October 17th, 2019
High Reach Load Capacity Indicators
Designed specifically for high reach, class II and all VNA applications regardless of make and or model the SkidWeigh patented Elite series offers the industries first high reach capacity indictor. Manufacturers capacity plates while required by law are seldom reviewed by operators, only detail extreme thresholds, and do not provide on-going assistant to the operator as the vehicle is being used. As narrow isle applications are being designed with higher pick points and faster expedition speeds operator understanding of vehicle capacity is critical to avoiding dangerous tip overs and truck and product damage. The OP-LCM and RT-LCM is the industries only accurate indicator of vehicle capacity throughout the entire operation of the vehicle. As soon as the vehicle is turned on and put into operation the automatically detects the capacity load compared to the maximum load of the vehicle each and every second. Operational capacity is shown as a percentage of permissible lift height load capacity, on an on-board LED indicator clearly visible to the operator. When maximum capacity is close to being reached the LCM sounds an audible alarm as well as a visual flashing indicator of unsafe weight carry preempting the operator to take action to avoid a problematic situation. The OP ad RT-LCM can also be ordered with a second channel that allows users to toggle to the weight indicator to weigh loads outgoing or incoming or in advance of placement on high level racking. The system installs in approximately two hours and can easily be calibrated in 10 minutes.
High Reach Load Capacity Indicators
Designed specifically for high reach, class II and all VNA applications regardless of make and or model the SkidWeigh patented Elite series offers the industries first high reach capacity indictor. Manufacturers capacity plates while required by law are seldom reviewed by operators, only detail extreme thresholds, and do not provide on-going assistant to the operator as the vehicle is being used. As narrow isle applications are being designed with higher pick points and faster expedition speeds operator understanding of vehicle capacity is critical to avoiding dangerous tip overs and truck and product damage. The OP-LCM and RT-LCM is the industries only accurate indicator of vehicle capacity throughout the entire operation of the vehicle. As soon as the vehicle is turned on and put into operation the automatically detects the capacity load compared to the maximum load of the vehicle each and every second. Operational capacity is shown as a percentage of permissible lift height load capacity, on an on-board LED indicator clearly visible to the operator. When maximum capacity is close to being reached the LCM sounds an audible alarm as well as a visual flashing indicator of unsafe weight carry preempting the operator to take action to avoid a problematic situation. The OP ad RT-LCM can also be ordered with a second channel that allows users to toggle to the weight indicator to weigh loads outgoing or incoming or in advance of placement on high level racking. The system installs in approximately two hours and can easily be calibrated in 10 minutes.
Tough Businesses Require Tough Solutions
SkidWeigh On-board Lift Truck Scales - Built for Recycing
May 16, 2019
Not all material handling applications are the same. In fact some are downright harsh, dirty and abusive. One of those extreme applications is the recycling industry and its use of lift trucks to move commodities within the operation. Whether its paper, metal, plastic or organic recycling, the nature of the business is extreme because generally external supply is brought to a sort area and the lift trucks are tasked to drive through the supply to separate, recover, sort, and store reclaimable material. The lift trucks take a beating with engine overheating, chassis damage, and exposure to corrosive material. Often considered ‘just part of the business’, lift trucks and accessories have a short shelf life.
Not all accessories though. IVDT’s SkidWeigh and SkidWeigh Plus lift truck scales are recycle tested through years and years of serving the recycling industry. That’s a good thing, because common to all recycling operations is the requirement to weigh the commodity for purpose of transaction. All SkidWeigh on-board lift truck scales are built to protect against damp, corrosive and punitive environments. They simply do not look like other scales for a reason. They are externally protected in a manufactured encased indicator housing that protects the internal CPU and display from damage. With that protection the CPU can go to work offering such weighing functions as tare, accumulative totaling, and overload notification. SkidWeigh Plus ED3 and ED4 systems can even enhance and provide safety to operations by offering access control, OSHA pre-shift safety checks, impact management reporting and more. These systems also have the ability to incorporate scanners and printers byway of a Bluetooth connection. The ED4 series lift truck scale can even connect to a network and provide on-line vehicle information on events recorded with email alerts. The SkidWeigh and SkidWeigh Plus lift truck scales are the recycling industries go to for purposes of on-board weighing for over 30 years. Tough enough for even the harshest applications SkidWeigh will outlive the lift truck they are installed on.
Not all material handling applications are the same. In fact some are downright harsh, dirty and abusive. One of those extreme applications is the recycling industry and its use of lift trucks to move commodities within the operation. Whether its paper, metal, plastic or organic recycling, the nature of the business is extreme because generally external supply is brought to a sort area and the lift trucks are tasked to drive through the supply to separate, recover, sort, and store reclaimable material. The lift trucks take a beating with engine overheating, chassis damage, and exposure to corrosive material. Often considered ‘just part of the business’, lift trucks and accessories have a short shelf life.
Not all accessories though. IVDT’s SkidWeigh and SkidWeigh Plus lift truck scales are recycle tested through years and years of serving the recycling industry. That’s a good thing, because common to all recycling operations is the requirement to weigh the commodity for purpose of transaction. All SkidWeigh on-board lift truck scales are built to protect against damp, corrosive and punitive environments. They simply do not look like other scales for a reason. They are externally protected in a manufactured encased indicator housing that protects the internal CPU and display from damage. With that protection the CPU can go to work offering such weighing functions as tare, accumulative totaling, and overload notification. SkidWeigh Plus ED3 and ED4 systems can even enhance and provide safety to operations by offering access control, OSHA pre-shift safety checks, impact management reporting and more. These systems also have the ability to incorporate scanners and printers byway of a Bluetooth connection. The ED4 series lift truck scale can even connect to a network and provide on-line vehicle information on events recorded with email alerts. The SkidWeigh and SkidWeigh Plus lift truck scales are the recycling industries go to for purposes of on-board weighing for over 30 years. Tough enough for even the harshest applications SkidWeigh will outlive the lift truck they are installed on.
People not JUST Products
May 2, 2019
We are very fortunate to work with thousands of dealers throughout North America on any number of exciting projects. Those projects can range from standard applications of our product line to customized process software that simplify or improve their business. Ultimately we are partnering with the dealer to serve the end user and provide value. At a recent meeting with a dealer representative and an operations team put together to assess the solutions proposed, both the dealer and I were asked a very direct question. What makes your product better than your competition? The question was product-centric and the dealer rep looked to me the product expert to reply… I replied… people!
In an age where the Internet is the main resource with easy access to websites, blogs, reviews, and of course you tube, it would appear that all that is required to understand the product is there for the taking. Most material handling suppliers see modern online media as way to efficiently ‘cost effectively’ streamline B2B sales processes though on-line catalogues and e-commerce web ordering. While we utilize each and all of those tools, IVDT asserts that our people still make the biggest impact in our product offering for the following reasons.
Information Is Not Knowledge: There is a ton of information online, but how do you know that the stated feature will be a benefit? How do you know if the model represented in the catalogue or online will integrate properly? Where’s the guarantee? As a dealer representative you are an expert on machines, service and reducing material handling cost. As an end user you are an expert in the production and movement of your product. Missing from the Internet is the conduit that can link the intricacies of a product to an application and with 100% certainty recommend its success. That is what our people do.
Road Blocks: Easy to Google products difficult to Google solutions. People provide a road map for integration success that representatives and end buyers benefit from. Without an expert you are assuming all responsibility for ensuring that the product not only works as it should, and that all costs incurred are understood up front. From start to finish we deliver a guaranteed R.O.I. because we have been there before.
Experience: This is what we do and we have been doing it a long time. For over 30 years with a combined material handling industry experience resume that spans 80, we not only know our business but likely yours too. We always approach every new opportunity with the mindset to learn but that experience provides a higher level discussion that goes beyond spec sheets and involves all out capability. 20% of our business is customized to an end users specific process – because we can.
We are very fortunate to work with thousands of dealers throughout North America on any number of exciting projects. Those projects can range from standard applications of our product line to customized process software that simplify or improve their business. Ultimately we are partnering with the dealer to serve the end user and provide value. At a recent meeting with a dealer representative and an operations team put together to assess the solutions proposed, both the dealer and I were asked a very direct question. What makes your product better than your competition? The question was product-centric and the dealer rep looked to me the product expert to reply… I replied… people!
In an age where the Internet is the main resource with easy access to websites, blogs, reviews, and of course you tube, it would appear that all that is required to understand the product is there for the taking. Most material handling suppliers see modern online media as way to efficiently ‘cost effectively’ streamline B2B sales processes though on-line catalogues and e-commerce web ordering. While we utilize each and all of those tools, IVDT asserts that our people still make the biggest impact in our product offering for the following reasons.
Information Is Not Knowledge: There is a ton of information online, but how do you know that the stated feature will be a benefit? How do you know if the model represented in the catalogue or online will integrate properly? Where’s the guarantee? As a dealer representative you are an expert on machines, service and reducing material handling cost. As an end user you are an expert in the production and movement of your product. Missing from the Internet is the conduit that can link the intricacies of a product to an application and with 100% certainty recommend its success. That is what our people do.
Road Blocks: Easy to Google products difficult to Google solutions. People provide a road map for integration success that representatives and end buyers benefit from. Without an expert you are assuming all responsibility for ensuring that the product not only works as it should, and that all costs incurred are understood up front. From start to finish we deliver a guaranteed R.O.I. because we have been there before.
Experience: This is what we do and we have been doing it a long time. For over 30 years with a combined material handling industry experience resume that spans 80, we not only know our business but likely yours too. We always approach every new opportunity with the mindset to learn but that experience provides a higher level discussion that goes beyond spec sheets and involves all out capability. 20% of our business is customized to an end users specific process – because we can.
The Future is on Display at ProMat 2019
April 11, 2019
Today marks the wrap up of ProMat 2019 at McCormack Place in Chicago. By all accounts this years event was one of the best attended and drew participants and attendees from all over the world. As much as ProMat is about showcasing products and innovations, underneath is always the story being written in the moment, about the future of the material handling industry. This years’ event presented us with some interesting trends.
The Age of Electric – For the past 25 years I.C. lift trucks vs. Electric trucks was the narrative with R.O.I. equations becoming more and more modeled as the vehicle technology improved. Today there is no question we are there with every participating OEM showcasing not only electric Class I,II and III vehicles but a focus on VNA system vehicles. More over the Lithium Ion batteries took center stage in the motive power department. Long the standard for consumer electronics the watt per hour cost did not always justify the investment. However the white papers are in, and the last few years have shown impressive results.
Rise of the Robots – Automation processes have been showcased increasingly over the past 20 years at ProMat. This year there is no question that automation is no longer a standalone concept to increase productivity but rather the new factor for production. It is incorporated in everything from self-guided vehicles, conveyor systems that determine correct out put to moving rack structures that calculate inventory levels. Automation technologies affordability means that companies large and small can bring to material handling applications, a better way.
Become Enlightened – One of the most impressive trends that ProMat2019 clearly shows us is that the businesses and people who work for them have upped their game. For so long material handling had an undeserved reputation as a lag industry that struggled to attract talent. Not so anymore, not only are the companies providing cutting edge solutions designed to improve the future, but the people representing the products are experts of facilitation. The ‘sales person’ of the 70’s and 80’s has long retired and the new generation is educated, creative and an expert.
As we wind down another ProMat it exciting to know that the products, processes and people on display over the past 4 days start right back at work tomorrow. This 4 day window is just a glimpse into what the future looks like starting tomorrow, and it looks good, really good.
Today marks the wrap up of ProMat 2019 at McCormack Place in Chicago. By all accounts this years event was one of the best attended and drew participants and attendees from all over the world. As much as ProMat is about showcasing products and innovations, underneath is always the story being written in the moment, about the future of the material handling industry. This years’ event presented us with some interesting trends.
The Age of Electric – For the past 25 years I.C. lift trucks vs. Electric trucks was the narrative with R.O.I. equations becoming more and more modeled as the vehicle technology improved. Today there is no question we are there with every participating OEM showcasing not only electric Class I,II and III vehicles but a focus on VNA system vehicles. More over the Lithium Ion batteries took center stage in the motive power department. Long the standard for consumer electronics the watt per hour cost did not always justify the investment. However the white papers are in, and the last few years have shown impressive results.
Rise of the Robots – Automation processes have been showcased increasingly over the past 20 years at ProMat. This year there is no question that automation is no longer a standalone concept to increase productivity but rather the new factor for production. It is incorporated in everything from self-guided vehicles, conveyor systems that determine correct out put to moving rack structures that calculate inventory levels. Automation technologies affordability means that companies large and small can bring to material handling applications, a better way.
Become Enlightened – One of the most impressive trends that ProMat2019 clearly shows us is that the businesses and people who work for them have upped their game. For so long material handling had an undeserved reputation as a lag industry that struggled to attract talent. Not so anymore, not only are the companies providing cutting edge solutions designed to improve the future, but the people representing the products are experts of facilitation. The ‘sales person’ of the 70’s and 80’s has long retired and the new generation is educated, creative and an expert.
As we wind down another ProMat it exciting to know that the products, processes and people on display over the past 4 days start right back at work tomorrow. This 4 day window is just a glimpse into what the future looks like starting tomorrow, and it looks good, really good.
Recovering Cost in Your Business is Our Business
March 28, 2019
Most companies manage their business in terms of materials stored, manufactured or distributed. Others will manage their business as the established processes that comprise a productivity cycle. Some, usually the best companies will manage their business in terms of the impact or effortless connection of providing their customers with value. At IVDT, we have noticed working with those companies is that few look for and manage their business on what currently does not exist. Hidden to most businesses and managers are opportunities to recover and account for cost leakages otherwise unknown. A classic example for a company to control costs is to introduce a scale into a shipping department on a lift truck or pallet jack. Most shipping departments are under pressure of time to meet shipping schedules and therefore estimate the outgoing weight on the shipping waybill. If the estimate is higher than the actual load, the company is paying too much. In addition, if the weight is estimated less than the actual load the company will be hit with freight recovery charges from the carrier. This all to familiar scenario can cost a company thousands yearly in lost revenue. Fortunately IVDT manufactures the SkidWeigh ED2, ED3 and ED4 lift truck scales that fit onto any lift truck or pallet jack used in a shipping department. All scales are +/- 1% accurate to the capacity of the lift truck and are easily installed within 2 to 3 hours. The scale systems depending on the specifics of the application can print data through a Bluetooth connection, capture it in an external USB, or even wirelessly to any computer terminal. Most importantly the cost of these scales can be recovered in days and weeks from the time they are purchased. IVDT can help provide you with a way to recover hidden business revenue.
For More Information Call: 1-905-469-0985
Most companies manage their business in terms of materials stored, manufactured or distributed. Others will manage their business as the established processes that comprise a productivity cycle. Some, usually the best companies will manage their business in terms of the impact or effortless connection of providing their customers with value. At IVDT, we have noticed working with those companies is that few look for and manage their business on what currently does not exist. Hidden to most businesses and managers are opportunities to recover and account for cost leakages otherwise unknown. A classic example for a company to control costs is to introduce a scale into a shipping department on a lift truck or pallet jack. Most shipping departments are under pressure of time to meet shipping schedules and therefore estimate the outgoing weight on the shipping waybill. If the estimate is higher than the actual load, the company is paying too much. In addition, if the weight is estimated less than the actual load the company will be hit with freight recovery charges from the carrier. This all to familiar scenario can cost a company thousands yearly in lost revenue. Fortunately IVDT manufactures the SkidWeigh ED2, ED3 and ED4 lift truck scales that fit onto any lift truck or pallet jack used in a shipping department. All scales are +/- 1% accurate to the capacity of the lift truck and are easily installed within 2 to 3 hours. The scale systems depending on the specifics of the application can print data through a Bluetooth connection, capture it in an external USB, or even wirelessly to any computer terminal. Most importantly the cost of these scales can be recovered in days and weeks from the time they are purchased. IVDT can help provide you with a way to recover hidden business revenue.
For More Information Call: 1-905-469-0985
SkidWeigh is the Industry Standard for On-board Weighing
March 15th, 2019
Like so many products with competitive offerings understanding which one IS best is a difficult task. Ask the sales representative and of course they will tell you theirs is…and certainly will have brochures and literature to support that claim. The difficulty in determining best option lies in the fact that all products are built on a model comprised of cost and expertise of the solution they are manufactured for. Lift Truck Scales are no different and the material handling environments that they work in provide a unique set of challenges that ultimately determine what works and what doesn’t. IVDT has been manufacturing SkidWeigh lift truck scales for over 30 years and has become the industry favorite for the following 3 reasons, expertise, simplicity, and support. SkidWeigh ED series lift truck scales are engineered exclusively for material handling equipment and have several application specific options that generic scale companies simply do not. That means that when the dealer sales rep is working with their customer they don’t just sell a scale they sell a solution they can’t get anywhere else. Over the years IVDT has had the privilege to work with thousands of dealers and end users and come to understand the importance of designing the product with simplicity at the forefront. All SkidWeigh systems are designed to be installed in approximately 2 hours, making it both practical from a cost and productivity standpoint. Dealer technicians don’t get lost in labor hours and end users don’t need to pay a fortune to get it installed. More importantly all SkidWeigh systems are designed with the operator in mind utilizing a ‘lift-N-weigh’ strategy. Less requirement of the operator means less interruption to the business and ultimately more usage success for the company. Support is key to any businesses’ long term success and IVDT holds this in high regard. SkidWeigh’s lifespan of 14 plus years quite often outlast the vehicles, the operators, the sales reps and the managers from which it was first introduced. Therefore, new sales sales reps, technicians as well as operators and stakeholders require assistance. IVDT’s is second to none at response and resolution and one of the main reasons we are a go to vendor for hundreds of dealers. Beyond the brochure IVDT’s SkidWeigh ED series lift truck scales are reliable for the people who sell them. Accurate and rugged for the people who depend on them for an R.O.I.. Super simple for the operators who use them. With single user fleets of up to 800 units, OEM dealer price page acceptance and longstanding repeat dealer sales from every lift truck manufacturer, SkidWeigh is the industry standard.
For More Information Call: 1-905-469-0985
Like so many products with competitive offerings understanding which one IS best is a difficult task. Ask the sales representative and of course they will tell you theirs is…and certainly will have brochures and literature to support that claim. The difficulty in determining best option lies in the fact that all products are built on a model comprised of cost and expertise of the solution they are manufactured for. Lift Truck Scales are no different and the material handling environments that they work in provide a unique set of challenges that ultimately determine what works and what doesn’t. IVDT has been manufacturing SkidWeigh lift truck scales for over 30 years and has become the industry favorite for the following 3 reasons, expertise, simplicity, and support. SkidWeigh ED series lift truck scales are engineered exclusively for material handling equipment and have several application specific options that generic scale companies simply do not. That means that when the dealer sales rep is working with their customer they don’t just sell a scale they sell a solution they can’t get anywhere else. Over the years IVDT has had the privilege to work with thousands of dealers and end users and come to understand the importance of designing the product with simplicity at the forefront. All SkidWeigh systems are designed to be installed in approximately 2 hours, making it both practical from a cost and productivity standpoint. Dealer technicians don’t get lost in labor hours and end users don’t need to pay a fortune to get it installed. More importantly all SkidWeigh systems are designed with the operator in mind utilizing a ‘lift-N-weigh’ strategy. Less requirement of the operator means less interruption to the business and ultimately more usage success for the company. Support is key to any businesses’ long term success and IVDT holds this in high regard. SkidWeigh’s lifespan of 14 plus years quite often outlast the vehicles, the operators, the sales reps and the managers from which it was first introduced. Therefore, new sales sales reps, technicians as well as operators and stakeholders require assistance. IVDT’s is second to none at response and resolution and one of the main reasons we are a go to vendor for hundreds of dealers. Beyond the brochure IVDT’s SkidWeigh ED series lift truck scales are reliable for the people who sell them. Accurate and rugged for the people who depend on them for an R.O.I.. Super simple for the operators who use them. With single user fleets of up to 800 units, OEM dealer price page acceptance and longstanding repeat dealer sales from every lift truck manufacturer, SkidWeigh is the industry standard.
