History of Forklifts
The technology of forklifts provides the capacity to easily move bulky or heavy objects across short distances. Forklifts are normally used in the daily operations of different types of businesses. Forklift design is always undergoing improvement as technology advances.
In the early part of the 20th century, at the beginning of the industrial period within America, the forklift was invented. A company called Clark made the first truck tracker in the year 1917. It was developed for use inside Clark's own plant, but when other individuals saw it they were very impressed with this lifting machinery, even though it was only capable of carrying loads a few centimeters off the ground. The following year, Clark started advertising the trucks widely.
The early models were extremely basic. By 1920, hydraulics was integrated into the design. During the year 1923, Yale Baker developed an electric powered model with a pinion and ratchet system that cost a lot less to use. Pallets were developed as surfaces which are stackable on which to move supplies. This permitted bigger loads to be moved.
To be able to deal with the increased demand, more companies moved into the material handling industry in WWII. Companies, like Hyster, went from producing other types of equipment to manufacturing lift trucks. The U.S. Armed Forces increased demand for forklifts for the reason of bringing military supplies to the frontlines. The demand for longer lasting electric models resulted in the development of forklifts which could last for eight hours.
Forklifts have changed considerably through the course of their history. Businesses all around the globe require forklifts to lower expenses and increase production. Modern trucks are safer, more comfortable and more productive than their predecessors.