Linde Steer Control
Driving a truck without a steering wheel? The revolutionary control concept "Linde Steer Control" makes this possible.
Instead of the classic steering wheel, the vehicle can be moved using either a joystick or a mini-wheel. The advantages of the new control system are clear: more ergonomics, greater user-friendliness, better visibility, and more driving pleasure.
- Revolutionary control without steering wheel
- More ergonomics
- Greater ease of use
- Better visibility
All information about Linde Steer Control at a glance
Smooth interaction between operator and forklift plays an increasingly important role in efficient logistics processes and maximum handling performance. A high-performance vehicle is the be-all and end-all here. But the human factor is also becoming increasingly important in this context. A high level of driving comfort and intuitive operation are often decisive in determining how quickly and efficiently transport and warehouse tasks can be completed. Accordingly, the design of the driver's workplace is becoming increasingly important. Here, the vehicle control system plays a major role in driving and operating comfort. But how can it be made even more ergonomic? Linde Steer Control provides the answer.
Linde Steer Control is a new type of electrohydraulic steering system that does not require a conventional steering wheel. It is controlled either by a mini-wheel or a joystick. The respective element is integrated in an additional armrest on the left side of the truck. This eliminates the need for a steering column, resulting in a significantly improved view of the fork tips. A further advantage results from the reduction in the required steering movements, as the driver's body is significantly relieved.
To ensure precise driving movements, the sensitivity of the steering elements is automatically adapted to the vehicle speed. The vehicle thus reacts in different ways to the same hand movement, depending on the situation: The faster the truck travels, the smaller the steering deflection of the wheels. The slower the travel speed, the greater the steering deflection.
Mini Wheel
In terms of operation, the Mini-Wheel is very similar to the classic steering wheel. Therefore, users who operate a Mini-Wheel for the first time can expect a much steeper learning curve compared to the joystick.
The Mini-Wheel is therefore also recommended as a standard version, making it the perfect choice for average users who use the truck for everyday tasks such as driving and maneuvering or storing and retrieving.
Joystick
For special applications, we recommend the variant with the joystick. This allows fast and strong changes of direction, which is advantageous in confined spaces and when frequently driving short, winding routes.
As soon as the joystick is released, the steering wheels automatically turn back to the straight-ahead position. This function proves particularly useful when the driver frequently has to drive into long, narrow aisles. But this functionality is also advantageous when starting or pushing the load in a straight line, such as in block and beverage warehouses or in paper recycling.
Special safety concept
Linde Steer Control is based on steer-by-wire technology. Here, the operator's control commands are converted into electrical signals and forwarded to the hydraulic actuators.
This allows the vehicle's wheels to be controlled even though the steering element is no longer mechanically connected to the steering axle. A highly developed safety concept guarantees the fail-safety of the vehicle control system here.
Driver and forklift form one unit
All Linde trucks are equipped with the proven operating concept of dual pedal control and Linde Load Control, which allows the trucks to be operated easily, precisely and intuitively. Linde Steer Control adds another element to this concept.
With the three control components, the driver has the feeling of becoming one with the vehicle. While the dual pedal control enables smooth starting and fast direction changes, the right hand controls all essential mast functions(Linde Load Control) and the left hand controls all travel movements of the truck(Linde Steer Control).
Perfect alternative for heavy users
The switch to Linde Steer Control is particularly worthwhile in intensive applications where operators spend most of their working day on the truck.
The reduced range of motion of the control arm significantly relieves the body, which in turn contributes to an increase in overall productivity.
Drivers can now work longer without complaints and with greater concentration, and the absenteeism rate due to stress-related illnesses is reduced in the long term.
A completely new driving experience
Linde Steer Control optimizes the ergonomic features of the forklift truck and minimizes the physical strain on the operator. Ergonomic benefits include:
By changing the vehicle control to the mini-wheel or joystick, the driver's forearm rests relaxed on the armrest during the entire driving time. All maneuvers are controlled exclusively by slight movements of the hand. The minimized range of motion reduces the strain on the shoulders and elbows in particular, which noticeably increases operating comfort.
The reduced arm movements when controlling the forklift prevent fatigue and one-sided overloading of the steering arm. The physical strain caused by frequent maneuvering is also reduced to a minimum.
Both effects are particularly noticeable for heavy users who spend several hours on the truck. This means that the driver can concentrate and work without distractions throughout the entire working day and thus maintain his handling performance at a consistently high level.
Study confirms: Fewer movements and stress
To scientifically prove the ergonomic benefits of Linde Steer Control, Linde 2022 conducted a user study together with RWTH Aachen University and fka GmbH. Participants included 24 test drivers between the ages of 19 and 67 who had held their forklift driver's license for at least three years and used the forklift every day in their daily work.
For the study, they had to complete two identical driving courses with representative driving maneuvers (driving straight ahead, winding passages, maneuvering, as well as picking up, parking and forklifting goods).
A special camera was used to record the range of motion of the shoulder, elbow and wrist and then analyzed.
The motion analyses clearly show that both the mini-wheel and the joystick cause less movement of the shoulder (-25%) and elbow (-45%) compared to the conventional steering wheel. This result is again in line with the test drivers' statement, who confirmed that the perceived strain in the shoulders and arms was significantly lower when using the steering wheel-less control.
Frequently asked questions about Linde Steer Control
Linde Steer Control is currently available for models X20 - X35, E20 - E35 and H20 - H35.
You might also be interested in
- For more safety in operation: The Linde Safety Pilot warns your drivers of hazards, reduces the risk of tipping accidents and avoids driving errors.
- The Linde Safety Guard is an asset in terms of occupational safety: warning tones, flashing LEDs or vibration alarms actively protect employees from danger.
- Safety in operation always has top priority. With clever assistance systems and safety devices, you specifically prevent accidents.
- In times of Industry 4.0, fast workflows are essential. Here it is advisable to rethink process flows in the company and automate them as far as possible.
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