The KION Group, owners of the Linde, STILL, Fenwick, OM and Baoil forklift brands, reports a successful performance in 2011, raising its order intake and revenue by more than 20% year-on-year and doubling its EBIT (earnings before interest and taxes) margin compared with 2010 to 8.3%.

“Our successful multi-brand strategy, meeting highly diverse market requirements and customer needs, have enabled us to benefit from the continued market growth both in western Europe and in the emerging economies of Asia, eastern Europe and South America”, said Gordon Riske, CEO of the KION Group.

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Isere, France…

At the recent Intermat 2012 trade fair, Fluid Hydr’eau, a French company specialising in water-based hydrodynamics, presented a major innovation designed to power a mechanical digger using water hydraulics.

With the system, power and water flow are coordinated to obtain gentle proportional movements and thus be as efficient as a conventional mechanical digger using hydraulic oil. The manufacturer’s specialists tested the prototype in a real situation – digging a trench, moving the digger over rough ground, etc – and are now considering starting up mass production.

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From August 1^st this year trucks of 12 tonnes and over will be obliged to pay a road toll on 1,000 kilometres of four-lane roads in Germany. Toll Collect (www.toll-collect.de), the company granted an operating licence that runs up to 2015, uses a satellite-based toll collection system which does not require roadside infrastructure.

The level of the toll is based on the emission class and number of axles on the truck.

An on-board tracking unit determines the distance travelled, which is sent to the Toll Collect computer centre. Drivers whose vehicles are not equipped with the on-board unit can log on to a toll route using a manual system.

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According to a report recently released by Pike Research of Colorado, Asian-based battery suppliers will eventually dominate the global automotive market in the supply of lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries – the technology upon which the sector has now standardised for all-electric and hybrid vehicles.

According to the Pike report, LG Chem Limited of South Korea is today the top electric-vehicle battery supplier. While the Li-ion automotive market is currently led by Japanese and Korean manufacturers, these companies are gradually being challenged by companies based in China and North America.

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According a spokesman for leading Chinese forklift manufacturer Anhui Forklift Group, China will produce at least 300,000 forklifts this year. Established in 1958 in Hefei, Anhui Province, Anhui builds and markets Heli branded forklift trucks – along with wheel loaders, engineering and mining machinery.

The company’s General Manager, Yang An’guo, expects the global forklift market to hold back in the first half of 2012 but will “break out” in the second half of the year. He estimated that while last year’s Chinese forklift production was in the region of 270,000 units, this figure is likely to break the 300,000 mark by the end of 2012.

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United Parcel Service Inc has completed its takeover of Dutch company TNT Express for a reported €5.2 billion, making it the world’s largest package delivery company outside the United States, the market leader in Europe, as well as significantly expanding its presence in Brazil and Australia.

The deal will also mean that UPS will gain access to TNT’s stronger networks in the fast-growing Asian and Latin American markets, thereby increasing the Atlanta headquartered company’s global revenue to around €45 billion. The total number of people employed in the new set-up is expected to be 477,000.

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During a recent visit to Jaguar Land Rover’s Castle Bromwich facility, UK Health & Safety Executive personnel were shown how innovative technology – which includes advanced robotics – and a strong safety culture go hand in hand at the plant.

The company, now owned by Tata Motors of India, considers its safety policy to be the driver behind a year-on-year significant reduction in lost time incidents. Health & Safety Executive boss Judith Hackitt was given an insight into the company’s ‘Safety Commitment’, by which managers at all levels take accountability for safety.

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Dublin…

Following an incident where two employees of a construction company suffered serious burns when leaking gas ignited while they were working on a live gas main, the Health & Safety Authority has reminded all employers and senior managers that it is vital that duty of care to their employees is taken seriously.

The firm was fined €40,000 in court. Commenting on the incident, a spokesperson for the H&SA said, “Dangerous and highly specialised work was undertaken without the necessary supervision. At no time should employees be allowed to undertake such work activities without the appropriate training and support.”

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At the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) conference in March, Professor Ragnar Löfstedt announced the setting up of a new cross-party committee of MEPs – the aim of which would be to see that all EU regulations are based on solid evidence and ‘common sense safety’.

The move emanates from recommendations made by Prof Löfstedt in his UK Government-commissioned review of health and safety regulations last year (as reported in Handling Network – Jan 2012). 
“We want to see regulations based on good research and a genuine need,” said IOSH Chief Executive Rob Strange.

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The Freight Transport Association (FTA) says the high cost of fuel remains the biggest cause for concern amongst UK haulage operators. Operators are also being asked for earlier payment terms from suppliers, while at the same time are facing pressure to minimise hikes in haulage charges.

Bruce Goodhart, FTA Research Analyst, commented: “Fuel now represents around 40% of annual operating costs compared to around a third just three years ago. Whilst operating costs have now reached an all-time high, hauliers continue to face pressure from customers not to raise their haulage rates.”

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The Fork Lift Truck Association (FLTA) has produced a new booklet which defines the term ‘fair wear and tear’ in relation to what is and is not acceptable as wear and tear when a forklift truck is returned by a customer to the dealer at the end of a hire period.

“There is a temptation to think that a forklift truck is just a lump of steel that’s immune to bumps and bangs,” says FLTA chief executive David Ellison. “But damage can cost a lot more than you would imagine.” The easy-to-read 32-page booklet can be obtained online by logging on to:

www.fork-truck.org.uk

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Stolen vehicle recovery expert Tracker is urging fleet managers and business owners to safeguard their fleets against the rise of GPS jammers following reports that criminal gangs are using cheap GPS jammers in order to steal lorries and vans carrying valuable loads.

Over an 8-month period, 150 Mercedes Sprinter vans were reported stolen in the Heathrow Airport area where the gang operated. Tracker (www.tracker.co.uk), says its system is resilient to jamming because it brings together GSM, GPS and VHF technology, providing overall protection from this growing threat.

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“By all means stay home if you want, but don’t bullshit yourself that you’re not voting. In reality, there is no such thing as not voting: you either vote by voting, or you vote by staying home and tacitly doubling the value of some Diehard’s vote.”

… David Foster Wallace

Shortly before his death the Spanish dictator Franco, rousing momentarily from his coma, asked: “What is that noise outside the palace?” An aide replied, tearfully: “It is the Spanish people, Gereralisimo. They have come to say goodbye.” “Ah,” nodded Franco. Then, after a pause, he added: “Where are they going?”

…Peter Ustinov

“I believe in a benevolent dictatorship. Provided I am the dictator.”

…Richard Branson

“It has been claimed at times that our modern age of technology facilitates dictatorship.”

…Henry A. Wallace

“Governments are like underwear. They need to be changed often. And for the same reason.”

…Italian proverb

“Under capitalism, man exploits man. Under communism, it’s exactly the opposite.”

…Polish proverb

“I never gave people hell. I just told the truth…and they thought it was hell.”

…Harry S. Truman

“Prime ministers are wedded to the truth. But of course, like married couples, they sometimes live apart.”

…Saki

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In these very trying times Graham Archer considers the job of the sales person – not from the Sales Trainer or Manager’s viewpoint, but more importantly, from that of the average customer. “Above all,” he concludes, “be honest with us…that way you’ll be welcomed next time you call.”

