2002 Product Review Showcase
The following pages highlight notable materials handling equipment/systems and related information technologies introduced this past year.
Staff -- Modern Materials Handling, 12/1/2002
Engine power allows this lift truck to do the work of a forklift and reach truck. It has the flexibility to work in aisles as narrow as 6 feet, 6 inches and also unload trucks in unpaved yards. Visibility in narrow-aisle and high-reach situations ensures greater placement accuracy and less product damage. Controls are ergonomically designed to maximize operator performance while the truck's overall design allows for faster load cycle times, reducing driver fatigue.
Aisle-Master Ltd.
877-280-4910
www.aisle-master.com
Enter 383 at MMH Reader Service
The Series-Three generation of narrow-aisle lift trucks includes a single-reach, double-reach, and straddle model de-signed to handle capacities from 2,500 to 5,000 pounds. Updates to the models include: enhancements to the operator compartment to allow for improved operator comfort and increased mobility, and; the addition of an integral side-shift carriage that improves the lift truck's capacity by shortening the lost-load-center and improving maneuverability.
Hyster Co.
252-931-5100
www.hyster.com
Enter 384 at MMH Reader Service
A fuel-injection and engine governing system known as EDGE (Efficient fuel Delivery Governed Electronically) combines very low emissions levels with improved fuel efficiency and faster lift/travel speeds. It is expected to meet clean air standards through 2007. EDGE improves fuel efficiency by 7 percent in gasoline, liquid propane gas (LPG) and dual-fuel models. Other benefits include advanced engine protection that initiates shut down when water and transmission fluid temperatures rise too high or oil pressure drops too low. The system's electronic governor sets a maximum travel speed for both indoor and outdoor use.
Nissan Forklift
815-568-0061
www.nissanforklift.com
Enter 385 at MMH Reader Service
Zenith Fuel Systems
540-669-5555
www.zenithfuelsystems.com
Enter 386 at MMH Reader Service
The Voyager Stacker pallet handler features a lightweight aluminum frame and modular construction with ergonomically correct positioned steering handles. It is offered in a manual pump or battery-powered lift version and is available in 1,000- and 2,000-pound capacities at 24-inch load center. The lifting system provides 63 inches of lift.
Blue Giant
800-688-7078
www.bluegiant.com
Enter 387 at MMH Reader Service
The FC 4000 series of AC-electric, four-wheel, sit-down lift trucks offers a cab-forward design that provides operators with all-around visibility and an optimum line of sight to the fork tips or load. The low profile and sculpted cowl allow the operator to see the front tires and corners. The narrow steering column coupled with improved cylinder and internal hose placement also increase visibility. A low step height, rounded surfaces and a tubular steel overhead-guard upright aid operator entry and exit.
Crown Equipment
419-629-2220
www.crown.com
Enter 388 at MMH Reader Service
Dock-to-stock needs are met with comfort and control with the DSD four-wheel, sit-down counterbalanced lift truck. An easy-on, easy-off treaded step, spacious operator compartment, and wide seat and back cushions enhance operator comfort. Meanwhile, high visibility uprights and overhead guard, and a well-positioned display increase productivity. The truck features a GE-SX control system that offers four preset performance modes to match specific tasks. In addition, standard on all models is a regenerative brake system that is activated when the operator uses the directional control to change directions with the accelerator depressed. This extends brake lift and removes heat from the motor.
Raymond Corp.
800-235-7200
www.raymondcorp.com
Enter 389 at MMH Reader Service
An automated unit-load storage system features rack-side workstations for picking partial pallets of fast-moving items. With a throughput up to 70 pallets per hour, the system is 45 percent faster than conventional unit-load systems. The workstations can be equipped with pick-to-light systems or radio frequency terminals to support paperless picking and real-time inventory control.
SK Daifuku (formerly Eskay)
800-253-1003
www.skdaifuku.com
Enter 390 at MMH Reader Service
The Rivet-Grip line of freestanding, heavy-duty rivet rack is available with particleboard or wire insert shelves. The rack units are stocked 7 feet high, with depths from 12 to 48 inches and widths from 36 to 96 inches. Capacities are from 350 to 1,600 pounds per shelf.
Equipto
800-323-0801
www.equipto.com
Enter 391 at MMH Reader Service
Work areas can become more efficient and organized with the use of a storage system of steel shelving, pick racks and cabinets . The steel shelving systems, manufactured from 22-gauge steel with a baked enamel finish, are easy to assemble and can be ordered independently or with bin systems. The shelf bin systems are 36 inches wide by 75 inches high with depths of 12 or 18 inches. The 13 shelves have a capacity of 350 pounds per shelf. Well suited for storing large items, the Stak-N-Store system holds 12 bins with wide, hopper fronts for easy access. Pick racks provide convenient, high density storage with bench-height, free-standing, and mobile styles. Cabinet systems protect parts and products from dust, damage, and theft.
