Walk the productivity walk
December 1st 2007

Focussing on adding or improving a significant number of features which reduce and simplify the operator's movement while performing 'off-truck' tasks, making picking faster and easier.

Crown says the aim is for 100 per cent efficiency during all picking tasks.

Manufactured in Germany, the range starts with an economic 2000kg load capacity entry model and extends to a fullfeatured order picker with a load capacity of 2700 kg. The series is available with a range of fork lengths, optional features and different battery compartment sizes. It also includes models featuring lifting forks for either one or two pallets and the option of platform lift for second level picking. Crown says there is something to suit all types of order picking applications.

Step up to the plate Something as simple as a tidy work station can make an operation more productive. Tools and materials that are clearly organised for the picking process make a considerable difference.

Crown engineers paid particular attention to this detail and with the Work Assist accessory programme have designed a flexible system of features to enhance both convenience and safety. These include a clip pad, scan-gun holder, refuse bag holder and stretch foil holder, as well as a number of load trays and storage pouches for additional items and personal effects.

Responsive controls assist the operator in handling the truck efficiently. If the picking locations are close by, the Pick Position Control system enables the operator to move the truck to the next location without having to get on board – eliminating the extra steps and delays needed to enter and exit the driver's platform. The switch in the backrest is easy to reach from the outside and applies controlled braking when released so the truck is in prime position for loading.

Another way of speeding up the picking process is by guiding the truck with the ergonomic X10 control handle which can be operated from the side of the truck via a thumb switch.

Last but not least, Crown' says the series' fold-down step provides a safe and costeffective method of reaching tall loads or goods stored up to a height of two metres.

This helps the operator to pick rapidly and efficiently and enables greater cube utilisation within the warehouse.

Reducing fatigue Crown says its engineers and designers paid particular attention to maximising comfort to reduce fatigue levels. The floorboard on the GPC 3000 Series is designed to make entry and exit as easy as walking through an open door, facilitated by a wide walk-through area with contoured surfaces and a low step height of 130mm. In addition, a contoured backrest, cushioned knee pad and a fully suspended floorboard increase comfort and reduce fatigue throughout the work shift.

Productivity can be further improved by choosing the right truck for the application from the GPC 3000 Series. For frequent mid-level picking tasks, there is a platform lift option while for heavy or bulky products the single or double length lifting fork models position the forks at the right height to prevent the operator from having to lift and bend unnecessarily. All models have been designed with ergonomic, efficient and safe operation as their priority.

Productivity through performance Crown says the GPC 3000's performance provides further potential for productivity gains. Smooth acceleration gives the operator valuable time while precise, electronic steering also increases efficiency.

The company says consistent, reliable longterm performance is facilitated via the maintenance-free e-Gen Braking System.

Environmental and economic considerations required the engineers to decrease energy consumption while significantly increasing performance levels, conflicting goals they met through the combination of the Access 1 2 3 Comprehensive System Control and efficient AC motors. Access 1 2 3 provides safe operational control and cutting edge diagnostics. The system continuously analyses factors that influence performance, safety and energy use, such as load, travel speed and steering angle.

The intuitive display provides operators and service engineers with valuable information such as system status, instructions and adjustable performance settings. The InfoPoint system enhances this diagnostic system with an easy to follow troubleshooting process.

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