History of Forklifts
The technology of forklifts provides the capacity to easily transport bulky or heavy things across short distances. Forklifts are normally used in the every day operations of various kinds of businesses. Forklift design is always going through 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 known as Clark manufactured the very first truck tracker in 1917. It was developed for use within Clark's own plant, but when others saw it they were really impressed with this lifting machinery, even though it can just lift loads just a few centimeters off the ground. The following year, Clark started to sell the trucks widely.
The early models were extremely basic. By 1920, hydraulics was incorporated into the design. During 1923, Yale Baker developed an electric powered model with a pinion and ratchet system that cost a lot less to operate. Pallets were developed as surfaces which are stackable on which to move materials. This allowed larger loads to be moved.
During WWII, more companies moved into the materials handling sector to be able to deal with increased demand. Companies, such as Hyster, went from producing other types of machinery to producing lift trucks. The United States Armed Forces increased demand for forklifts for the reason of bringing military materials to the frontlines. The demand for longer lasting electric models led to the development of forklifts that could last for eight hours.
During the course of their history, forklifts have considerably changed. Industries around the world need forklifts to lower costs and increase production. Modern trucks are safer, more comfortable and more productive compared to their predecessors.