Importance of Forklift Anti Collision System in the Logistics Industry

The logistic sector of any industry comes with a higher risk of collisions and accidents, as it includes frequent usage of heavy machines and vehicles like forklifts for conducting inventory operations such as goods transportation, loading, etc. During these operations, the driver can encounter certain blind spots like entrances, exits, storage shelves, and T-shaped and L-shaped intersections. The team may also be unable to see the forklift backing up and may not hear the sound of the forklift driving, which can lead to collisions at the warehouse. 

These collisions and accidents have caused significant accidents, inventory losses, and property damages for several plants in the past. The infographics of the OE Attachment Report show that forklift-related accidents cost an astounding $86 million over a decade. This makes the installation of a fully-fledged Forklift anti-collision system a necessity in modern warehouses. 

Read further to learn how anti-collision systems can address your safety concerns and help avoid forklift accidents. 

‍➢ How Do Forklift Anti-Collision Systems Prevent Accidents?

It is challenging for forklift operators to navigate through narrow spaces like exits, entrances, and T-shaped and L-shaped intersections. Most of the time, the driver or the pedestrian cannot see if someone is approaching or if there is an aisle in front of them because the load on the forkarm obstructs their vision. As a result, collisions with aisles, oncoming forklifts, or pedestrians become all too frequent in these kinds of situations. 

However, installing a reliable forklift anti-collision system can minimize all these situations. The anti-collision system can help reduce such accidents by enhancing the operator’s visibility. It detects obstructions so the operators can stay alert and navigate the inventory space accordingly. 

When the anti-collision system is seamlessly integrated into both forklifts, it helps avoid collisions during intersecting paths of two forklifts. It also facilitates real-time detection, which sends a warning signal to both forklift drivers. With the help of this proactive technology, operators can communicate the protocols effectively and avoid possible collisions by anticipating when a forklift is going to approach from the other way.

➢How Does the Anti-collision System Work in the Logistic Industry?

Here’s the entire breakdown of the working of the anti-collision system for the logistic industry:

‍Forklift Collision Detection System With Sensors: In the logistics industry, the anti-collision detection system for equipment like forklifts works on advanced sensors. When the sensors detect any pedestrian or aisle as an obstacle, the system immediately springs into action. The system sends an alert sound to the operator, which allows the operator to react swiftly and take necessary precautions to avoid collisions.

Advanced Forklift Anti-Collision System with Ultrasonic Probes and Visual Displays: More advanced forklift anti-collision systems like SharpEagle’s use hosts like ultrasonic probes to calculate the distance of the blind spots, pedestrians, or another vehicle approaching and then display the visuals on the LED. Furthermore, the anti-collision system warns the operator by sending danger signals using lights, beeps, vibrations to your seat, or a combination of all.  

LED Display for Enhanced Operator Awareness: The system also has an LED display that allows the operator to see the obstructions directly on the screen, further enhancing their awareness of the surrounding environment. With this visual aid, operators can navigate through obstacles more effectively, even when the load on the forklift obstructs their vision. 

Hence, the anti-collision system not only detects the danger but also sends real-time alerts to the drivers/operators to take preventive measures, reducing the risk of collisions significantly. 

Advanced Features of Anti-collision System from SharpEagle

1. Host and ultrasonic probes to calculate the exact distance from the obstacle 

Our anti-collision system comprises host and ultrasonic probes at the forklift's rear. These probes emit ultrasonic waves, precisely measuring the time it takes for the waves to bounce off obstacles and return to the probe. Utilizing this data, the system accurately calculates the distance between the forklift and any obstacles in its path.

1. LED display to get a clear view of obstacles. 

The system transmits the information related to the calculated distance to an LED display mounted within the operator's field of view. This display offers a clear visual representation of obstacles up to 3 meters away. This enhanced situational awareness aids the operator in making informed decisions while navigating the reverse forklift.

1. Sound system alerts for additional safety 

Our anti-collision system also includes a sound system that emits auditory alerts to notify the operator about the obstacles in line with the forklift. These alerts act as an additional safety measure, ensuring that the operator remains aware of potential hazards, even when they are not looking at the LED display.

Technical Specifications of Sharp Eagle‘s Anti-collision System ‍

• Our forklift anti-collision system has an operating voltage of DC12V-32V. That means it is compatible with different forklift models and electrical systems. 
• It is energy efficient with a working current range of 20mA-200mA. This reduces your power consumption.
• The ultrasonic frequency of the system is 40K±1K. Such frequencies accurately calculate the distance between the forklift and the obstacle. 
• It can effectively operate in the temperature range of -30 °C to +80°C. Hence, it is reliable under any working conditions. 
• Our forklift anti-collision system has an IP67 rating. According to this rating, it is fully dustproof and functional in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. 
• The anti-collision system from SharpeEagle is compact for easy integration.  

Also Read:  Elevate Safety & Efficiency: ForkView Camera System

‍ ➢ How to Integrate Anti-collision System with your Forklift?

Integrating an anti-collision system with your forklift is straightforward. Understand and follow the below steps carefully, 

1.  First, you need to find a strategic location to mount the ultrasonic probes. The placement should ensure a comprehensive view of the area. ‍
2. The next step is to connect the wiring to the central control unit. This step is crucial as the central control unit processes the data and channelizes the system’s functions. So, all the connections should be secure for the system's proper functioning. ‍
3. In the third step, install the LED display and sound system in the operator’s cabin. Again, location is essential for both. The LED display should be in the operator's line of sight, and the sound system should be audible. You also need to connect them with the central unit. 

‍Knowing this installation process will help you oversee the installation efficiently. Moreover, if you know what to expect, you can make the necessary arrangements in advance. This way, you will ensure everything is done on schedule without any delays. We also suggest integrating forklift speed limiters and wireless camera systems to upgrade your safety system. Because the more preventive actions you take, the lower are the chances of accidents.

Conclusion 

The anti-collision system helps mitigate the risk of damages and injuries caused by forklift collisions. It detects objects in the way of forklifts, removes blind spots, and prevents accidents by improving operators' visibility.  

However, proper integration and ongoing support are also necessary to prevent forklift accidents successfully. Our team of experts guides you at every step, from advising on the right safety product to installation and maintenance. 

With our years of expertise in providing safety solutions to multiple industries, we offer valuable safety insights after carefully inspecting your workplace.

Related FAQs

What is a forklift anti-collision system?

It is a system that detects obstacles along the forklift path and sends alerts to the operator. It is especially helpful when operators themselves cannot see the obstacles due to heavy load. This system has an LED display that shows if the path is clear. Hence their visibility is improved and they can effectively navigate through the narrow space or intersection with the forklift. 

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How does an anti-collision system work?

The anti-collision system has a sensor, probe, LED display, and sound system that work together to prevent accidents. Sensors detect the obstacles, calculate the distance, and transmit it to an LED display. This display lets the operator know the exact distance between their forklift and the obstacle. For added safety, the system sends auditory warnings like an alarm to inform the operators about the presence of obstacles. 

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Can these systems significantly reduce forklift accidents?

Yes, it surely does. The system alerts the operators regarding the presence of obstacles in their path. If the operators are correctly trained, they can effectively navigate the challenging workplace conditions using an anti-collision system.

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