For More Information Call: 1-905-469-0985
Not all Forklift Scales are the Same
February 28th, 2019
Competition exist in almost all markets and understood correctly provides the consumer of products and services the ultimate value when deciding which option to buy. The material handling mobile scale industry is no different and there is plenty to consider in effectively getting value in the form of a true reliable R.O.I. All to often the selling dealership and or the end user are mislead by pricing that appears promotional and with huge price variations. To good to be true often rings true when you consider that price is only a third of the transactional equation to purchase a scale. Its what you do with the scale that counts, and if you cant do it reliably and consistently over time then all money saved is in fact wasted. For example, one of the key specifications for any weighing scale product is accuracy or the ability to reliably indicate the weight on the forks. IVDT manufactures all its scale products to +/- 1% of rated capacity, no exception! Years of manufacturing and working with customers in virtually all industries have been conclusive in determining that any variance beyond +/-1% becomes to unreliable as the margin variance becomes too great. A perfect example would be a walkie rider pallet jack scale with an accuracy rating of +/- 3%. The difference between 1% and 3% is as much as 180 lb’s, or on a load of 1500 lb’s a variance of 12%. 12% is just not a suitable variance for any measured or safety application in any business. Can you count parts with a 12% error rate? Can you confidently fill out a shipping waybill with a 12% variance? Can you transact with your customers in good faith knowing that your weight statement could be off by 12%? Industry leading accuracy is a combination of manufacturing the right components and marrying them together with patented software designed specifically for the hydraulic systems for which they function. Uncompromised engineering not only delivers guaranteed accuracy but also delivers it consistently over time by way of product durability with ‘Lift Accurate Technology’. IVDT’s ‘Lift Accurate Technology’ in the ED2/3 –EP series mobile weigh scales is the only product on the market designed specifically for pallet jacks that guarantees +/-1%.
Other than accuracy and reliability the cornerstone to IVDT’s success is the aftermarket product support that exists to serve not only new installations but also a population of tens of thousands of functioning units around the globe. Product support for both end users and distributors alike that exceeds industry expectations and provides incomparable customization have lead to long serving relationships and repeat business. Next time you are looking to purchase a material handling mobile scale ask yourself if the product is rugged, reliable and accurate.
Competition exist in almost all markets and understood correctly provides the consumer of products and services the ultimate value when deciding which option to buy. The material handling mobile scale industry is no different and there is plenty to consider in effectively getting value in the form of a true reliable R.O.I. All to often the selling dealership and or the end user are mislead by pricing that appears promotional and with huge price variations. To good to be true often rings true when you consider that price is only a third of the transactional equation to purchase a scale. Its what you do with the scale that counts, and if you cant do it reliably and consistently over time then all money saved is in fact wasted. For example, one of the key specifications for any weighing scale product is accuracy or the ability to reliably indicate the weight on the forks. IVDT manufactures all its scale products to +/- 1% of rated capacity, no exception! Years of manufacturing and working with customers in virtually all industries have been conclusive in determining that any variance beyond +/-1% becomes to unreliable as the margin variance becomes too great. A perfect example would be a walkie rider pallet jack scale with an accuracy rating of +/- 3%. The difference between 1% and 3% is as much as 180 lb’s, or on a load of 1500 lb’s a variance of 12%. 12% is just not a suitable variance for any measured or safety application in any business. Can you count parts with a 12% error rate? Can you confidently fill out a shipping waybill with a 12% variance? Can you transact with your customers in good faith knowing that your weight statement could be off by 12%? Industry leading accuracy is a combination of manufacturing the right components and marrying them together with patented software designed specifically for the hydraulic systems for which they function. Uncompromised engineering not only delivers guaranteed accuracy but also delivers it consistently over time by way of product durability with ‘Lift Accurate Technology’. IVDT’s ‘Lift Accurate Technology’ in the ED2/3 –EP series mobile weigh scales is the only product on the market designed specifically for pallet jacks that guarantees +/-1%.
Other than accuracy and reliability the cornerstone to IVDT’s success is the aftermarket product support that exists to serve not only new installations but also a population of tens of thousands of functioning units around the globe. Product support for both end users and distributors alike that exceeds industry expectations and provides incomparable customization have lead to long serving relationships and repeat business. Next time you are looking to purchase a material handling mobile scale ask yourself if the product is rugged, reliable and accurate.
How Long can you 'Weight' for Productivity?
January 24, 2019
Sometimes it is the simplest of concepts that are easy to implement that can have the greatest impact on any cost/time saving initiative. In this article we will explore how something simple like adding weigh scale to your material handling equipment, can increase the productivity of 3 specific areas in your warehouse.
1) Shipping Departments: The combination of an onboard scale with a printer mounted on your shipping trucks eliminates the need for operators to seek out floor scales to verify product weight during staging, as well as speeding up the weigh verification requirements for outgoing product. Solution: With a push of a button, IVDT’s ED series forklift scale systems in combination with our mobile printer allows the operator create a weight receipt or adhesive label without ever leaving his truck.
2) Receiving Departments: This same combination can significantly increase the productivity of most receiving departments by allowing the operator to verify incoming loads without ever leaving his forklift. Solution: IVDT’s ED series forklift scale systems in combination with our mobile printer allows the operator verify his load without ever leaving his truck.
3) Order Picking: By utilizing a mobile scale mounted on an electric pallet truck, most order picking operations can reduce picking errors and the time-consuming task of double checking each pallet on the dock. Solution: IVDT’s ED-EP series scale systems with Lift Accurate Technology is built specifically for electric pallet trucks. This system equipped with a wireless printer can significantly reduce pick times.
With each application the IVDT Solutions ED series forklift scale system, in combination with our onboard printers can significantly increase the productivity of your operation.
With all this hard work, it is important to partner with a supplier that will not only assist you in your quest for a solution, but will properly support you and your customer during the implementation and after the sale is completed.
At IVDT. we not only provide you with the assistance you require to sell the solution, but also the piece of mind in knowing our rugged, well built products and superior after market support will take care of you long after the sale.
For More Information Call: 1-905-469-0985
Sometimes it is the simplest of concepts that are easy to implement that can have the greatest impact on any cost/time saving initiative. In this article we will explore how something simple like adding weigh scale to your material handling equipment, can increase the productivity of 3 specific areas in your warehouse.
1) Shipping Departments: The combination of an onboard scale with a printer mounted on your shipping trucks eliminates the need for operators to seek out floor scales to verify product weight during staging, as well as speeding up the weigh verification requirements for outgoing product. Solution: With a push of a button, IVDT’s ED series forklift scale systems in combination with our mobile printer allows the operator create a weight receipt or adhesive label without ever leaving his truck.
2) Receiving Departments: This same combination can significantly increase the productivity of most receiving departments by allowing the operator to verify incoming loads without ever leaving his forklift. Solution: IVDT’s ED series forklift scale systems in combination with our mobile printer allows the operator verify his load without ever leaving his truck.
3) Order Picking: By utilizing a mobile scale mounted on an electric pallet truck, most order picking operations can reduce picking errors and the time-consuming task of double checking each pallet on the dock. Solution: IVDT’s ED-EP series scale systems with Lift Accurate Technology is built specifically for electric pallet trucks. This system equipped with a wireless printer can significantly reduce pick times.
With each application the IVDT Solutions ED series forklift scale system, in combination with our onboard printers can significantly increase the productivity of your operation.
With all this hard work, it is important to partner with a supplier that will not only assist you in your quest for a solution, but will properly support you and your customer during the implementation and after the sale is completed.
At IVDT. we not only provide you with the assistance you require to sell the solution, but also the piece of mind in knowing our rugged, well built products and superior after market support will take care of you long after the sale.
For More Information Call: 1-905-469-0985
The Difference Between Fleet Management and Fleet Utilization
January 10 2019
So you have figured out how many hours a day your lift trucks are operating. Your cost per hour maintenance ratio is at an all time low. The operator training programs have had a significant decrease in avoidable damage. Now what? What about your own business? How well do you understand the things in your own business that you currently cannot measure? For years’ fleet management and utilization were considered synonymous only because hour meters and maintenance spend was the only data available to end users and lift truck dealers. While those variables are important and greatly impact the relationship between the two stakeholders and do reduce fleet costs, they are but one factor that affects productivity. Fleet utilization is very different and requires metrics that dive deeper than just hours and dollars spent. It is estimated that in a lift truck operating hour true productive time is 40% or less. Flawed processes, poor staging, uncoordinated logistics and operator accountability are the true variables of managing fleet utilization. With productive lift truck time measured in minutes not hours imagine the ability to improve and strengthen material handling strategies. Imagine the financial impact of improving product flow. Business logistic managers can’t ignore the importance of unnecessary operational idling and the impact on the bottom line. All production machines must be operating with minimal downtime. Lift trucks need to keep lifting. Conveyor belts aren’t much good if they don’t convey anything. Cargo planes don’t move much freight if they don’t fly. It all starts with the utilization of your lift truck fleet. Find our what your current utilization operating standard is using the SkidWeigh Return on Investment Calculator.
For more information call 905-469-0985
So you have figured out how many hours a day your lift trucks are operating. Your cost per hour maintenance ratio is at an all time low. The operator training programs have had a significant decrease in avoidable damage. Now what? What about your own business? How well do you understand the things in your own business that you currently cannot measure? For years’ fleet management and utilization were considered synonymous only because hour meters and maintenance spend was the only data available to end users and lift truck dealers. While those variables are important and greatly impact the relationship between the two stakeholders and do reduce fleet costs, they are but one factor that affects productivity. Fleet utilization is very different and requires metrics that dive deeper than just hours and dollars spent. It is estimated that in a lift truck operating hour true productive time is 40% or less. Flawed processes, poor staging, uncoordinated logistics and operator accountability are the true variables of managing fleet utilization. With productive lift truck time measured in minutes not hours imagine the ability to improve and strengthen material handling strategies. Imagine the financial impact of improving product flow. Business logistic managers can’t ignore the importance of unnecessary operational idling and the impact on the bottom line. All production machines must be operating with minimal downtime. Lift trucks need to keep lifting. Conveyor belts aren’t much good if they don’t convey anything. Cargo planes don’t move much freight if they don’t fly. It all starts with the utilization of your lift truck fleet. Find our what your current utilization operating standard is using the SkidWeigh Return on Investment Calculator.
For more information call 905-469-0985
SkidWeigh ED2-Elite: History of Performance, Simplicity and Industry Leading Accuracy
November 28, 2018
History of Performance, Simplicity, and Industry Leading Accuracy
For over thirty years IVDT has been manufacturing the most widely accepted on-board lift truck scales in the world. Starting with the single function analog SP1000 series, used primarily by LTL freight companies to verify stated waybills, IVDT eventually released the industry standard ED2 Series weigh scale. The SkidWeigh ED2 mobile lift truck scale is the industry leading weighing benchmark for performance, technology and design. Engineered with the operator in mind the system is easy to use, accurate to +/- 1% of weighing capacity, and capable of withstanding the most demanding and challenging material handling environments. The system can be easily installed in the hydraulic lift circuit of any material handling equipment regardless of voltage and does not alter the rated capacity requiring an accessory rating. Once installed, an even simpler calibration process begins by lifting a known load against the weight of the empty forks or attachment. Once this is acknowledged the system software takes over and the ED2 mobile lift truck scale is ready to use.
Compact, Versatile and Wireless
Always seeking to enhance and improve, never satisfied with status quo IVDT is pleased to introduce the SkidWeigh ED2-Elite. Utilizing the same, patented software technology platform that delivers industry-leading accuracy, the Elite, is more compact, operator intuitive and offers users the option of Bluetooth connectivity. The sleeker design allows for an improved working area within the operator compartment as RS232 cables are eliminated and a reduced overall unit size allows for improved visibility. In addition the SkidWeigh ED2-Elite provides the operator with enhanced options such as the ability to add load weighs, calibrate to both forks and quick disconnect attachments, overload warnings and both print and label outputs. Designed to last, engineered to perform, the SkidWeigh ED2-Elite is the new benchmark in on-board material handling weighing.
Industry Leading Support
With a customer base that stretches beyond just North America the ability to service and support material handling dealers and end users is the number one priority for IVDT. With live technical services and product libraries that detail unit offerings for the past 30 years, customers alike will get support for products that are engineered to last. In addition to the most comprehensive material handling on-board systems available, IVDT also offers the unique and unmatched ability to provide custom solutions based on modular designs and patented software options.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
History of Performance, Simplicity, and Industry Leading Accuracy
For over thirty years IVDT has been manufacturing the most widely accepted on-board lift truck scales in the world. Starting with the single function analog SP1000 series, used primarily by LTL freight companies to verify stated waybills, IVDT eventually released the industry standard ED2 Series weigh scale. The SkidWeigh ED2 mobile lift truck scale is the industry leading weighing benchmark for performance, technology and design. Engineered with the operator in mind the system is easy to use, accurate to +/- 1% of weighing capacity, and capable of withstanding the most demanding and challenging material handling environments. The system can be easily installed in the hydraulic lift circuit of any material handling equipment regardless of voltage and does not alter the rated capacity requiring an accessory rating. Once installed, an even simpler calibration process begins by lifting a known load against the weight of the empty forks or attachment. Once this is acknowledged the system software takes over and the ED2 mobile lift truck scale is ready to use.
Compact, Versatile and Wireless
Always seeking to enhance and improve, never satisfied with status quo IVDT is pleased to introduce the SkidWeigh ED2-Elite. Utilizing the same, patented software technology platform that delivers industry-leading accuracy, the Elite, is more compact, operator intuitive and offers users the option of Bluetooth connectivity. The sleeker design allows for an improved working area within the operator compartment as RS232 cables are eliminated and a reduced overall unit size allows for improved visibility. In addition the SkidWeigh ED2-Elite provides the operator with enhanced options such as the ability to add load weighs, calibrate to both forks and quick disconnect attachments, overload warnings and both print and label outputs. Designed to last, engineered to perform, the SkidWeigh ED2-Elite is the new benchmark in on-board material handling weighing.
Industry Leading Support
With a customer base that stretches beyond just North America the ability to service and support material handling dealers and end users is the number one priority for IVDT. With live technical services and product libraries that detail unit offerings for the past 30 years, customers alike will get support for products that are engineered to last. In addition to the most comprehensive material handling on-board systems available, IVDT also offers the unique and unmatched ability to provide custom solutions based on modular designs and patented software options.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
Data on Demand, Featuring USB Downloads
January 25th, 2018
As a leading manufacturer of on-board vehicle productivity systems including scales and safety management systems, IVDT understands that what the customer really wants is the data output these systems are recording or producing. Before now the only way to receive a data record was via a paper print out receipt or an even more costly and complex integration with an existing network through various wireless technologies. Though both of these types of data transmissions are available from IVDT, and both have their place in specific applications, another form of data export was missing from on-board productivity systems. Thats why IVDT introduced USB data export into the market for a more cost effective, data reliable and simple solution to accessing data fast.
USB modules are half the price of a printers and never get lost, stolen or damaged, as it is inclusive in the unit itself. Furthermore, USB data does not get lost once recorded on the CPU, unlike print receipts that get lost or misplaced when on a clip board. At a fraction of the cost of a network installation the USB option is the perfect solutions for those companies that are looking to capture reliable data and download a ready sortable report. Requiring no I.T. assistance the USB is perfect for small to medium companies who want reliability and sustainability in data exports.
USB models are available on both the SkidWeigh Plus ED3 and ED4 data series scales. Which can log, sort and display weight, waybill or load identification, parts count, accumulative totaling and both operator I.D. and vehicle number. In addition, the Defender IM2 and IM3 impact management systems are also available with USB data export and provide detail on operator and vehicle usage, vehicle impact recording and OSHA pre-shift safety checks.
Call 469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com to find out how USB can benefit your business and find out what platform is best for your business.
As a leading manufacturer of on-board vehicle productivity systems including scales and safety management systems, IVDT understands that what the customer really wants is the data output these systems are recording or producing. Before now the only way to receive a data record was via a paper print out receipt or an even more costly and complex integration with an existing network through various wireless technologies. Though both of these types of data transmissions are available from IVDT, and both have their place in specific applications, another form of data export was missing from on-board productivity systems. Thats why IVDT introduced USB data export into the market for a more cost effective, data reliable and simple solution to accessing data fast.
USB modules are half the price of a printers and never get lost, stolen or damaged, as it is inclusive in the unit itself. Furthermore, USB data does not get lost once recorded on the CPU, unlike print receipts that get lost or misplaced when on a clip board. At a fraction of the cost of a network installation the USB option is the perfect solutions for those companies that are looking to capture reliable data and download a ready sortable report. Requiring no I.T. assistance the USB is perfect for small to medium companies who want reliability and sustainability in data exports.
USB models are available on both the SkidWeigh Plus ED3 and ED4 data series scales. Which can log, sort and display weight, waybill or load identification, parts count, accumulative totaling and both operator I.D. and vehicle number. In addition, the Defender IM2 and IM3 impact management systems are also available with USB data export and provide detail on operator and vehicle usage, vehicle impact recording and OSHA pre-shift safety checks.
Call 469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com to find out how USB can benefit your business and find out what platform is best for your business.
Customized Solutions Easier than you Think
January 5th, 2018
When it comes to adopting on-board vehicle technology to increase efficiency or improve productivity in material handling flow, in most cases it involves some sort of compromise. The end user must evaluate existing systems and determine which one fits their needs best then modify and tweak existing processes in order to make it work as needed. Off the shelf productivity systems can and do provide good results for the end user but with a strong commitment to changing both processes and the people involved. What if you could reverse the selection process based on a needs first approach? What if you could work directly with the supplier and modify and tweak the technology and supporting software to suit your exact requirements? At IVDT, you can. Our approach has always been the ability to offer and develop customized solutions for a specific need based on our industry leading weigh scales, impact detection and vehicle management systems. Recently IVDT was presented with an application from a LTL trucking company that was looking to transport expense recoverable card board from multiple store locations across the country. The problem the company faced; how to track the weight of each load, ensure that the right location gets credit for the recoverable and manage the data efficiently and accurately without paper. Analyzing the processes involved, IVDT was able to modify the ED4 Data Plus Scale System to accept a wireless barcode scanner fitted onto the lift truck to record the waybill number. From this the software was then customized to fit the existing processes required of the lift truck driver to recover the weight without need of a floor scale. Once the identification and weight data was recorded, the customized ED4 then automatically sends the data to a wi-fi base station where management can download and appropriate the reimbursement to the proper store of origin. The end result was the elimination of manual various steps as the forklift operators are no longer required to exit the forklift to record data or drive to a floor scale. The guarantee of accurate data as the waybill number identifying the store is recorded and matched with weight electronically through a wireless barcode scanner. And finally the elimination of manual reporting as the wi-fi base station produces the report automatically for management to expedite. Total time in the development and testing was approximately 6 weeks with the cost still being more advantageous than off the shelf systems. Backed by the same warranty and commitment to quality, IVDT offers customized solutions to suit most applications.
When it comes to adopting on-board vehicle technology to increase efficiency or improve productivity in material handling flow, in most cases it involves some sort of compromise. The end user must evaluate existing systems and determine which one fits their needs best then modify and tweak existing processes in order to make it work as needed. Off the shelf productivity systems can and do provide good results for the end user but with a strong commitment to changing both processes and the people involved. What if you could reverse the selection process based on a needs first approach? What if you could work directly with the supplier and modify and tweak the technology and supporting software to suit your exact requirements? At IVDT, you can. Our approach has always been the ability to offer and develop customized solutions for a specific need based on our industry leading weigh scales, impact detection and vehicle management systems. Recently IVDT was presented with an application from a LTL trucking company that was looking to transport expense recoverable card board from multiple store locations across the country. The problem the company faced; how to track the weight of each load, ensure that the right location gets credit for the recoverable and manage the data efficiently and accurately without paper. Analyzing the processes involved, IVDT was able to modify the ED4 Data Plus Scale System to accept a wireless barcode scanner fitted onto the lift truck to record the waybill number. From this the software was then customized to fit the existing processes required of the lift truck driver to recover the weight without need of a floor scale. Once the identification and weight data was recorded, the customized ED4 then automatically sends the data to a wi-fi base station where management can download and appropriate the reimbursement to the proper store of origin. The end result was the elimination of manual various steps as the forklift operators are no longer required to exit the forklift to record data or drive to a floor scale. The guarantee of accurate data as the waybill number identifying the store is recorded and matched with weight electronically through a wireless barcode scanner. And finally the elimination of manual reporting as the wi-fi base station produces the report automatically for management to expedite. Total time in the development and testing was approximately 6 weeks with the cost still being more advantageous than off the shelf systems. Backed by the same warranty and commitment to quality, IVDT offers customized solutions to suit most applications.
