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Research, Development and Innovation
conSoliDateD MANAGEMENT REPORT / PERFORMANCE OF PALFINGER
Tail lifts and passenger lifts
In the tail lift area, 2011 was marked by numerous product launches which once again confirmed
PALFINGER’s innovation leadership: a new 1-tonne foldable tail lift for Great Britain, a model for
heavy-duty vehicles with close coupler, a 4.0-tonne vertical lift for double deck trailers, flexible underrun
protection for the Scandinavian market and a 500-kg foldable tail lift for Australia. A patent
application was filed for the bolt-on mounting brackets “Eco”. The modular concept of the TRB
Trainlift makes it possible to quickly provide new applications for various train manufacturers and
other customers.
In North America, PALFINGER presented special product adaptations of the ILT series: a tailgate
combined with a walkable ramp, a non-powered lowering system for regions with colder climates
and a sideloader for the food retail sector.
In the field of passenger lifts, the EU Directive on type approval of whole motor vehicles, which will be
binding from 2014 onwards, has to be implemented. This will require product modifications and new
designs. In 2011, models for special market segments were added to the product range. Out of these
innovations, three products were registered with the patent office.
The testing facilities are now being converted and improved. Increased product development and the
optimization of development processes are to reduce the lead times in development as well as the
period preceding market introduction of a product.
Access platforms
In the course of product consolidation, PALFINGER presented a new model of the 3.5-tonne class
with a basket jib and a working height of 21 metres. In the premium class, a counter slewing
system with a working height of 30 metres on a 7.5-tonne chassis was introduced.
With a Gravity Powered Drive, which allows for manoeuvrability without energy supply, PALFINGER
has developed a unique feature specifically for use in chemical plants and other hazardous environments.
This system was patented in 2011.
65 product models launched – new
developments and adjustments of
systems to regional requirements
With the development of the new model ETO 55 MH for the North American market, PALFINGER
created first-class manoeuvrability and lifting capacity. A patent has been registered for the special
levelling system technology which requires neither chains nor cylinders. In addition, PALFINGER is
the only provider of single-read load charts in North America.
Railway systems
Application software based on Paltronic 150 was developed, thereby making all currently applicable
railway safety standards (EN50155, EN50128, etc.) available for all railway products. In addition, a
product safety manager was established.
In order to better meet the requirements in terms of rotations within the swivelling range, the
unique crane model PR220 was developed.
Moreover, special investments were made in the quality of the railway software applications.
Adequate hardware and software now makes it possible to simulate and automatically test the
railway software applications during product development.
palfinger Annual Report 2011
79