Akro-Mils
800-253-2467
www.akro-mils.com
Enter 392 at MMH Reader Service
Aisles are eliminated with high-density mobile storage systems that allow for double storage capacity or extra space for other activities. End panels are available in a wide selection of materials and finishes with a variety of handles and trim options. Materials range from steel, brushed aluminum and formed-and-contoured acrylic to wood veneer with crown molding.
Spacesaver Corporation
800-492-3434
www.spacesaver.com
Enter 393 at MMH Reader Service
A "straight wall" system of containers is a complete line of injection-molded modular containers with matching pallets and top caps. Four new sizes have been added to the line, bringing the total to 15 different models. The newest sizes are: 15 x 12 x 8 inch, 24 x 15 x 4 inch, 24 x 15 x 7.5 inch, and 24 x 15 x 11 inch. Reinforced corner ribbing provides rigid column strength for secure stacking. Ergonomic handles allow easy lifting.
Buckhorn
800-543-4454
www.buckhorninc.com
Enter 394 at MMH Reader Service
A tote and carton handling storage and retrieval machine for small- and medium-sized applications incorporates state-of-the-art materials handling technology in a tote handling machine. The machine is available with single or dual shuttles to meet a wide range of sortation applications and can be manufactured in heights of up to 40 feet. It handles loads of up to 110 pounds per shuttle, and operates at horizontal speeds of up to 1,100 feet per minute and vertical speeds of up to 300 feet per minute.
HK Systems
800-424-7365
www.hksystems.com
Enter 3950 at MMH Reader Service
Power Column 2 vertical lift module ensures picking accuracy with a laser pointer that directs the operator to the proper cell location. The unit features a tilt tray that tilts from the rear, offering operators easier access to items. It also uses a precision rack-and-pinion lift system that positions trays continuously for insertion and extraction without requiring adjustments. The unit, which offers per-tray capacity of up to 880 pounds and a tray width of up to 100 inches, is suitable for small parts storage.
White Systems, an FKI Logistex Co.
908-272-6700
www.whitesystems.com
Enter 396 at MMH Reader Service
Maxtractor III carousel staging/retrieval system (CS/RS) uses motion control and software enhancements for automated handling of totes, cartons, mixed totes/cartons and different sized loads within the same system. High-performance AC motors raise and lower the carriage at speeds of more than 600 feet per minute. Standard capacities handle product dimensions of up to 30 x 30 inches. Heights up to 60 feet are available.
Diamond Phoenix
207-784-1381
www.diamondphoenix.com
Enter 397 at MMH Reader Service
A point-of-use inventory management system line has been expanded. The expanded line includes Supply Bay, which offers single item dispensing and SupplyLocker, which allows employees to check out and check in tools. Supply Pod, an array of buttons that can be positioned on existing shelves, features a "take" button that employees press when they remove an item. Employees can use an identification card or a pin number to access the secured systems.
Supply Pro Inc.
858-552-7610
www.supplypro.com
Enter 398 at MMH Reader Service
Locating and accessing items in vertical carousels and vertical lift modules is simplified with a touch screen control system . Operators simply enter the part number of the stored item directly into the system with a flat screen. An on-board microprocessor identifies the location, activates the system and delivers the required item to the operator at an ergonomic height. A single screen can be used to control a single storage unit or multiple units.
Remstar International
800-639-5805
www.remstar.com
Enter 399 at MMH Reader Service
The lateral belt transfer double-deep load handling device stores and retrieves plastic totes and corrugated cartons direct to standard shelving products. This double-deep storage strategy allows users to increase system throughput as well as attain greater storage capacity within a given cube. Throughput rates over 140 totes per hour are attainable with the device, which handles two cartons weighing up to 50 kilograms each. It can process up to 1,500 totes per hour.
viastore systems
616-656-8876
www.viastoresystems.com
Enter 400 at MMH Reader Service
An automated material dispensing system is suited for any size packaging operation. The system, called Rapid Shooter, dispenses and cuts roll stock materials up to 24 inches wide. It can also dispense and cut cellular and polyethylene foam adhesive and cohesive products. Operators simply set the control dial, which can be timed for the desired sheet length, and then depress the foot pedal which activates the system to automatically dispense and cut the material.
Sealed Air Corp.
201-712-7000
www.sealedair.com
Enter 401 at MMH Reader Service
A family of flame-retardant plastic pallets has received Underwriters Laboratories' UL-2335 classification for fire safety. The pallets are available in five sizes: 40 x 48 inches, 36 x 48 inches, 37 x 37 inches, 37 x 43 inches and 95 x 105 centimeters. The lightweight pallets are reusable and recyclable.
Rehrig Pacific Co.