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Today I want to take may hat off to those who I believe are the frontline troopers of the handling and distribution industry. I’m talking about salesmen – those who venture forth to sell our products.  Doing a job that I could never do.

Having admired many salesmen whose paths I have crossed, I have marveled at the energy and the boundless optimism that fuels the tank of every successful salesman. But I’ve also wondered what life must be like working in the ever-present shadow of the questions every sales person must face: How many visits did you make today? How many orders did you get? And behind those questions lurks the unvoiced reality: that the business – and everybody’s jobs – depends on the salesperson’s success.

Of course these questions are not intended to put pressure on the salesman. As everyone will know, pressure is never the best inducement if one wants to secure a good result.

The salesman is a bit like the football world’s prized striker. One whose life centres on the next goal he has yet to score. He (or she) is the person on whose shoulders everyone’s hopes rest – the one to whom the company looks to ensure that it stays in the premier league.

I have never been a salesman, nor have I ever attended a course in selling, but speaking as your average customer – one with a long-time interest in how the sales business works – perhaps I might offer a few suggestions.

My first suggestion is this: make sure you keep the customers you already have! That can’t be stressed enough. Too often will a sales person go charging over the hill looking for new business when the business he already has lies idle and unattended. Make sure your back door is firmly guarded. You don’t have to spend every hour in their company, but make a point of calling regularly on your existing clients. A customer who dealt with you once is likely to deal with you again.

Get up early and be organised. Arrange your routes, plan your visits – and use time wisely. If you need to call on a client at the other end of your territory try and travel there and back by different routes, that way you can cover more prospects as you go.

Be efficient. Get yourself equipped for all eventualities. Have brochures, diaries and notebooks – be they in electronic form or in traditional paper-based format. Follow everything up. Forget nothing and leave nothing to chance. Keep records, write down names, note the little human details you will not wish to forget, and have them to hand when you decide to call.

Be well groomed…but don’t be flash. Look the part and be the kind of person in whom one could have confidence. Be equipped – be it for a boardroom meeting, or to walk that farmer’s field, or to get down and dirty in the garage with your client.

Read newspapers. Be well versed in current topics. Be up to date on events but be careful when discussing religion or politics. Better still – avoid such topics. Take the time to really get to know your customer. Listen to what he or she has to say. Understand his business. Understand the strains that he is under.

Be helpful. Pass on tips and give such advice you think might help. Watch for the point when you can become a true supporter…not someone who is working to a stopwatch and keen only to extract money from his customer’s pocket.

Above all, be honest…never try to pull the wool. A salesman who pulls the wool is one whose job is on the line. Today, salesmen represent more than the products they sell; they represent something far more valuable: their company’s reputation. Promote that reputation and then use it to promote yourself and the products you are selling.

Finally, be prepared to walk away. Don’t press yourself too much or become a nuisance. Build trust…that way who’ll be welcomed next time you call.

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…How advanced sortation systems solved problems at a giant online retailer

When the handling of returns proved a bottleneck for a giant German e-commerce company, the problem was solved with the installation of an advanced split-tray sorter.

Efficient returns management plays a vital role in all direct sales operations. Only when customers receive their goods at home can they assess the various product qualities such as size, colour, fabric, feel and cut. If they dislike any aspect of the product, they can simply send it back.

Headquartered 100 km east of Nuremberg in the city of Weiden, Bavaria, the major German catalogue and e-commerce company Witt Weiden markets clothing, shoes, accessories and household goods through both catalogue mail order and online channels. The company no longer belongs to the Witt family of mail order pioneers, but is now a subsidiary of the far-reaching Otto Group.

Witt Weiden has annual sales of some €570 million, employs some 2,400 people and dispatches up to 77,000 parcels to customers every day – and with such a huge volume being dispatched daily, it is inevitable that there will be a significant number of items returned from customers. When it experienced problems handling these returns, Witt turned to Dürkopp Fördertechnik, a subsidiary of logistics automation and warehouse software specialists KNAPP.

SPLIT-TRAY SORTER

Previously, Witt used a cross-belt sorter to process its returns but, when servicing costs spiralled and bottlenecks began to form due to insufficient capacity, Witt’s management sought another solution. After considering various options, they chose the split-tray sorter from KNAPP subsidiary, Dürkopp Fördertechnik. During the two-month installation and start-up period, the old system continued to operate so that there was no disruption to the logistics processes.

Some 18 months on, the solution has proved its worth for Witt Weiden. Returned goods are mainly sealed items of clothing which are transported as folded goods such as shirts, blouses or trousers. Employees first check the returns thoroughly, before sorting out any damaged goods and repacking every item as appropriate. Products are then placed on the conveyor system and supplied to one of the two automatic in-feed stations of the split-tray sorter.

Manfred Pörtner, Project Manager for Dürkopp, explained: “Having two in-feeds doubles the hourly sorter performance and covers all performance peaks throughout the day.” The system has a high conveying speed of 1.3 m/s and the use of square trays avoids the need to align clothing items in a certain direction, dramatically increasing throughput.

FUTURE-PROOF INVESTMENT

Each of the sorter’s 24 out-feed stations has two pneumatically operated openers. Using target codes, operators can define two out-feed points for each chute, which theoretically brings twice the sorter performance again. After the goods have been sorted, employees scan them, pack them into boxes and return them to storage.

“We achieved the desired increase in performance,” said Manfred Pörtner. “And, just as importantly, we have ensured sufficient reserve capacity to make the investment future-proof.”

Founded in 1952, KNAPP is headquartered in Hart bei Graz, Austria. The group is a leading supplier of turnkey systems in logistics automation and warehouse software, with more than 1,800 employees and over 1,400 active systems worldwide. KNAPP’s high export quota of 99% reflects the international character of the business. The company’s major markets are in Europe, North America and Latin America. Clients include global brands in diverse business sectors including Avon Cosmetics, Coca-Cola, L’Oreal, Sony and Tiffany.

www.knapp.com

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A new study finds that one-third of Irish companies have no supply chain strategy in place, while one in five consider the supply chains of Irish businesses are “very vulnerable”.

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Dublin, March 5^th 2012… According to a new study sponsored by Accenture and conducted by west Dublin headquartered Amárach Research, more than half of Irish companies have no clearly defined supply chain strategy integrated into their businesses – while 30% of companies reveal they have no supply chain strategy at all.

The survey, conducted in conjunction with the SupplyChain2012 conference held in February at the Crowne Plaza, Northwood Park, Dublin, revealed that Irish companies are significantly trailing their international counterparts (where 96% of companies have a supply chain strategy in place) in the business of maximising the value of supply chain.

The study incorporates the views of more than 150 supply chain professionals. It shows that nearly one in five (18%) respondents consider the supply chain of companies based in Ireland to be very vulnerable, with the biggest concerns centred around environmental and regulatory challenges.

Other key findings from the research include:

• The biggest supply chain cost pressure at present is coming from fuel costs (65% of businesses), followed by staff costs (46%) and raw material costs (41%).

• Only 17% of Irish businesses believe that their supply chain is highly sustainable in terms of environmental, energy and regulatory trends.

• Businesses have adopted a range of measures to minimise supply chain risk, including establishing relations with other suppliers (69%); conducting risk appraisals of key suppliers and parts of the supply chain (52%); and using business process outsourcing to reduce potential risks (33%).

