PLC controlled hydraulic valves which allow for faster lift, smoother start and stop, easier feathering of the controls, and adjustability of the lift and travel functions. The PLC controlled hydraulics allow for much smoother operation of the HHA shortening the training cycle of operators and extending the life of hydraulic components. Centurion can be set at slower speeds during initial startup and faster speeds after operators become more comfortable with the equipment. Back to Top

The Maintenance Sensor Package helps ensure that downtime for the Hydra Handler is scheduled rather than emergency. With sensors monitoring key operational characteristics unscheduled downtime is avoided since early warning is given when an out of tolerance situation occurs. Service can then be planned for when requirements for changing batteries are minimal or non-existent.

Hydraulic pressure and temperature, drive chain tension, vacuum pressure, and lift bed level are continuously monitored to against prescribed tolerances. When an out of tolerance alarm is active the touch screen monitor utilizes embedded photos and text to describe the failure mode and the method for adjusting the machine to within specification.

This option also includes an on-screen preventative maintenance schedule detailing prescribed tasks for the Hydra Handler and a checklist for daily safety inspections. Having this information on-board makes it easier for service personnel to properly maintain the Hydra Handler to factory specification.

A component identification module is also accessible from the touch screen monitor. Photos identifying various Hydra Handler components and their part numbers simplify the process of replacement ordering of parts. This is a speedy alternative to the hard copy manual also supplied with the Hydra Handler.

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Benefits of this option include:
• Elimination of dedicated battery change operators
• Reduced time for each battery change
• Increased safety to personnel during the change-out process
• Proper rotation of all batteries in the system through use of the First In, First Out utility
• Reduced wear and tear on forklifts, Hydra Handler and charging stands through      automatic positioning

This option takes operator skill out of the process by automatically positioning the Hydra Handler at every step of the battery change-out process. Skill levels of forklift drivers tasked to change their own batteries vary greatly. As such, wear and tear on a key piece of equipment can be high. This option allows for safe, efficient, and timely transfer of batteries without extensive training or skill requirements.

The integrated touch screen monitor leads the operator through each step ofthe battery change-out process. Dead-man switches on the machine ensure that the operator is safe throughout the process. SICK laser personnel sensors also protect against the machine contacting personnel or equipment that inadvertently move into the travel area of the Hydra Handler.

When the forklift operator arrives to change a battery he positions his truck to a predetermined location, unplugs the battery, and lifts the battery stop in preparation for the change-out. He then boards the Hydra Handler engaging the man–aboard switch on the platform and closes the gate to the operator compartment. When both of these safety interlocks are engaged the touch screen monitor prompts the operator to choose the truck type he requires a battery for.

The First In, First Out utility recognizes which battery is required and with the operator safely holding both pistol grip dead-man switches the machine positions itself to extract the dead battery from the truck. After doing so the Hydra Handler positions itself so the operator can disconnect the new battery from its charger. Next the machine extracts the new battery from the rack, repositions itself to move the dead battery into the now open charging slot, move the battery into the slot and reposition itself for the operator to connect the dead battery to the charger. It then puts the new battery in the truck and moves itself into a resting position so the operator can de-board, connect the new battery to the truck, install the battery stop and return to work.

At every step of the process the operator is prompted to perform tasks such as connect or disconnect the battery. Dead man switch controls ensure operator safety during the change-out process by not allowing operation of the Hydra Handler unless properly activated. Back to Top

The height Limit Switch option will stop the Hydra Handler from lifting higher than a preset dimension. This option allows for a Hydra Handler to reach the upper most level of battery storage but stops it before going higher. This option would be appropriate for applications where overhead obstructions could be a problem. It has the potential to allow another level of battery charging compared to a unit without this option. An appropriate application would be a room with low ceilings but room to stack chargers behind the racks rather than on a catwalk. Back to Top

This lowers the step to the operator’s compartment from 12” to 7” making it easier for operators to step onto the machine for changing batteries. Back to Top

Standard mechanical key switch added to Hydra-Handler to prevent unauthorized personnel from operating the HHA Back to Top

This option is a must for single sided systems to protect against accidental discharge of a battery on the open side above a preset dimension. The preset dimension is set an inch or two above the highest “R” dimension of the trucks being used in the battery charging system. Utilizing a cam and follower system the flip ups engage as the Hydra Handler is lifted above the preset height. With the flip ups engaged a battery will be stopped if the roller deck is used to move it towards the open side of the rack system. For 2 sided systems with unequal rack coverage a flip up system can be engineered specific to the customers needs at a higher cost for the customization. Back to Top

The roller deck lock utilizes the sensors in each battery compartment (2 on each side of the HHA) to stop the roller deck in order to protect against accidental discharge of a battery. When the roller deck moves a battery into the plane of the compartment sensors the roller deck is “locked” until the operator activates the override button and roller deck control at the same time. Therefore the operator must consciously decide he wants to continue moving the battery in the direction it was going prior to the roller deck locking by pressing the override button. This is a safety option that will reduce but not eliminate the possibility of accidentally discharging a battery on the wrong side of a system. Back to Top

These safety detection systems will sound an alarm and/of shut power off to the Hydra Handler if personnel or equipment inadvertently enter the travel area when Hydra Handler is powered. One can be positioned at each end of the Hydra Handler. These are already incorporated in the Semi-Automated Positioning option. Back to Top

This option allows vacuum cup of extractor arm to attach to batteries shorter than 11” high. This option is typically required when access to AGV batteries is required. Back to Top

This option reduces the overall length of the Hydra-Handler and is typically used when available system length is at a premium. While reducing the length, the single compartment Hydra-Handler requires an empty charging stand accept spent battery before charged battery can be loaded that increases battery change out times. Back to Top