Companies with limited storage space often opt for the "narrow aisle warehouse" concept. They tend to build upwards for the storage of their products in order to keep the width of the aisles to a minimum. The usual safety distances of 500 mm between each side of the forklift truck and the racking are reduced to a minimum of 100 mm. At the same time, the demands on industrial trucks are growing: they must be compact, maneuverable and strong for transporting and lifting long loads in narrow aisles. The new PhoeniX series 2829-XS and 2821-S from Hubtex have been specially developed for use in narrow aisles.

"Thanks to their compact design and the integrated rack guidance systems, such as mechanical, inductive or optical track guidance, the forklift driver can maneuver the vehicles safely and lift the customer-specific loads upwards without causing damage. In addition, space-saving sit-on or stand-on cabs provide forklift drivers with an optimized overview. Assistance systems such as the vehicle-mounted, mobile personal protection system via laser scanners also contribute to additional employee safety," says Michael Röbig, Head of Product Management.

Assistance systems: Optimized workflow in the narrow aisle

In addition to lane guidance or camera systems, the Hubtex Load Manager (HLM) and the electronic load diagram in particular support the driver when handling bulky, long or heavy loads. The HLM is freely programmable as an electronic lift height preselector with 99 positions. The lift mast remains at the preselected shelf level independently. The system distinguishes whether the goods are being stored or retrieved. This saves valuable time and at the same time reduces damage to the stored goods. This prevents damage to the goods due to uncontrolled insertion into the shelf compartment.

Another feature, the electronic load diagram, uses sensors to record the fork carriage inclination, the load center of gravity, the load weight and the lifting height. The driver can see how high the goods may be lifted on the operating display. If the permissible lifting height or other parameter limits are exceeded, the overload indicator is activated. Depending on the configuration, the system also initiates overload functions: the lifting process stops automatically, the symbol on the display turns red and a warning signal sounds. If the display remains green, the goods can be safely lifted to the maximum height.

HUBTEX will be at LogiMAT 2023 from April 25 to 27 at booth 10B20 (hall 10).