Late in 2009, the Raymond Corp. decided to enhance the material-handling capabilities of its 9000 Series Swing-Reach lift truck. The unit now features a multiturn angle sensor that tracks the position of the truck’s mast to ensure consistent and efficient operation.

The RSM2800 sensor continually tracks mast position and turn count on the 9000 Series Swing-Reach lift truck. Photo courtesy Raymond Corp.

Late in 2009, the Raymond Corp. decided to enhance the material-handling capabilities of its 9000 Series Swing-Reach lift truck. The unit now features a Novotechnik RSM2800 multiturn angle sensor that tracks the position of the truck’s mast to ensure consistent and efficient operation.

Unlike traditional fork lifts, the Swing-Reach series features a mast located on the right or left side of the truck with lift forks positioned perpendicular to the operator. The mast uses hydraulic cylinders and steel rails that are attached to the lift forks to move loads at a speed of up to 8 inches per second.

The swing-reach design provides the operator a clear view and allows him to moves loads up, down and laterally. This design also enables precise load handling and travel, lessens product damage and increases productivity in aisles as narrow as 68 inches wide.

Raymond Corp. required a sensor that offered accuracy, long life and counted up to 12 mast turns. The RSM2800’s single and separate turn angle detection functions provide high accuracy.

Two features help ensure long life: noncontact technology, which resists shock and vibration, and a temperature-resistant plastic housing. Plus, the sensor counts up to 16 mast turns.

The sensor also features 12-bit resolution and magnetoresistance technology, which can detect turns in an unpowered state and store turns in nonvolatile memory.

A class IP 65 sensor, the RSM2800 is compact and requires only 38 millimeters center-to-center between mounting flanges. Elongated slots allow simple mounting and mechanical adjustment.

The 9000 Series Swing-Reach truck can lift 3,000-pound loads to a height of 45 feet. Loads can measure up to 5 feet deep or 9 feet wide. Travel speed, as well as acceleration and deceleration rates for lifting and lowering, can be programmed to accommodate operator skill levels.

Two other important features are an ACR System and intellispeed. By combining the efficiency of AC traction, lift and responsive control, the ACR System increases uptime. Intellispeed is a digital wire guidance system that enhances vehicle tracking and stability, allowing operators to steer lift trucks at optimum speeds through very narrow aisles.

For more information on position sensors, call 800-667-7492 or visit www.novotechnik.com.