History of Forklifts
The technology of forklifts provides the capacity to easily move heavy or bulky items across short distances. Forklifts are usually used in the every day operations of various 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 era in America, the forklift was invented. A company called Clark made the first truck tracker during 1917. It was developed for use inside Clark's own plant, but when others saw it they were very impressed with this lifting machinery, even though it was only capable of raising loads only a few centimeters off the ground. The next year, Clark began advertising the trucks widely.
The early models were extremely basic. By 1920, hydraulics was incorporated into the design. In 1923, Yale Baker developed an electric powered model with a ratchet and pinion system which cost less to utilize. Pallets were developed as surfaces that are stackable on which to move materials. This permitted bigger loads to be moved.
During the Second World War, more businesses moved into the materials handling industry in order to handle increased demand. Businesses, like Hyster, went from making other types of machinery to manufacturing lift trucks. The U.S. Armed Forces increased demand for forklifts for the purpose 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.
In the course of their history, forklifts have considerably changed. Industries around the globe require forklifts to lessen costs and increase production. Modern trucks are more comfortable and more productive and safer compared to their predecessors.