Design Challenge - Advanced Lift-truck Technology International 2010

Cab-Mounted Lift System - Amos Boaz

“Although styled to be a desirable product, the Orpela 612 forklift concept was constructed from the user’s point of view. The mast is replaced with two telescopic arms borrowed from the crane world; these have been positioned behind the driver, and at 1,000mm in height, the structure does not interfere with the view to the rear. A strong bridge connects the telescopic arms and the forks, which could rise up to 5,000mm in five stages. Between the two telescopic arms, I positioned a lift that enables the cab to be raised up to 600mm. This would be employed when the load is bulky and would block the driver’s view, so he can elevate the cab to see over the obstruction. A camera system is positioned on the fork stopper, which allows the driver to better see the position of the load at high heights were the view is otherwise not accessible. A further improvement to the traditional forklift concept is the fork arrangement. Uniquely, these can collapse into the carriage, which greatly improves manoeuvrability. When driven this way, the forklift becomes much shorter, so after a load has been placed onto the shelf, the driver would not need to reverse as far – essentially the length of a standard fork less than with a standard truck. In terms of styling, the bridge that combines the telescopic arms is sculpted in some areas as a part of the whole body, but towards the fork it becomes more skeletal in appearance – a combination that gives the 612 a light but strong look. Proportionally, the machine is built so that the back is small and tight and the front is heavy and muscular, like a gorilla.”

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BIOGRAPHY

Amos Boaz is a specialist in industrial design and styling of high-performance vehicles. He also lectures in the Bezalel Academy of Art and Design, Jerusalem

CONTACT DETAILS

Email: amosboaz@netvision.net.il

Website: www.amosboaz.com