ForwardX's Apex C1500-L took out the Best Innovation of an Existing Product awardOf the 1,200 exhibitors at MODEX in Atlanta, five companies were named the winners of the 2024 MHI Innovation and Startup Awards.
MHI says it received 193 submissions for this years’ awards, which were open to new products, technology or services or new applications of existing technology.
The winners, announced on March 13 at MHI Industry Night, are:
Best Innovation of an Existing Product - ForwardX Robotics
ForwardX says its Apex C1500-L autonomous forklift has superior environmental perception and adaptive technology which redefines safety and efficiency in autonomous logistics.
The forklift, which has payload capacity of 1500 kg and a lifting height of up to 3 m, has an array of multi-line LiDARs and obstacle recognition cameras.
It also has advanced sensors in the forks, facilitating versatile pick-up and drop-off heights and ensuring the safe handling of goods without the risk of damage during stacking operations.
Best IT Innovation - Configura
Configa’s space planning platform CET enables users to effortlessly create accurate large-scale projects and collaborate seamlessly within a single drawing.
The software operates seamlessly in both 2D and 3D and utilises Parametric Graphical Configuration (PGC) technology to eliminate errors, improve efficiency and streamline the design process. Real-time Bill of Materials and pricing, along with comprehensive documentation creation, contribute to error reduction and overall project success.
Best New Innovation - Slip Robotics
SlipBot Automated Loading Robots (ALRs) can auto-load and auto-unload any truck in just five minutes – at any dock, in any trailer, and with zero Wi-Fi or IT integration required.
SlipBot ALRs consistently carry 10 to 20 pallets per minute (and all other freight types, including parcels) between any trailer and staging area.
SlipBot customers include Tesla, John Deere, Nissan and GE Appliances.
Best New Innovation in Sustainability - Avery Dennison
Avery Dennison says its linerless labels result in 50% more labels per roll and 32% less material used compared with standard linered product.
Linerless labels are for use with printers that are designed with release surfaces along the paper path. These platen rollers, feed rollers, and knives are specific for use with linerless labels.
Best Startup Award: Gig and Take
Gig and Take, based in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, has developed software to help factories create, manage and retain a flexible workforce.