Don't 'Weight' to Increase Productivity in Your Shipping Department
December 1, 2017
For years at IVDT we have helped freight companies get a better handle on the weight of the loads transported, ensuring that those companies are billing or rebilling it correctly. As mentioned in a previous article less than 20% of shipping and receiving departments utilize floor scales on outgoing product shipments relying on estimates to fill out waybills. Unchecked, those estimates result in lost revenue for the freight company, and or potential overloading of axels creating a safety concern that could result in a fine. All the best freight companies do have some sort of check weighing process to safeguard against such inconsistencies. As a result of this weight verification the company of origin is re-invoiced the correct amount. Often this amount is seen as a ‘cost of doing business’ based on the limitations of the shipping department. But this limitation can be costly over time. One manufacturer of gun safes located in the mid-west reported that re-invoiced freight presented itself as upwards of $7,000.00 per month in hidden expenses.
Lately because of the need to be efficient and report correctly on expenses, shipping departments are becoming proactive and gaining control of outgoing freight weight before it leaves the building. One of the most efficient and cost effective ways that shipping departments are doing this is fitting an ED2-EP with Lift Accurate Technology, onto an existing electric pallet jack in the outgoing shipment process. No need to create an extra step with a floor scale, just lift the outgoing pallet with the powered jack receive the weight and fill out the waybill, one time ad correctly. Shipping costs are reported correctly with no surprise recovery statements to effect profitability later on. In addition, soft costs are realized in not having to redo paperwork and or create secondary journal entries. The ED2-EP with Lift Accurate Technology is accurate to +/- 1% of capacity, installs easily on any powered jack in a few short hours, and does not de-rate capacity and or require OEM fork modification, therefore fitting any pallet with ease. With no buttons to push only an indicator to read, the ED2-EP with Lift Accurate Technology immediately provides accuracy to any shipping department moments after installation. Rugged, Reliable and Accurate the ED2-EP with Lift Accurate Technology increases productivity in any shipping department.
For years at IVDT we have helped freight companies get a better handle on the weight of the loads transported, ensuring that those companies are billing or rebilling it correctly. As mentioned in a previous article less than 20% of shipping and receiving departments utilize floor scales on outgoing product shipments relying on estimates to fill out waybills. Unchecked, those estimates result in lost revenue for the freight company, and or potential overloading of axels creating a safety concern that could result in a fine. All the best freight companies do have some sort of check weighing process to safeguard against such inconsistencies. As a result of this weight verification the company of origin is re-invoiced the correct amount. Often this amount is seen as a ‘cost of doing business’ based on the limitations of the shipping department. But this limitation can be costly over time. One manufacturer of gun safes located in the mid-west reported that re-invoiced freight presented itself as upwards of $7,000.00 per month in hidden expenses.
Lately because of the need to be efficient and report correctly on expenses, shipping departments are becoming proactive and gaining control of outgoing freight weight before it leaves the building. One of the most efficient and cost effective ways that shipping departments are doing this is fitting an ED2-EP with Lift Accurate Technology, onto an existing electric pallet jack in the outgoing shipment process. No need to create an extra step with a floor scale, just lift the outgoing pallet with the powered jack receive the weight and fill out the waybill, one time ad correctly. Shipping costs are reported correctly with no surprise recovery statements to effect profitability later on. In addition, soft costs are realized in not having to redo paperwork and or create secondary journal entries. The ED2-EP with Lift Accurate Technology is accurate to +/- 1% of capacity, installs easily on any powered jack in a few short hours, and does not de-rate capacity and or require OEM fork modification, therefore fitting any pallet with ease. With no buttons to push only an indicator to read, the ED2-EP with Lift Accurate Technology immediately provides accuracy to any shipping department moments after installation. Rugged, Reliable and Accurate the ED2-EP with Lift Accurate Technology increases productivity in any shipping department.
Lift Accurate Technology Delivers Accurate Check Weighing for Pallet Trucks
October 5th, 2017
Class III Lift trucks, Electric Pallet Jacks and Stackers represent over 30% of the total lift truck market in North America. With the number of units delivered to end users every year reaching hundreds of thousands of units it makes sense that the demand for lift truck scales for class III applications is also on the rise. For years finding an accurate and affordable solution to capturing weight on a pallet jack has been an industry challenge. Load cell systems often cost more than the unit itself and require costly ongoing calibration to be used as a productive weight recovery system. The sensitivity, speed and relatively compact limit of the pallet jacks hydraulic system would not allow consistent weight recovery for more affordable hydraulic scales. IVDT now introduces the SkidWeigh ED2/3-EP with Lift Accurate technology lift truck scale designed specifically for the Class III, electric pallet jack market. Rigorous testing and application supported data has shown that consistently over multiple lifts the unit provides end users with weigh recovery that is +/-.99% of rated capacity. Now users can turn their pallet jacks into efficient and mobile weight recovery systems eliminating the time and need to define weight with the addition of a stationary pallet scale. The system installs in two hours or less, calibrates in minutes and does not require on going calibration or service. The IVDT SkidWeigh ED2/3-EP with Lift Accurate technology lift truck scale is ideal for pre-shipping weight definition, material handling applications where space is a concern, or truck delivery processes where weight is required for transactional purposes. The ED2/3 system also has various printer options including labelling and bluetooth capability. Designed for the material handling industry the ED series EP weigh scales with Lift Accurate technology fit onto any pallet jack and are designed to capture data that most companies simply cannot productively realize.
Class III Lift trucks, Electric Pallet Jacks and Stackers represent over 30% of the total lift truck market in North America. With the number of units delivered to end users every year reaching hundreds of thousands of units it makes sense that the demand for lift truck scales for class III applications is also on the rise. For years finding an accurate and affordable solution to capturing weight on a pallet jack has been an industry challenge. Load cell systems often cost more than the unit itself and require costly ongoing calibration to be used as a productive weight recovery system. The sensitivity, speed and relatively compact limit of the pallet jacks hydraulic system would not allow consistent weight recovery for more affordable hydraulic scales. IVDT now introduces the SkidWeigh ED2/3-EP with Lift Accurate technology lift truck scale designed specifically for the Class III, electric pallet jack market. Rigorous testing and application supported data has shown that consistently over multiple lifts the unit provides end users with weigh recovery that is +/-.99% of rated capacity. Now users can turn their pallet jacks into efficient and mobile weight recovery systems eliminating the time and need to define weight with the addition of a stationary pallet scale. The system installs in two hours or less, calibrates in minutes and does not require on going calibration or service. The IVDT SkidWeigh ED2/3-EP with Lift Accurate technology lift truck scale is ideal for pre-shipping weight definition, material handling applications where space is a concern, or truck delivery processes where weight is required for transactional purposes. The ED2/3 system also has various printer options including labelling and bluetooth capability. Designed for the material handling industry the ED series EP weigh scales with Lift Accurate technology fit onto any pallet jack and are designed to capture data that most companies simply cannot productively realize.
Don't Leave Money on the Dock!: SkidWeigh Improves Shipping Departments.
August 11th, 2017
One of the most frequent calls we receive is from small companies looking to get a handle on the weight of out going shipments. Many small companies, 9 lift trucks or less, do not have practical means of weighing outgoing product accurately. Most shipping departments rely on estimates when filling out transport carrier requirements. The result, when the product is check weighed by the carrier back at the hub, charge backs are put to the account creating variances in transport budgets. Equally as important but less understood are when outgoing shipments are understated and the result is overpaying the carrier. Those companies looking for certainty almost always arrive at on-board lift truck scales to boost accuracy in their shipping department. Even small companies compete for vehicle space and time with regards to staging outgoing product. For this reason alone floor scales are often bypassed out of convenience. However, utilizing a SkidWeigh ED3/4-GSS (General Shipping System) allows you to weigh loads at point of loading with no additional travel. Accurate to +/- 1% of capacity of the vehicle the system is perfect for safeguarding rate charge. In addition, the GSS platform has the ability to couple weight with load dimensions for rate contracts that charge byway of a DIM factor. Making it easy for the operator, the system can utilize Bluetooth scanners for to pair waybill numbers with weight and dimension measuremnts. The SkidWeigh ED3/4-GSS also has numerous data communication supports, ranging from Bluetooth printers, USB export activity reports and even wireless communication that is network viewable. The system is easily installed in approximately 2 hours on any material handling vehicle including electric pallet trucks and calibrates in minutes. The SkidWeigh ED3/4-GSS provides certainty for all shipping departments.
One of the most frequent calls we receive is from small companies looking to get a handle on the weight of out going shipments. Many small companies, 9 lift trucks or less, do not have practical means of weighing outgoing product accurately. Most shipping departments rely on estimates when filling out transport carrier requirements. The result, when the product is check weighed by the carrier back at the hub, charge backs are put to the account creating variances in transport budgets. Equally as important but less understood are when outgoing shipments are understated and the result is overpaying the carrier. Those companies looking for certainty almost always arrive at on-board lift truck scales to boost accuracy in their shipping department. Even small companies compete for vehicle space and time with regards to staging outgoing product. For this reason alone floor scales are often bypassed out of convenience. However, utilizing a SkidWeigh ED3/4-GSS (General Shipping System) allows you to weigh loads at point of loading with no additional travel. Accurate to +/- 1% of capacity of the vehicle the system is perfect for safeguarding rate charge. In addition, the GSS platform has the ability to couple weight with load dimensions for rate contracts that charge byway of a DIM factor. Making it easy for the operator, the system can utilize Bluetooth scanners for to pair waybill numbers with weight and dimension measuremnts. The SkidWeigh ED3/4-GSS also has numerous data communication supports, ranging from Bluetooth printers, USB export activity reports and even wireless communication that is network viewable. The system is easily installed in approximately 2 hours on any material handling vehicle including electric pallet trucks and calibrates in minutes. The SkidWeigh ED3/4-GSS provides certainty for all shipping departments.
Partnering with People
July 13th, 2017
Integrated Visual Data Technology has been partnering with lift truck dealers for over 30 years helping common customers with accessories such as SkidWeigh lift truck check weighing scales and access control. One such customer that commonly approaches dealers and us are the food banks within the cities of North America. We are pleased to offer 'Not for Profit' discounts to the dealers and ultimately the end user. Our policy is that it is not just a way to help an organization enhance productivity but to help communities and people. We gladly work with the sales associates and end users to supply SkidWeigh systems for both counterbalance and electric pallet trucks that deliver food. Every customer is equally important but some organizations causes reach beyond financial statements alone and impact families and their futures. IVDT appreciates partnering with those dealers who support such causes and more importantly the opportunity to give back.
Integrated Visual Data Technology has been partnering with lift truck dealers for over 30 years helping common customers with accessories such as SkidWeigh lift truck check weighing scales and access control. One such customer that commonly approaches dealers and us are the food banks within the cities of North America. We are pleased to offer 'Not for Profit' discounts to the dealers and ultimately the end user. Our policy is that it is not just a way to help an organization enhance productivity but to help communities and people. We gladly work with the sales associates and end users to supply SkidWeigh systems for both counterbalance and electric pallet trucks that deliver food. Every customer is equally important but some organizations causes reach beyond financial statements alone and impact families and their futures. IVDT appreciates partnering with those dealers who support such causes and more importantly the opportunity to give back.
National Forklift-Safety Day 2017
June 13th, 2017
Today marks the 3rd annual National Forklift-Safety Day. A day where industry professionals, associations, manufacturers, managers and people who work on the plant floor, commemorate and reflect on the importance of operating a lift truck safely. IVDT supports the initiative of National Forklift-Safety Day and would like to ensure that overall awareness is maintained all year through. That is why IVDT's commitment is to build in operator safety support options into all on-board systems. For a consultative discussion on forklift safety and how your business or your customers business may become safer, contact IVDT to learn more. Our check weighing scales, impact management systems, and access control units are designed to promote forklift safety everyday!
Today marks the 3rd annual National Forklift-Safety Day. A day where industry professionals, associations, manufacturers, managers and people who work on the plant floor, commemorate and reflect on the importance of operating a lift truck safely. IVDT supports the initiative of National Forklift-Safety Day and would like to ensure that overall awareness is maintained all year through. That is why IVDT's commitment is to build in operator safety support options into all on-board systems. For a consultative discussion on forklift safety and how your business or your customers business may become safer, contact IVDT to learn more. Our check weighing scales, impact management systems, and access control units are designed to promote forklift safety everyday!
20 Years: SkidWeigh Stands the Test of Time
May 31st, 2017
The President of the United States was Bill Clinton, the Prime Minister of Canada Jean Chretien. The most popular movie of the year was Titanic. The year was 1997. That was the year that Wilson Display Store Fixtures purchased one of the original SkidWeigh Plus systems for their Ontario manufacturing facility. The SkidWeigh Plus was IVDT’s first advanced on-board check weighing scale and data logger. Designed to provide detailed data such as waybill and shipping identifiers, operator login, and the ability to time stamp weight records, Wilson Display had replaced their floor scale and used their SkidWeigh Plus daily for the last 20 years.
We recently re-connected with Anthony at Wilson Display when he enquired about the purchase of a new unit to replace his old one that was no longer displaying the weight on the indicator. A quick service call determined that all that was needed was to replace a worn membrane and the scale was put back into operation the next day. Although the current generation of SkidWeigh Plus systems incorporate advanced technologies and several process options not available on the original offering, the original technology stood up uninterrupted for 20 years and is still going strong.
SkidWeigh systems are designed for the toughest material handling operations and capable of providing industry leading on-board weigh scale accuracy. The SkidWeigh Plus ED3 and ED4 are able to provide businesses with a number of productivity options with advance data exportation including USB and network connectivity. IVDT’s SkidWeigh systems provide solutions for the real world, solutions that last.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
The President of the United States was Bill Clinton, the Prime Minister of Canada Jean Chretien. The most popular movie of the year was Titanic. The year was 1997. That was the year that Wilson Display Store Fixtures purchased one of the original SkidWeigh Plus systems for their Ontario manufacturing facility. The SkidWeigh Plus was IVDT’s first advanced on-board check weighing scale and data logger. Designed to provide detailed data such as waybill and shipping identifiers, operator login, and the ability to time stamp weight records, Wilson Display had replaced their floor scale and used their SkidWeigh Plus daily for the last 20 years.
We recently re-connected with Anthony at Wilson Display when he enquired about the purchase of a new unit to replace his old one that was no longer displaying the weight on the indicator. A quick service call determined that all that was needed was to replace a worn membrane and the scale was put back into operation the next day. Although the current generation of SkidWeigh Plus systems incorporate advanced technologies and several process options not available on the original offering, the original technology stood up uninterrupted for 20 years and is still going strong.
SkidWeigh systems are designed for the toughest material handling operations and capable of providing industry leading on-board weigh scale accuracy. The SkidWeigh Plus ED3 and ED4 are able to provide businesses with a number of productivity options with advance data exportation including USB and network connectivity. IVDT’s SkidWeigh systems provide solutions for the real world, solutions that last.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
LEGAL FOR TRADE FORKLIFT SCALES?
TIME TO RETHINK THE ROI!
May 4th, 2017
Specializing in on-board forklift scales for over 25 years, we often meet with customers who at first are confused about ‘Legal for Trade’ and its lasting application on a forklift. The biggest problem that we see in the material handling industry is that the R.O.I. does not properly reflect the true nature of most applications. Too much is focused on the technology alone and not enough attention is paid to the material handling application where the scale and truck are inevitably going to work, or not? Greater than 85% of material handling applications require triple or quad mast ratings at specified heights, load and unload trailers, railcars or some form of linked transport and operate at a yearly usage of greater than 1600 hours with the trends growing towards double shifts. In addition, of these applications the majority are Mid B or greater with harsh operating conditions based on the need to maximize productivity and the forces of inertia on the equipment as a result of heavy loads in motion. What does all this mean for 'Legal for Trade' systems?
‘Legal for Trade’ systems utilize load cells which are effectively plated steel on the carriage with calibrated sensors to accept and transmit the pressure of the load to an indicator. The system at time of install requires precise calibration in order to bring the system within +/- .01%. Introduce the lift truck into Low B applications or greater and each impact and force upon the truck specifically the carriage and the variance to the aforementioned ‘Legal for Trade’ rating is effected. Which is why these systems require on-going service plans by a certified technician. Issues arise when the momentum of start / stop shuttling, hitting dock plates, and constant load forces on the carriage effect the variance within days after calibration. The challenge remains in coordinating calibration so the system is rated to spec and therefore dependable.
At the forefront of every R.O.I. is the initial equipment investment with the average sell price for a ‘Legal for Trade’ system running the end user between $8,000.00 and $10,500.00 respectively. In addition, installations usually run between 6 to 8 hours based on the familiarity of the scope of work or in some cases must be done at the manufacturers factory, plus cost of freight. The additional plate of steel on the carriage increases the lost load of the forklift along with the additional weight will reduce the capacity rating of the lift truck and require a certified OEM plate to be reissued. These three considerations along with a guarantee required service/calibration plan add up to a significant investment. The difficulty that we have experienced in the past is that although the R.O.I. makes sense in an analysis against modeled productivity, the sensitivity of the technology and the variables in the applications make it unreliable for predictable periods of time. Issues arise when re-billed customers challenge or dispute claims.
The above two issues are what has ultimately contributed to a high abandonment rate for ‘Legal for Trade’ systems. While we do sell such systems we insist on Mid A or lower applications and the usage of the system is directed more towards mixing, component identification and or parting. For all other applications we recommend that our customers begin their R.O.I. with the ED series hydraulic lift truck scales. The advantage of the technology and the success rate of the technology has to do with utilizing the hydraulic system of the lift truck. The integrity of the hydraulic system is engineered for the applications that the truck work in Low A to High C and therefore provide a stable and consistent measurement base. This means that the unit once calibrated, which takes 10 minutes or less and can be done by the end user at no additional cost remains calibrated as long as the hydraulic system of the truck remains unaffected. The hydraulic technology utilized by the ED series lift truck scale does not require additional material on the carriage and therefore does not change the capacity of the lift truck.
Designed for the material handling industry the ED series lift truck scales fit onto to all lift trucks and electric pallet jacks including rough terrain vehicles and are RUGGED, RELIABLE, and ACCURATE. Proven in the most demanding applications the ED series forklift scales deliver on an industry leading 2 year warranty, remain +/- 1% accurate or better and do not require recalibration or interfere with the capacity of the lift truck.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
Specializing in on-board forklift scales for over 25 years, we often meet with customers who at first are confused about ‘Legal for Trade’ and its lasting application on a forklift. The biggest problem that we see in the material handling industry is that the R.O.I. does not properly reflect the true nature of most applications. Too much is focused on the technology alone and not enough attention is paid to the material handling application where the scale and truck are inevitably going to work, or not? Greater than 85% of material handling applications require triple or quad mast ratings at specified heights, load and unload trailers, railcars or some form of linked transport and operate at a yearly usage of greater than 1600 hours with the trends growing towards double shifts. In addition, of these applications the majority are Mid B or greater with harsh operating conditions based on the need to maximize productivity and the forces of inertia on the equipment as a result of heavy loads in motion. What does all this mean for 'Legal for Trade' systems?
‘Legal for Trade’ systems utilize load cells which are effectively plated steel on the carriage with calibrated sensors to accept and transmit the pressure of the load to an indicator. The system at time of install requires precise calibration in order to bring the system within +/- .01%. Introduce the lift truck into Low B applications or greater and each impact and force upon the truck specifically the carriage and the variance to the aforementioned ‘Legal for Trade’ rating is effected. Which is why these systems require on-going service plans by a certified technician. Issues arise when the momentum of start / stop shuttling, hitting dock plates, and constant load forces on the carriage effect the variance within days after calibration. The challenge remains in coordinating calibration so the system is rated to spec and therefore dependable.
