Automated Load Handling System

Supashock’s Automated Load Handling System (ALHS) is a versatile and unique logistics support system that enables the automated loading and unloading of ISO containers, modules and flat racks.

Unlike other load handling systems, the ALHS is operated safely from within the protected cabin of the Rheinmetall MAN HX44 or HX77 military truck.

With only one driver-operator required to complete the automated loading and unloading of a payload, combat personnel are kept safe in battlefield logistics operations and dangerous environments.

This is all possible thanks to the unique mechanical design of the ALHS, whereby only the top two corners of an ISO container need to be accessed to hoist a load onto the truck. The integrated hook system also gives the ALHS the unique ability to load 20ft ISO flat racks.

In contrast, the current in-service load handling system used by the Australian Defence Force requires four corners of an ISO container to be manually rigged by an operator (in addition to a driver) to hoist a load onto the truck. Operators need to be present to load and unload the trucks.

The ALHS is also the world’s fastest load handling system, capable of completing loading and unloading cycles a minimum of two times faster than current in-service load handling systems. In field operations the ALHS is likely to be 3-4 times faster.

The ALHS introduces a genuine ‘lift and go’ capability that significantly reduces the time spent by military personnel in a hostile environment and thus increasing overall safety and survivability.

The design of the ALHS enables it to be operated on a range of terrains by a single driver-operator. The distribution of military supplies will be simplified in demanding battlefield environments while keeping soldiers safe.

Automated advantages

The ALHS uses cutting-edge motion technology that eliminates manual operations through automated technology.

Combat situations often require loading, unloading and transportation of operational equipment under challenging conditions, including:

• Misalignment of the vehicle and the load that is being carried by  the vehicle,
• Slopes that the vehicle may need to traverse, and
• Adverse conditions such as mud, sand and other debris which prevent access to the bottom corner fittings.

Several integral mechanical degrees of freedom combined with a simple and easy-to-operate computer assisted user interface makes operation of the system approachable in all conditions.

The ability to load ISO containers without access to bottom corner fittings eliminates the need to clear buried or obstructed fittings, common in battlefield logistics operations.

Contact

Supashock Advanced Technologies

2-6 Ardtornish St

Holden Hill, SA, 5088, Australia

Phone: +61 08 8333 1123