2011 POY Finalists: Material Handling Systems

Finalists in Material Handling Systems in Plant Engineering’s 2011 Product of the Year competition

By Edited by Gust Gianos, Plant Engineering November 1, 2011

Ballistic Separator

Shred1 uses ballistics to efficiently separate iron-rich ferrous from much of the mixed metals and waste material in the post drum magnet flow. This separator delivers three distinct fractions: a premium low-copper ferrous product, a traditional #2 shred, and a heavy/light/waste mix. The Shred1 ballistic separator combined with a P-Rex permanent rare earth magnetic drum improves the entire process. This process recovers more ferrous and concentrates 75% of the post drum magnet flow into a low-copper premium shred, while eliminating the need for other commonly needed separation methods.

Eriez Manufacturing Co.


3D Laser Scanner

The Laser Scanner Focus3D is a high-performance 3D laser scanner for detailed measurement and documentation with intuitive touchscreen control that makes it easy to operate as a digital camera. Laser Scanner Focus3D offers 976,000 measurement points/second for 3D documentation of large environments, such as accident sites, factories, and process plants. The Focus3D is an entirely self-contained unit weighing only 11 lbs and measuring 9.5 x 8 x 4 in. The flexible interfaces of the included scan processing software enable connection to AutoCAD and other CAD applications such as Rhino, Microstation, Nemetschek, and ArchiCAD.

FARO Technologies Inc.


Order Picker

EKS 208/308 order pickers offer high picking performance in high-rack warehouse applications. With load capacities up to 2,200 lbs and order picking heights up to 236 in., the EKS 208 is specially designed for flexibility in wide aisles. Its narrow chassis size, just 35.5 in. wide, offers maximum maneuverability in very narrow aisles. The EKS 308, with 3,000-lb load capacity and order picking heights up to 402 in., offers high throughput performance. Both order pickers set new standards in flexibility, energy efficiency, and ergonomics.

Jungheinrich


Moving Mast Reach Trucks

ETV Q20/Q25 electric multidirectional, moving mast reach trucks can be used for efficient stacking and retrieval at high lift heights and for long loads that need to be transported in narrow aisles. With electric all-wheel steering, they can transport loads up to 26.2 ft long and 5,000 lbs, maximizing space in the warehouse. ETV Q20/25 reach trucks offer 3-phase AC technology for travel, lift, and steering systems while delivering precise, any direction operation.

Jungheinrich


Forklift Monitoring System

The LCD601 is a color LCD access and monitoring system for forklifts and equipment. The LCD601 maintains OSHA regulations by automating daily required pre-shift checklists and by scheduling driver recurrent training. Damage from reckless driving is dramatically reduced because the device tracks impact and speed-logging abuse, creating driver accountability. Maintenance scheduling on the device insures PMs are done by a date or hour meter reading. Wireless text messages shown on the LCD display can be sent to individual vehicles or the entire fleet, further improving the productivity of the handling operation.

Keytroller, LLC


Mobile Ramp Unit

The Impactable Yard Ramp is a cost-effective way to add a safe, adjustable, yet stable loading dock. Designed for trailer impact, the Impactable Yard Ramp provides companies with a flexible, yet fixed loading dock option to facilitate forklift traffic from the ground up into a truck bed. Because of its flexibility, this product is optimized for adding loading docks to grade-level buildings, and seasonal and leased facilities. Supporting the ramp via adjustable legs significantly reduces the chance of the ramp coming disengaged.

Leum Engineering, Inc.


Vertical Leveler Dock Door

The VertiCool door was specifically designed for use with vertical storing dock levelers. The VertiCool features a 4-in.-thick R-23 insulated panel that mirrors the insulated wall panel for superior thermal protection in 48-in. panel heights, reducing the number of panel joints by 50%—which allows for easy cleaning and better energy efficiency. Dual-compression side seals are mounted to the door panel to prevent damage and maintain effectiveness outside, while a closed-cell foam interior prevents moisture accumulation and additional door damage inside.

TKO Dock Doors


Lift Truck Integrated Scale

An integrated scale is available on 4,000-5,000-lb. internal combustion, cushion tire lift truck models. The integrated scale enables operators to quickly view, record, or transfer legal-for-trade load weight information as the load is being transported through the facility. With the ability to weigh loads en route, this versatile cost-effective scale eliminates the repetitive, time-consuming process of transporting loads to and from floor scales. A built-in side shifter increases operator efficiency and allows for 4-in. movement each way without the operator having to leave his or her seat.

Toyota Material Handling, U.S.A., Inc.


AC Lift Truck

The 8-Series, 4-wheel electric AC lift truck with AC drive system offers fast response to operating commands, precise power control, compact components, and higher levels of productivity throughout the entire work shift. The 8-series comes with a stability system that monitors key forklift operations, detecting and counteracting instability to reduce the risk of tipovers while delivering enough power to move loads up to 6,500 lbs. For added security, a keyless touchpad entry system allows only designated personnel to operate the equipment.

Toyota Material Handling, U.S.A., Inc.