At the forefront of every R.O.I. is the initial equipment investment with the average sell price for a ‘Legal for Trade’ system running the end user between $8,000.00 and $10,500.00 respectively. In addition, installations usually run between 6 to 8 hours based on the familiarity of the scope of work or in some cases must be done at the manufacturers factory, plus cost of freight. The additional plate of steel on the carriage increases the lost load of the forklift along with the additional weight will reduce the capacity rating of the lift truck and require a certified OEM plate to be reissued. These three considerations along with a guarantee required service/calibration plan add up to a significant investment. The difficulty that we have experienced in the past is that although the R.O.I. makes sense in an analysis against modeled productivity, the sensitivity of the technology and the variables in the applications make it unreliable for predictable periods of time. Issues arise when re-billed customers challenge or dispute claims.
The above two issues are what has ultimately contributed to a high abandonment rate for ‘Legal for Trade’ systems. While we do sell such systems we insist on Mid A or lower applications and the usage of the system is directed more towards mixing, component identification and or parting. For all other applications we recommend that our customers begin their R.O.I. with the ED series hydraulic lift truck scales. The advantage of the technology and the success rate of the technology has to do with utilizing the hydraulic system of the lift truck. The integrity of the hydraulic system is engineered for the applications that the truck work in Low A to High C and therefore provide a stable and consistent measurement base. This means that the unit once calibrated, which takes 10 minutes or less and can be done by the end user at no additional cost remains calibrated as long as the hydraulic system of the truck remains unaffected. The hydraulic technology utilized by the ED series lift truck scale does not require additional material on the carriage and therefore does not change the capacity of the lift truck.
Designed for the material handling industry the ED series lift truck scales fit onto to all lift trucks and electric pallet jacks including rough terrain vehicles and are RUGGED, RELIABLE, and ACCURATE. Proven in the most demanding applications the ED series forklift scales deliver on an industry leading 2 year warranty, remain +/- 1% accurate or better and do not require recalibration or interfere with the capacity of the lift truck.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
SkidWeigh, Simplicity, Sustainable
April 12th, 2017
The key to our success in becoming the leading manufacturer of lift truck scales to the material handling industry is keeping the concept of simple at the forefront of everything we design and produce. We understand that material handling dealers and the customers that they serve are not buying a scale but rather a solution to a problem, and the last thing they want to buy is another problem. Therefore over 30 years of experience have enabled us to identify 3 main areas where the manufacturing concept of simple has given us a definitive edge.
Most systems on the market today are designed without the operator in mind and actually create more work and impede safe vehicle operation. Requiring multiple buttons and micro-switches to be pushed and activated during the weighing process is not only a distraction, but also makes consistent usage prohibitive just on human error alone. All SkidWeigh systems utilize ‘Lift & Weigh’ technology that does not require a single button, micro-switch, or external hardware to weigh a load. Operators find the systems integrate productively into daily operations with little change in day to day operation.
Just as important is the technician and the ease of installing the equipment. Load cell systems can be complex and costly ranging in the 10 to 15 hour installation period while micro-switch systems require additional external mounts that are different for each piece of equipment requiring the tech to make a assumptions about equipment and an application they know little about. In some cases the installation process must be performed by factory trained technicians direct from the scale manufacturer, which is costly and seldom convenient. However, the real problem comes when the end user has a problem in the field, making it extremely difficult for a dealer technician to properly assess the situation. We hear over and over from technicians that the SkidWeigh systems are the easiest and most effective lift truck scale systems they have installed. The process to install two components requires approximately 2 hours and an even simpler automatic calibration allows the tech and end user to get back to work.
Finally, when a material handling dealer sells a value added accessory to one of its customers it is ultimately the sales representative that sticks his or her neck out on the line. Therefore, the system must be all the above but work consistently over time and allow both the end user and the sales rep to get back to core business. IVDT’s SkidWeigh systems are designed to be self-sustainable by the end user, meaning that all operation and calibration can be performed easily and quickly without the requirement for service. Sales reps can focus on core dealer growth initiatives such as machines, parts and service. Simple in all aspects are what makes the SkidWeigh on-board scale a ‘go to’ for most material handling dealers. With operational fleet sizes of over 400 trucks, partnerships with dealers and OEM’s, and the ability to ship same day only IVDT can provide the product and service with consistency and dependability.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
The key to our success in becoming the leading manufacturer of lift truck scales to the material handling industry is keeping the concept of simple at the forefront of everything we design and produce. We understand that material handling dealers and the customers that they serve are not buying a scale but rather a solution to a problem, and the last thing they want to buy is another problem. Therefore over 30 years of experience have enabled us to identify 3 main areas where the manufacturing concept of simple has given us a definitive edge.
Most systems on the market today are designed without the operator in mind and actually create more work and impede safe vehicle operation. Requiring multiple buttons and micro-switches to be pushed and activated during the weighing process is not only a distraction, but also makes consistent usage prohibitive just on human error alone. All SkidWeigh systems utilize ‘Lift & Weigh’ technology that does not require a single button, micro-switch, or external hardware to weigh a load. Operators find the systems integrate productively into daily operations with little change in day to day operation.
Just as important is the technician and the ease of installing the equipment. Load cell systems can be complex and costly ranging in the 10 to 15 hour installation period while micro-switch systems require additional external mounts that are different for each piece of equipment requiring the tech to make a assumptions about equipment and an application they know little about. In some cases the installation process must be performed by factory trained technicians direct from the scale manufacturer, which is costly and seldom convenient. However, the real problem comes when the end user has a problem in the field, making it extremely difficult for a dealer technician to properly assess the situation. We hear over and over from technicians that the SkidWeigh systems are the easiest and most effective lift truck scale systems they have installed. The process to install two components requires approximately 2 hours and an even simpler automatic calibration allows the tech and end user to get back to work.
Finally, when a material handling dealer sells a value added accessory to one of its customers it is ultimately the sales representative that sticks his or her neck out on the line. Therefore, the system must be all the above but work consistently over time and allow both the end user and the sales rep to get back to core business. IVDT’s SkidWeigh systems are designed to be self-sustainable by the end user, meaning that all operation and calibration can be performed easily and quickly without the requirement for service. Sales reps can focus on core dealer growth initiatives such as machines, parts and service. Simple in all aspects are what makes the SkidWeigh on-board scale a ‘go to’ for most material handling dealers. With operational fleet sizes of over 400 trucks, partnerships with dealers and OEM’s, and the ability to ship same day only IVDT can provide the product and service with consistency and dependability.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
The Missing Link in Fleet Management
March 08, 2017
The term Fleet Management is perhaps the most over used and least understood word in the material handling industry. For years vehicle management systems professed to give managers responsible for lift truck efficiency a window into their fleet performance by simply separating runtime hours against total shift time. The problem with this simple metric is, its too simple and doesn’t properly represent the ebbs and flows of even the simplest of material handling environments. Business doesn’t happen in hours it happens in seconds. The ability to understand the reasons behind operational idling and justified downtime and even more important the ability to improve it remained beyond the grasp of most managers.
Integrated Visual Data Technology Inc., a manufacturer of on-board vehicle systems specializing in the material handling industry is excited to introduce the SkidWeigh Plus UT suite of lift truck efficiency tools. The difference and uniqueness of the SkidWeigh Plus UT systems is that it is the only system on the market that gives stakeholders automatic notification of all operational idling downtimes and the ability to analyze it for continuous improvement initiatives. The operational principal differs from other systems in that as soon as the lift truck is turned on it seeks to identify and separate productive from non-productive vehicle usage, in seconds. The patented technology of the SkidWeigh Plus UT can identify gaps in an efficient productivity cycle such as lifting, shuttling, and staging and in real time record with specific reason the causes of downtime events. For the first time material handling utilization is defined within specific, measurable and achievable KPI values as a operational idling factor against the application for which the lift truck was purchased not simply whether it is on or off. Perfect theoretical utilization of 100% may not be realistic, but realizing your company’s optimum utilization factor allows for increased productivity and the ability to ‘right size’ your lift truck fleet.
The SkidWeigh Plus UT system allows end users to realize optimum efficiency and manage their lift truck fleet with the additional options that compliment any application. Options include, impact notification, a check weighing scale with capacity overload warnings, and customized safety checks. For the first time Fleet Management becomes more than just hours of usage on a lift truck. Now with the SkidWeigh Plus UT managers are connected in real time with the actual events in a productivity cycle and have the ability to optimize a true utilization factor.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
The term Fleet Management is perhaps the most over used and least understood word in the material handling industry. For years vehicle management systems professed to give managers responsible for lift truck efficiency a window into their fleet performance by simply separating runtime hours against total shift time. The problem with this simple metric is, its too simple and doesn’t properly represent the ebbs and flows of even the simplest of material handling environments. Business doesn’t happen in hours it happens in seconds. The ability to understand the reasons behind operational idling and justified downtime and even more important the ability to improve it remained beyond the grasp of most managers.
Integrated Visual Data Technology Inc., a manufacturer of on-board vehicle systems specializing in the material handling industry is excited to introduce the SkidWeigh Plus UT suite of lift truck efficiency tools. The difference and uniqueness of the SkidWeigh Plus UT systems is that it is the only system on the market that gives stakeholders automatic notification of all operational idling downtimes and the ability to analyze it for continuous improvement initiatives. The operational principal differs from other systems in that as soon as the lift truck is turned on it seeks to identify and separate productive from non-productive vehicle usage, in seconds. The patented technology of the SkidWeigh Plus UT can identify gaps in an efficient productivity cycle such as lifting, shuttling, and staging and in real time record with specific reason the causes of downtime events. For the first time material handling utilization is defined within specific, measurable and achievable KPI values as a operational idling factor against the application for which the lift truck was purchased not simply whether it is on or off. Perfect theoretical utilization of 100% may not be realistic, but realizing your company’s optimum utilization factor allows for increased productivity and the ability to ‘right size’ your lift truck fleet.
The SkidWeigh Plus UT system allows end users to realize optimum efficiency and manage their lift truck fleet with the additional options that compliment any application. Options include, impact notification, a check weighing scale with capacity overload warnings, and customized safety checks. For the first time Fleet Management becomes more than just hours of usage on a lift truck. Now with the SkidWeigh Plus UT managers are connected in real time with the actual events in a productivity cycle and have the ability to optimize a true utilization factor.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
On-board Weight and Dimensioning VERIFICATION Systems for the LTL Industry
February 14, 2017
On-board Weight and Dimensioning Systems for the LTL Industry
Designed specifically for the processes of the LTL transportation industry this SkidWeigh Plus system captures critical data that freight companies and shippers require to move products on pallets. Similar to all SkidWeigh Plus systems CubeFreight allows the operator to weigh a pallet, however, the system also prompts the operator to input the dimensions of the load. Standard pallet sizes are already programmed into the system for easy selection with the option of entering irregular sizes manually. When the pallet length and the width have been chosen the system allows the operator to enter the height using the Pallet Height Indicator without ever leaving the seat of the lift truck. The entire process can be achieved in less than 10 seconds with the use of long-range scanners to identify the load. Once all the data is collected it is either extracted through the USB on the unit or sent wirelessly to a base station communication hub for FTP data upload to a network, practical for larger fleets.
Engineered to be both practical and cost effective the SkidWeigh Plus CubeFreight system can be easily installed in the hydraulic lift circuit of any material handling equipment regardless of voltage and capacity. In addition, the system does not alter the rating or capacity of the vehicle requiring it to be re-plated by the OEM. Once installed an even simpler calibration process begins by lifting a known weight against the weight of the empty forks or attachment. Once this is acknowledged the system software takes over and the SkidWeigh Plus CubeFreight is ready to use. Like all SkidWeigh systems the CubeFreight utilizes an IP65 rated compact digital instrument enclosure that protects against dust and moisture standing up against the toughest material handling environments.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
On-board Weight and Dimensioning Systems for the LTL Industry
Designed specifically for the processes of the LTL transportation industry this SkidWeigh Plus system captures critical data that freight companies and shippers require to move products on pallets. Similar to all SkidWeigh Plus systems CubeFreight allows the operator to weigh a pallet, however, the system also prompts the operator to input the dimensions of the load. Standard pallet sizes are already programmed into the system for easy selection with the option of entering irregular sizes manually. When the pallet length and the width have been chosen the system allows the operator to enter the height using the Pallet Height Indicator without ever leaving the seat of the lift truck. The entire process can be achieved in less than 10 seconds with the use of long-range scanners to identify the load. Once all the data is collected it is either extracted through the USB on the unit or sent wirelessly to a base station communication hub for FTP data upload to a network, practical for larger fleets.
Engineered to be both practical and cost effective the SkidWeigh Plus CubeFreight system can be easily installed in the hydraulic lift circuit of any material handling equipment regardless of voltage and capacity. In addition, the system does not alter the rating or capacity of the vehicle requiring it to be re-plated by the OEM. Once installed an even simpler calibration process begins by lifting a known weight against the weight of the empty forks or attachment. Once this is acknowledged the system software takes over and the SkidWeigh Plus CubeFreight is ready to use. Like all SkidWeigh systems the CubeFreight utilizes an IP65 rated compact digital instrument enclosure that protects against dust and moisture standing up against the toughest material handling environments.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
The Power of RF: Communication that Drives Material Handling
January 27th, 2016
Designing and manufacturing industrial on-board products for over 30 years IVDT’s main deliverable is still information. Regardless whether it is a scale, impact management system, or utilization telemetric device the thing customers want the most is the ability to track the data output of those devices. Now more than ever with the demands on businesses such as globalization, ‘just in time’ productivity, and competition, the need for that data is critical to the over all success of most organizations. In the past paper was the medium which drove business results, the process of obtaining data, putting it in a paper format and delivering it for managerial analytics was the flow that set the pace for trade.
Today technology provides businesses the ability to not only capture yesterday but the ability to impact tomorrow. At the center of development on all of IVDT’s on-board products is the ability to take event data and deliver it in ‘real time’ so that stakeholders have current visibility into their operations and the ability to make decisions with quicker more efficient impact. IVDT’s wireless communication platform is designed utilizing RF communication for the following benefits to the end user. The system is robust in that is not effected by network outages as it is a self-contained technology that integrates rather than relies on other platform support. In addition as it is its own complete technology system it does not require cloud, Wi-Fi or network fees to operate. With this last fact the system is borderless and practical in the most remote of regions. IVDT’s RF communication system is also versatile with regards to delivering data in ‘real time’ by way of a LAN web page portal or FTP direct to file folders within the network.
Regardless of the application or industry if your business benefits from on-board vehicle systems then RF can take you to the next level. ‘Real Time’ data puts you right at the source of your fleet management responsibilities without compromising focus on the overall operation. For more information visit www.skidweigh.com and check out SkidWeigh Plus ED4, Defender IM3 and UT Series utilization telemetric.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
Designing and manufacturing industrial on-board products for over 30 years IVDT’s main deliverable is still information. Regardless whether it is a scale, impact management system, or utilization telemetric device the thing customers want the most is the ability to track the data output of those devices. Now more than ever with the demands on businesses such as globalization, ‘just in time’ productivity, and competition, the need for that data is critical to the over all success of most organizations. In the past paper was the medium which drove business results, the process of obtaining data, putting it in a paper format and delivering it for managerial analytics was the flow that set the pace for trade.
Today technology provides businesses the ability to not only capture yesterday but the ability to impact tomorrow. At the center of development on all of IVDT’s on-board products is the ability to take event data and deliver it in ‘real time’ so that stakeholders have current visibility into their operations and the ability to make decisions with quicker more efficient impact. IVDT’s wireless communication platform is designed utilizing RF communication for the following benefits to the end user. The system is robust in that is not effected by network outages as it is a self-contained technology that integrates rather than relies on other platform support. In addition as it is its own complete technology system it does not require cloud, Wi-Fi or network fees to operate. With this last fact the system is borderless and practical in the most remote of regions. IVDT’s RF communication system is also versatile with regards to delivering data in ‘real time’ by way of a LAN web page portal or FTP direct to file folders within the network.
Regardless of the application or industry if your business benefits from on-board vehicle systems then RF can take you to the next level. ‘Real Time’ data puts you right at the source of your fleet management responsibilities without compromising focus on the overall operation. For more information visit www.skidweigh.com and check out SkidWeigh Plus ED4, Defender IM3 and UT Series utilization telemetric.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
Reduce the Risks with Programmable Forklift Safety Check
December 1st, 2016
A vehicle that is in need of repair, defective or in any way unsafe should be removed from service. The problem should be recorded on a log and reported to a supervisor immediately. (Occupational Health and Safety Administration)
Millions of pre-shift forklift safety checks are performed every day in North America with the majority of them being recorded and filed on paper. As companies diligently commit to meeting the requirements of OSHA, most would admit that they still feel vulnerable and that the information filed on the pre-shift safety is either inaccurate or the defects the process is designed to detect are not communicated effectively. The three main problems most admit are routine, communication and discretion. Before the start of each shift most operators select the safety checklist book assigned to their forklift and proceed to check the same boxes off daily. The situation that occurs is that most operators hurry the checklist without even performing the required inspection. The result is that slight defects that could prevent accidents or costly repairs left unattended can escalate to bigger issues of concern. On top of this process is the issue of communication. Paper does not flow at the same pace as business today. The ability of responsible supervisors to inspect paper checklists and take action is impossible. Operators don’t have time in the face of productivity to report the findings of each pre-shift checklist prior to commencing operation. The outcome is a detached filing system that is maintained for compliancy. A by-product of this detached process and the third problem that companies face with regards to pre-shift safety checks is discretionary reporting. When it comes to reporting on the functionality of ‘Inspect the Lift Device’, operators can vary on what passes or fails. Without the supervisor who is ultimately responsible to further inspect and decide on action, the process leaves the company vulnerable.
IVDT now introduces a versatile and programmable pre-safety check option that is available on the Defender Impact Management system, and the SkidWeigh ED3 and 4 series lift truck scale systems. The option of programmability allows supervisors and stakeholders the ability to create specific checklists for different equipment, such as denoting the differences between an internal combustion counterbalance and an electric pallet truck. In addition the ability to change and add questions allows companies to add customized required responses such as acknowledgement of a valid forklift operator certificate. The system collects the series of safety responses in a batch file. If all responses are detailed as P ‘Pass’, then the file is date stamped and the Pre-Shift Checklist is recorded as a Pass and stored for compliance reasons. If on the other hand even one question is recorded as F ‘Fail’ then the batch file is recorded as Failed. On systems with wireless connectivity that failed report is sent to a LAN webpage and or an email sent direct to the supervisor or stakeholder or action. Practical functionality is met through versatility, closed loop communication and supervisory notification.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
A vehicle that is in need of repair, defective or in any way unsafe should be removed from service. The problem should be recorded on a log and reported to a supervisor immediately. (Occupational Health and Safety Administration)
Millions of pre-shift forklift safety checks are performed every day in North America with the majority of them being recorded and filed on paper. As companies diligently commit to meeting the requirements of OSHA, most would admit that they still feel vulnerable and that the information filed on the pre-shift safety is either inaccurate or the defects the process is designed to detect are not communicated effectively. The three main problems most admit are routine, communication and discretion. Before the start of each shift most operators select the safety checklist book assigned to their forklift and proceed to check the same boxes off daily. The situation that occurs is that most operators hurry the checklist without even performing the required inspection. The result is that slight defects that could prevent accidents or costly repairs left unattended can escalate to bigger issues of concern. On top of this process is the issue of communication. Paper does not flow at the same pace as business today. The ability of responsible supervisors to inspect paper checklists and take action is impossible. Operators don’t have time in the face of productivity to report the findings of each pre-shift checklist prior to commencing operation. The outcome is a detached filing system that is maintained for compliancy. A by-product of this detached process and the third problem that companies face with regards to pre-shift safety checks is discretionary reporting. When it comes to reporting on the functionality of ‘Inspect the Lift Device’, operators can vary on what passes or fails. Without the supervisor who is ultimately responsible to further inspect and decide on action, the process leaves the company vulnerable.