800-546-4993
www.rehrigpacific.com
Enter 402 at MMH Reader Service
Building double-stacked loads while in the palletizing operation has never been easier. The unique flanged frame design of the FL series palletizer offers the ability to build extra high loads without shipping problems, and eliminates the need for costly stand-alone full load stacking equipment. Double-stacked loads eliminates fork truck double handling, assures tight square loads centered on each pallet, and maximizes both truck and warehouse space.
Columbia Machine, Inc.
360-694-1501
www.palletizing.com
Enter 403 at MMH Reader Service
Now there's a conveyor that fills the gap between low-throughput pushers, plows, and pop-up diverters and high-rate sorters. ProSort SC1 and SC2 sortation conveyors have a single belt running the entire length of the sorter that transports and drives the diverters and optional powered take-away spurs. These models feature a continuous roller-bed frame. High-speed components and a "split-bank" diverter control allow the sorter to be operated at higher speeds and with less gap between cartons, giving the ProSort SC the ability to operate at speeds up to 300 feet per minute and at rates up to 100 cartons per minute and higher.
Hytrol Conveyor Co., Inc.
870-974-5642
www.hytrol.com
Enter 404 at MMH Reader Service
A steel-frame version that provides additional durability and strength has been added to the Accuzone conveyor line. Accuzone provides accumulation zones for accurate placement of product, one unit per zone. Drive rollers utilize precision 24-volt, direct-current brushless motors. Each zone has its own drive roller, which allows for zone operation only when product has to move. The conveyor transports up to 75 pounds per zone at speeds ranging from 30 to 240 feet per minute.
Alvey Systems
877-935-4564
www.alvey.com
Enter 405 at MMH Reader Service
The 1900 series conveyor rollers are for heavy-duty applications, such as palletizing, bulk handling and foundry operations. The rollers are constructed of heavy-gauge steel with Unibloc welded-end construction for load capacities up to 1,346 pounds. The rollers are available in 2.5-, 3.5-, 4- and 5-inch diameters with lengths from 8 to 78 inches.
Interroll Corp.
800-830-9680
www.interroll.com
Enter 406 at MMH Reader Service
The NBS 90 SP narrow belt sorter is quick, accurate, and economical. A series of narrow belts, each with individual take-up, enable the system to precisely track product as it reaches specified divert points. High-friction rollers then rise to grip and gently divert product at 90-degrees in either direction to a conveyor, chute, or directly into a container. The unit carries product at speeds up to 300 feet per minute and achieves a sort rate or 120 products per minute.
Ermanco
231-798-4547
www.ermanco.com
Enter 407 at MMH Reader Service
A laser-guided, dual-conveyor vehicle comes standard with quad movement capabilities, which allow the vehicle to operate in a much smaller space than single-steer vehicles. The vehicle uses LaserWay control guidance that provides optimal flexibility and accuracy. It is also equipped with laser safety bumpers that can detect obstacles and slow or stop accordingly. The vehicle can handle loads with sizes up to 40 x 48 inches and weight up to 3,000 pounds.
Transbotics
704-362-1115
www.transbotics.com
Enter 408 at MMH Reader Service
Automatic guided vehicle (AGV) systems can be tested and implemented in just a few days with the help of system configuration software . Through a standard PC program, Q-CAN (Quick Configurable Automaton) can quickly configure non-wire AGV path layouts and define system operations. It also supports remote AGV call and dispatch functions.
Siemens Dematic
877-725-7500
www.siemens-dematic.com
Enter 409 at MMH Reader Service
Companies can drive unnecessary logistics costs out of their supply chains by utilizing a suite of enhanced productivity management software tools. The productivity management solution includes an advanced productivity and resource planning module to reliably plan and report on labor and resource utilization across the distribution center (DC), and identify best practice, preferred methods, and operational metrics. A second application interfaces with all picking and materials handling systems to further optimize operations, regardless of the picking system deployed.
RedPrairie (formerly McHugh Software International, Inc.)
888-624-8448
www.redprairie.com
Enter 410 at MMH Reader Service
Sentient RFR-02 is a fixed-position radio frequency identification (RFID) tag reader for use in factory automation with captive, closed-loop schemes. With an RF power-amplifier module, the unit can be used as either a low-power, short-range or a medium-power, long-range device. It can also write manufacturing data, such as sub-assembly and quality-test data, onto an RFID tag as an item passes through the production process.
Accu-Sort Systems
800-BAR-CODE
www.accusort.com
Enter 411 at MMH Reader Service
A read/write radio frequency identification (RFID) system is capable of reading tags at a distance of up to 8 feet between opposing antennas. The LRP2000 PassThru system can read tags on the pallets themselves as well as tagged items on the pallets, even if those items are liquid-based or located in the center of the pallet. All items in an order are written to a master tag located on the pallet. When the items are picked, RFID labels for individual items are read and compared to the master tag or electronic shipping manifest.
