Novices elevated by technology

Crown Lift Trucks launched an interesting semi-automated option for its TSP Series turret trucks at IMHX. It puts Auto Fence & Auto Positioning System on the turret trucks. Auto Fence controls truck operation near a hazard or where greater caution is required and the Auto Positioning System automates travel and lift functions for the most efficient path between the truck and its destinations. 

The system uses UHF RFID guidance and is able to move automatically at height and at speed.

Said to be a relatively inexpensive automated solution, one of the key benefits of the system is that it brings the novice up to a higher level than an expert on a manual truck, essentially it levels the playing field and brings all pickers up to a higher level.

Crown Lift Trucks technology sales manager Mark Eccleston explains: “It means there is less emphasis on an operator being an expert.”

It works by the operator inputting the location on to a keypad and the truck moving automatically. The system is seen as an alternative to a standard VNA. It is primarily a technology to assist pallet-in and pallet-out movements but can be used for pick bins.

Mark adds: “APS reduces operator fatigue because they do not have to drive the truck, they can focus on the picking task.”