SubscribeAt the CeMAT show in Han-nover, Linde is presenting four new models of its matrix warehouse truck platform, the N 20/N24, N20 L and N20 Li electric order pickers.
Comfort and performance
The N 20 line stands out by excep-tional operating convenience as well as impressive perform-ance. The four releases are targeted at renewed enhance-ment of warehouse productivity by making order picking altogether easier, safer and quicker.
Foremost features of these trucks are their functional design, maintenance-free AC motor, Linde electric twin-grip handle bars incorporating all control functions, and not least of all a comprehensive selection of options.
Rounded chassis contours, devoid of sharp corners or edges, and a low-slung skirt around the bottom minimize all risk of operator injury. Set at a very low height of 120 mm, the platform is comfortable to board and does not cause unnecessary leg fatigue no matter how often the operator has to mount and dismount during the day's shift.
All models are commendable for perfect visibility across the forks, load and route travelled. Additional physical comfort is provided by a backrest that adjusts up or down to best suit the opera-tor. Similar adjustment of handlebar height is available as an option.
The on-board workstation contains ample storage space and can be equipped with all manner of accessories to simplify routine order picking runs: data terminal mount, barcode reader holder, clipboard, waste bin, wrap film holder, and more of the same kind.
Linde handlebars and AC motors add to productivity
The Linde control handlebars are undoubtedly a major high-light of the new N 20 range. All controls are arranged in an exemplary layout for actuation by either hand. The electric twin grips are now enclosed by a hand guard to rule out one more possible risk of injury.
Self-centering electric power steering, with continuous monitoring of drive wheel position by microprocessor and sensor, makes precision maneuver-ing entirely easy. Steering resistance can be adjusted to the operator's preferences for added driving safety.
All models of the new order picker range are powered by the same prime mover, a maintenance-free AC motor of 3 kW, meaning it is rated fully 50% higher than its predecessor. This output provides rapid acceleration, taking the truck to top speed (up to 12 km/h loaded or unloaded) within a dis-tance of 5 metres. Three independent braking systems are installed for maximum safety. The electromagnetic brake prevents truck rollback when starting uphill.
Reliable electronics are part of the standard equipment for all models of the range. A service technician can connect a laptop computer to the system for the purpose of config-uring all driving and actuation parameters to best suit the needs of the specific mission.
Convenience of maintenance and servicing is another point where these order pickers excel. The service hood de-taches completely to give free access to the internal com-ponents. Batteries rated from180 to 620 Ah offer the appro-priate source of energy for every application. Installing a higher-capacity battery will keep the truck running smoothly through a double shift. Both vertical and lateral battery change (left or right) is available.
Model overview
Construction of warehouse trucks perfectly matched to the task in hand is streamlined by Linde's matrix concept, which enables a wide variety of models to be assembled from a defined set of modules. The N20 range starts off with the two standard order pickers N20 and N24 of 2000 kg and 2400 kg capacity respectively. Sturdy forks 2350 mm long can handle two pallet loads at a time.
For walk-along control the Linde N20 order picker has a separate travel switch on the side.
Model N20 L with mast ar-ranged behind the operator platform features supplemen-tary fork lift to reduce the physical effort entailed in order picking and thus avoid risk of back strain.
The pallet can be raised to a height allowing picked items to be placed on it comfortably without repetitive bending and stretching. The fourth model is named N20 Li and differs from the N20 L by the addition of 125 mm initial lift for the load legs.
Hannover, October 11, 2005