Escort Memory Systems
831-438-7000
www.ems-rfid.com
Enter 412 at MMH Reader Service
A family of bar code scanners supports keyboard wedge, USB, RS232, IBM 468X/9X, wand emulation, and Symbol Synapse, which allows connectivity to other interface options. The LS 40081 scanner provides additional user benefits: it supports all major symbologies, including the new reduced space symbology, and provides larger and brighter LED and optimized user feedback sound.
Symbol Technologies
800-722-6234
www.symbol.com
Enter 413 at MMH Reader Service
Radio frequency (RF) picking carts employing pick-to-light technology help warehouses and distribution centers streamline low-velocity picking. EASYpick GoKarts allow for batch picking of items, helping to increase inventory accuracies, reduce returns processing levels, and boost overall productivity. Operators can pick several orders simultaneously during a single pass through a breakpack picking area, greatly reducing walk times. Carts employ a wireless local area network and short-range RF scanners for controller-host unit communications.
Real Time Solutions, an FKI Logistex Co.
510-985-6300
www.picktolight.com
Enter 414 at MMH Reader Service
A mobile wireless print workstation allows bar code label printers to be immediately connected to a company's wireless network from anywhere in a facility. This unit was designed with companies in mind that require flexibility to redesign their production lines at a moment's notice. EasyCoder wireless printing removes the limitations of network wiring, therefore eliminating costs for rewiring and technicians to relocate or install new printers. The battery-operated workstation features heavy-gauge welded steel construction on easy-roll, double ball bearing wheels with a rugged, stainless steel work surface. Its battery typically runs 12-16 hours to cover a full shift without recharging.
Intermec Technologies Corp.
800-347-2636
www.intermec.com
Enter 415 at MMH Reader Service
PowerCart Systems Inc.
905-472-0802
www.powercart.com
Enter 416 at MMH Reader Service
A family of smart inlays and labels, reader electronics, and software offers high data exchange performance with a read range of 20 feet regardless of item orientation. Furthermore, hundreds of tags can be read simultaneously in a second. Smart labels can be attached to or embedded in products, boxes, pallets, trays and/or totes to produce a "people-free" wireless system that uniquely identifies and tracks items as they travel through the supply chain. An industrial strength, fixed-position reader offers very high data read rates.
Matrics, Inc.
410-872-0300
www.matrics.com
Enter 417 at MMH Reader Service
A multi-swivel caster supports a range of loads. The unit consists of three extra-duty swivel casters on a hefty load-bearing swivel platform. Depending on the casters selected, it can handle loads from 750 to 1,050 pounds.
Darnell Rose
626-912-1688
www.darnell-rose.com
Enter 418 at MMH Reader Service
The 2EM series 5-inch CentraLok twin- wheel, central locking caster permits easy locking and unlocking. Sealed precision ball bearings for the wheels and swivel are protected by a white nylon caster body that prevents contaminants from entering and degrading performance. Lightweight and durable nylon construction is employed for corrosion resistance and easy washdown. The casters offer a load capacity of 330 pounds and a selection of stem lengths for easy interchangeability with other caster brands.
The Jilson Group, Inc. Caster Products Div.
800-969-5400
www.jilson.com
Enter 419 at MMH Reader Service
The XL 12/12 P door-track system lets rugged knockout doors operate on walls with a wide range of support structures and roof pitches. The track makes a 45-degree roof-pitch angle above the door, which allows door panels to open past obstructions while minimizing track exposure to forklift masts. The track has a double groove formed at the point where the tracks begin their angle transition, allowing the door to operate within headroom as low as 18 inches.
TKO Doors
800-575-3366
www.tkodoors.com
Enter 420 at MMH Reader Service
A hand chain hoist called the Hurricane offers lifting capacities from 1/2 to two tons and a lift height from 8 to 20 feet. The unit's handwheel cover rotates 360 degrees, which enables multidirectional operation. This feature makes the hoist well-suited for lifting unequal or wide loads.
Columbus McKinnon
716-689-5400
www.cmworks.com
Enter 421 at MMH Reader Service
Chain hoists incorporate a conical rotor brake motor, ergonomic push button, variable speed stepless option, overload clutch and a load halt device. The DKM Manulift with interchangeable attachments offers two-speed control that grip lifts and moves loads up to 500 pounds. All hoists come with a standard lifetime warranty.
Demag Cranes & Components Corp.
440-248-2400
www.demag-us.com
Enter 422 at MMH Reader Service
A line of single-phase electric chain hoists and motorized pulleys is well suited for temporary job sites, machine shops, and maintenance areas where three-phase power is not available. The hoists and trolleys provide a heavy duty rating for tough jobs, a lightweight and low headroom design, easy maintenance and capacities to three tons.
Harrington Hoists
800-233-3010
www.harringtonhoists.com
Enter 423 at MMH Reader Service



















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