Varistop™ Forklift Brake Offers Variable Torque

Variable torque braking is at the forefront of electric forklift braking technology, and the Varistop permanent magnet brake from Matrix International applies this technology to address the challenge of increasing truck speed while reducing turning radius.  The spring-applied motor and load wheel brake acccomplishes this by taking into account the changes in center of gravity with different loads.

Varistop by Matrix, an Altra Industrial Motion company, offers the smooth operation of variable torque braking with stepless torque change.  Electric current that produces torque can be electronically controlled and varied depending on the weight of the load and height at which it is carried.  This allows the truck to be braked from speed to rest as quickly as possible without becoming unstable.

The permanent magnet brake functions as both a variable torque motor brake and parking brake.  Due to its compact design and capability to monitor braking torque, the Varistop  is well suited for very narrow aisle trucks, high-level order pickers and other “man lift” type forklift applications.  Electric and hydraulic versions are available.

For more information, call 815-389-3771 or email matrix.usa@altramotion.com.

About Altra Industrial Motion

Altra Industrial Motion (NASDAQ:AMIC) is a leading multi-national designer, producer and marketer of a wide range of electromechanical power transmission products.  The company brings together strong brands covering over 40 product lines with production facilities in nine countries.  Altra’s leading brands include Boston Gear, Warner Electric, TB Wood’s, Formsprag Clutch, Wichita Clutch, Industrial Clutch, Ameridrives Couplings, Kilian Manufacturing, Marland Clutch, Nuttall Gear, Stieber Clutch, Twiflex Limited, Bibby Transmissions, Matrix International, Inertia Dynamics, Huco-Dynatork, Ameridrives Power Transmission, Delroyd Worm Gear and Warner Linear.  For information on any of these technology leaders, visit www.AltraMotion.com.

TTTech Offers Evaluation Systems for TTEthernet

TTTech, the leading supplier of solutions in the field of time-triggered technologies, announces the availability of evaluation systems for TTEthernet. The solutions allow the investigation of TTEthernet features and the development of distributed real-time applications. The entry-level product, offering 100 Mbit/s, represents a door opener to TTEthernet providing fault containment features at a competitive price. The advanced 1 Gbit/s product supports the design of high-end systems, providing demonstration of parallel routing and fault tolerance in dual channel configuration.

TTEthernet is an Ethernet solution supporting the IEEE 802.3 standard. Products on base of TTEthernet enable a scalable real-time platform for control systems deployable for a variety of distributed applications. One particular benefit of TTEthernet is that regular Ethernet traffic sent over the same network does not influence determinism and synchronization of TTEthernet traffic. Currently TTEthernet is applied in production programs including NASA's Orion crew exploration vehicle.

The 100 Mbit/s TTE-Evaluation System uses a software implementation of the TTEthernet protocol on the end system. The solution supports fault containment, thereby insulating failure and making the system safer than comparable Ethernet network systems. Whereas the faulty node is encapsulated, other nodes continue operation. With this package users can take advantage of innovative Ethernet-based architectures. The 100 Mbit/s evaluation system is suitable for the majority of standard industrial applications. Potential industry segments include industrial automation, transportation, medical, and energy production. The 100 Mbit/s TTE-Evaluation System is ideally suited for development teams that would like to have a close look at the benefits of TTEthernet.

The 1 Gbit/s TTE-Evaluation System supports a two channel communication with a hardware implemented end system and enables the quick design of complex real-time applications. It takes advantage of innovative Ethernet-based architectures for on-board systems, infotainment applications and high-availability and fault-tolerant networks. This evaluation system provides the benefits of a basic toolset for configuration and scheduling and pre-configured but adaptable demonstration.

In order to create and modify the time-triggered schedule, TTE-Tools are also part of the evaluation system packages. The TTE-Tools suite allows seamless design, configuration, data loading and verification of TTEthernet-based networks, end systems and switches. This set of tools is built around an open XML database, used to capture system-level communication requirements and network topology and to support seamless integration with existing design processes.

About TTTech Computertechnik AG

TTTech Computertechnik AG is the leading supplier of solutions in the field of time-triggered data communication. The company's products improve the safety and dependability of networked computer systems in transportation and automation industries. The solutions are based on TTP and TTEthernet. FlexRay solutions are offered by TTTech's subsidiary, TTTech Automotive. Standard software and hardware products are complemented by worldwide product and project support to efficiently develop and implement distributed embedded systems.

