As well as a warm, tactile tiller head, Linde’s new pedestrian pallet trucks introduce innovative ergonomic features such as end-of-stroke resistance on the tiller. This increases tiller resistance as it approaches the braking zone providing positive feedback to the operator improving his comfort by avoiding him accidentally catching the brake and potentially wrenching his shoulder. These models also have a proportional speed control system. As the operator gets closer to the truck’s chassis, so the closer to the vertical he naturally holds the tiller. Traction speed is automatically reduced as the tiller angle increases – making the trucks easier to operate.

Relocating the OPB20NE’s battery behind the operator’s compartment has increased the working space by 40% – making it the largest in the industry by far. The result is exceptionally easy on-off access… with sufficient space for a driver to walk straight through – without turning – whilst carrying a load. The enlarged operator platform has chamfered edges and a high-friction surface to avoid trips and slips. Its whole surface acts as a ‘dead man’s pedal’, allowing movement as soon as the operator steps on board – wherever he or she chooses to stand. Driven via the Formula 1 styled Maxius steering wheel and control unit, the OPB20NE delivers 24% higher productivity than its nearest competitors.

STILL’s GX-X stacker, a modular machine allowing bespoke solutions to customer needs, has numerous features designed to provide the optimum ergonomic environment for the operator. Fitted as standard on machines with high lift masts, the tilting seat reduces neck strain by enabling drivers to lean back by up to 15˚ when looking upward. An electrically adjustable floor-plate and seat adjustment facilitates the correct ergonomic relationship between the pedals, steering wheel, hydraulic controls and seat. In addition to the standard hydraulically-damped driver’s seat, a hydraulically damped and sprung driver’s compartment is also available allowing for an easy, comfortable and safe operation.