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In a challenging project to help Linde develop a new range of reach trucks, IDC came up with full engineering and production solutions for a new driver’s control console.

IDC was briefed to produce an engineering design and working model of a driver’s control console which would house control devices in specific ergonomic locations and in very restricted spaces. The console was to be mounted on a rail providing adjustment both horizontally and vertically to ensure a comfortable working position. Another key aspect of the design was finite element analysis, to understand the stress resistance of the design and ensure that the console was robust and able to withstand large forces.

Linde came to IDC after they had completed the industrial design of the console, which meant that IDC had to engineer a solution that worked within design confines that had already been set. With the position of control devices established by ergonomic requirements, IDC had to engineer a design that overcame any potential weak spots in the structure caused by mounting fixtures, control valves and other features. They devised a design with two main parts producing a strong assembly made from an innovative 50% glass filled nylon material which was injection moulded to create a strong structure with good aesthetics.

IDC Models, then went on to produce eight sets of full size vacuum cast models for testing and evaluation. IDC also worked with Linde’s toolmaker/moulder and DuPont to develop the production tooling. The console had to be able to withstand a 90kg man standing on it to meet Linde’s safety requirements.

The new R14-R20 Reach Truck range won the Red Dot award 2013. This project follows the success of several other product developments that IDC has supported to help Linde unveil some ground-breaking new materials handling trucks.