Developing innovative partnerships

“These results give a very interesting insight into the life cycle of supply chain in Ireland, said Armin Samali, Head of Accenture’s Supply Chain practice. “What is clear is that in order to remain competitive buyers and suppliers will have to develop innovative partnerships and approaches to reduce the cost of servicing the supply chain. Franchised retail outlets, which have reduced costs substantially through an integrated supply chain, are a great example and could be the model for those seeking to reduce costs.

“While there is an appreciation of the role of the supply chain in delivering returns for business, getting companies to align both their business and supply chain strategies remains a significant hurdle to be overcome if organisations are to minimise risk and maximise efficiency.”

Also commenting on the findings, Gerard O’Neill of Amarach Research said: “Those engaged in supply chain strategies in Ireland are enthusiastic about the potential for Ireland to become a supply chain hub for Europe and the world,” adding that: “Those in the front line clearly believe we can do it!”

Accenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, with more than 244,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. A total of 150 medium to large-sized businesses were surveyed in February 2012 by Amárach Research and Accenture about their supply chain strategies and plans.

www.amarach.com

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Conveyor and packing specialist SOCO System demonstrated its ‘Boomerang’ one-man packing station at the Foodex 2012 show held in Birmingham’s NEC during March 25-27 this year.

The boomerang system is designed to allow a single operator fill, seal, and palletise cartons and cases from practically the same standing position. Three operations can be carried out within a very limited area, approx. 8 m2.

Firstly the empty case is held erect and in place – so the operator has both hands free for filling. The case is then sealed top and bottom, before being moved onto the Boomerang conveyor to be accumulated directly behind the operator. The operator can then load the pallet, which would be positioned at the end of the conveyor and close by the packing station.

The Boomerang system is delivered complete with supports and coupling fittings, and the entire system can be fitted with castors for convenient moving from place to place in the work area.

Maximum load on the conveyor is 10kg per roller, and there is a maximum of 75kg per metre of conveyor. As standard, the Boomerang system is delivered with a 90mm pitch, however an alternative size pitch can be supplied on request.

In Ireland, the SOCO range of packing and conveying equipment is available from Goliath Packaging Systems, based in Nenagh, Co Tipperary.

www.goliath.ie

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The new Peugeot Partner van – just now being launched in Ireland – sports a new front face, redesigned headlamps and the new Lion badge on the bonnet.

Built in Spain, the van is equipped with the latest generation Euro 5 HDi diesel engines, including 1.6ltr 75bhp and 1.6ltr 90 bhp versions. The van range will retail from €16,075 plus dealer delivery related charges – or from €13,107 ex-VAT.

The new Partner comes in 2 versions – Access and Active – and is the first in Peugeot’s light commercial vehicle range to incorporate the new style codes already revealed on the new Peugeot 508 and the forthcoming 208 passenger cars. To match its restyled exterior, a new trim is offered for the van’s interior.

The new-look Partner is available in 2 lengths, 4.38m and 4.63m, giving load volumes among the best in its market segment. In both versions, the vehicle can accommodate two euro pallets (1.20m x 0.80m). The rear can be accessed by means of one or two sliding side doors and two hinged rear doors, while a multi-flex bench seat, standard in the Active version, allows 3 occupants to be seated up front. When the bench seat is partly retracted, loading capacity is increased by 400 litres.

In addition to the variable speed limiter/cruise control, a speed governor is offered as an option and can be configured to one of 4 pre-set speeds – 90, 100, 110 or 130km/h – as selected by the customer.

An optional traction Grip Control pack offers 4 driving modes (Sand, Snow, Mud and ESP), which can be selected using a dial on the dashboard. The Partner can also be equipped with a Work Site Pack – which comprises ground clearance raised by 10mm, special 195/70 R15 tyres and a protective panel under the engine to protect the underframe.

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Leading Irish delivery company Nightline has made a significant new investment in IT infrastructure with Zetes Ireland, which will lead to even greater efficiency in the company’s parcel delivery operations as the volume of goods purchased over the Internet continues to rise.

Nightline’s CEO John Tuohy recently confirmed his company’s commitment to a €900,000 spend which will see the firm’s drivers and warehousing staff equipped with state-of-the-art mobile terminals and mobile printers.

The investment follows a separate €200,000 outlay on hardware late last year, bringing the total sum invested by Nightline on improving its technological capabilities to more than €1 million in less than 12 months. John Tuohy said that the initiative – which also includes the installation of a more comprehensive wireless network across all Nightline depots – is designed to make the firm’s parcel delivery operations even more efficient.

“Given the sort of volumes we’re now looking at,” explained Touhy, “there’s a necessity to make sure that our drivers – as well as those individuals processing parcels at our network of depots right across Ireland – are able to do their jobs as efficiently as possible. That means being able to augment our award-winning Smartship® system with the very latest equipment.

“More than merely keeping pace with current parcel numbers, we have built capacity into our new arrangements that will enable us to cope with projected volumes into the future. When we started business in 1992, we were handling 1,000 transactions each week. Now we process around 130,000 transactions per day, so capable IT is a must.”

Together with a more robust wireless system, the new equipment will make for better data transmission between employees on the road and Nightline’s seven facilities, five of which – at Dublin, Belfast, Sligo, Cork and Limerick – have been the subject of expansion during the last 12 months.

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The Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport in Ireland has announced the appointment of Professor Austin Smyth as its new CEO (Designate). A Fellow of the Institute, Prof. Smyth was Director General, National Institute for Transport and Logistics, Dublin Institute of Technology (2002- 2006).

Prof. Smyth has held professorships at universities in London, Edinburgh and Belfast, where he was appointed to the first Chair in Transport to be established on the island of Ireland in 1989 at the University of Ulster. In 2010 he became Registered Commissioner to the UK Infrastructure Planning Commission.

He was Senior Economist for ARUP Transportation at Ove & Partners; Head of Transport Economics at Transmark, and in the late ‘80s was Strategic Planning Advisor to the CEO, Northern Ireland Railways. In transport consultancy he has worked for a variety of public and private sector clients in various EU States, Russia and Eastern Europe, as well as North America, the Middle East, the Arabian Gulf and Thailand.

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Tom Duffy, Sales & Finance Director, Libra Trans.

South Dublin based company Libra Trans, which provides same-day courier and transport services nationwide in Ireland, has become the latest member of pallet distribution network organisation TPN.

TPN’s national network of regional carriers, known as Pallet Network members, currently employs over 400 people, using more than 300 vehicles and 20 warehouses across the whole of Ireland. As the newest member of TPN, Libra Trans will provide businesses with access to high quality, reliable, fast and flexible service with same and next day delivery services nationwide within the UK and Europe.

Founded by directors Gary Turner and Tom Duffy in 1992, Libra Trans operates from a purpose-built warehouse in Park West, Dublin 12. The company currently employs 40 staff, using a fleet of 30 vehicles, comprising 15 trucks and 15 vans. MD Gary Turner commented: “This has been one of the most difficult couple of years for the transport and logistics industry, due to the economic downturn. As the latest member of TPN, the synergy between our companies – with a focus on the latest technological tools, commitment to customer services and being ISO:9001 certified – will bring positive growth to Libra Trans and TPN as a whole.”