IVDT now introduces a versatile and programmable pre-safety check option that is available on the Defender Impact Management system, and the SkidWeigh ED3 and 4 series lift truck scale systems. The option of programmability allows supervisors and stakeholders the ability to create specific checklists for different equipment, such as denoting the differences between an internal combustion counterbalance and an electric pallet truck. In addition the ability to change and add questions allows companies to add customized required responses such as acknowledgement of a valid forklift operator certificate. The system collects the series of safety responses in a batch file. If all responses are detailed as P ‘Pass’, then the file is date stamped and the Pre-Shift Checklist is recorded as a Pass and stored for compliance reasons. If on the other hand even one question is recorded as F ‘Fail’ then the batch file is recorded as Failed. On systems with wireless connectivity that failed report is sent to a LAN webpage and or an email sent direct to the supervisor or stakeholder or action. Practical functionality is met through versatility, closed loop communication and supervisory notification.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
The Evolution of On-Board Forklift Scales, The SkidWeigh ED2-Elite
November 3rd, 2016
History of Performance, Simplicity, and Industry Leading Accuracy
For over thirty years IVDT has been manufacturing the most widely accepted on-board lift truck scales in the world. Starting with the single function analog SP1000 series, used primarily by LTL freight companies to verify stated waybills, IVDT eventually released the industry standard ED2 Series weigh scale. The SkidWeigh ED2 mobile lift truck scale is the industry leading weighing benchmark for performance, technology and design. Engineered with the operator in mind the system is easy to use, accurate to +/- 1% of weighing capacity, and capable of withstanding the most demanding and challenging material handling environments. The system can be easily installed in the hydraulic lift circuit of any material handling equipment regardless of voltage and does not alter the rated capacity requiring an accessory rating. Once installed, an even simpler calibration process begins by lifting a known load against the weight of the empty forks or attachment. Once this is acknowledged the system software takes over and the ED2 mobile lift truck scale is ready to use.
Compact, Versatile and Wireless
Always seeking to enhance and improve, never satisfied with status quo IVDT is pleased to introduce the SkidWeigh ED2-Elite. Utilizing the same, patented software technology platform that delivers industry-leading accuracy, the Elite, is more compact, operator intuitive and offers users the option of Bluetooth connectivity. The sleeker design allows for an improved working area within the operator compartment as RS232 cables are eliminated and a reduced overall unit size allows for improved visibility. In addition the SkidWeigh ED2-Elite provides the operator with enhanced options such as the ability to add load weighs, calibrate to both forks and quick disconnect attachments, overload warnings and both print and label outputs. Designed to last, engineered to perform, the SkidWeigh ED2-Elite is the new benchmark in on-board material handling weighing.
Industry Leading Support
With a customer base that stretches beyond just North America the ability to service and support material handling dealers and end users is the number one priority for IVDT. With live technical services and product libraries that detail unit offerings for the past 30 years, customers alike will get support for products that are engineered to last. In addition to the most comprehensive material handling on-board systems available, IVDT also offers the unique and unmatched ability to provide custom solutions based on modular designs and patented software options.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
History of Performance, Simplicity, and Industry Leading Accuracy
For over thirty years IVDT has been manufacturing the most widely accepted on-board lift truck scales in the world. Starting with the single function analog SP1000 series, used primarily by LTL freight companies to verify stated waybills, IVDT eventually released the industry standard ED2 Series weigh scale. The SkidWeigh ED2 mobile lift truck scale is the industry leading weighing benchmark for performance, technology and design. Engineered with the operator in mind the system is easy to use, accurate to +/- 1% of weighing capacity, and capable of withstanding the most demanding and challenging material handling environments. The system can be easily installed in the hydraulic lift circuit of any material handling equipment regardless of voltage and does not alter the rated capacity requiring an accessory rating. Once installed, an even simpler calibration process begins by lifting a known load against the weight of the empty forks or attachment. Once this is acknowledged the system software takes over and the ED2 mobile lift truck scale is ready to use.
Compact, Versatile and Wireless
Always seeking to enhance and improve, never satisfied with status quo IVDT is pleased to introduce the SkidWeigh ED2-Elite. Utilizing the same, patented software technology platform that delivers industry-leading accuracy, the Elite, is more compact, operator intuitive and offers users the option of Bluetooth connectivity. The sleeker design allows for an improved working area within the operator compartment as RS232 cables are eliminated and a reduced overall unit size allows for improved visibility. In addition the SkidWeigh ED2-Elite provides the operator with enhanced options such as the ability to add load weighs, calibrate to both forks and quick disconnect attachments, overload warnings and both print and label outputs. Designed to last, engineered to perform, the SkidWeigh ED2-Elite is the new benchmark in on-board material handling weighing.
Industry Leading Support
With a customer base that stretches beyond just North America the ability to service and support material handling dealers and end users is the number one priority for IVDT. With live technical services and product libraries that detail unit offerings for the past 30 years, customers alike will get support for products that are engineered to last. In addition to the most comprehensive material handling on-board systems available, IVDT also offers the unique and unmatched ability to provide custom solutions based on modular designs and patented software options.
For More information call 905-469-0985 or check out www.skidweigh.com
Make a Lasting Impression, Managing Impacts, Creating Safe and Cost Effective Workplaces
October 20th, 2016
All companies that operate material handling equipment whether large fleets of lift trucks or just one piece of equipment have had to deal with vehicle or surrounding infrastructure damage and sometimes injury. In most cases impacts can be expected as mistakes do happen, however when these events get out of control they can cause extensive damage which adversely effects safety and operating costs. While Impact Monitors have been around the material handling world for 20 years the abandonment rate has been extremely high for those companies seeking them to gain control over their workplace. Why? Our extensive research with businesses has shown us that Impact Management introductions failed due to one or a combination of the following 5 hurdles. The first is technology integration or lack of support from the manufacturer coupled with the limited product knowledge by the selling dealer. Every application is different and each technology introduction has to be fine tuned to achieve the optimum result and effectiveness. Seldom if ever is there an integration plan by the manufacturer for on-going support especially when technical programming is required to dial in the units to a specific application. The second is that most systems are incompatible with the end users production reality. Shutting the truck down and relying on easily lost and expensive FOB keys for access is just not sustainable for any length of time. Thirdly lack of an integration plan that promotes safety and accountability with a focused return on investment. All too often the Impact Monitors are incorrectly sold as the solution on their own. Another reason these systems fail and an important one in todays manufacturing, logistics and distribution industry is the mobility of data. Supervisors, managers and executives with an interest in controlling the safety and cost of their material handling environment are busier than ever. Event notifications must take place on computer screens, PDA's and smart phones not audible on site alarms that require these managers to override. The last and most important contributor to the failure rate of the Impact Monitors is the operator themselves. If a system functions on the premise of trying to catch people then the initial response from those affected is one of concern and separation. The majority of Impact Monitor manufacturers failed to design their systems as tools to assist operators in understanding their material handling environment by giving them pre-warnings allowing them to understand safe thresholds.
Fortunately IVDT designed the Defender series of Impact Detection systems with the above at the forefront. The IVDT Defender series Impact Detection system gathers information related to impacts as they occur in your material handling environment and displays them in 2 separate impact levels (light and severe) so you can control and modify operator behaviour. At the forefront of the Defender series product line is the design of the product to be self-programmed and set up by the end user. The ability to program operator codes, adjust 'G' settings, and remove or add event notification in the software are all easily changed and formatted by the users within minutes. Without programming codes required from the manufacturer and or the need for a dealer technician to change settings the system can be aligned to the operation quicker and more cost effectively. Not relying on additional keys or FOB start up systems also means that the Defender can always be accessed by the right personnel with correct ID number assignment therefore eliminating the cost and inconvenience that can result when these items are lost or misplaced. Unique to the Defender systems and the sustainability of its integration into applications is the design premise of non-shutdown. Most Impact Monitors introductions are met with failure as not all impacts produce damage or safety concern. Therefore machine shutdown provides unnecessary productivity disruption and in the event that a supervisory override is required to put the lift truck back into production it can be very costly. Supervisors and managers can create a culture of safety and accountability whereby severe impact event notifications assigned to an operator can be investigated without disruption. By providing two 2 channel monitoring the Defender series Impact Detection systems give the operator a notification or threshold warning allowing them to take ownership and better understanding of their driving. This feature alone results in less severe impacts, less compromised safety situations and ultimately less vehicle, product or infrastructure damage. The Defender series Impact Detection systems utilizes four solution models where beginning with the IM2 the system records operator impact occurrence allowing supervisors or managers to investigate for noticeable damage to machine, product or infrastructure. Acting like a 'black box' in aviation the event and placement of the operator responsible for the notification is recorded in the IM2 and can only be accessed by authorized assignment. The IM3 Defender Plus system provides complete mobility for supervisors and managers by providing event notification to their computers, PDA's and smart phones when it happens. Utilizing 'Real Time Data' the IM3 notifies authorized personnel at the same time the event occurs and also records the detail history so that trends and variables can be analysed. The ED4 and ED5 systems utilize the Defender Impact Detection system and also provide options such as on-board load weighing, fleet management utilization and OSHA safety checks. Designed for the material handling industry the Defender series of Impact detection systems fit not all lift truck vehicles and are designed to capture data that most companies simply cannot productively realize.
For More information 905-469-0985 or sales@ivdtsolutions.com
All companies that operate material handling equipment whether large fleets of lift trucks or just one piece of equipment have had to deal with vehicle or surrounding infrastructure damage and sometimes injury. In most cases impacts can be expected as mistakes do happen, however when these events get out of control they can cause extensive damage which adversely effects safety and operating costs. While Impact Monitors have been around the material handling world for 20 years the abandonment rate has been extremely high for those companies seeking them to gain control over their workplace. Why? Our extensive research with businesses has shown us that Impact Management introductions failed due to one or a combination of the following 5 hurdles. The first is technology integration or lack of support from the manufacturer coupled with the limited product knowledge by the selling dealer. Every application is different and each technology introduction has to be fine tuned to achieve the optimum result and effectiveness. Seldom if ever is there an integration plan by the manufacturer for on-going support especially when technical programming is required to dial in the units to a specific application. The second is that most systems are incompatible with the end users production reality. Shutting the truck down and relying on easily lost and expensive FOB keys for access is just not sustainable for any length of time. Thirdly lack of an integration plan that promotes safety and accountability with a focused return on investment. All too often the Impact Monitors are incorrectly sold as the solution on their own. Another reason these systems fail and an important one in todays manufacturing, logistics and distribution industry is the mobility of data. Supervisors, managers and executives with an interest in controlling the safety and cost of their material handling environment are busier than ever. Event notifications must take place on computer screens, PDA's and smart phones not audible on site alarms that require these managers to override. The last and most important contributor to the failure rate of the Impact Monitors is the operator themselves. If a system functions on the premise of trying to catch people then the initial response from those affected is one of concern and separation. The majority of Impact Monitor manufacturers failed to design their systems as tools to assist operators in understanding their material handling environment by giving them pre-warnings allowing them to understand safe thresholds.
Fortunately IVDT designed the Defender series of Impact Detection systems with the above at the forefront. The IVDT Defender series Impact Detection system gathers information related to impacts as they occur in your material handling environment and displays them in 2 separate impact levels (light and severe) so you can control and modify operator behaviour. At the forefront of the Defender series product line is the design of the product to be self-programmed and set up by the end user. The ability to program operator codes, adjust 'G' settings, and remove or add event notification in the software are all easily changed and formatted by the users within minutes. Without programming codes required from the manufacturer and or the need for a dealer technician to change settings the system can be aligned to the operation quicker and more cost effectively. Not relying on additional keys or FOB start up systems also means that the Defender can always be accessed by the right personnel with correct ID number assignment therefore eliminating the cost and inconvenience that can result when these items are lost or misplaced. Unique to the Defender systems and the sustainability of its integration into applications is the design premise of non-shutdown. Most Impact Monitors introductions are met with failure as not all impacts produce damage or safety concern. Therefore machine shutdown provides unnecessary productivity disruption and in the event that a supervisory override is required to put the lift truck back into production it can be very costly. Supervisors and managers can create a culture of safety and accountability whereby severe impact event notifications assigned to an operator can be investigated without disruption. By providing two 2 channel monitoring the Defender series Impact Detection systems give the operator a notification or threshold warning allowing them to take ownership and better understanding of their driving. This feature alone results in less severe impacts, less compromised safety situations and ultimately less vehicle, product or infrastructure damage. The Defender series Impact Detection systems utilizes four solution models where beginning with the IM2 the system records operator impact occurrence allowing supervisors or managers to investigate for noticeable damage to machine, product or infrastructure. Acting like a 'black box' in aviation the event and placement of the operator responsible for the notification is recorded in the IM2 and can only be accessed by authorized assignment. The IM3 Defender Plus system provides complete mobility for supervisors and managers by providing event notification to their computers, PDA's and smart phones when it happens. Utilizing 'Real Time Data' the IM3 notifies authorized personnel at the same time the event occurs and also records the detail history so that trends and variables can be analysed. The ED4 and ED5 systems utilize the Defender Impact Detection system and also provide options such as on-board load weighing, fleet management utilization and OSHA safety checks. Designed for the material handling industry the Defender series of Impact detection systems fit not all lift truck vehicles and are designed to capture data that most companies simply cannot productively realize.
For More information 905-469-0985 or sales@ivdtsolutions.com
Best in Class Accuracy with the ED2-EP Electric Pallet Truck Scale
July 28th , 2016
Class III Lift trucks, Electric Pallet Jacks and Stackers represent over 30% of the total lift truck market in North America. With the number of units delivered to end users every year reaching hundreds of thousands of units it makes sense that the demand for lift truck scales for class III applications is also on the rise. For years finding an accurate and affordable solution to capturing weight on a pallet jack has been an industry challenge. Load cell systems often cost more than the unit itself and require costly ongoing calibration to be used as a productive weight recovery system. The sensitivity, speed and relatively compact limit of the pallet jacks hydraulic system would not allow consistent weight recovery for more affordable hydraulic scales. IVDT now introduces the SkidWeigh ED2/3-EP with Lift Accurate technology lift truck scale designed specifically for the Class III, electric pallet jack market. Rigorous testing and application supported data has shown that consistently over multiple lifts the unit provides end users with weigh recovery that is +/-.99% of rated capacity. Now users can turn their pallet jacks into efficient and mobile weight recovery systems eliminating the time and need to define weight with the addition of a stationary pallet scale. The system installs in two hours or less, calibrates in minutes and does not require on going calibration or service. The IVDT SkidWeigh ED2/3-EP with Lift Accurate technology lift truck scale is ideal for pre-shipping weight definition, material handling applications where space is a concern, or truck delivery processes where weight is required for transactional purposes. The ED2/3 system also has various printer options including labelling and bluetooth capability. Designed for the material handling industry the ED series EP weigh scales with Lift Accurate technology fit onto any pallet jack and are designed to capture data that most companies simply cannot productively realize.
For More information 905-469-0985
Class III Lift trucks, Electric Pallet Jacks and Stackers represent over 30% of the total lift truck market in North America. With the number of units delivered to end users every year reaching hundreds of thousands of units it makes sense that the demand for lift truck scales for class III applications is also on the rise. For years finding an accurate and affordable solution to capturing weight on a pallet jack has been an industry challenge. Load cell systems often cost more than the unit itself and require costly ongoing calibration to be used as a productive weight recovery system. The sensitivity, speed and relatively compact limit of the pallet jacks hydraulic system would not allow consistent weight recovery for more affordable hydraulic scales. IVDT now introduces the SkidWeigh ED2/3-EP with Lift Accurate technology lift truck scale designed specifically for the Class III, electric pallet jack market. Rigorous testing and application supported data has shown that consistently over multiple lifts the unit provides end users with weigh recovery that is +/-.99% of rated capacity. Now users can turn their pallet jacks into efficient and mobile weight recovery systems eliminating the time and need to define weight with the addition of a stationary pallet scale. The system installs in two hours or less, calibrates in minutes and does not require on going calibration or service. The IVDT SkidWeigh ED2/3-EP with Lift Accurate technology lift truck scale is ideal for pre-shipping weight definition, material handling applications where space is a concern, or truck delivery processes where weight is required for transactional purposes. The ED2/3 system also has various printer options including labelling and bluetooth capability. Designed for the material handling industry the ED series EP weigh scales with Lift Accurate technology fit onto any pallet jack and are designed to capture data that most companies simply cannot productively realize.
For More information 905-469-0985
The Customer Experience is Key
October 30th, 2015
Supporting lift truck dealers in North America and around the globe is both an opportunity and a responsibility. IVDT’s success is contingent on the trust that dealers put into our products and more importantly when needed, customer support. As the leading manufacturer of on-board lift truck scales, overload protection devices and impact management systems we understand that trust in what we do is the critical component to the supply chain and the reason we have excelled for over 30 years. Quite often during the sales process, product features and price point become the focus for the dealer and the end user. While these two factors are very important we believe they are far less so to the end user than the top 3 reasons we have customer relationships that span over 20 years with fleets of over 300 units.
One of the first things our customers tell us is that reliability and accuracy on our products allows them to concentrate on their business instead of second guessing the accuracy. Add that to the fact that the SkidWeigh ED Series products do not require on-going calibration and you have products that both you as a selling dealer and your end user can rely on over and over.
Another reason that our products are so well received is ‘simplification of design’. Every product is engineered with the operator in mind and the understanding its purpose must simplify the material handling process, not complicate the operational process. When a product is simple for the end user to integrate, less time is spent on the product and more time is spent on productivity. This means end users and selling dealers can focus on their work ahead.
The third reason for our success is best in class response and aftermarket support. We understand that everyone has a job to do and a specific expertise, weather you are an operations manager in a steel mill or a parts supervisor at a material handling dealership. We understand that the best way to serve is provide the detailed product knowledge when you need it and how you need it. With 12-hour sales and service coverage and live support our response is quick to respond.
IVDT manufacturers and distributes the following reliable and easy to use products. Weigh scales for both counter balance and electric pallet trucks lift trucks of all capacities. Impact Management systems designed to alert your operators before collisions happen and notify management in real time when potential damage has occurred. And simple and cost effective safety prevention tools such fork leveling.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
Supporting lift truck dealers in North America and around the globe is both an opportunity and a responsibility. IVDT’s success is contingent on the trust that dealers put into our products and more importantly when needed, customer support. As the leading manufacturer of on-board lift truck scales, overload protection devices and impact management systems we understand that trust in what we do is the critical component to the supply chain and the reason we have excelled for over 30 years. Quite often during the sales process, product features and price point become the focus for the dealer and the end user. While these two factors are very important we believe they are far less so to the end user than the top 3 reasons we have customer relationships that span over 20 years with fleets of over 300 units.
One of the first things our customers tell us is that reliability and accuracy on our products allows them to concentrate on their business instead of second guessing the accuracy. Add that to the fact that the SkidWeigh ED Series products do not require on-going calibration and you have products that both you as a selling dealer and your end user can rely on over and over.
Another reason that our products are so well received is ‘simplification of design’. Every product is engineered with the operator in mind and the understanding its purpose must simplify the material handling process, not complicate the operational process. When a product is simple for the end user to integrate, less time is spent on the product and more time is spent on productivity. This means end users and selling dealers can focus on their work ahead.
The third reason for our success is best in class response and aftermarket support. We understand that everyone has a job to do and a specific expertise, weather you are an operations manager in a steel mill or a parts supervisor at a material handling dealership. We understand that the best way to serve is provide the detailed product knowledge when you need it and how you need it. With 12-hour sales and service coverage and live support our response is quick to respond.
IVDT manufacturers and distributes the following reliable and easy to use products. Weigh scales for both counter balance and electric pallet trucks lift trucks of all capacities. Impact Management systems designed to alert your operators before collisions happen and notify management in real time when potential damage has occurred. And simple and cost effective safety prevention tools such fork leveling.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
'Overload' Your Companies Safety Program!
