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Ergonomics is usually defined as "the science of making the workplace meet the needs of users." But when something is described as "ergonomically designed", it doesn't just mean that it is "suitable for a specific purpose." Ergonomics means paying special attention to the development of the product to ensure that it is most suitable for the user, the environment, and the tasks to be performed.
For a long time, it has been widely believed that reducing worker discomfort by paying more attention to ergonomics has a positive impact on efficiency and productivity. For example, in a modern office environment, the design of desks, chairs, monitors, keyboards, and lighting are evaluated in detail when creating a workspace to reduce the musculoskeletal impact of people who sit and stare at the screen for a long time.
The office of the forklift operator is the cab of the truck. This is where he/she spends about 8 hours a day, so every aspect of the cab design-from the stepping height to the shape of the control lever-must be considered if the operator is to remain comfortable throughout the shift, Thereby improving work efficiency.
At Toyota, we have been focusing on how ergonomic design can improve driver comfort for more than a quarter of a century. During this period, we introduced some breakthrough features, such as the unique tilting cab used on the Reflex E-reach truck series, which reduces the stress on the driver and provides maximum visibility at heights, but we believe in our new series BT The Reflex reach truck represents the most ergonomically advanced machine we have ever produced.
With no less than 11 adjustment points, it is no exaggeration to say that the driver position in the new BT Reflex series can be customized in a variety of ways to provide a perfect working environment for operators of any size or body type.
From the ground up, the low steps lead to the height-adjustable cab floor, while the accelerator and brake pedals can be raised and lowered as needed to adapt to various operator heights or leg lengths.
All new models can be equipped with high-quality air suspension seats, which have no less than five adjustment points, allowing the operator to choose the most comfortable driving position.
The steering column has a three-point adjustment function, which can switch its elevation, length and inclination angle according to the operator's body needs, while the central control unit can be raised and lowered forwards, backwards and vertically.
To further enhance the operator experience, the palm rest of the steering device has been improved to increase touch sensitivity and feel, while the new main console-located on the driver's right side-enables highly intuitive control of the new model.
The joysticks are arranged in an outline pattern to match the way that human fingers naturally rest, while the new large color touch screen display provides a clear view of key information and direct access to the truck's programmable features and functions. Like the main control, the design of the touch screen also takes into account the convenience of operation, and its intuitive interactive functions ensure high efficiency.
Other additional features that make the driver's life easier include additional storage boxes, mobile phone charging points and optional Bluetooth connectivity.
Forklift operators are the most important asset in any logistics operation, and they are becoming an increasingly scarce commodity in the labor force. Therefore, respecting drivers has never been more important, and a good way to do this is to ensure that their working environment is relaxed and pleasant.
By placing the operator at the center of our design thinking, Toyota's new BT Reflex series provides the best driving experience for reach truck drivers. Its innovative features ensure comfort on all shifts, thereby improving truck performance and optimizing internal logistics efficiency. And, of course, this means that warehouse and RDC managers can rest assured that their forklift drivers are happy and that throughput targets are being achieved.
For more information on the new Reflex reach forklift range, please visit www.toyota-forklifts.coo.uk/reflex
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