TPN’s MD Seamus McGowan added: “We are delighted to have Gary, Tom and their team at Libra Trans joining our growing network. Our vision at TPN is to offer local independent hauliers like Libra Trans an opportunity to have a service to rival multinational transport operators. With Gary, Tom and their team joining TPN, customers across Ireland will have access to the most innovative distribution and logistics network in Ireland.”

www.tpn.ie

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Laois County Council has taken delivery of a new Alkè Electric Utility Vehicle from Electric Vehicles Ireland, part of the Mullen Auto Solutions Motor Group based in Tullamore, Co Offaly.

Fitted with a dropside body, the vehicle will be used mainly for rubbish collection from street bins in Portlaoise. Salt Spreader and Snow Plough attachments, which are easily fitted or removed, were also supplied with the vehicle.

John O’Donoghue, Senior Engineer Roads Section, Laois County Council, says that the Alkè, which is the first electric vehicle in the Council’s extensive vehicle fleet, is testament to its commitment to the environment and other advantages to be gained from using electric vehicles in urban areas.

The Alkè ATX is available in 3 different weight categories. It is designed to be used in the hardest and most demanding conditions and, depending on the model chosen, can cater for a load capacity of up to 1000kgs and a towing capacity up to 3000kgs. The suppliers say that the cost of recharging the vehicle’s batteries to perform a full day’s work can be as little as one euro.

Electric Vehicles Ireland explains that the Alkè is ideally suited for urban conditions, such as local authorities, airports, hospitals, universities, cemeteries, railway stations, public and private parks and estates, garden nurseries, golf courses, stud farms, hotels and shopping centres. The vehicle can also be used indoors and can be supplies without a cab if so desired.

www.electricvehicles.ie

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Port terminal tractors took centre stage at the Cargotec Kalmar stand during the Commercial Vehicle Show held in NEC Birmingham in April this year.

With some 57,000 units delivered globally over the years, the Scandinavian company’s technological expertise with terminal tractors is reflected in the new Kalmar TT612d unit.

Fast duty cycles are a top priority for busy distribution centre operators. Because of this, the TT612d distribution tractor has been especially developed to move trailers over short distances – and, with the smallest turning circle in the industry, it is designed to operate effectively and efficiently in tight terminal surroundings.

Cost is also a vital factor where distribution efficiency is concerned. The TT612d features Kalmar’s Intelligent ECO Fuel System. This system can give up to 10% lower running costs while reducing carbon emissions by up to 11,200kg per year.

The ergonomically-designed driver’s cabin enjoys a panoramic view of the operation, while the tall-cab concept with only one low step separating the cabin from the rear deck allows for safe and easy access to the trailer connections. All controls fall conveniently to hand and efficient insulation ensures minimal noise pollution both inside and outside the cab.

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American Airlines Cargo has re-commenced its daily non-stop service from Dublin to Chicago, effective April 4^th 2012.

The morning flight will be operated on one of the carrier’s B767-300 wide-bodied aircraft, arriving in Chicago at 12.20 pm, where it can meet onward connecting services across North, Central and South America.

Commenting on the service resumption, AA Cargo’s Managing Director, Cargo Sales and Marketing EMEA, Tristan Koch, said that the resumed cargo service out of Europe is ideal for moving both pharmaceutical and electronics products to US destinations. In Ireland, American Airlines Cargo is represented by IAM, under Managing Director Ian McCool.

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At the LogiMAT 2012 exhibition held at the Stuttgart exhibition grounds in March this year, Dematic premiered its new Multishuttle Generation II order-processing system.

Also demonstrated were the company’s high-performance RapidPick order picking station, the new RapidStore automatic storage and retrieval system and Warehouse Management Systems DC Director and SAP EWM.

The fully automated high-performance RapidPick order picking station is an ergonomically optimised single item order picking designed on the goods-to-person principle. The revolutionary, fully automated presentation of the containers, with ergonomically optimised positioning, container changeover times of less than one second, and the dialogue-led work instructions via display and light support, permit order picking rates of up to 1,000 orderlines or 1,500 picks per hour. The station is available as a 1:1 or 1:6 station, in which up to six order containers can be processed simultaneously.

The new Multishuttle Generation II is a shuttle system that is lighter, faster, more cost-effective and with greater functionality to deliver maximum dynamics for storing and buffering a wide variety of goods. The basis for this is a new, innovative control, communication and sensor concept, as well as new, flexible load suspension equipment that can process containers, trays and cartons with a wide range of dimensions in the one system without the need for additional trays.

Thanks to an innovative system design, the Multishuttle II also reduces throughput times in order processing by 75 to 80 percent in comparison to standard mini-load technologies. It also claims to lower total system costs and requires less space for the system.

www.dematic.com

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Plans by Mercedes-Benz to introduce its new Citan city van will be welcomed by many self-employed contractors, as well as businesses big and small in Ireland.

Details are still sketchy, but the German vehicle maker says the new van will be robust and reliable, with a large load compartment, yet compact exterior dimensions. “You can also rely on its agility, manoeuvrability and well thought-out design,” said a spokesperson from the manufacturers. “What’s more, the inspiring driving dynamics combined with low fuel consumption and correspondingly low CO₂ figures will be enough to make every trip rewarding, in more ways than one,” he added.
A factor common to all Mercedes-Benz vans is the great emphasis placed on quality, not least with regard to the extensive portfolio of service and support activities.

Due here in late 2012, the Citan will propel Mercedes-Benz into the high volume end of the light commercial vehicles market, where previously it has not been represented.

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A punctured tank or containment vessel can cost hundreds in lost fuel. But preventing this is the aim of BundiQuick, the latest innovation from the manufacturers of absorbents and spill control products, Lubetech.

Easily tucked away in a cab or trailer, BundiQuick is a fast, flexible, quick-deployment solution to incidental spill management. It snaps from a ‘bundle’ to a bund in mere seconds and is compatible with all wet goods, foodstuffs, fuels, oils – even non-aggressive chemicals.

The unique self-extending bladder system retains up to 500 litres of liquid, depending on the version. Then, following safe capture, the bladder may be detached using a special bulkhead fitting which allows the contents to be decanted back into the tank using the optional pump if required.

Optionally available without the bladder, BundiQuick also does double-duty as a utility tray for the safe standing of bottles or cans, oils and fluids, preventing contamination or leakage. The unit can then be re-folded with ease.

www.lubetech.co.uk

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A warehouse simulator developed by Yale Europe and designed to provide warehouse operators with a sophisticated software solution has proved to be extremely useful and accurate.

Yale’s consultative approach in determining a warehouse facility’s optimum design and equipment specification is provided free of charge. The programme uses the same simulation engine used by major European airports, leading rail infrastructure companies and other blue-chip organisations. It uses intelligent algorithms to write specialist code, customised for each end user application, down to the finest level of detail.

The input interface breaks down the sections of the largest warehouse into atomic parts including marshalling, parking and staging areas, in addition to the exact type of racking and storage, as well as the type of fleet to be used. VDI (virtual desktop infrastructure) data, including speeds and energy consumption, goods flow and order picking and replenishment regimes data, can be inputted into the programme.

The simulation software was, for example, recently used to help determine the optimum design and equipment required for one of the largest warehouses in the Middle East – a 375,000 sq ft facility at Jabel Ali South, Dubai, operated by Clarion Integrated Logistics Solutions.

