Wegard U-Frame

Perfect all-rounder for the tightest spaces!

A U-frame represents the supreme discipline in a tugger train and enables ground-level and double-sided loading at the same time. Thus, the U-Frames provide the highest degree of flexibility and allow ergonomic work of the operators. The slim frame allows better visibility for the driver. Our tugger trains can also be equipped for outdoor use. The combination with Rollcart pallet chassis also allows. Different designs of trailers are possible in one tugger train without any adjustments, which allows maximum flexibility in transport planning.

Standard U-Frame offers:

Application

The combination with Rollcart pallet chassis also enables:

Many other options are also available

Interactive remote control

With a remote control, the operation of the tugger train can be made even safer and more efficient. The control panel offers the following advantages:

  • The trailers can be raised or lowered individually from the driver’s cab. When the driver arrives at the trailer for loading and unloading, the lifting movement has already been performed.
  • A control panel also makes additional driving modes accessible. This allows the tugger train to be moved sideways and parked. This is particularly practical when more space is taken up by other road users and the route train has to be moved to the side.
  • The total length of the train can be temporarily shortened by alternately turning the vehicles to the left and to the right. This can be used to cross locks in particular.
  • The display panel can also provide information about the problem in the event of a malfunction and also provides redundancy in the event of an emergency shutdown.

On request, the extension of the range of functions can be made to make the work even more efficient.

Outdoor capability

Additional challenges must be considered when using the tugger trains outdoors. First of all, the ground is much more uneven, especially manhole covers, curbs and ramps can damage ordinary route trains. Sufficient ground clearance must be ensured in any case. For this purpose, the lifting height can optionally be raised to 200 mm. In addition, cobblestones cause shocks to the goods and can damage them. In the Wegard Trail for outdoor use, wheels with larger diameter and width are used to provide more ground clearance. The material of the wheels must also be able to cope with wet conditions. Many fabrics become brittle or porous and can cause the entire tugger train to fail. Optional dampers can be provided in the vehicle to reduce vibration and shock. For all-weather use, the load must also be covered with a tarpaulin. Tarpaulin bodies are then removably attached to each trailer. The walls can then be printed according to the corporate identity in different colors and, if desired, with logo.

Road legal lighting

For outdoor route trains used on public roads, lighting is often mandatory according to road safety regulations. Our tugger trains have been approved by TÜV and have all the necessary markings and lighting elements for use in Germany, we can also offer the adequate lighting for your country.

Guiding lights

Additional protection is provided by the light strips that are projected onto the ground to the side of the route train. This additionally warns the employees about the minimum distance to the vehicle.

Intuitive load control

The lifting function of the trailers can be adjusted for three positions. With the use of the appropriate load carriers, the following settings are useful:

  • Loading position: the lifting lips move up by a few centimeters. When the load carrier is inserted, it moves against a stop and is locked and centered in the process.
  • Unloading position: the lifting lips move to the lowest position, releasing the load interlock. The load carrier can be removed at ground level.
  • Transport position: The lifting lips move up and lift the load above the floor.

In combination with load detection, ergonomics can be additionally improved and cycle times shortened.
The stroke heights can be easily adjusted via the keys if required.

Optimal cycle times

Ergonomics and short operating times are extremely important in a tugger train supply system. An optional load detection system can significantly simplify the loading process. A light barrier monitors whether the load is present. When the load is removed from one of the stations, the lifting lip moves from the unloading to the loading position after some time, activating the engagement device. As soon as the moving frame is pushed in, the load automatically moves to the transport position. When the trailer is in the loading position and no load is inserted, the drive release is given, which means that the operator does not have to lower the trailer at the next station. Thus, both safety and ergonomics are improved.

Shortened version

For some applications, the length of the entire tensile assembly can be critical. Shorter trailers are especially advantageous when navigating the locks and in tight spaces. In addition, shorter trailers are more maneuverable due to their geometry. The length of an ordinary drawbar is given by the width of the trailer and the load. A scissor drawbar can shorten the length of a trailer by up to 40 cm, which significantly reduces the overall length of the route train.

Simpler driver training

Training new drivers can take some time. During this period, the risk of collisions and accidents is particularly high. When turning into a very sharp corner, the trailers of the same tugger train can collide with each other and possibly damage the load. A sensor warns the driver that the angle of the 2 consecutive trailers is too large, which can prevent damage. For this purpose, a warning horn is installed in the cabin and warns the new drivers of the dangerous turning maneuver.

Virtual barrier

From experience, we know that employees often go through the frames of empty trailers. If this is not noticed by the tugger, a collision may occur. Safety guidelines at the factory usually do not remedy the situation. We addressed this problem and now have a workaround. A camera evaluates the movement under the frame and prevents driving off if an employee passes under the frame of the vehicle. This also reduces the driver’s workload.

Emergency shutdown

The safety of the technology is Wegard’s priority. All vehicles monitor the current driving condition, as well as the condition of neighboring trailers. In the event of a fault, a signal is sent to the tug and the tug is brought to a halt. This function is also activated when the load is down and the vehicle is not allowed to drive. As an option, curve speed reduction can be retrofitted, which reduces the speed of the entire route train until the last trailer completes the turn.

Multiple voltage ranges

Wegard trailers are compatible with any tractor on the market. This concerns not only the 24 V and 48 V indoor tractors, but also the more performant 80 V outdoor vehicles.