History of Forklifts
Forklift technology provides the capacity to transport heavy or bulky things easily across short distances. Forklifts are usually utilized in the every day operations of various types of businesses. Forklift design is always undergoing improvement as technology advances.
During the early part of the 20th century, at the beginning of the industrial period in America, the forklift was invented. A company referred to as Clark manufactured the very first truck tracker in 1917. It was developed for use in Clark's very own plant, but when other people saw it they were very impressed with this lifting machinery, even if it was only capable of lifting loads a few centimeters off the ground. The next year, Clark started marketing the trucks widely.
The early models were very basic. By 1920, hydraulics was integrated into the design. In the year 1923, Yale Baker developed an electric powered model with a ratchet and pinion system which cost a lot less to operate. Pallets were developed as stackable surfaces on which to transport materials. This allowed larger loads to be transported.
To be able to deal with the increased demand, more businesses moved into the material handling industry during WWII. Businesses, like Hyster, went from manufacturing other kinds of machines to producing lift trucks. The U.S. Armed Forces increased demand for forklifts for the purpose of bringing military materials to the frontlines. The demand for longer lasting electric models led to the development of forklifts which could last for eight hours.
In the course of their history, forklifts have considerably changed. Businesses all around the world need forklifts to increase production and lessen costs. Modern trucks are safer, more comfortable and more productive compared to their predecessors.