Yale was involved with the Dubai development from the earliest planning stages with SSI Schaefer, when Clarion needed to know the maximum number of pallets that could be stored and moved within the available space. To illustrate the potential capacity of the facility the simulation software was used to show how the maximum efficiency could be achieved.

Using six Yale Very Narrow Aisle high-level order pickers (MTC) trucks, combined with six counterbalance trucks on a wire guided system, the software showed that approximately 190 pallet movements per hour could be achieved. Within three hours the simulation identified a congestion issue in the picking operations, thereby helping to provide Clarion with a clear picture of their requirements.

The simulator’s presentation is unique in that it shows a realistic picture of the warehouse using images of the equipment being proposed and the customer’s current or planned assets in situ. In addition, it builds in order-picking paradigms and other important details of day-to-day operations – including details of the equipment being specified, speed, braking, lifting and lowering and other performance criteria. The simulation also accounts for power usage and the impact of battery changing and charging on shift performance.

Yale handling equipment is distributed in the Republic of Ireland by Forklift Services & Handling Equipment Limited, Wilton, Cork.

www.forkliftservices.ie

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Seamus McGowan, Managing Director, TPN (left), with John Gorman, MD, Total Material Handling, the exclusive distributor of Still products in Ireland

The Pallet Network (TPN) has signed a deal worth €350,000 with Total Materials Handling, the exclusive distributor in The Republic of Ireland for the STILL range of forklift trucks. The deal will see eight new RX70 Hybrid forklifts on contract hire at TPN’s 100,000 sq.ft. purpose-built hub in Blanchardstown over the next five years.

The Pallet Network is Ireland’s leading distributor of palletised goods and a provider of pallet transport and sortation systems. The company offers next day service for pallets and parcel consignments throughout Ireland as well as an import/export service to and from the UK and Europe.

Commenting on the forklift deal, TPN’s managing director Seamus McGowan said: “We handled almost 500,000 pallets for our clients in 2011, the equivalent of 200,000 tonnes of freight. As our business continues to grow year on year, and to match our environmentally sustainable business model, we choose STILL forklifts for their efficiency, which provides TPN with up to 20% in fuel savings and the lowest emissions available.”

John Gorman, MD, Total Material Handling (TMH), commented: “As the exclusive distributor for STILL forklift trucks and warehouse handling equipment in Ireland for 19 years, we understand the specific requirements that a thriving logistics company such as TPN has for moving freight in a safe, efficient and environmentally sound manner.

“This is a significant deal for TMH,” said Gorman. “We see TPN as a very progressive company who understand the benefits that our RX70 hybrid forklifts offer. Hybrid technology is not only interesting from an environmental point of view but also economically. The new generation, with two energy storage systems, is already available and will pay for itself in as little as 3,000 hours usage.”

www.tpn.ie

www.tmh.ie

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C&F Green Energy, already delivering innovation and engineering excellence to three continents, now aims to become the global leader in the supply of wind turbines for factories, farms and homes.

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Based in Athenry, Co Galway, C&F Green Energy designs and manufacturers wind turbines in the 6 to 50 kilowatt power range. Already the leader in the UK and Ireland, and with 80% of production already being exported, the company is now aiming to become the global leader in this market segment.

The C&F Manufacturing Group was founded in 1989 in a 2,000 sq.ft. premises at Ballybane, Galway, specialising in the design and manufacture of jigs and press tools. During the following years, through innovative technologies and manufacturing processes, the Group steadily expanded into new markets. By 2007, with locations in Ireland, UK, Czech Republic, China and the Philippines, C&F had reached the $100 million turnover mark. Today, headquartered in a purpose-built 180,000 sq.ft. facility in Athenry, the C&F Group employs 1,800 people in seven locations worldwide, providing an unique blend of state-of-the-art technology and best in class industrial engineering know-how.

Extraordinary Growth

The extraordinary growth of C&F, achieved without a significant cash investment, was brought about through shrewd financial management, close examination of potential cost improvements, as well as commitment to new technology and best manufacturing process. The company now counts some of the world’s largest multinational companies amongst its client base – including household names such as IBM, Volkswagen, BMW, Ford, Thermo King, Ingersoll Rand, Glen Dimplex, Hitachi Koki, Toshiba and Sanyo.

In 2008, CEO John Flaherty was presented with the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. At the ceremony, Enda Kelly of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Programme, described C&F as being “at the forefront of Irish companies contributing to the global economy,” with John Flaherty an excellent ambassador for entrepreneurship in Ireland, ”having implemented an innovative and successful business model.”

The Group employs 340 people at its Tooling and Green Energy Divisions at Athenry – designing and manufacturing small to medium sized wind turbines. It is now the market leader for turbines in the 6kW to 50kW range in the UK and Ireland and is currently expanding into a number of key international export markets. Production output at the Athenry factory is running at 30 complete turbines per week – 24 of which are exported to locations in England, Scotland and Wales, the most northerly installation being in the windy Outer Hebrides.

Materials Handling Equipment

As in any enterprise of this nature, materials handling equipment plays a major role at C&F Green Energy. Just recently, mid-April 2012, in order to support the company’s expanding production output, C&F acquired a new 10-strong fleet of Toyota forklift trucks.

C&F Green Energy’s General Manager, Gerry Hickey, told Handling Network that when sourcing new forklift trucks for the company the criteria he used could be summed up in the phrase ‘Lifetime Costs’.

Forklift Trucks and Lifetime Costs

According to an international independent study conducted in April 2011 by Peerless Media Research Group, Toyota forklift trucks were ranked number one for lowest cost of ownership – and for the seventh year in a row, scored highest in quality and value. Cost of ownership, according to the research organisation, represents not just the initial purchase price of a forklift truck, but the potential related expenses.

This approach is embraced by C&F: “It’s imperative that the forklifts we use are cost-effective over the life of the machines,” said Gerry Hickey. “This includes everything from financing to depreciation and fuel consumption – as well as the cost of the downtime involved in maintenance and repairs.”

Mike Carr, Operations Manager at C&F Green Energy, explained that the Group has some eight years experience working with Toyota forklifts. “Initially we hired six Toyotas,” said Mike. “The machines were competitively price – but more importantly, they were robust and reliable, absolutely essential factors in our operation. We also get excellent levels of service from the supplying dealer Amlac. As well as that, our drivers like the trucks. Occasionally we have to use a different brand – perhaps for a special job or due to exceptional workloads – but none of the other makes appear to have the user-friendly features and smooth operating controls of the Toyota range.”

Forklift Fleet Replacement

Just recently C&F Green Energy replaced the entire fleet of forklift trucks at Athenry with an augmented 10-strong fleet of new Toyota trucks.

Myles Quinlan of Toyota Forklift main dealer Amlac explained that the new fleet covers a wide range of models and power sources. “The C&F factory operates a 3-shift work cycle – 6 and sometimes 7 days per week, while the machine shop generally works a full 24/7 schedule,” said Myles. “To cover these intensive operations the company took delivery of 10 trucks – comprising two 2.5-tonne and one 3-tonne capacity Diesel trucks; two 3.5-tonne LPG trucks; four 1.8-tonne three-wheel Electrics, and one 2.5-tonne four-wheel Electric truck.”

Locally sourced components

While many of the wind turbine component parts, including the huge blades, are manufactured in-house. Other parts – such as the masts, electric components, as well as machined parts and galvanising services – are sourced locally. Even the timber pallets, specially designed to transport the turbine heads, come from local suppliers.