TTTech's product range enhances the approach to handle safety-critical data communication with respect to cost, safety, and development efficiency. TTTech especially enables by-wire and integrated vehicle control systems and supports the reduction of system life-cycle cost and complexity. Further information on TTTech is available at http://www.tttech.com.

Additional Thomson Round Rail 3D Models Now Available

Thomson, A Danaher Motion Company, has available new 3D models for their most popular Thomson Linear Ball Bushing® Bearing and Linear Specialty Bearing products.  These configurable 3D CAD models are available for immediate download for Thomson Super Smart Ball Bushing Bearings and pillow blocks, Super Ball Bushing Bearings and pillow blocks, Precision Steel Ball Bushing Bearings and pillow blocks, as well as Roundway Linear Roller Bearings.

“We’re constantly looking for ways to help OEM’s build a better machine, faster, and increasing the number of readily available and easily accessible tools such as 3D product models is another step in helping our customers and prospects correctly size and specify the right product for their machine,” says Ellen Steinbrunner, Product Line Manager, Thomson Linear Bearings & Shafting. “3D models are available for download in over 25 file formats, compatible with most popular CAD programs including Solidworks, AutoCAD, Pro/E and more.”

About Thomson

With more than 60 years of motion control innovation and quality, Thomson is the industry’s premiere producer of Ball Bushing and Profile Rail bearings, 60 Case Shafting, ground and rolled Ball Screws, Linear Actuators, Linear Systems and related accessories.  Thomson pioneered the Ball Bushing bearing in 1945, and has set the standard ever since with an unsurpassed set of mechanical motion control solutions serving global commercial and aerospace & defense markets.  Thomson, a Danaher Motion company, has facilities in North America, Europe and Asia with over 2000 distributor locations around the world.

About Danaher Motion

Danaher Motion is a leading global manufacturer of motion control products that improve the efficiency and productivity of complex manufacturing operations.  Danaher Motion’s product innovations have been revolutionizing the motion control industry for over 60 years through trusted brand names including Kollmorgen, Thomson and Dover. 

Thomson, A Danaher Motion Company, 1500 Mittel Boulevard, Wood Dale, IL 60191-1073; 1-540-633-3549; 1-540-639-4162 (fax); ContactUs@DanaherMotion.com; www.DanaherMotion.com.

John Deere Upgrades Powerful
710J Backhoe with New Tier 3 Engine

John Deere has added a new PowerTech E™ 6068 Tier 3 engine to its 710J Backhoe, improving both emissions compliance and power.

“Deere's got the most powerful backhoe available at this size level, so contractors can step up to Tier 3 engines without sacrificing power, durability or lugging power,” said Bob Tyler, product marketing manager, John Deere Construction & Forestry Division.

The 710J still provides the greatest dig depth in the industry — reaching up to 22 feet, 4 inches when extended. And now a PowerTech E™ 6068 Tier 3 engine that will come standard on 710J backhoes beginning in January will provide an increase in horsepower and the same heavy-duty six-cylinder torque as on the previous Tier 2 710Js.

The new 710Js feature net horsepower of 126 hp, compared to the 123 hp on the Tier 2 engines, along with a host of other improvements, Tyler said. For example, the high pressure common rail fuel system provides higher injection pressures, variable timing, and precise control of fuel injection, giving it highly efficient combustion.
 
“The increased combustion efficiency, power and torque results in higher low-speed torque and faster response, while the new ECU has twice the memory and five times the computing power of the previous engine,” Tyler said. “Plus, the redesigned ECU is now located inside the cab and your in-depth diagnostics can be retrieved using the monitor's onboard diagnostics or Service Advisor™.”

Deere has also ensured that daily servicing duties are easy to accomplish.

“Servicing is all done on the same side and accessed from the ground,” Tyler said. “You won't need to raise the boom and no tools are necessary to open and tilt the hood, which can be tilted to 90 degrees if needed.”

In addition, exterior upgrades to the 710J include a new extended grill frame that comes standard and a side louver that improves airflow to the engine.

Deere & Company (NYSE: DE) is the world's leading provider of advanced products and services for agricultural and forestry and a major provider of advanced products and services for construction, lawn and turf care, landscaping and irrigation. John Deere also provides financial services worldwide and manufactures and markets engines used in heavy equipment. Since it was founded in 1837, the company has extended its heritage of integrity, quality, commitment and innovation around the globe. John Deere Construction & Forestry produces more than 120 machine models and distributes its construction, forestry and worksite products. For more information, visit www.johndeere.com.