October 16th, 2015
There have been many improvements year over year with regards to improved safety and its impact on material handling equipment. And although, operator training and pre-shift safety checks are legally required in most developed industrial sectors, forklift accidents still occur, and that trend is increasing. With approximately 1 million forklifts or powered industrial vehicles operating in the United States alone, a CNN report states that the top three common forklift accidents, according to an Arizona study are vehicle tip overs and overloading, collision caused by excessive speed, operators being crushed between vehicle or enclosure. While training goes along way to ensure a safeguard against the three scenarios just mentioned the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety states that improper tools and attachments ie., capacity rating on a forklift, and stress on the operator to be productive are major contributing factors that cause forklift accidents such as those mentioned above.
Fortunately IVDT Solutions has been manufacturing products designed to compliment the safety programs of forward thinking companies for decades. All IVDT lift truck scales have an overload indicator option available that many companies ascribing to a best in class safety environment have come to rely on where training may not be the only solution. Essentially the overload option on the ED series lift truck scale is calibrated and set to notify the operator by way of either a visual or audible alarm that the rated capacity threshold has been reached on the vehicle. This adds extra protection from improper assignment of vehicles to work required, lack of equipment understanding, and ‘one off’ unique usage that the truck is just not rated to perform. ED series lift truck scales are easily installed on any make and model of lift truck in 2.5 hours or less, do not effect the rated OEM capacity of the vehicle, and do not require regular or on-going maintenance once calibrated. They are extremely easy for operators to use and in most cases, depending on the specific options, require no operator input.
New this year launched at the National Safety Congress and Expo in Atlanta Georgia IVDT introduced the SkidWeigh-OL. Utilizing the reliability of the ED Series Weigh Scales the SkidWeigh-OL is designed to provide enhanced forklift overloading protection by automatically indicating to the operator the percentage of capacity a load on the forks is compared to capacity of the lift truck. This means that the operator does not need to relate the load in weight to the capacity plate of the lift truck, the SkidWeigh-OL automatically, with no buttons to push, calculates and indicates to the operator the safe range of weigh operation. When the load is at 95% or exceeds the capacity of the vehicle an alarm is sounded at the point where the load is just off the ground, preventing dangerous situations such as tip overs. Check out the SkidWeigh-OL.
Designed for the material handling industry the IVDT ED series lift truck scales with overload option fit onto to all lift trucks, reach trucks, rough terrain and zoom booms and are designed to improve safety, eliminate damage and increase productivity. Proven in the most demanding applications the ED series lift truck scale is not only a productivity tool but are a rugged, reliable, and accurate safety protection device for your business and operators.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
There have been many improvements year over year with regards to improved safety and its impact on material handling equipment. And although, operator training and pre-shift safety checks are legally required in most developed industrial sectors, forklift accidents still occur, and that trend is increasing. With approximately 1 million forklifts or powered industrial vehicles operating in the United States alone, a CNN report states that the top three common forklift accidents, according to an Arizona study are vehicle tip overs and overloading, collision caused by excessive speed, operators being crushed between vehicle or enclosure. While training goes along way to ensure a safeguard against the three scenarios just mentioned the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety states that improper tools and attachments ie., capacity rating on a forklift, and stress on the operator to be productive are major contributing factors that cause forklift accidents such as those mentioned above.
Fortunately IVDT Solutions has been manufacturing products designed to compliment the safety programs of forward thinking companies for decades. All IVDT lift truck scales have an overload indicator option available that many companies ascribing to a best in class safety environment have come to rely on where training may not be the only solution. Essentially the overload option on the ED series lift truck scale is calibrated and set to notify the operator by way of either a visual or audible alarm that the rated capacity threshold has been reached on the vehicle. This adds extra protection from improper assignment of vehicles to work required, lack of equipment understanding, and ‘one off’ unique usage that the truck is just not rated to perform. ED series lift truck scales are easily installed on any make and model of lift truck in 2.5 hours or less, do not effect the rated OEM capacity of the vehicle, and do not require regular or on-going maintenance once calibrated. They are extremely easy for operators to use and in most cases, depending on the specific options, require no operator input.
New this year launched at the National Safety Congress and Expo in Atlanta Georgia IVDT introduced the SkidWeigh-OL. Utilizing the reliability of the ED Series Weigh Scales the SkidWeigh-OL is designed to provide enhanced forklift overloading protection by automatically indicating to the operator the percentage of capacity a load on the forks is compared to capacity of the lift truck. This means that the operator does not need to relate the load in weight to the capacity plate of the lift truck, the SkidWeigh-OL automatically, with no buttons to push, calculates and indicates to the operator the safe range of weigh operation. When the load is at 95% or exceeds the capacity of the vehicle an alarm is sounded at the point where the load is just off the ground, preventing dangerous situations such as tip overs. Check out the SkidWeigh-OL.
Designed for the material handling industry the IVDT ED series lift truck scales with overload option fit onto to all lift trucks, reach trucks, rough terrain and zoom booms and are designed to improve safety, eliminate damage and increase productivity. Proven in the most demanding applications the ED series lift truck scale is not only a productivity tool but are a rugged, reliable, and accurate safety protection device for your business and operators.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
The Show Never Ends...
October 2nd , 2015
This week marked the 2015 National Safety Council Expo in Atlanta Georgia. Although the festivities, seminars and vendor exhibits came to a conclusion on Wednesday, Industrial Safety Awareness is a 24/7, 365 day a year campaign. With over 5000 different vendors from around the world representing different safety strategies, products and services only 4 including IVDT Solutions represented the material handling industry. With over 100 fatalities per year, 35,000 major injuries and 62,000 minor injuries occurring every year in North America, and a resounding $135 million being spent on avoidable damage repair, there is a lot of work to be done!
Saving lives is an ongoing commitment and in the spirit of the show itself to enhance that objective through, leadership, research, education and advocacy IVDT Solutions is pleased to have attended and lead the way for the material handling industry. IVDT from the very beginning has always engineered and designed products to improve productivity and safety in the material handling industry. This NSC show proved to be a great opportunity to see first hand some of those products with immediate payback benefits for any workplace safety campaign. Some of the headliners that IVDT Solutions showcased are the Defender series of Impact Management systems built specifically for improving operator safety and reducing overall damage to the workplace. From the moment it is introduced on a forklift fleet, operator total awareness and accountability is brought into clear view of the entire workplace. Utilizing advance operator danger warnings without production interruption it also provides supervisors and managers with high-level warnings to investigate. No monthly fees are required for this wireless device as it integrates directly into your network and is capable of sending notification emails and providing activity reports. Another product showcased with great interest was the SkidLevel carriage and fork leveling indicator. One inch can mean catastrophe when placing a load on a rack that is already a problem for the operators view point with extreme angles and the obstruction of a mast. With the SkidLevel that angle is always a sure fit and fork placement is guaranteed safe as the indicator, positioned at operator eye level, eliminates mistakes. Retailing around $400.00 the SkidLevel proves that safety doesn’t have to be costly or complex. Even more impressive is the fact that there is no installation required and with one button calibration that means that it is ready to work safely in minutes. This NSC Expo provided a great opportunity to launch a new product and IVDT Solutions was pleased to introduce the SkidWeigh-OL. Long associated with manufacturing the most rugged, reliable and accurate scales for forklifts on the market, IVDT now manufactures the SkidWeigh-OL, which is an overload warning device only. The industry has been using on-board scales for the purpose of overload detection for years without the real need for stated weight. The SkidWeigh-OL lets the operator know confidently what percentage of the lift truck capacity a load is on the end of the forks. No need to double check capacity plates, second guess waybills labeling the load or worst case guess if there is no weight stamp at all, the SkidWeigh-OL will prevent the most statistically occurring accident in North America, forklift tipping.
Although the NSC show is over, IVDT Solutions will continue to promote safer work places in the material handling industry. In doing so we would like to thank all the people who stopped by to discuss solutions for change and improvement and look to meeting again in 2016. Until then ‘We Make your Company Safer one Lift Truck at a Time!’
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
This week marked the 2015 National Safety Council Expo in Atlanta Georgia. Although the festivities, seminars and vendor exhibits came to a conclusion on Wednesday, Industrial Safety Awareness is a 24/7, 365 day a year campaign. With over 5000 different vendors from around the world representing different safety strategies, products and services only 4 including IVDT Solutions represented the material handling industry. With over 100 fatalities per year, 35,000 major injuries and 62,000 minor injuries occurring every year in North America, and a resounding $135 million being spent on avoidable damage repair, there is a lot of work to be done!
Saving lives is an ongoing commitment and in the spirit of the show itself to enhance that objective through, leadership, research, education and advocacy IVDT Solutions is pleased to have attended and lead the way for the material handling industry. IVDT from the very beginning has always engineered and designed products to improve productivity and safety in the material handling industry. This NSC show proved to be a great opportunity to see first hand some of those products with immediate payback benefits for any workplace safety campaign. Some of the headliners that IVDT Solutions showcased are the Defender series of Impact Management systems built specifically for improving operator safety and reducing overall damage to the workplace. From the moment it is introduced on a forklift fleet, operator total awareness and accountability is brought into clear view of the entire workplace. Utilizing advance operator danger warnings without production interruption it also provides supervisors and managers with high-level warnings to investigate. No monthly fees are required for this wireless device as it integrates directly into your network and is capable of sending notification emails and providing activity reports. Another product showcased with great interest was the SkidLevel carriage and fork leveling indicator. One inch can mean catastrophe when placing a load on a rack that is already a problem for the operators view point with extreme angles and the obstruction of a mast. With the SkidLevel that angle is always a sure fit and fork placement is guaranteed safe as the indicator, positioned at operator eye level, eliminates mistakes. Retailing around $400.00 the SkidLevel proves that safety doesn’t have to be costly or complex. Even more impressive is the fact that there is no installation required and with one button calibration that means that it is ready to work safely in minutes. This NSC Expo provided a great opportunity to launch a new product and IVDT Solutions was pleased to introduce the SkidWeigh-OL. Long associated with manufacturing the most rugged, reliable and accurate scales for forklifts on the market, IVDT now manufactures the SkidWeigh-OL, which is an overload warning device only. The industry has been using on-board scales for the purpose of overload detection for years without the real need for stated weight. The SkidWeigh-OL lets the operator know confidently what percentage of the lift truck capacity a load is on the end of the forks. No need to double check capacity plates, second guess waybills labeling the load or worst case guess if there is no weight stamp at all, the SkidWeigh-OL will prevent the most statistically occurring accident in North America, forklift tipping.
Although the NSC show is over, IVDT Solutions will continue to promote safer work places in the material handling industry. In doing so we would like to thank all the people who stopped by to discuss solutions for change and improvement and look to meeting again in 2016. Until then ‘We Make your Company Safer one Lift Truck at a Time!’
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
Big Lifts, Big Risks!
July 23, 2015
It is estimated that between 5% and 10% of the total internal combustion lift trucks sold are 20,000LB and larger. At first glance this may seem like a relatively small number representing a small market, however, when you factor that in that total class IV and V deliveries in 2013 in the United States alone were 67,000, Big Trucks quickly add up. Big lifts are generally used for very specific heavy lift applications that fall outside the every-day, high-cycle pallet movement of the standard small lift. Serving primarily heavy industry, resource transfer and intermodal businesses, the environment, working application and load movement are very different and therefore provide challenges and risks for both the operator and the cargo which is often at significant value. The first challenge for big truck applications is tipping as a result of overloading the truck beyond its capacity. Big truck applications because of the size of the payload and the special consideration of the environment required often do not have certified weight verification on hand. Often estimating based on the manufacturing process or said waybill is the only available option, but when wrong it can be dangerous and costly. The second challenge is when a big truck is overloaded beyond capacity repeatedly it can cause machine failure to the hydraulic system, drive train, and axel groups. When this happens it can be extremely costly to the organization that deploys these trucks, bigger lift trucks have bigger repair bills no question, never mind the downtime cost and or rental charger to replace temporarily. The third challenge that big truck users face without having reliable knowledge of the weight the truck is lifting is overloading transport trucks as part of the next stage of the product flow. When this occurs it almost always results in fines and delays in shipment as a result. All transport carriers are subject to both a safety rating for their axel carrying capacity and are bound by the weight restriction laws of the states of which they operate in. There is simply too much at stake to guess.
Fortunately IVDT Solutions manufactures the ED series SkidWeigh forklift scale system with the HD, heavy duty, optioned designed specifically for trucks 15,000lb and larger. Rugged, Reliable and accurate the ED series HD models are built for the toughest applications and are software configured to provide the most consistent weight recovery on big trucks in the industry today. Easy to install, no ongoing calibration, whatever capacity your lift truck 15,000 – 90,000LB the IVDT Solutions ED series HD forklift scale system, with +/-1% of capacity will allow you to take the guess work out of safety, product damage, machine breakdown costs and overloading.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
It is estimated that between 5% and 10% of the total internal combustion lift trucks sold are 20,000LB and larger. At first glance this may seem like a relatively small number representing a small market, however, when you factor that in that total class IV and V deliveries in 2013 in the United States alone were 67,000, Big Trucks quickly add up. Big lifts are generally used for very specific heavy lift applications that fall outside the every-day, high-cycle pallet movement of the standard small lift. Serving primarily heavy industry, resource transfer and intermodal businesses, the environment, working application and load movement are very different and therefore provide challenges and risks for both the operator and the cargo which is often at significant value. The first challenge for big truck applications is tipping as a result of overloading the truck beyond its capacity. Big truck applications because of the size of the payload and the special consideration of the environment required often do not have certified weight verification on hand. Often estimating based on the manufacturing process or said waybill is the only available option, but when wrong it can be dangerous and costly. The second challenge is when a big truck is overloaded beyond capacity repeatedly it can cause machine failure to the hydraulic system, drive train, and axel groups. When this happens it can be extremely costly to the organization that deploys these trucks, bigger lift trucks have bigger repair bills no question, never mind the downtime cost and or rental charger to replace temporarily. The third challenge that big truck users face without having reliable knowledge of the weight the truck is lifting is overloading transport trucks as part of the next stage of the product flow. When this occurs it almost always results in fines and delays in shipment as a result. All transport carriers are subject to both a safety rating for their axel carrying capacity and are bound by the weight restriction laws of the states of which they operate in. There is simply too much at stake to guess.
Fortunately IVDT Solutions manufactures the ED series SkidWeigh forklift scale system with the HD, heavy duty, optioned designed specifically for trucks 15,000lb and larger. Rugged, Reliable and accurate the ED series HD models are built for the toughest applications and are software configured to provide the most consistent weight recovery on big trucks in the industry today. Easy to install, no ongoing calibration, whatever capacity your lift truck 15,000 – 90,000LB the IVDT Solutions ED series HD forklift scale system, with +/-1% of capacity will allow you to take the guess work out of safety, product damage, machine breakdown costs and overloading.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
June 9th, 2015 national forklift safety day
June 9th, 2015
This year June 9th marked the second annual National Forklift Safety Day, a day of awareness promoting safe use in the material handling industry where forklifts are concerned. Long overdue, this day will promote the benefits of operator training and the necessity of developing safer work practices to reduce industrial accidents. While operator training remains the focus for the 2015 campaign, the message is clear, this day is about educating customers, policy makers and administrators alike on the need for increased accountability surrounding safe practices and behavior. As a supplier to the material handling industry, primarily partnering with lift truck dealers, we would like to propose that safety be at the forefront of all transactional fulfillment. Whether an end user is looking for a new or used lift truck, a service agreement or operator training there is ‘Always an Opportunity’ to improve the safety environment of any company, for both operators and pedestrians.
Our responsibility as material handling equipment and service providers is to assist our common customers with that increased awareness that comes from years of experience. Not to wait for an incident to drive a reactionary sale, but for a sale to prevent a ‘preventable accident’. We should drive health and safety not let health and safety drive us. At IVDT Solutions our entire product suite contributes to safer working environments by empowering and notifying operators about their actions known or unknown. For example, all ED series Forklift Scales have an overload option that once set notifies the operator when the rated ‘safe’ capacity has been reached and therefore averting the potential to tip the vehicle. Defender series Impact Manage Systems utilize a 2 level notification system, a low impact recognition level to let the operator know to be careful and a high impact alert to notify management that a potentially unsafe situation has occurred. These systems empower the operator to take responsibility for creating safer work environments. Forklift Camera Systems for both high reach and back up applications increase visibility and provide operators with greater awareness of their surroundings. Finally SkidLevel, load leveling products, assist operators by taking the guess work out of determining whether forks or carriages are level with the racking or area of pallet placement. Training is the first step in any safe environment but human error is a factor especially when guessing preciseness at heights. Skidlevel, notifies the operator when the correct safe fork angle is reached and prevents dropped pallets and racking beam damage.
The above represent just a few opportunities where we can help create safer work environments for our customers. All require little or no installation, are very simple to operator with minimal training, and the cost of not having them in operation at the time of an accident far outweigh the cost incurred up front. IVDT Solutions supports National Forklift Safety day and remains committed to developing safer material handling environments.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
This year June 9th marked the second annual National Forklift Safety Day, a day of awareness promoting safe use in the material handling industry where forklifts are concerned. Long overdue, this day will promote the benefits of operator training and the necessity of developing safer work practices to reduce industrial accidents. While operator training remains the focus for the 2015 campaign, the message is clear, this day is about educating customers, policy makers and administrators alike on the need for increased accountability surrounding safe practices and behavior. As a supplier to the material handling industry, primarily partnering with lift truck dealers, we would like to propose that safety be at the forefront of all transactional fulfillment. Whether an end user is looking for a new or used lift truck, a service agreement or operator training there is ‘Always an Opportunity’ to improve the safety environment of any company, for both operators and pedestrians.
Our responsibility as material handling equipment and service providers is to assist our common customers with that increased awareness that comes from years of experience. Not to wait for an incident to drive a reactionary sale, but for a sale to prevent a ‘preventable accident’. We should drive health and safety not let health and safety drive us. At IVDT Solutions our entire product suite contributes to safer working environments by empowering and notifying operators about their actions known or unknown. For example, all ED series Forklift Scales have an overload option that once set notifies the operator when the rated ‘safe’ capacity has been reached and therefore averting the potential to tip the vehicle. Defender series Impact Manage Systems utilize a 2 level notification system, a low impact recognition level to let the operator know to be careful and a high impact alert to notify management that a potentially unsafe situation has occurred. These systems empower the operator to take responsibility for creating safer work environments. Forklift Camera Systems for both high reach and back up applications increase visibility and provide operators with greater awareness of their surroundings. Finally SkidLevel, load leveling products, assist operators by taking the guess work out of determining whether forks or carriages are level with the racking or area of pallet placement. Training is the first step in any safe environment but human error is a factor especially when guessing preciseness at heights. Skidlevel, notifies the operator when the correct safe fork angle is reached and prevents dropped pallets and racking beam damage.
The above represent just a few opportunities where we can help create safer work environments for our customers. All require little or no installation, are very simple to operator with minimal training, and the cost of not having them in operation at the time of an accident far outweigh the cost incurred up front. IVDT Solutions supports National Forklift Safety day and remains committed to developing safer material handling environments.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
Shutting Down the Truck 'Will' Shut Down Your Impact Monitoring Program
May 14th, 2015
There are two schools of thought when it comes to impact monitors on material handling equipment. The first is that when an impact is detected the truck should be immediately disabled for inspection and evaluation. The other is that impact monitors do not work and are ultimately abandoned over time. Which one you are a proponent to has a lot to do with your previous history and experience with impact management systems. Safety and damage control is a huge concern for anyone managing the productivity of a material handling environment, for good reason. Damage, caused by reckless driving often goes unreported and it is estimated that forklift accidents and damage result in $135,000,000.00 in avoidable costs every year in the US alone. Often the only time when a forklift accident is recognized is when it is catastrophic and injury to the driver or a pedestrian creates an emergency situation. When this happens damage costs alone are the least concern as there is often long term health consequences and legal investigations pending. With the above in mind, shutting down the truck after a recorded impact might seem like a great way to control the material handling environment and bring about accountability, however, lets consider the following.