The C&F Green Energy’s R&D division prides itself on the fact that it produces turbines that offer unrivalled performance, high-efficiency power and long-term reliable operation, along with clean aesthetics. The company’s CAD equipped drawing office, manned by 13 design engineers, produces all C&F prototypes and final designs for a wide model range that comes with global certification.

Mega Watt Technologies

While C&F specialises in building low-noise wind turbines in the smaller, 6kW to 50kW range, these units incorporate the same advanced technologies as that employed in Mega-Watt size turbines.

The 6-50kW turbines are raised using a hydraulic ram system, which facilitates ease of installation and subsequent servicing. The tower mast itself is designed to withstand hurricane wind forces over and above those experienced, even in extreme weather, in these islands.

Along with robust reliability, the C&F turbines incorporate state-of-the-art control technology to cater for turbulent and oft-changing wind direction. This advanced technology includes the provision of failsafe systems, multiple sensors to optimise performance and energy yield, and sensitive controls that will produce power at the lowest as well as at the highest wind speeds. “The overall result,” says General Manager Gerry Hickey, “is without doubt the most efficient range of small-to-medium wind turbines available in the world today!”

Toyota forklift trucks are imported into the Republic by Toyota Material Handling Ireland and distributed through a nationwide network of forklift dealers.

www.toyota-forklifts.ie

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Unique to Palfinger – the international manufacturer of cranes and hydraulic handling systems – is the Crayler BM, a remotely controlled truck-mounted forklift that folds up and is carried in a box underneath the truck.

A solution for a wide range of loading and unloading applications, the Crayler BM is mounted in a carrier box located between the axles of the truck or trailer, thereby maintaining excellent weight distribution whether the carrier vehicle empty or fully laden.

Apart from the Crayler being remote controlled, advantages over traditional rear truck-mounted forklifts include the fact that the carrier truck can be backed right up to a loading dock; the under-floor storage box allows more room for long loads that might need to overhang the rear of the carrier vehicle – and of course, being enclosed, the forklift is always fully protected.

All functions are controlled remotely by the operator, with only the foldable forks needing to be dropped into position once the forklift is clear of its carrier box. A special ‘universal- joint’ type steering arrangement allows the forklift to move easily over uneven ground and to manoeuvre around restricted areas.

The Crayler BM is powered by a 3-cylinder Diesel engine. Its maximum lifting capacity is 2100kg and max lift height is 2850mm. Dimensions are: length: 2430mm; width: 1950mm; Height (raised): 1925mm. Dead weight is 1485kg.

Palfinger Ireland Limited is based at Cloncollig Commercial Park, Church Road, Tullamore, Co Offaly.

www.palfinger.ie

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Centrepiece of the Hiab display on the Cargotec Stand at the recent NEC Commercial Vehicle Show was the new Hiab XS 144 Lorry-mounted Crane.

Computer-aided design used in development of the XS 144 crane geometry has resulted in a lightweight construction that belies the reach and power it possesses. The crane can be configured to suit the user’s requirements in terms of reach and capacity, and a range of control systems of varying levels of sophistication are available.

The XS 144 features HiDuo control – based on Hiab’s Valve 80 fluid power technology designed to handle large oil flows to deliver fast and powerful performance with high precision and ease of operation.

The HiDuo SPACE 4000 system includes overload protection, pump speed, pump flow distribution plus fault code and load cycle data, all of which can be retrieved for fault diagnosis and operational use analysis.

The SPACE 4000 system also allows the crane operator to be positioned at the best possible location when using the crane, leading to more efficient, comfortable and safe operation.

A spin-off benefit is that by operating the crane while standing next to the load, a loading assistant is not required, allowing the work to be completed faster and at a lower cost. The VSL (variable stability limit) feature on the XS 144 ensures vehicle stability by monitoring how far the stabilisers are extended and indicating the crane’s maximum capacity at any given point. This effectively increases the load capacity and stability and enables the crane to safely handle higher capacities at any given leg position.

www.hiab.com

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The Swedish manufacturer Max Truck AB launched its unique Omni-Directional Maxtruck 2T forklift truck onto the market at the logistics fair LogiMAT 2012 held in Stuttgart during 13-15 March this year.

Max Truck AB is a manufacturing company in which the Swedish Government, through its own investment company Fouriertransform AB, has taken a 35% stake. The state-owned enterprise became part-owner through a private placement in 2010, thus securing the development of the Maxtruck. The machine was first introduced to the Swedish market in 2011 before recently being launched onto the wider European stage.

The Max Truck AB company is now established in modern production facilities in Bjurholm, 55 km south of Umeå, and is engaged in series production of Maxtruck 2T. The workshop area covers 2,000 sq.m, along with 500 sq.m of office space.
CEO Conny Lindström explains that the travel system of the forklift is based on a totally new concept, which provides greater flexibility in operation compared to conventional trucks. He adds: “The Maxtruck 2T has been upgraded for series production with new type BLDC motors, making it the most energy effective forklift on the market. With regeneration of power back to the battery and quick changeable batteries, it is made for continuous operation 24 hours per day.” The truck’s load capacity is 2 tonnes, and comes with up to 4.2 meters lift height via a telescopic boom system.

The “Max Wheel”

The Maxtruck’s unique travel system incorporates patented ‘Max Wheel’ technology, which provides total multi-directional drive – a feature that gives it exceptional manoeuvrability in tight spaces and allows it to transport long loads through narrow doorways.

The Max Wheel was developed by the Swedish inventor Max Segerljung on behalf of the Max Truck AB company. Each one of the truck’s four wheels is fixed on a vertical drive shaft, and can rotate 360 degrees. This unique system enables the truck to move in all directions – forwards, sideways, reversing and ‘crabbing’ – without any slowing down to change direction. While drive is by the two front wheels, steering is by all wheels by way of servomotors controlled by a central processor via the driver’s joystick.

The forklift’s telescopic boom gives the driver a completely unobstructed view of the fork carriage thereby giving the driver excellent visibility when transporting bulky goods. The boom, which allows the unloading of a lorry from one side only, is mounted on the right-hand side of the chassis, with a safety glass screen between it and the cab to protect the driver.

Swedish Development

The truck, which was developed entirely in Sweden, can reduce the number of truck types necessary in many intensive applications. All functions are ‘drive-by-wire’ controlled and special patented safety systems prevent the operator exceeding load safety limits. A servomotor swivels the driver’s seat and controls in order to give the operator the optimum position for safe visibility when lifting and travelling.

View the Video…

As can be seen in the demonstration movie clips (see online edition), the Maxtruck2T can move extremely efficiently around small areas due to its unique ability to move in any direction, with no delay in changing directional mode.

New type BLDC (brushless direct current) motors are used throughout the machine. These provide higher levels of efficiency than AC technology – and because of the easy battery replacement system, almost continuous 24-hour operation is possible.
The many different optional attachment tools available allow the truck to perform a variety of tasks. Tool changing can be carried out without the operator leaving the seat.

www.maxtruck2t.se

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A range of machines from the Linde Heavy Truck Division attracted significant interest at the freight transport and logistics exhibition Multimodal 2012, held at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham from 1-3 May, which has now evolved into a ‘one stop shop’ for international shippers.

