Putting the skates behind the loads
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A NEW SYSTEM to move loads quickly in a vehicle or for use in loading containers has been developed by Package Control Ltd of Kings Road, Crowthorne, Berkshire.
Known as the Load-Lifta, it uses an aluminium channel with a lip and a continuous steel riser plate and air bag beneath it.
The method of moving is via "skates" made from aluminium channel and aluminium rollers on steel spindles fitted with roller bearings.
The skates, made to whatever length required by the customer, are placed in the channel with the air bag deflated and the rollers down on the riser plate presenting a smooth surface to the underside of the pallet, which is then positioned over the top.
Air from the braking system or a separate air cylinder can be used to inflate the bag which in turn lifts the riser plate, skates and load. The riser plate is so shaped that it fits under the lipped aluminium channel and forms a track for the skates to move along.
When everything is in place, the system can be deflated, positioning the load onto the floor of the vehicle.
The whole operation can then be started again by removing the skates from under the positioned load and placing them in the deflated channel ready for the next pallet.