· Impacts recorded may not always result in damage or be caused by unsafe driving
· Accelerometer sensitivity on most systems cannot adjust to the net force of the entire application leaving a ‘grey zone’
· An operable truck that is shut down without damage is unproductive
The above three reasons have seen a significant number of impact management projects fail in the first year only to have money wasted on the project investment and be no further ahead at controlling damage. It is no wonder the second school of thought is skeptic about equipping trucks with impact monitors, who can blame them?
Fortunately IVDT designed the Defender series of Impact Detection systems with the above at the forefront. The IVDT Defender series Impact Detection system gathers information related to impacts as they occur in your material handling environment and displays them in 2 separate impact levels (light and severe) so you can control and modify operator behaviour. At the forefront of the Defender series product line is the design of the product to be self-programmed and set up by the end user. The ability to program operator codes, adjust 'G' settings, and remove or add event notification in the software are all easily changed and formatted by the users within minutes. Without programming codes required from the manufacturer and or the need for a dealer technician to change settings the system can be aligned to the operation quicker and more cost effectively. Not relying on additional keys or FOB start up systems also means that the Defender can always be accessed by the right personnel with correct ID number assignment therefore eliminating the cost and inconvenience that can result when these items are lost or misplaced. Unique to the Defender systems and the sustainability of its integration into applications is the design premise of non-shutdown. Most Impact Monitors introductions are met with failure as not all impacts produce damage or safety concern. Therefore machine shutdown provides unnecessary productivity disruption and in the event that a supervisory override is required to put the lift truck back into production it can be very costly. Supervisors and managers can create a culture of safety and accountability whereby severe impact event notifications assigned to an operator can be investigated without disruption. By providing two 2 channel monitoring the Defender series Impact Detection systems give the operator a notification or threshold warning allowing them to take ownership and better understanding of their driving. This feature alone results in less severe impacts, less compromised safety situations and ultimately less vehicle, product or infrastructure damage. The Defender series Impact Detection systems utilizes four solution models where beginning with the IM2 the system records operator impact occurrence allowing supervisors or managers to investigate for noticeable damage to machine, product or infrastructure. Acting like a 'black box' in aviation the event and placement of the operator responsible for the notification is recorded in the IM2 and can only be accessed by authorized assignment. The IM3 Defender Plus system provides complete mobility for supervisors and managers by providing event notification to their computers, PDA's and smart phones when the events happen. The Defender system promotes safety, efficiency and cost reduction without impeding productivity!
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
There are two schools of thought when it comes to impact monitors on material handling equipment. The first is that when an impact is detected the truck should be immediately disabled for inspection and evaluation. The other is that impact monitors do not work and are ultimately abandoned over time. Which one you are a proponent to has a lot to do with your previous history and experience with impact management systems. Safety and damage control is a huge concern for anyone managing the productivity of a material handling environment, for good reason. Damage, caused by reckless driving often goes unreported and it is estimated that forklift accidents and damage result in $135,000,000.00 in avoidable costs every year in the US alone. Often the only time when a forklift accident is recognized is when it is catastrophic and injury to the driver or a pedestrian creates an emergency situation. When this happens damage costs alone are the least concern as there is often long term health consequences and legal investigations pending. With the above in mind, shutting down the truck after a recorded impact might seem like a great way to control the material handling environment and bring about accountability, however, lets consider the following.
· Impacts recorded may not always result in damage or be caused by unsafe driving
· Accelerometer sensitivity on most systems cannot adjust to the net force of the entire application leaving a ‘grey zone’
· An operable truck that is shut down without damage is unproductive
The above three reasons have seen a significant number of impact management projects fail in the first year only to have money wasted on the project investment and be no further ahead at controlling damage. It is no wonder the second school of thought is skeptic about equipping trucks with impact monitors, who can blame them?
Fortunately IVDT designed the Defender series of Impact Detection systems with the above at the forefront. The IVDT Defender series Impact Detection system gathers information related to impacts as they occur in your material handling environment and displays them in 2 separate impact levels (light and severe) so you can control and modify operator behaviour. At the forefront of the Defender series product line is the design of the product to be self-programmed and set up by the end user. The ability to program operator codes, adjust 'G' settings, and remove or add event notification in the software are all easily changed and formatted by the users within minutes. Without programming codes required from the manufacturer and or the need for a dealer technician to change settings the system can be aligned to the operation quicker and more cost effectively. Not relying on additional keys or FOB start up systems also means that the Defender can always be accessed by the right personnel with correct ID number assignment therefore eliminating the cost and inconvenience that can result when these items are lost or misplaced. Unique to the Defender systems and the sustainability of its integration into applications is the design premise of non-shutdown. Most Impact Monitors introductions are met with failure as not all impacts produce damage or safety concern. Therefore machine shutdown provides unnecessary productivity disruption and in the event that a supervisory override is required to put the lift truck back into production it can be very costly. Supervisors and managers can create a culture of safety and accountability whereby severe impact event notifications assigned to an operator can be investigated without disruption. By providing two 2 channel monitoring the Defender series Impact Detection systems give the operator a notification or threshold warning allowing them to take ownership and better understanding of their driving. This feature alone results in less severe impacts, less compromised safety situations and ultimately less vehicle, product or infrastructure damage. The Defender series Impact Detection systems utilizes four solution models where beginning with the IM2 the system records operator impact occurrence allowing supervisors or managers to investigate for noticeable damage to machine, product or infrastructure. Acting like a 'black box' in aviation the event and placement of the operator responsible for the notification is recorded in the IM2 and can only be accessed by authorized assignment. The IM3 Defender Plus system provides complete mobility for supervisors and managers by providing event notification to their computers, PDA's and smart phones when the events happen. The Defender system promotes safety, efficiency and cost reduction without impeding productivity!
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
SkidLevel Takes the Guess Work out of Safety!
April 2nd, 2015
There are many different factors that affect operator safety and contribute to product damage in the typical material handling workplace. Lighting, inadequate turning space, congested aisles and travel paths, quality supervision, and damaged or uneven floor surfaces. All of the aforementioned have significant impact on safety and product damage and can cost an organization significantly if management is not proactive in their efforts. However, there is one more factor that is probably the most difficult for managers to control based on unpredictability and that is operator behaviour. Operator behaviour is that combination of environmental factors along with skill or expertise of the operator as it contributes to the safety and relative damage affecting a company’s material handling processes. In addition to safety and product damage operator behaviour also has role to play in the productivity of material flow. The most common response to minimize negative effects of operator behaviour and increase productivity is to train and hold the operator accountable. While this is an important step in creating safe and cost responsible workplaces human error is an inevitable part of life in the warehouse, on the plant floor, and on the construction site.
One of the most difficult manoeuvres that an operator must perform repetitively is the simple task of levelling the forks or carriage to place or remove a load from racking or other supportive structures including stacked product. Even the most experienced operator has to be perfect in order to avoid damaging product or infrastructure and often has to do it with obstructed views at fork heights of over 15 feet. The compromise often comes at the expense of productivity and the time that it takes to slow down the process so that if impact occurs the outcome is minimized. However, even slowing down the process cannot eliminate erroneous outcomes completely.
While we cannot eliminate in its entirety the causal effect of human error we can provide tools that assist operators in making correct and safe decisions. IVDT SkidLevel load leveling systems are the most cost effective way to provide certainty to any workplace that requires a forklift or articulating carriage vehicle. No installation with one button calibration the SkidLevel load leveling indicator lets the operator know exactly when the forks are level. No more pallet stringer lift-off, reduces accidents by misaligned forks, assists with the ergonomics of the operator in posturing body for hard to see pallet placement. Reduces damage to racking and property and eliminates avoidable product piercing. In addition the SkidLevel increases the speed at which product is loaded or unloaded boosting productivity safely at any height. Also available is IVDT’s SkidLevel II designed to provide load leveling for articulating carriage vehicles such as reach trucks and zoom booms. Utilizing wireless technology the carriage is linked to a visible indicator that the operator can see at all times. Even at extreme heights the operator can perform with certainty knowing that the forks are level when needed.
Designed for the material handling industry the SkidLevel I and II fit onto to all lift trucks, reach trucks, rough terrain and zoom booms and are designed to improve safety, eliminate damage and increase productivity.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
There are many different factors that affect operator safety and contribute to product damage in the typical material handling workplace. Lighting, inadequate turning space, congested aisles and travel paths, quality supervision, and damaged or uneven floor surfaces. All of the aforementioned have significant impact on safety and product damage and can cost an organization significantly if management is not proactive in their efforts. However, there is one more factor that is probably the most difficult for managers to control based on unpredictability and that is operator behaviour. Operator behaviour is that combination of environmental factors along with skill or expertise of the operator as it contributes to the safety and relative damage affecting a company’s material handling processes. In addition to safety and product damage operator behaviour also has role to play in the productivity of material flow. The most common response to minimize negative effects of operator behaviour and increase productivity is to train and hold the operator accountable. While this is an important step in creating safe and cost responsible workplaces human error is an inevitable part of life in the warehouse, on the plant floor, and on the construction site.
One of the most difficult manoeuvres that an operator must perform repetitively is the simple task of levelling the forks or carriage to place or remove a load from racking or other supportive structures including stacked product. Even the most experienced operator has to be perfect in order to avoid damaging product or infrastructure and often has to do it with obstructed views at fork heights of over 15 feet. The compromise often comes at the expense of productivity and the time that it takes to slow down the process so that if impact occurs the outcome is minimized. However, even slowing down the process cannot eliminate erroneous outcomes completely.
While we cannot eliminate in its entirety the causal effect of human error we can provide tools that assist operators in making correct and safe decisions. IVDT SkidLevel load leveling systems are the most cost effective way to provide certainty to any workplace that requires a forklift or articulating carriage vehicle. No installation with one button calibration the SkidLevel load leveling indicator lets the operator know exactly when the forks are level. No more pallet stringer lift-off, reduces accidents by misaligned forks, assists with the ergonomics of the operator in posturing body for hard to see pallet placement. Reduces damage to racking and property and eliminates avoidable product piercing. In addition the SkidLevel increases the speed at which product is loaded or unloaded boosting productivity safely at any height. Also available is IVDT’s SkidLevel II designed to provide load leveling for articulating carriage vehicles such as reach trucks and zoom booms. Utilizing wireless technology the carriage is linked to a visible indicator that the operator can see at all times. Even at extreme heights the operator can perform with certainty knowing that the forks are level when needed.
Designed for the material handling industry the SkidLevel I and II fit onto to all lift trucks, reach trucks, rough terrain and zoom booms and are designed to improve safety, eliminate damage and increase productivity.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
Safety Audits: Whats at Stake and Whose Responsible?
March 19th, 2015
In today’s business world, corporate governance in the form of duties and responsibilities regarding worker protection is as important, if not more, than profit itself. However, its alarming when you realize just how many supervisors, managers, and directors do not fully understand what this means for their area of business, company, and according to the law, them individually. Worker protection in North America has come along way since the proclamation of the ‘Occupational Safety and Health Act’ of 1970. OSHA administration, primarily section 5 in the United States has seen much litigation and precedence shaping decisions that now hold the company and potentially the directors themselves at fault with criminal consequences. There are more OSHA compliance officers than ever before conducting ‘without advance notice’ inspections. OSHA publishes press releases and indexes case log violations on its website for all to see. Under the criminal code OSHA violations deemed ‘Willful Violations’ are punishable for an individual of up to 6 months in prison. So why do so many companies leave themselves at risk in todays modern climate of governance? Simply put, the lack of understanding that government bodies are looking for demonstrated due diligence. They want to see a safety culture develop in the form of prevention through the introduction of processes and tools as well as improvement through tracking.
A lot of companies have a safety culture that offers operator training alone. Although a good start this does not meet OSHA compliance and does not cover the employers duty of identifying and eliminating hazards. IVDT designs and manufacturers products based on the principal of prevention and can eliminate many of the hard to predict and therefore control hazards that companies face. Products such as the SkidLevel, eliminate the dangers of collapsing pallet rack, falling product and injury as a result of, by notifying the operator when the forks at any level of the mast are perfectly level. OSHA statistics indicate that 14.4% of forklift related accidents are a result of structural damage caused by such fork impacts. Even more striking is the fact that 25.2% of all forklift related accidents in the US are a result of overload tipping, a preventable occurrence. With the OL series of overload warning devices, IVDT provides a valuable and cost effective safety tool to eliminate dangers as a result of unknown weight of loads. Even more comprehensive the Defender series Impact Management Systems is an all in one product suite that allows you to control vehicle access, provide operators warnings of unsafe driving practices before they are potentially critical, acknowledge and alert when critical impacts occur, manage and account for daily OSHA vehicle safety checks, and provide weight capture and overload notification. Not just tools that enhance productivity but products that cost effectively take a companies safety culture to the next level protecting both the integrity of the organization and its directors.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
In today’s business world, corporate governance in the form of duties and responsibilities regarding worker protection is as important, if not more, than profit itself. However, its alarming when you realize just how many supervisors, managers, and directors do not fully understand what this means for their area of business, company, and according to the law, them individually. Worker protection in North America has come along way since the proclamation of the ‘Occupational Safety and Health Act’ of 1970. OSHA administration, primarily section 5 in the United States has seen much litigation and precedence shaping decisions that now hold the company and potentially the directors themselves at fault with criminal consequences. There are more OSHA compliance officers than ever before conducting ‘without advance notice’ inspections. OSHA publishes press releases and indexes case log violations on its website for all to see. Under the criminal code OSHA violations deemed ‘Willful Violations’ are punishable for an individual of up to 6 months in prison. So why do so many companies leave themselves at risk in todays modern climate of governance? Simply put, the lack of understanding that government bodies are looking for demonstrated due diligence. They want to see a safety culture develop in the form of prevention through the introduction of processes and tools as well as improvement through tracking.
A lot of companies have a safety culture that offers operator training alone. Although a good start this does not meet OSHA compliance and does not cover the employers duty of identifying and eliminating hazards. IVDT designs and manufacturers products based on the principal of prevention and can eliminate many of the hard to predict and therefore control hazards that companies face. Products such as the SkidLevel, eliminate the dangers of collapsing pallet rack, falling product and injury as a result of, by notifying the operator when the forks at any level of the mast are perfectly level. OSHA statistics indicate that 14.4% of forklift related accidents are a result of structural damage caused by such fork impacts. Even more striking is the fact that 25.2% of all forklift related accidents in the US are a result of overload tipping, a preventable occurrence. With the OL series of overload warning devices, IVDT provides a valuable and cost effective safety tool to eliminate dangers as a result of unknown weight of loads. Even more comprehensive the Defender series Impact Management Systems is an all in one product suite that allows you to control vehicle access, provide operators warnings of unsafe driving practices before they are potentially critical, acknowledge and alert when critical impacts occur, manage and account for daily OSHA vehicle safety checks, and provide weight capture and overload notification. Not just tools that enhance productivity but products that cost effectively take a companies safety culture to the next level protecting both the integrity of the organization and its directors.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
Operators are the Key to Safety and Damage Control.
February 19th, 2015
When a company comes to the conclusion that they have a damage problem as a result of forklift impacts, often the blame is associated and levied to the operators. While irresponsible and unaccountable driving may be part of the problem, it is likely only a small minority to blame. Often the introduction of a damage control or impact system becomes a dividing line between operators and supervisors as the systems are seen as attempting to catch negligent operators. With this type of workplace culture forming it is no wonder that most impact detection projects fail, up to 75%. In addition, as most systems require sensitivity adjustments and insist on shutting down the truck, the only impacts that are detected are those suffered in productivity as operators are quick to point out, when the truck is out of service for no good reason.
When a company commits to reducing the costs associated with damage, like all strategies that have lasting impact, it needs to be accepted and carried out by all team members. The workplace culture instead of us vs. them needs to be seen as striving for the safest empowered environment possible. Residual byproducts such as damage and the cost of reduce dramatically as a result of organizational acceptance. That platform is the basis for which the Defender Impact Management System was designed by IVDT. Three key product designs help both supervisors and operators achieve a safe material handling environment significantly reducing damage costs to vehicles and or product. The first is the sensitivity range of the Defender, at 16 G’s and 32 sub-settings the system, unlike others, can integrate into any application and properly detect only those impacts worth detecting. In addition, the Defender is designed as a safety tool first and foremost and provides the operator with advanced warning by way of 2 level notifications. The first notification is present to the operator only notifying them that they may be reaching a potentially dangerous threshold. Only severe detections are recorded and or sent wirelessly to management for further investigation. With two notifications offered operators are able to understand and react responsibly before an unsafe impact could potentially cause damage. With a truck never out of productivity unless a true issue is present, and a notification system that empowers the operators to drive as safe and effectively as possible. IVDT’s Defender Impact Management System provides the entire organization with sustainable results.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
When a company comes to the conclusion that they have a damage problem as a result of forklift impacts, often the blame is associated and levied to the operators. While irresponsible and unaccountable driving may be part of the problem, it is likely only a small minority to blame. Often the introduction of a damage control or impact system becomes a dividing line between operators and supervisors as the systems are seen as attempting to catch negligent operators. With this type of workplace culture forming it is no wonder that most impact detection projects fail, up to 75%. In addition, as most systems require sensitivity adjustments and insist on shutting down the truck, the only impacts that are detected are those suffered in productivity as operators are quick to point out, when the truck is out of service for no good reason.
When a company commits to reducing the costs associated with damage, like all strategies that have lasting impact, it needs to be accepted and carried out by all team members. The workplace culture instead of us vs. them needs to be seen as striving for the safest empowered environment possible. Residual byproducts such as damage and the cost of reduce dramatically as a result of organizational acceptance. That platform is the basis for which the Defender Impact Management System was designed by IVDT. Three key product designs help both supervisors and operators achieve a safe material handling environment significantly reducing damage costs to vehicles and or product. The first is the sensitivity range of the Defender, at 16 G’s and 32 sub-settings the system, unlike others, can integrate into any application and properly detect only those impacts worth detecting. In addition, the Defender is designed as a safety tool first and foremost and provides the operator with advanced warning by way of 2 level notifications. The first notification is present to the operator only notifying them that they may be reaching a potentially dangerous threshold. Only severe detections are recorded and or sent wirelessly to management for further investigation. With two notifications offered operators are able to understand and react responsibly before an unsafe impact could potentially cause damage. With a truck never out of productivity unless a true issue is present, and a notification system that empowers the operators to drive as safe and effectively as possible. IVDT’s Defender Impact Management System provides the entire organization with sustainable results.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
How Safe is Safe? Time to Pick Up Where Operator Training Leaves Off.
February 5th, 2015
Most businesses would state that safe operating environments are their number one priority, some above profit and or customer satisfaction. However, how many are truly proactive in managing a safety policy that is preventative as opposed to hopeful? Whether it is one lift truck or a fleet of one hundred lift trucks consider the numerous unsafe outcomes that can impact drivers and or pedestrians? With workers compensation and insurance premiums reaching never before seen highs and fines being levied against both companies and managers direct, is operator safety training alone enough protection for your workers? Lets consider some of the safety challenges lift truck operators face daily and cost effective solutions that compliment and safeguard training alone.
One trend that we are noticing is that many companies are becoming concerned with overloading the lift truck as a result of unknown or incorrect stated weights at source of shipping. In the manufacturing process this is even less understood as in most cases the weight is an estimate that may even change during the manufacturing process over time. How many lift truck operators in the middle of a shift can eyeball a load about to be picked up and know outright that the truck is under capacity? A 2014 OSHA study reported that 25.3% of fatalities and injuries occurring on lift trucks are related to tipping as a result of overloading. Operator training simply put, cannot train to guess correctly, so how can a company act on this safety concern? Thankfully IVDT manufactures the ED2-SLL, which notifies the operator how close the load to be lifted is against the rated capacity of the lift truck. No buttons to push, no guessing, every load is predetermined and in the event of an overload, and audible or visual alarm is sounded to alert the operator.