The German manufacturer’s Heavy Truck Division builds this equipment, ranging from sideloaders to container handlers, in a dedicated facility based in Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales. The trucks are used for a wide range of heavy applications requiring lift capacities of up to 46 tonnes – including the handling of timber, steel and construction materials, as well as applications at ports and terminals.

Joining the Heavy Truck team at the show was Linde’s Forklift Truck Hire team, which has recently invested in a fleet of new heavy trucks with capacities of 12 to 16 tonnes to cope with growing demand from customers.

The German company’s range of equipment is distributed and supported in the Republic of Ireland by Linde Material Handling (Ireland) Limited, based in Dublin 12.

www.linde-mh.ie

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After prolonged testing by an independent user in the Benelux region, data shows that a new Hyster ReachStacker is using up to 5.7 litres (1.3 Gal) of fuel less per hour compared to competitor reachstacker models at the same container terminal.

A rental company has put the new Hyster ReachStacker into a container terminal operation in the Benelux region and observed fuel usage over a six-month period. Fuel use was recorded on the new Hyster and on competitor reachstackers currently in operation at the same terminal. The Hyster truck features the Cummins QSL9 (up to 370 hp, 276kW) Diesel engine and meets the requirements of Tier 4 interim(i), Stage IIIB emissions regulations.

Data analysis shows that the Hyster ReachStacker is using 18.8 litres per hour, while other brands are using 24.5 litres of fuel per hour while performing identical work over similar shift patterns. A difference of 5.7 litres (1.3 Gal) equates to about 23% savings at this site.

Jan-Willem van den Brand, Hyster Big Trucks Global Product Strategy Manager commented: “We have told the market that it is possible to achieve up to 20% fuel savings and this data from a busy terminal proves our claims. The savings are visible at the pump and in the reduced frequency of refuelling.”

A representative from the undisclosed terminal believes the company could save approximately €60,000 a year if they were to replace all seven reachstackers at the terminal with the new Hyster model.

Recording the fuel usage was straightforward, as the Hyster uses EGR engine technology, which means Diesel fuel is added to the tank as usual and the engine does the rest, unlike the SCR technology adopted by most other competitors to achieve Tier 4i compliance, which requires additives (urea).

Jan-Willem says that the fuel savings are achieved in several ways in addition to employing the Cummins engine technologies. Hyster has introduced new performance optimisation developments such as matched cooling, load sensing hydraulics, RPM management and alternate engine idle speed. Operators can also select either HiP “high performance” or ECO-eLo “fuel efficiency” mode.

“We didn’t tell the drivers about the size of the engine, they just worked with the new Hyster machine and reported lots of power and excellent performance,” explained Jan-Willem. The drivers experienced excellent power from the 9-litre Cummins engine because it delivers more horsepower and torque compared with the previously used 11-litre engine.

www.irishlifttrucks.ie

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Chief Engineer Valdimir Borysenko (left) of Ruslan Salis, at the hand-over of the C35D, with Steffen Koßmann, MD of local dealer Tecklenborg, at Leipzig/Halle Airport

In January of this year a Clark 3.5 tonne capacity C35D model forklift truck has been in action loading the legendary Antonov 124 at Leipzig/Halle Airport, Germany’s second largest air cargo hub.

Ruslan Salis GmbH provides air charter flights with Antonov 124 aircraft and also services these giants of the air. The company opted for the C35D, which has a reputation for its robustness and resistant to wear. “Time is money,” says Ruslan Salis, “and nobody knows that better than these air cargo professionals.”

The powerful drive of the C35D comes into play when for example heavy goods need to be driven into the AN 124 cargo hold. The truck’s 2.8-litre diesel engine with indirect fuel injection has proved to be not only low in pollution and fuel consumption, but also offers excellent acceleration as well as reliable handling on ramps and inclines.

The easy, comfortable handling of the C35D also ensures higher throughput during goods distribution and warehousing at the airport. The driver is able to access the vehicle quickly and safely from both sides thanks to the large, nonslip steps, while all operating elements are clearly arranged and within easy reach.

While operating within the huge aircraft’s loading bay, efficient power steering enables secure, effortless manoeuvring. In addition, the vehicle’s compact design and good weight distribution guarantees not only stability when cornering in confined areas but also cost-effective work cycles.

Last year the operators of Leipzig/Halle broke the 700,000 tonne cargo record for the airport. This impressive figure is attributable partly to the flights organised by Ruslan Salis with the wide-bodied jet AN-124-100, which has a maximum take-off weight of 400 tonnes. Only 37 aircrafts of this type operate worldwide – still the largest mass-produced cargo plane of all time.

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Hangzhou, China

The E-P’s Maximin compact electric-powered pallet truck won the award for its space-saving design, agility and manoeuvrability, as well as its energy saving characteristics.

The truck – model EPT20-15ET – has a load capacity of 1500kg and a service weight, including battery, of 195kg. It has an overall length of 1600mm, an overall width of 560mm and lowered fork height of 85mm. Fully laden travel speed is 3.5km/h, It comes with a 24-volt 60AH battery.

E-P Equipment offers a comprehensive range of materials handling equipment – including IC-engine and Electric counterbalance forklift trucks, warehouse reach trucks, pedestrian stackers and pallet trucks and tow tractors. The full range is marketed and supported in Ireland by AWE Forklift Limited, based in Greenogue, Rathcoole, Co Dublin.

www.awe.ie

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The Bristol Port Company has taken delivery of two Combilift 4-way directional forklifts after winning a new contract with a key North American timber company for undercover storage at its Royal Portbury Dock.

Having won the contract, the Port needed to improve storage density in existing sheds – and after investigating several possibilities, the Combilift trucks, built in Monaghan, were deemed to be the best machines for optimising space and increasing operational flexibility.

A privately owned independent business since 1991, Bristol Port is Britain’s most centrally located deep-sea port – and is one of the world’s most productive and technically advanced such facilities. The Combilifts work in a section of its recently expanded Forest Products Terminal which offers 100,000 m² of warehousing adjacent to docking berths.

Four-Way Ability

“To maintain flexibility we didn’t want to install racking across the designated 10,000 m² storage area,” said Development Engineer Paul Osborne. “We therefore kept the block stacking system – but needed to reduce aisle widths to create maximum storage space. The Combilifts’ 4-way ability enables them to work in narrow confines as well as to block stack and so we can now accommodate a good 30% more packs than we could have achieved with counterbalance trucks.”

The Diesel powered Combilifts, which were supplied in Bristol Port’s own company colours, have XL style driver cabs and air conditioning, ensuring a high level of operator comfort. The machines’ 6-tonne capacity enables two of even the heaviest packs of timber to be carried at once and to be lifted to stack on top of others already in place, giving benefits in both time saving and fuel economy on long runs. Hydraulic fork positioners enable easy adjustment of the forks from within the cab to accord with the varying pack lengths. LED work lights are fitted as standard.

Minimum Risk of Damage

Aisle widths are now just 4m rather than the 7m needed for a counterbalance operation. “We could have narrowed this down further,” says Paul, “but the space allotted allows for easy and speedy handling with minimum risk of product damage. Travelling sideways with long loads resting on the platform offers much better visibility for drivers and is much safer than reversing a counterbalance truck. The generous 6-tonne capacity and the 6-metre triple mast also means that we are not restricted to this particular application should we have the need to handle other products.”