JLG Launches New Service Center Toll-Free Phone Number

JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company [NYSE: OSK], announces the launch of a new toll-free phone number to help customers reach JLG Service Centers. JLG customers can dial 1-877-JLG-CENTER and a quick menu will guide them to the JLG Service Center of their choice – Riverside or Houston. Once connected, JLG personnel can help with scheduling a repair, inspection or parts order. They can offer technical expertise and troubleshooting on whatever the inquiry may be.

JLG Service Centers provide both in-shop and mobile repair service, maintenance and inspection services, warranty repairs, reconditioning and same-day parts service for JLG customers’ aerial work platforms, telehandlers and even other types of equipment.

“Having an easy to remember national toll-free number will help our customers contact us,” commented Chris Mellott, JLG Industries vice president Ground Support. “A new toll-free number coupled with JLG Service Centers located across the country brings our service capabilities closer to our customer base allowing them to maximize uptime with their customers.”

To learn more about JLG’s Service Centers, please visit our website at www.jlg.com/services.

About JLG Industries, Inc.

JLG Industries, Inc. is the world’s leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of access equipment. The Company’s diverse product portfolio includes leading brands such as JLGâ aerial work platforms; JLG, SkyTrakâ and Lullâ telehandlers; and an array of complementary services and accessories that increase the versatility and efficiency of these products. JLG is an Oshkosh Corporation company [NYSE: OSK].

For more information about JLG Industries, Inc., log onto the company website: www.jlg.com

About Oshkosh Corporation

Oshkosh Corporation is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of a broad range of specialty access equipment, commercial, fire & emergency and military vehicles and vehicle bodies. Oshkosh Corp. manufactures, distributes and services products under the brands of Oshkosh®, JLG®, Pierce®, McNeilus®, Medtec®, Jerr-Dan®, BAI®, Oshkosh Specialty Vehicles, Frontline™, SMIT™, Geesink™, Norba™, Kiggen™, CON-E-CO®, London® and IMT®. Oshkosh products are valued worldwide in businesses where high quality, superior performance, rugged reliability and long-term value are paramount.
For more information, log on to www.oshkoshcorporation.com.

Leica Geosystems Launches Series
of Automatic, Self-leveling Grade Lasers

From general construction to agricultural applications, the latest series of Rugby Grade Lasers from Leica Geosystems offer users a powerful combination of efficiency, accuracy and flexibility.

Dan Dykhuis, Director of Construction Product Marketing for Leica Geosystems, says, “With functionality options that range from on-the-fly remote control operation, high accuracy extended range operation and advanced internal laser leveling technology, this series of lasers is uniquely designed to meet a wide range of applications including the most demanding ones found when coupled with machine control systems.”

The new automatic, self-leveling Grade Laser Series will include the Rugby 420DG, 410DG and 320SG rotating lasers.

Rugby 420 DG (Dual Grade): Designed for applications such as land leveling and tiling that require long distance and stable performance over the whole day, the dual grade Rugby 420DG lasers operate from an optional long-range, two-way Remote Control feature that lets users manage all Rugby functions “on-the-fly.” These lasers incorporate a high power visible, red laser diode that generates an operating range of up to 3,600 ft diameter. The Rugby 420DG also includes a laser plane stabilization feature which ensures accurate and repeatable performance from morning until night and an electronic axis alignment feature for easy one-person alignment in the field, improving grade and set up accuracy.

Rugby 410DG (Dual Grade): Like the Rugby 420DG lasers, the dual grade 410DG are designed to operate from an optional long-range, two-way Remote Control.  With its integrated infrared laser diode, this advanced laser has an operating range up to 2,600 feet that is ideal for general construction and machine control applications.

Rugby 320SG (Single Grade): The Rugby 320SG single grade has a built-in visible red laser diode for an operating range up to 3,000 feet.

The Rugby lasers works with MC200 Depthmaster for excavators, MC1200 for motor graders, and control systems based on Leica CAB laser sensors for dozers, scrapers, box blades, and similar equipment. 
All Rugby 320SG, 410DG and 420DG lasers offer superior power management for up to 130 hours of continuous operation. In addition to the two years Leica Geosystems standard international warranty, the new Leica Rugby Grade Laser Series is offered with an optional three-year warranty extension.

Dykhuis concludes, “Whatever your laser requirements (single or dual grade, short or long range), or your application from foundations and formwork to land leveling and tiling, the new Rugby Grade Lasers are designed to deliver precise grade control with speed, ease and accuracy to increase your bottom line.”

