technological modularity—the ability to
bolt on functionality as needed,” says
Dan LaMendola, fleet manager at Briggs
Equipment. He cites telemetry, the collecting of data at the point of use and
making the data available to a separate
user base via a remote server, as one
example. Most telemetry systems, he
says, can be deployed at the factory or
out in the field once the material handling system has been put into operation,
and for some time after that. That kind of
flexibility is one of the greatest benefits
provided by the technological and ergonomic advances that have taken place in
the last decade, LaMendola adds.
The core of the lift truck can’t be
changed, however, and there are limits
to what add-on technology can do on a
low-end truck with a basic engine, electronics, and instrumentation. End users
that want a lot of data and analysis, as
well as the ability to collect a wider array
of information in the future, will have
to invest in more sophisticated technology. In that case, Arnold suggests, it would
make sense to move up to a “smart”
truck that’s designed to accommodate
more advanced technology and can
provide the full range of capabilities
the end user needs for its particular
application.
GO TO THE PROS
Where can end users turn for guidance
when deciding which type of truck would
best fit their requirements? “Everything
starts with dealerships,” says Arnold.
“They’re the front line for what the customer needs.” Lift truck dealers will conduct site surveys to make sure they match
the correct truck to the application; if
needed, they will turn to the OEM’s
sales, engineering, and product-support
experts, he adds.
Regardless of whether you’re in the
market for an entry-level value truck, a
technologically advanced premium piece
accurately to your dealer.
