New cabin for Straddle Carrier

Merford is developing a new cabin for a straddle carriers. Operators of straddle carriers often face physical problems because of bad posture and dynamic loads on the body caused by limited visibility, required wide viewing ranges (both horizontal and vertical), horizontal and vertical movements and vibrations in the machine. The combination of these aspects call for special attention to the operator’s working environment.

Stimulated by requests from the marked Merford analysed the existing working methods, existing machines and cabins. Analysing this it became clear it will be a challenge to improve all aspects but Merford is able to do so.

The static loads on the operators body is determined by the driving direction of the straddle carrier and the position of the spreader and containers. Limited adjustments in existing operator seats may force tall or small people in awkward and bad postures. To optimise this posture the seat arrangement has to be designed for (P5-P95) operators worldwide.

In a straddle carrier an operator has to be able to drive forward and backward to do so the operator needs a viewing angle of 180 degrees. This means he has to look 90 to the left and right, this in combination with looking downwards forces him in bad postures resulting in back and neck problems.

To reduce this problem straddle carrier cabins are often equipped with rotatable operator seat. However because rotation needs to be done manual those seats are not easy to use. Another disadvantage is change of the steering direction which changes unnatural when the seat is rotated 180 degrees. Limited visibility and the awkward posture is not only caused by limited seat adjustments a big steering column is blocking the view on the corner casting of the container.

Merford is developing a new operator seat with motorized rotation as well as a new steering console. The seat will have many and large adjustment possibilities to meet P5-P95 people worldwide.

The motorized rotation will be fast, easy to operate and make driving backwards quite comfortable (out of critical ergonomic postures/rotation for neck and low back). Another advantage is the steering direction; this remains the same when the seat rotates.

With regards to reflection the selection on of the windows is very important. Each type of glass has its own properties with regards to visibility and conform during cold weather To create both, optimal visibility and comfort special attention is paid to the selection of the windows. As a finale task we have to design the cabin construction. This must be accomplished without introducing any visual obstructions.

To prevent poor visibility and physical complaints, Merford uses 3D software and a view line and posture analysis, which shows visibility from the operator’s perspective.