In response to customers needing accurate proof that power pallet trucks are set at maximum site speed limits, Briggs Equipment has developed a new speed measuring tool to give managers the reassurance they require.
Heading up its development is Briggs’ Technical Manager, Trevor Clifton, who explained that previously, there hasn’t been much focus on measuring the accurate speed of power pallet trucks.
‘Before, people would use plug-in hand held devices or stop watches to measure truck speeds over 30 meter distances which would also require a corresponding run up and slow down area, and not all customers have the space or are willing to accommodate these tests.’
As well as presenting health and safety risks, previous speed tests may have needed a small team of people to measure the required distances and stop watches to test speed. With Briggs’ speed measuring tool, it has improved the safety and accuracy of these tests, has reduced the time and space needed as well as the people required.
Trevor continued: ‘The device only needs one person to use it and includes two lasers set 3-5 meters away from one another, each with an LCD screen, mounted on tripods. Information from the lasers is sent to a computer where the data is stored and later analysed.
‘The laser beams are set side by side, 278mm apart, significantly reducing the 30 meters previously needed. From when the truck touches the first beam to the second beam, the software will accurately record the speed that the truck is moving. Although the run up and slowdown distances are still needed, the overall space has dramatically reduced.’
Other functions include measuring acceleration, brake performance and deceleration rates and can be used to test many different kinds of machines moving either forwards or backwards.
Briggs has responded quickly to its customers’ requests and the device will make testing the speed of power pallet trucks safer and more accurate to give customers the proof and peace of mind that they require.
