How User Feedback Drives Innovation in the Access Industry

How is user feedback driving the design of new technology?

In the past, new MEWPs and telehandlers were primarily designed with an emphasis on developing best-in-class specs. We have now shifted and put a lot of emphasis on getting customer-based input. We call this customer-inspired innovation. New access equipment designs will give more attention to the needs of the user, and not just the rental company or dealer.

—Shashank Bhatia, Senior Director of Global Product Development


What’s an example of a new scissor lift technology that was designed with the operator in mind?

To comply with new ANSI A92 standards, the operation of new MEWPs may be prevented if the platforms are overloaded or tilt levels are exceeded. So we asked, how will operators know if that’s the reason the MEWP isn’t working right? We designed an industry-first platform control box LCD screen that removes the guesswork by providing live feedback for operators.

The new LiftSense display shows side-to-side tilt, front-to-back tilt, how much weight is on the platform, the current height of the platform and the maximum height you can raise your MEWP by taking those factors into account. Operators can see if they should take a little bit less material with them or if they need to get to a spot that's a little bit more level on the job site so that they can get the full height. 

—Rafael Nunez, Senior Product Manager, Scissors & Vertical Lifts


What’s an example of a new telehandler technology that was designed with the operator in mind?

For years, users have been requesting a telehandler that could extend higher and reach farther to serve as a crane alternative. Typically, if workers needed to move materials higher than six stories, they had no choice but to invest in a crane. But cranes are expensive to rent, transport and assemble, and they require a certified crane operator.

Our new 10,000-lb 1075 telehandler gives users the ability to lift materials up to eight stories because of its 75-ft boom. And unlike a crane, the 1075 can lift up-and-in to place materials exactly where they’re needed without requiring the use of a forklift to reposition the pallet. Users can reach 60 ft inside a structure, so they’re able to have better precision placement. If materials or an HVAC system need to be placed on top of a building, operators can control the boom remotely from the roof.

Also, no specialized trucks or trailers are needed to get the 1075 to the job site. At less than 45,000 lb, the 1075 can be transported on a common step-deck trailer. Though it’s a big boy, it can get around a busy site with ease. We were able to provide maneuverability that's equivalent to or better than a smaller 10K or 12K machine.

—John Boehme, Senior Product Manager, Telehandlers



Want to stay up to date with industry news and trends similar to this? Make sure you subscribe below to receive monthly updates from DirectAccess with newly posted content so you never miss important information.

Tags