The decision to go with the Combilifts was taken after careful evaluation of various products in the marketplace. With an inventory of over 300 pieces of equipment under his control, from 2t reach trucks to 45t reach stackers, Paul is something of an expert at spotting the right kit for the task in hand. “With a global leading brand you have peace of mind going forward when it comes to reliability and after-sales care. This is what we have with the combination of Combilift, along with the local supplier for maintenance issues.”

www.combilift.com

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Enhancing health & safety in hospitals with AGVs

Ireland’s new National Children’s Hospital, the ultimate location of which is still to be decided, was scheduled to be operational in 2016 at an estimated cost of €650 million. If built to its original design it will be a 16-storey high hospital with over 440 beds, 13 operating theatres and will provide all in-patients with a single room and en-suite bathroom, along with facilities for overnight in-room accommodation for parents.

In such a complex environment, the safe and speedy handling and transportation of linen, refuse, medical waste, patient meals, soiled food trays, and even surgical instruments, will be of paramount importance.

Across Europe today, more and more hospitals are beginning to employ automated guided vehicles (AGVs) for the handling and transportation of such materials. Here we outline the experience of one such facility – the Motol University Hospital in Prague.

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Prague’s Motol University Hospital, the biggest medical centre in the Czech Republic, employs 5,000 staff and has 2,400 beds for patients of all ages. In recent years the hospital has fully embraced AGV technology, in this case supplied by E&K Automation, a German-based group with branches across Europe.

Today, the institution’s infrastructure includes a 38-vehicle AGV system for transporting goods within and between the different buildings, including the original children’s hospital complex and an adult hospital built some years later.

These vehicles can be programmed to open doors and use lifts automatically, allowing access to practically any area in a building.

Back in 1972, when the children’s hospital was opened, movement of goods within the buildings was carried out using manual carts and a limited number of lifts. Transport between buildings involved the use of trucks.

It was decided in 1983 to erect a new centre for adults near the existing children’s hospital. The project included the construction of a new, large-scale kitchen and a central store that includes an archive for medical files. At the planning stage, provision was made for the later introduction of an AGV system to service the buildings. However, it was not until 1995 that the E&K automated transport system entered service.

The adult hospital was constructed with an underground corridor leading to the children’s hospital so that it too would benefit from automated goods handling. From the end of the corridor, the idea was for containers to be handled manually into lifts and to their destinations by hospital staff in the children’s section.

In all, 28 vehicles were deployed at Motol. The inductive control wires that the AGVs follow in both directions were installed along the corridor, on each floor of the adult hospital buildings and in the lifts. Guidance and communications technologies for controlling the vehicles were of course standard in AGV systems of the early 1990s.

Modernisation of the AGV network

In 2006, a complex modernisation of the children’s hospital was instigated, which was only completed in April last year. This included a €2.8m project for E&K to supply 10 new AGVs and extend the AGV system from the end of the corridor to all of the children’s wards. Reconstruction also involved installation of four new battery charging stations and 10 new lifts for the AGVs to access three wings of the children’s hospital. Civil work included further underground corridors for the AGVs to access the new lifts and construction of another operating theatre.

It was impractical to extend the AGV transport network and retain the old communication system. Moreover, spares for the early vehicles and control computers were becoming difficult to source. In addition, after eleven years of daily use, the vehicles needed refurbishing. So the complete AGV control and communication system was modernised as part of this project; refit being a core E&K business unit for the upgrade and refurbishment of both E&K and competitors’ AGV systems.

Transporting 1,000 containers daily

Up to 1,000 containers are now transported every day around the AGV network at Motol University Hospital, all year round. During reconstruction and extension, it was essential that automated movement of goods was not affected.

A WLAN-based control and communication system was supplied along with the new AGVs. The former was installed over the entire area within and between the hospitals, independently of the old system and alongside it. This part of the project also included access points for the lifts. Operation of the old system, including communication with the vehicles, could therefore continue normally. Switching between the old and new control systems was done by means of a simple changeover switch.

Each night, when batteries powering the 1995 vehicles were being recharged, the new vehicles, control system, lift control and WLAN were tested. That was the most difficult time during the modernisation of the system, because at 5.30 the next morning, the entire system had to operate at full capacity again.

That phase took several months, after which the conversion and overhaul of the old AGVs, including installation of new communication modules, was completed within six weeks. The critical moment occurred when the 10 new vehicles were brought online with the 28 old AGVs, as the decision to switch to the new system permanently was then irrevocable.

During hospital operation, there are no fixed rules concerning the number and frequency of transports. Each day is different and control at peak times is performed in software by setting priorities according to the urgency with which goods are needed. The longest transport distances are in excess of half a kilometre; vertically, the vehicles travel in lifts up 12 floors at the hospital.

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Swedish truck manufacturer Scania has developed a topography-based ‘Active Prediction’ cruise control system using NAVTEQ location data which is transferred by a map engine developed by Continental.

By anticipating the upcoming topography of the road, Active Prediction optimises fuel usage by adjusting the cruising speed before starting a descent or ascent – resulting in fuel savings of up to 3%. The system is able to interpret features such as precise road geometry, road curvature and slope, and so provide the relevant predictive information – in other words, to ‘read the road ahead’.

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Faber Halbertsma Group (FHG), Europe’s biggest pallet producer, has acquired PAKi Logistics, market leader in the pooling of load carriers. Based in Eck en Wiel, The Netherlands, FHG produces 18 million pallets annually and operates subsidiaries in the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, France and the UK, all of which produce, hire, repair and trade pallets.

PAKi Logistics, based in Ennepetal, Germany, organises a network of over 10,000 pooling stations across Europe. Following the acquisition of PAKi Logistics, FHG’s annual turnover will be in the region of €300 million.

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Toyota Material Europe (TMHE) and Manitou have announced that they will not be renewing the exclusive distribution agreement for Toyota-branded industrial material handling equipment in France as of January 1^st 2013.

TMHE President Hakan Dahllöf, said: “We’re very appreciative of what Manitou has built for the Toyota brand in France, but we now need to deploy our pan-European model for branding and distribution with one integrated organisation in charge for both Toyota and BT brands. We still very much value the relationship moving forward and will continue to explore opportunities together.”

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As a result of slowing sales across Western Europe, vehicle manufacturer Mitsubishi is planning to close its plant in the Netherlands which builds the Colt car and the Outlander SUV. The plant, which is the only plant operated by the Japanese company in Western Europe, is expected to close by the end of this year.

The company is reported to have offered to sell the 10-year old plant for one euro, provided the new owner takes on its 1,500 people. Following the closure, the Mitsubishi group will supply vehicles to the European market from Japan and also from Thailand, where it is now building a new factory.

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The first batch of Volkswagen T5 Transporter and Multivans have been shipped to Indonesia in SKD (semi-knocked down) form, for assembly and sale on the local market. It’s planned to assemble around 220 T5s this year, with a total of around 1,200 vehicles being built by 2015.

Fully-built Transporters and Multivans will first be partially disassembled at the main VW plant in Hannover, with SKD kits then shipped by freighter from Hamburg to Jakarta in Indonesia. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ local partner Indomobil/Garuda Mataram Motor then pays duty on the vehicles before reassembling them on site.

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