leveler features air-lifting efficiency in a compact, economical unit. This permanent unit is ideal for loading docks serving a narrow range of trailer heights.
Kelley Co., Inc.
414-352-1000

Dock leveler

Load and unload high cube, lowboy trailers and conventional trailers at a single dock with a versatile dock leveler . The unit provides 9 ft. wide access for below dock loading, which is ideal for automotive applications. Overall range is 12 in. above dock and 18 in. below dock.
Serco Co.
972-466-0707

Carousels

Carousels have traditionally been used as pick systems (orders are picked from carousel and sent to shipping) or put systems (items are picked from conveyor and put into orders on carousel). But a new system combines the two, allowing operators to batch pick from one carousel and put the selected items into orders on another carousel.

The heart of the system is a horizontal pallet carousel, with a range of 12 to 100 pallet positions. The double-tiered system has a load capacity of 3,000 lbs./pallet position.
Remstar
207-854-1861

Cableless picking

A continuous-slot facing installs along the front of a shelf pick module to provide cableless picking capability. It is constructed of a heavy-duty composite to survive tough warehouse conditions. Shelves may be reconfigured quickly because lights can be easily popped into place anywhere along the facing.
Real Time Solutions, an FKI Logistex Co.
510-985-6300

Mini-load automated storage and retrieval system

For high-frequency order picking, this mini-load automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) delivers totes and boxes directly to order pickers in seconds. Making full use of a building's vertical space, the mini-load provides high-density storage up to 50 ft. high.
Eskay Corp.
801-359-9900

Pallet rack design, simulation, and quotation program

Quick response is a key distinguishing factor in business today. With that in mind, a pallet rack design, simulation, and quotation program has been developed.

By specifying the number of bays, tiers, load sizes, and other configurable parameters, end users can generate a 3-D visualization of a racking system that meets their needs. A bill of materials and quotation can then be developed in minutes.
Unarco Material Handling, Inc.
615-384-3531

Simulation software

The ED 2000 simulation software creates, runs, and analyzes manufacturing and materials handling systems, displaying them in 2D and solid 3D animation. Object oriented, the soft-ware interacts dynamically with other applications and can be changed while running.
F & H Simulations
801-224-6914

Supply chain visibility and performance measurement applications.

Track supply chain performance online with SeeChain 3.5, the latest version of six supply chain visibility and performance measurement applications. It provides detailed, personalized supply chain information, expanded Web-centric collaboration capabilities and customizable performance metrics. Users can receive alerts about their areas of interest, so they are notified via e-mail if performance strays outside of acceptable levels.
SeeCommerce
650-213-1882

Information system integration tool for the retail supply chain

Infolink is an information system integration tool for the retail supply chain. It provides real-time connectivity for retail suppliers to their entire supply chain-including retail customers, suppliers, transportation companies, and the newly emerging exchanges. Retailers can achieve improved inventory positions, fewer markdowns and buyer efficiencies. The retail supplier can improve customer relationships, reduce charge-backs, and increase efficiency.
Manhattan Associates
770-955-5533

Web-based supply chain management

InfoChain offers Web-based supply chain management including product and asset tracking and wireless data capture and communication. It can track, view, and control assets with real-time information management tools-at any point in the supply chain.
Marconi Data Systems, Inc.
630-860-7300

e-fulfillment

An e-fulfillment system is designed to meet the high order volume and stringent customer service requirements of global business-to-consumer and business-to-business e-commerce. The system converts the traditional warehouse into a multi-channel e-fulfillment center.
EXE Technologies
877-393-8324

Web-ready support software

Receive event notification and view information in real time with Web-ready support software. The system takes data feeds from various sources and provides users with enterprise-wide inventory and order status information. It also offers alert-messaging via e-mail, page, and fax; customized key performance indicators; and, intelligent routing capabilities. Information can be sent to various parts of the supply chain for complete integration.
Provia Software
877-776-8421

Radio frequency identification (RFID

The UHF (868/915) radio frequency identification (RFID) product platform supports a longer reading passive RFID tag and reader system that will open new logistics and asset tracking applications. The reader ASIC will comply with the ISO standard for 13.56 MHz systems. It includes a receive/transmit function to communicate with RFID smart labels in a single chip.
Texas Instruments, Inc.
800-785-7366

Ethernet print server

Used in conjunction with the 9840 bar code printer, an Ethernet print server can be operated anywhere in the world via the Internet. Users can select print on the computer in one location and seconds later, labels are printed in a warehouse across the street or in another country. It can remotely manage and download fonts, print jobs, change printer configurations, and diagnose errors. The print server features quick set-up, time savings from diagnosing network errors, quick printing and downloading and reduced long distance and international charges.
Monarch Marking Systems, Inc.
800-543-6650

A real-time locator system,

A real-time locator system, WhereSoft Vehicle, uses wireless tags and a network of spread spectrum radio antennae to find vehicles. The system searches for any specific, tagged vehicle and pinpoints its location within 10 ft. in a matter of seconds. The locator can be used on the assembly line or across miles of parking spaces outdoors. Vehicles can be tagged in final assembly and tracked until they leave the factory yard. Any vehicle that needs to undergo quality assessments can be tracked. The system also automatically alerts personnel if anyone tries to move a vehicle under a QC hold from the lot.
WhereNet
408-845-8524

Local positioning system

An industrial 3D-iD local positioning system is suited for harsh indoor or outdoor environments such as large manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and truck yards. The system uses radio frequency tags to identify the location of any item to within 5 ft., tracking its movement over time. The system will automate yard and dock management, decrease work-in-process cycle times, and optimize the time spent searching for missing tools and equipment.
PinPoint Corp.
978-901-0028

Web-based voice solution for logistics and distribution

VoiceLogistics, the first and only Web-based voice solution for logistics and distribution , features a robust speech recognition engine and a wearable ruggedized wireless client. The scaleable and highly flexible system can be used with receiving, cross-docking, putaway, picking, and other directed operations in e-commerce and traditional distribution applications.
Voxware
609-514-4100

Mini-scan engines

Three mini-scan engines , SE 2200, SE3223, and SE 4200, each about 1 cu. in. in size, expand bar code applications.

The SE 2200 operates at 590 scans/sec for high-end performance on linear bar codes. The SE3223 provides the largest degree of scanning functionality within the supplier's engine, spanning a wide range of applications. The SE 4200 imaging engine combines a VGA resolution CCD sensor, illumination, and bright 650 nm laser aiming in the standard SE 1200 form factor.
Symbol Technologies, Inc.
800-722-6234

Linear imager

The Imageteam 3870 cordless linear imager is well suited for manufacturing, warehouse and distribution applications. It allows an operator to work up to 50 ft. from the host system, and can scan bar codes on large of awkward-shaped objects. Its 2.4 GHz frequency hopping spread spectrum capability offers reliable communication in noisy environments. Up to nine scanners can be linked to a base, with each scanner having a unique ID and a unique set of operating parameters.
Hand Held Products a Welch Allyn Affiliate
704-537-1444

Printer/encoder

The R-140 radio frequency identification (RFID) printer/encoder prints/encodes, and verifies smart labels -printed labels embedded with ultra-thin 12.56 MHz RFID transponders. Users can change the data in an RFID transponder repeatedly during a smart label's life. Smart labels are read using non-contact radio waves, which means information can be transmitted through dirt, paint, and non-metallic containers and packaging. RFID anti-collision technology permits the simultaneous scanning of multiple objects, such as pallets of boxes.
Zebra Technologies
847-634-6700