TECHNOLOGY DRIVING FORKLIFT SAFETY FORWARD

ELOKON, is a leading developer and supplier of innovative safety and assistance systems for the intralogistics sector, and the company is focusing on how advancements in technology could play a vital role in warehouse and forklift safety. Utilising advancements in the automotive sector Unfortunately, serious accidents with forklift trucks are still all too prevalent, despite the fact that industrial accidents within the industry as whole are on the decline. Prompting the industry to take cues from developments in the automotive sector, in order to improve on the current forklift safety statistics. Advanced driver assistance systems in particular, are currently at the forefront of innovations in safety technology. The systems are being used for situations where personnel and machines work in close proximity, for example in a warehouse, in order to help reduce risk and protect both equipment and personnel. Smarter forklifts & safe zones This technological safety revolution is focusing on functional safety and reducing accidents in the workplace – it’s being aimed across all aspects of materials handling. ELEKON is incorporating the latest sensor technology used in the automotive industry in its distance warning systems, mobile personnel protection devices and fleet management systems. The forklift assistance systems that the company is developing are comparable with those on cars, as they give off different alerts before or during critical situations. These same assistance systems can also autonomously, or semi autonomously intervene with the steering of a forklift, in order to prevent accidents. High risk areas, such as blind spots at busy intersections in the warehouse are a big concern for forklift operators, as there vision of what or who may be around them is often impeded. Integrated warning systems can now be configured to monitor such high risk areas, or even monitor zones where machines and personnel interact. The warning systems would essentially be acting as a protective shield in all potentially hazardous areas. Sensors & speed Driving speeds can sometimes be an issue, especially during the transition from outdoor to indoor operations, where forklift speeds outside are typically much faster. To combat this, radar based systems are being developed to automatically reduce speeds when a forklift enters the warehouse or production area, and then reverse the procedure when the forklift transitions outside. Further advancements in the development of forklift environment sensors are enabling more sophisticated detection of potentially hazardous scenarios. ELOKON have managed to develop a self actuating laser scanner and anti-collision system. They have called it ELOprotect, and it essentially ensures that safe distances are maintained between pedestrians and forklifts. It also helps to prevent collisions between the forklifts themselves. These electronic guardian angels are becoming more and more prevalent in the intralogistics sector, largely thanks to the advancements of in-car technology. This technology is now being offered throughout warehousing and intralogistics environments, to make the future of the industry as safe as possible. Are you looking to purchase a new Forklift or used forklift? Then simply give us a call today on 0800 298 8790

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