Stacking aisle width for forklift trucks in palletized storage and handling systems

Abstract

Forklift trucks are restricted by the size of aisle widths in which they can operate. Stacking aisle width is the aisle width required under the most favourable conditions for stacking operations with the forklift truck positioned at right angles to the aisle. Accordingly, the load is swung into position only within the stacking aisle width, with exception of the forklift trucks that can only pick up loads from the floor and lay them down. For these trucks, the swinging operation is planned to be carried out above the lay-down location and has therefore been taken into account in the calculation of the stacking aisle width. Calculations are done using FEM regulation. This paper has set out the basic storage and handling systems for palletized goods, and the essential characteristics of the different systems. A key aspect for determining the most appropriate system for a particular application is to select one whose characteristics most closely match the overall requirements of the warehouse within which it is to work. In most warehouses more than one system is used.