Do the twist

Since 2000 TGW has been implementing Twister load handling technology for the fully automated handling of cartons, plastic totes and trays with a diverse range of sizes and weights in shelving racks. This load handling technology is said to be particularly reliable due to the form-locked handling of cartons or totes by means of in-built movable flaps. Even under difficult operating conditions, such as uneven loading, irregular carton quality or low working temperatures, this equipment performs consistently and reliably. Twister is capable of storing cartons up to four-deep in shelving racks, while providing access to each individual carton and ensuring stock integrity. Carton dimensions that can be handled range from 200 and 800mm in length and 150 to 650mm in width. Belt conveyors integrated in the load handling device enable very high throughput rates at the aisle interface pre-storage zone. The load is directly handed over to a driven conveyor system, without having to extend any telescopic arms, this reduces handling times at these pick up and deposit interface positions. Furthermore, the Twister can combine storage and retrieval moves within the aisle together with pick up and deposit transactions optimising the number of moves for each journey. A special feature of the Twister load handling device is its ability to handle different cartons and totes with varying sizes within multiple storage depths within the same journey. This provides flexibility that allows warehouse managers to manage different package sizes contained in the same storage aisle. Moreover, the Twister V option, permits adapting the storage space required along the aisle in the shelving racks to the respective sizes of the packages to be stored. A very high storage density is achieved by this storage method, thus keeping the dimensions of the required steelwork and building as small as possible and providing maximum warehouse footprint utilisation. More storage locations can be gained per square meter of warehouse footprint with the Twister VC option. This device allows for double-deep storage but operates within a single depth aisle maximising the storage density.With an integrated lifting unit, the load handling device can transport a second carton or tote per journey, increasing throughput.