Precise entry into narrow-aisle warehouses without damaging racks or goods
Increasing storage capacity in confined spaces
By using multidirectional sideloaders in narrow-aisle warehouses, companies benefit from maximising their storage capacity. Consequently, operators face challenges with this warehouse layout: One is entering the narrow aisle with pinpoint accuracy. HUBTEX has developed the industry's first sensory aisle entry assistant, enabling equipment handling long goods to enter aisles without collision. All PhoeniX models can be equipped with the new assistance system.
Easy entry into rail-guided aisles, especially if the driver can't see the rails because of long loads.
The principal working environment of multidirectional sideloaders is narrow aisles. Guide rollers with corresponding rails mounted to the rack are the dominant method to keep the forklifts on track.
Just four inches is the distance between the sideloader and the rack. Facilitating the approach into the aisle is usually a funnel whose size is determined by the length of the transported goods. Long loads lead to long funnels resulting in wider transfer aisles.
Entering a narrow aisle without assistance always poses a challenge for operators. If there is only a small deviation from the right path, the sideloader, its load, the rack or the rails could be damaged. Overhanging loads and reverse entry don’t help the situation either. HUBTEX has long recognised this challenge and now offers a solution through innovative sensor technology.
The entrance to the narrow aisle is displayed on the HUBTEX information terminal. After acceptance, the Phoenix automatically steers in front of the aisle entry.
Assistance when it is needed
The system processes the raw data of a 2D lidar sensor. The laser scanner determines the relative distance to the entry funnel and orients the vehicle to the centre of the aisle. “Based on this information, the assistance system aligns the truck centrally in front of the aisle and parallel to its course. The truck can therefore enter the aisle without colliding. This allows the driver to concentrate on monitoring the vehicle's surroundings and set a speed appropriate to the situation,” explains Michael Röbig, head of product management at HUBTEX.
There are two versions available: a stand-alone system and an integration into the pedestrian safety system. The big advantage is that if a bystander safety system has already been installed, the same sensors can be used to enter the aisle. Dual use of the existing hardware results in cost advantages for the aisle entry system.
The patented automated aisle entry system helps save money by minimizing damage to loads, racking, and the sideloader. Additional costs can be saved when planning new rack systems as the entry funnels can be designed less robust.
For more information, visit: https://www.hubtex.com/en-us/products/systems/narrow-aisle-entry-assistant
About HUBTEX
HUBTEX is the reliable partner for handling long, heavy, and bulky loads. HUBTEX sideloaders, order pickers, and purpose-made materials handling equipment are always tailored to the customer’s specific needs. The products are designed to streamline the flow of materials for production and trading companies alike. Besides space-saving and efficient handling, the core principles of the design process of any HUBTEX product are increasing safety and incorporating operator well-being. From a basic multi-directional multi-use forklift to a high-spec narrow aisle sideloader working multiple shifts, the HUBTEX team provides solutions for almost all branches of industry and trade. From Fredericksburg, VA and Brookville, OH HUBTEX North America operates a growing sales and service network throughout the US and Canada.