About Leica Geosystems:

Based in Heerbrugg, Switzerland, Leica Geosystems is a global company with tens of thousands of customers supported by more than 2,600 employees in 23 countries and hundreds of partners located in more than 120 countries around the world. Leica Geosystems is part of the Hexagon Group, Sweden. For more information, visit http://www.leica-geosystems.com/us/en/lgs_8910.htm

Don’t Lose Your Voice...
Advertising Is More Important Than Ever

In 1929, Kellogg’s and Post were engaged in a heated battle to conquer the breakfast cereal market. But then, an unexpected twist of fate threw both companies for a loop: the Great Depression. Kellogg’s made the decision to ramp up its advertising and continue its push to become the preferred consumer brand – Post, fearing tough economic times ahead, opted instead to slash expenses, starting with advertising. Most people know how the story ends: Kellogg’s leapfrogged Post in the market and has maintained a dominant position ever since.

And before you assume that the Kellogg’s success story would be irrelevant in a modern media context, consider this: in 2003, when the U.S. stock market hit 10-year lows, Apple made the decision to continue to invest in its brand. At the time, many in the business community questioned the wisdom of such a strategy, but today, as anyone with an iPod or iPhone can attest, it’s obvious that Apple got the last word. As Steve Jobs later explained, “Our belief was that if we kept on putting our products in front of the customers, they would continue to open their wallets…and that’s what we’ve done.”

All too often, advertising is the first thing on the chopping block for businesses facing a troubled economy. But as the Kellogg’s/Apple stories demonstrate, it can be a devastating mistake to neglect your brand and silence your company’s message for even a short period of time. Consumers have short memories when it comes to brand loyalty, and savvy competitors know it. Some of the most successful businesses have captured their market by simply having the foresight to view an economic slowdown not as a time to pull back; but rather, as an opportunity to pull ahead of the competition. 

The market is quieter when the economy goes sour. And this rare opportunity is two-fold for businesses seeking to make a greater impact. First, advertising in this context means that your message is more likely to be heard. There is less “buzz” to contend with. Second, from a more long-term strategic standpoint, it’s easier to hear your customer and recognize the needs that may not have been met within a booming, oversaturated market. Taking the opportunity to identify consumer needs and tailor your message directly to those needs will pay dividends now and in the future, after the economy turns around and the buzz inevitably returns. For Kellogg’s, it was a message of reassurance and stability that spoke to customers. For Apple, it was one of innovation and imagination. No matter what your message is, if you are able to make it meaningful to your customers and keep it alive during a “quiet” market, the impact will be considerable.   

But, one might ask, what is the point of advertising in the first place if consumers have less money to spend (or perhaps, no money to spend)? The natural instinct of many businesses is to assume that in these difficult times, consumers will forego spending on anything other than the absolute essentials. But it may not be that simple. Although unemployment and the weakened housing and credit markets will strain consumers, those with stable jobs will end up benefiting from measures designed to boost the economy – such as lower interest rates – and may end up (paradoxically so) even stronger consumers as a result.

But regardless of whether your customer has more disposable income or less than ever before (and whether your customers are individual consumers or other businesses) the absolute worst thing any company can do in any economic climate is cut off all communication with the clients it serves. In a study of 600 business-to-business companies conducted by McGraw-Hill Research, it was discovered that businesses that maintained or increased their advertising expenditures during the 1981 recession averaged higher sales growth both during the recession and in the three years following. The same trend held true in 2001, when aggressive recession advertisers increased their market share by 250% compared to the average for all businesses in the years following the economic downturn. An interesting side-note to these statistics is that in an economic boom, the same studies showed that while 80% of businesses increased advertising expenditures, there was no correlating increase in market share – because every one of their competitors was doing the exact same thing.

It’s also worthwhile to consider that the absence of a message to your customers may send a message in and of itself. And more often than not, it’s a negative one. Customers assume the worst, and therefore what starts off as an attempt to avoid financial trouble becomes a destructive self-fulfilling prophecy when the viability of your company and brand are called into question. Businesses should therefore weigh the costs of advertising in difficult economic times against the less tangible (but still measurable) costs of not keeping themselves visible within their industry.

Finally, it’s important to realize the impact of fear on the consumermarket. As FDR famously put it, the only thing to fear is fear itself. As an advertiser, you have the ability to contribute to that fear, or to help diffuse it. Advertising and open communication with customers and within the economy at large reassures consumers that while the outlook may seem bleak, it’s still “business as usual.” Keeping the buzz alive will keep the customer confident, and keep commerce chugging along even in the worst of times.