Jungheinrich has introduced the "Pilot-Drive" steering and control system for its ETV series reach trucks. In high-bay warehouses, operators frequently switch between steering, lifting, and tilting functions, leading to wrist fatigue and reduced efficiency. The Pilot-Drive system integrates the travel direction switch, horn, and lift controls into the steering column.
The core innovation is the "Adaptive Steering Ratio." The system monitors the truck's travel speed via the CAN bus. At low speeds (cornering in tight aisles), the steering ratio is set to "Super-Direct"-a 90-degree turn of the wheel results in a full lock of the rear axle, allowing for sharp turns with minimal effort. At high speeds (long travel aisles), the system switches to a "Linear" ratio, reducing steering sensitivity to prevent over-correction and instability.
Furthermore, the steering column features a "Variable Force Feedback" motor. When the truck approaches a rack or obstacle detected by the proximity sensors, the steering wheel provides a haptic resistance force, "pushing" the operator away from the danger zone. This active safety feature is more intuitive than an audible alarm, allowing the operator to react instinctively. The system also includes a "Auto-Centering" function. When the operator releases the steering wheel, the motor automatically aligns the rear wheels to the straight-ahead position, simplifying reversing maneuvers.
