Linde Material Handling UK is offering three new masted variants that will make its compact Linde N20 C SA semi-automated horizontal order picker more productive and comfortable to use.
Enhanced ergonomics allow operators to raise the truck’s forks to working height so that they do not need to bend down when handling goods. Distances walked are reduced too.
The new masted variants, designed for use with Euro pallets, expand the truck’s range of applications. The Linde N20 C L SA is designed for order picking from the lowest rack level on to a pallet, with a load limit of 1,200kg. The Linde N20 C D SA can pick up two pallets separately, transporting one above the other, and is suitable for longer transport distances. The Linde N20 C LoL SA enables the operator to fill two pallets in one cycle thanks to its long load arms and the additional lifting forks.
The order picker has two semi-automated driving modes which are geared towards the most common picking alternatives: either the operator moves in a U-shape in the picking area, picking only on one side initially before switching to the other, or picking takes place on both rack sides at the same time, following a Z-shaped path.
The semi-automated modes save operators a lot of walking, as they do not need to return to the operator’s platform each time to move the truck for the next pick. The operator can control the truck with a handset to keep it moving forward in front of him, alternatively, zones can be set up at points along the forks. As the handset on the operator’s belt nears the boundary of a zone, the truck will automatically move forward The vehicles feature integrated high-performance safety scanners at the front to detect people, obstacles and other trucks. They also maintain a minimum distance of 50cm from the rack to ensure a safe and comfortable working space for the operator. Even when fully loaded, the order picker is extremely manoeuvrable.
Manuel Seidel, Product Manager Automation, said: “Logistics managers in warehouses and distribution centers are increasingly looking for more automated solutions. While the process of retrieving goods from the rack and placing them on the pallet needs to be done manually, the Linde N20 C SA can at least assist the operator by moving with him along the rack aisle. This saves time and energy and increases productivity.”
He added: “If you calculate an increase in productivity of around 10%, the additional investment will have paid for itself in about a year in a two-shift operation, with standard industry wage costs.”
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