Even the best plant operations can expect some damage as a result of incorrect fork alignment. It is common practice in some businesses to write off a percentage of product damage to human error. However, when human error damages racking and or the facility itself rendering the environment unsafe for anyone in the immediate location, it is no longer a cost of doing business. The same 2014 OSHA study indicates that the number three reason for fatality and injury on lift trucks at 14.4% is falling loads due to incorrect placement. This safety concern has prompted one leading manufacturer of lift trucks to include a fork leveling system on their equipment. But what about the other hundreds of thousands of lift trucks sold or already in operation? Literally for a few hundred dollars anyone wishing to improve the operation of their lift trucks can purchase a SkidLevel, load level indicator. This device has no mechanical installation, fits on the mast by way of an industrial magnet, and calibrates with the push of a button. Even load placements at the highest rack bay can be done safety and quickly.
Without a doubt the biggest safety and damage control issue in material handling is the ability to control access to the equipment and further determine unsafe usage trends while that vehicle is in operation. Operation managers cannot be watchdogs and when unsafe usage occurs it seldom goes reported leaving the company and the manager vulnerable to repeat occurrences. Every year over 100 people are killed on a forklift with another 20,000 being seriously injured. Never mind the millions of dollars spent on infrastructure repair and the insurance adjustments that must take place as a result. Access control and Impact Management is a real concern for all companies, and so far operator training has only scratched the surface with little sustainable results. IVDT manufactures the Defender series of Impact Management Systems that can provide any business with a lock safe system to control usage, damage and provide that data to the stakeholders to understand trends even in ‘Real Time’ as it happens. The system utilizes two set thresholds for impact detection a low and a high, low to notify the operator that unsafe usage may be occurring and high to warn responsible managers that a potentially unsafe impact may have occurred. In addition, the Defender is the only system on the market with 32 g-force settings on the accelerometer, making it possible to achieve the correct sensitivity rating for any business. Easy to install, self-sustainable for any company to manage themselves, the system can even provide utilization statistics and prompt the operator for safety checks as well.
Safety doesn’t happen by accident and while operator training will always provide the theory and best practice element to a companies safety campaign, human error and negligence can be controlled. The cost of implementing these products is far less than the cost of not having them and the return on investment can be seen in weeks. More importantly and without cost association is the impact they have on employees’ safety and well being.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
Most businesses would state that safe operating environments are their number one priority, some above profit and or customer satisfaction. However, how many are truly proactive in managing a safety policy that is preventative as opposed to hopeful? Whether it is one lift truck or a fleet of one hundred lift trucks consider the numerous unsafe outcomes that can impact drivers and or pedestrians? With workers compensation and insurance premiums reaching never before seen highs and fines being levied against both companies and managers direct, is operator safety training alone enough protection for your workers? Lets consider some of the safety challenges lift truck operators face daily and cost effective solutions that compliment and safeguard training alone.
One trend that we are noticing is that many companies are becoming concerned with overloading the lift truck as a result of unknown or incorrect stated weights at source of shipping. In the manufacturing process this is even less understood as in most cases the weight is an estimate that may even change during the manufacturing process over time. How many lift truck operators in the middle of a shift can eyeball a load about to be picked up and know outright that the truck is under capacity? A 2014 OSHA study reported that 25.3% of fatalities and injuries occurring on lift trucks are related to tipping as a result of overloading. Operator training simply put, cannot train to guess correctly, so how can a company act on this safety concern? Thankfully IVDT manufactures the ED2-SLL, which notifies the operator how close the load to be lifted is against the rated capacity of the lift truck. No buttons to push, no guessing, every load is predetermined and in the event of an overload, and audible or visual alarm is sounded to alert the operator.
Even the best plant operations can expect some damage as a result of incorrect fork alignment. It is common practice in some businesses to write off a percentage of product damage to human error. However, when human error damages racking and or the facility itself rendering the environment unsafe for anyone in the immediate location, it is no longer a cost of doing business. The same 2014 OSHA study indicates that the number three reason for fatality and injury on lift trucks at 14.4% is falling loads due to incorrect placement. This safety concern has prompted one leading manufacturer of lift trucks to include a fork leveling system on their equipment. But what about the other hundreds of thousands of lift trucks sold or already in operation? Literally for a few hundred dollars anyone wishing to improve the operation of their lift trucks can purchase a SkidLevel, load level indicator. This device has no mechanical installation, fits on the mast by way of an industrial magnet, and calibrates with the push of a button. Even load placements at the highest rack bay can be done safety and quickly.
Without a doubt the biggest safety and damage control issue in material handling is the ability to control access to the equipment and further determine unsafe usage trends while that vehicle is in operation. Operation managers cannot be watchdogs and when unsafe usage occurs it seldom goes reported leaving the company and the manager vulnerable to repeat occurrences. Every year over 100 people are killed on a forklift with another 20,000 being seriously injured. Never mind the millions of dollars spent on infrastructure repair and the insurance adjustments that must take place as a result. Access control and Impact Management is a real concern for all companies, and so far operator training has only scratched the surface with little sustainable results. IVDT manufactures the Defender series of Impact Management Systems that can provide any business with a lock safe system to control usage, damage and provide that data to the stakeholders to understand trends even in ‘Real Time’ as it happens. The system utilizes two set thresholds for impact detection a low and a high, low to notify the operator that unsafe usage may be occurring and high to warn responsible managers that a potentially unsafe impact may have occurred. In addition, the Defender is the only system on the market with 32 g-force settings on the accelerometer, making it possible to achieve the correct sensitivity rating for any business. Easy to install, self-sustainable for any company to manage themselves, the system can even provide utilization statistics and prompt the operator for safety checks as well.
Safety doesn’t happen by accident and while operator training will always provide the theory and best practice element to a companies safety campaign, human error and negligence can be controlled. The cost of implementing these products is far less than the cost of not having them and the return on investment can be seen in weeks. More importantly and without cost association is the impact they have on employees’ safety and well being.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
WINNING THE BATTLE AGAINST LOST PRODUCTIVITY.
October 31st, 2014
Productivity can be explained as the ratio of outputs to inputs. In the material handling world maximizing that ratio and handling both variables as efficiently as possible with operators and equipment is the challenge leading to profitability. Lost productivity occurs when that ratio for a number of reasons is not able to produce maximized results. While engineered standards play a critical role in both production and distribution businesses it is a known fact that the material handling operations in those businesses lack real utilization factors for benchmarking due to the interaction between operator, material flow and equipment. 5 of the top 10 reasons for lost productivity include, production bottlenecks, idle machines due to inadequate product flow, damaged machine or material, extreme maintenance, and transport delay. With this in mind production managers have a lot on their plate when it comes to optimizing the correlation between these variable. However, the average asset utilization on forklifts operating in those businesses remains at 30 to 60%.
Until now the only way that production managers could approach fleet management was to control the cost of maintenance on the lift truck itself. While this is an important factor in productivity it does little with respect to achieving an optimum utilization factor. That is why IVDT Solutions produces SkidFleet an all encompassing tool that delivers data not just on the asset itself but also its usage in the production cycle as well as the operator in control. SkidFleet not only provides basic data on run time vs. non run time but also provides businesses the opportunity to determined why the unit is not being utilized against pre-set benchmarks. Factors such as bottlenecking, inadequate material flow, transport delay as well as others can be reported in real-time and sent wirelessly to managers responsible. In addition, SkidFleet can also provide OSHA safety checklists, operator access control and impact/damage recording that can also be utilized with a forklift scale option for both production enhancement as well as safety overloading. The key to SkidFleets success is its simplicity in installation and support. Designed to be a low cost solution, SkidFleet installs on any forklift easily and can begin to impact productivity immediately. No monthly services and maintenance is required and data can be imported by way of USB for specialized convenience or back up. IVDT Solutions manufactures and distributes products not just for the forklifts but for the total optimization of the forklift and the productivity cycle for which it works in.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
Productivity can be explained as the ratio of outputs to inputs. In the material handling world maximizing that ratio and handling both variables as efficiently as possible with operators and equipment is the challenge leading to profitability. Lost productivity occurs when that ratio for a number of reasons is not able to produce maximized results. While engineered standards play a critical role in both production and distribution businesses it is a known fact that the material handling operations in those businesses lack real utilization factors for benchmarking due to the interaction between operator, material flow and equipment. 5 of the top 10 reasons for lost productivity include, production bottlenecks, idle machines due to inadequate product flow, damaged machine or material, extreme maintenance, and transport delay. With this in mind production managers have a lot on their plate when it comes to optimizing the correlation between these variable. However, the average asset utilization on forklifts operating in those businesses remains at 30 to 60%.
Until now the only way that production managers could approach fleet management was to control the cost of maintenance on the lift truck itself. While this is an important factor in productivity it does little with respect to achieving an optimum utilization factor. That is why IVDT Solutions produces SkidFleet an all encompassing tool that delivers data not just on the asset itself but also its usage in the production cycle as well as the operator in control. SkidFleet not only provides basic data on run time vs. non run time but also provides businesses the opportunity to determined why the unit is not being utilized against pre-set benchmarks. Factors such as bottlenecking, inadequate material flow, transport delay as well as others can be reported in real-time and sent wirelessly to managers responsible. In addition, SkidFleet can also provide OSHA safety checklists, operator access control and impact/damage recording that can also be utilized with a forklift scale option for both production enhancement as well as safety overloading. The key to SkidFleets success is its simplicity in installation and support. Designed to be a low cost solution, SkidFleet installs on any forklift easily and can begin to impact productivity immediately. No monthly services and maintenance is required and data can be imported by way of USB for specialized convenience or back up. IVDT Solutions manufactures and distributes products not just for the forklifts but for the total optimization of the forklift and the productivity cycle for which it works in.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
PRINTERS MEAN PRODUCTIVITY!
July 9th, 2014
One of the key principals of efficiency in any supply chain material handling operation is productivity as it relates to time. Whether you are managing a fleet of different vehicles types with a number of staging areas or relying solely on one lift truck to ship and receive product, reducing time by eliminating unnecessary steps creates payback opportunities. One area that many companies overlook is the addition of a print system along with an onboard material handling scale. This combo eliminates the need for operators to seek out floor scales to verify product weight during manufacturing or staging, as well as speeding up the weigh verification requirements for outgoing product. The scale allows the operator to perform only the necessary product movement required in the material handling process. Add a print system and with the push of a single button the operator now has access to immediate weight receipts or adhesive labels that before relied on a designated floor scale or manually filling out on a clip board. Shortening the productivity cycle not only saves time and money, but the efficiency gained also contributes to a safer environment for the operator.
Onboard printers are both durable and versatile as they are engineered for industrial applications such as cold storage, manufacturing, outdoor open yard, and fast shuttle freight. The printers connect easily to all IVDT ED series on board scales as well as CubeFrieght dimensioning systems through both standard RS232 cabling or wireless Bluetooth connectivity. Imagine converting your electric powered pallet truck into a mobile weighing station, that actually moves product as well, with the ED2-EP with ‘Lift Accurate Technology’ and an onboard print system the need for floor scales is eliminated from your productivity cycle. IVDT manufactures and distributes the industries most rugged, reliable and accurate onboard forklift scales with a variety of print systems that will provide calculated convenience and efficiency to your business.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
One of the key principals of efficiency in any supply chain material handling operation is productivity as it relates to time. Whether you are managing a fleet of different vehicles types with a number of staging areas or relying solely on one lift truck to ship and receive product, reducing time by eliminating unnecessary steps creates payback opportunities. One area that many companies overlook is the addition of a print system along with an onboard material handling scale. This combo eliminates the need for operators to seek out floor scales to verify product weight during manufacturing or staging, as well as speeding up the weigh verification requirements for outgoing product. The scale allows the operator to perform only the necessary product movement required in the material handling process. Add a print system and with the push of a single button the operator now has access to immediate weight receipts or adhesive labels that before relied on a designated floor scale or manually filling out on a clip board. Shortening the productivity cycle not only saves time and money, but the efficiency gained also contributes to a safer environment for the operator.
Onboard printers are both durable and versatile as they are engineered for industrial applications such as cold storage, manufacturing, outdoor open yard, and fast shuttle freight. The printers connect easily to all IVDT ED series on board scales as well as CubeFrieght dimensioning systems through both standard RS232 cabling or wireless Bluetooth connectivity. Imagine converting your electric powered pallet truck into a mobile weighing station, that actually moves product as well, with the ED2-EP with ‘Lift Accurate Technology’ and an onboard print system the need for floor scales is eliminated from your productivity cycle. IVDT manufactures and distributes the industries most rugged, reliable and accurate onboard forklift scales with a variety of print systems that will provide calculated convenience and efficiency to your business.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
CONTROL ACCESS AND CONTROL SAFETY AND DAMAGE.
May 1st, 2014
Forklift trucks are an essential part of most industrial and supply chains around the world. However, statistics indicate they also present a very significant hazard to the people occupying the same workspace, including the operator. Forklift related injuries can be severe even fatal because the trucks are heavy and powerful and operation of the vehicle is counter intuitive to the operation of an automobile due the rear axel steer system. While human error will always factor somewhat into statistics pertaining to forklift accidents it is possible to control access to the vehicle. Controlling access to only an authorized and competent operator significantly reduces the chance of accidents and eliminates vandalism and recklessness entirely.
IVDT Solutions is proud to introduce our heavy duty keypad access system the AC101 series access control. This weather proof/vandal proof system is made with a cast aluminum housing and is rated at IP65. The built in heater allows this system to work in any weather condition. These units can store up to 500 individual user codes combinations (4-5 digit). Multiple security modes allow for different access levels. The AC101 access control system is available with keypad configuration designed to utilize the existing key ignition system and the AC102 model utilizes a push button solenoid for keyless operation. Either system disables the operation of the vehicle and will only allow an authorized user with a recognized pre-programmed code to operate the vehicle. Easy to program and set codes, no training or certified programming is required. Once installed the AC series access control systems can be put to work immediately protecting your people and your assets. The AC series access control system is the perfect choice for controlling safe and easy access in any environment indoor and out.
Designed for the material handling industry the AC101 and 102 fit onto to all lift trucks, reach trucks, rough terrain and industrial equipment and are designed to improve safety, eliminate damage by limiting access to the vehicle to only authorized users. Proven in the most demanding applications the AC101 and 102 are easy to install and easier to use.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
Forklift trucks are an essential part of most industrial and supply chains around the world. However, statistics indicate they also present a very significant hazard to the people occupying the same workspace, including the operator. Forklift related injuries can be severe even fatal because the trucks are heavy and powerful and operation of the vehicle is counter intuitive to the operation of an automobile due the rear axel steer system. While human error will always factor somewhat into statistics pertaining to forklift accidents it is possible to control access to the vehicle. Controlling access to only an authorized and competent operator significantly reduces the chance of accidents and eliminates vandalism and recklessness entirely.
IVDT Solutions is proud to introduce our heavy duty keypad access system the AC101 series access control. This weather proof/vandal proof system is made with a cast aluminum housing and is rated at IP65. The built in heater allows this system to work in any weather condition. These units can store up to 500 individual user codes combinations (4-5 digit). Multiple security modes allow for different access levels. The AC101 access control system is available with keypad configuration designed to utilize the existing key ignition system and the AC102 model utilizes a push button solenoid for keyless operation. Either system disables the operation of the vehicle and will only allow an authorized user with a recognized pre-programmed code to operate the vehicle. Easy to program and set codes, no training or certified programming is required. Once installed the AC series access control systems can be put to work immediately protecting your people and your assets. The AC series access control system is the perfect choice for controlling safe and easy access in any environment indoor and out.
Designed for the material handling industry the AC101 and 102 fit onto to all lift trucks, reach trucks, rough terrain and industrial equipment and are designed to improve safety, eliminate damage by limiting access to the vehicle to only authorized users. Proven in the most demanding applications the AC101 and 102 are easy to install and easier to use.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
VEHICLE UTILIZATION IS THE KEY TO FLEET MANAGEMENT!
March 6th, 2014
The term Fleet Management has been used in the material handling industry for years to describe the costs associated with operating both small and large lift truck fleets. But what does it mean and how effective are we at managing total vehicle efficiency? 90 percent of end users who are concerned with the operating cost of their fleet rely solely on their service provider to provide them spend review analysis breaking it into both operating cost per hour and avoidable damage. While both are important factors for controlling cost they are but one component of many different variables that could impact fleet optimization such as product flow, sporadic transport connection points, production strategy and inefficient vehicle operation. In addition historical analysis is not proactive or strategic and does not provide tools for the end user to maximize the performance, productivity and safety of the vehicles in their fleet.
The ED5: SkidFleet series On-board fleet utilization systems manufactured and designed by IVDT are engineered to provide those responsible for material handling efficiency a better way to control cost and increase safety. Probably the least understood variable in fleet management is the true utilization of the vehicle during the productivity cycle. The best that most companies can do is monitor engine usage and calculate it monthly and yearly in an effort to justify costs. In reality, true vehicle utilization efficiency is productive run time vs. non-productive run time. The ED5 SkidFleet detects those periods of non-productive vehicle usage and assigns a reason. Right at the plant, warehouse, distribution center floor, only the ED5: SkidFleet indicates to the operator that the vehicle is registering under-utilization and requires a reason receipt to be logged in the system. Keeping in mind that there are a number of variables that effect vehicle utilization not just the operator, this provides managers an opportunity to better understand it as it occurs and look for way to improve and maximize vehicle efficiency as it pertains to the overall operation. In addition to advanced vehicle utilization reporting the ED5 SkidFleet also provides OSHA pre-shift checklists and recording capability, preventative maintenance notification and tracking, impact detection and monitoring as well as overload awareness and load weigh capability. Within each of these distinct vehicle optimization features is a subset of options that allow managers and supervisors to customize the ED5 SkidFleet to their specific application.
Easily installed on any make and model of lift truck the ED5 SkidFleet utilizes a 5.7” industrial color touch screen display. Designed with the productivity and safety of the operator the unit has a number of data transfer capabilities such as on-board printer, USB, Wi-Fi and patented Real Time Data network terminal connectivity. Designed for the material handling industry the ED5 SkidFleet series of fleet optimization systems are designed to capture data that most companies simply cannot productively realize.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
The term Fleet Management has been used in the material handling industry for years to describe the costs associated with operating both small and large lift truck fleets. But what does it mean and how effective are we at managing total vehicle efficiency? 90 percent of end users who are concerned with the operating cost of their fleet rely solely on their service provider to provide them spend review analysis breaking it into both operating cost per hour and avoidable damage. While both are important factors for controlling cost they are but one component of many different variables that could impact fleet optimization such as product flow, sporadic transport connection points, production strategy and inefficient vehicle operation. In addition historical analysis is not proactive or strategic and does not provide tools for the end user to maximize the performance, productivity and safety of the vehicles in their fleet.
The ED5: SkidFleet series On-board fleet utilization systems manufactured and designed by IVDT are engineered to provide those responsible for material handling efficiency a better way to control cost and increase safety. Probably the least understood variable in fleet management is the true utilization of the vehicle during the productivity cycle. The best that most companies can do is monitor engine usage and calculate it monthly and yearly in an effort to justify costs. In reality, true vehicle utilization efficiency is productive run time vs. non-productive run time. The ED5 SkidFleet detects those periods of non-productive vehicle usage and assigns a reason. Right at the plant, warehouse, distribution center floor, only the ED5: SkidFleet indicates to the operator that the vehicle is registering under-utilization and requires a reason receipt to be logged in the system. Keeping in mind that there are a number of variables that effect vehicle utilization not just the operator, this provides managers an opportunity to better understand it as it occurs and look for way to improve and maximize vehicle efficiency as it pertains to the overall operation. In addition to advanced vehicle utilization reporting the ED5 SkidFleet also provides OSHA pre-shift checklists and recording capability, preventative maintenance notification and tracking, impact detection and monitoring as well as overload awareness and load weigh capability. Within each of these distinct vehicle optimization features is a subset of options that allow managers and supervisors to customize the ED5 SkidFleet to their specific application.
Easily installed on any make and model of lift truck the ED5 SkidFleet utilizes a 5.7” industrial color touch screen display. Designed with the productivity and safety of the operator the unit has a number of data transfer capabilities such as on-board printer, USB, Wi-Fi and patented Real Time Data network terminal connectivity. Designed for the material handling industry the ED5 SkidFleet series of fleet optimization systems are designed to capture data that most companies simply cannot productively realize.
Call 905-469-0985 or visit www.skidweigh.com
