LORD Corporation Perfects Steer-by-Wire System for Forklift Trucks

Customer
Lift truck manufacturer Linde Group, for its R 14 Active - R 20 Active reach trucks.

Challenge
Electronic steer-by-wire systems don’t allow truck operators the subjective feel needed for instinctive driving. Active feedback (i.e., motors) can correct the problem, but this solution is complex and expensive.

Solution
Using its proprietary magneto-rheological (MR) technology, LORD Corporation worked with Linde to develop a variable-torque MR damper, which allows the torque required to turn the steering wheel to be a function of the truck operation and thus provide the operator with the correct subjective feel. The resulting LORD TFD^® Steer-By-Wire Device integrated an MR rotary damper, a position sensor, bearings and a steering wheel shaft into one compact and economical package.

Results
The variable-torque damper provides resistive force feedback that is safe and cost-effective. The natural, instinctive feel of the steering system gives the operator optimum control, which improves productivity and overall safety.

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