Linde Material Handling has launched the "Blue-Spot" safety system as a standard feature on its new E-series electric forklifts. In busy logistics centers with high shelving and blind corners, acoustic warnings (horns) are often drowned out by ambient noise. The Blue-Spot system projects a bright blue LED spot onto the floor 5 meters in front of or behind the forklift.
The engineering design focuses on "Attention Capture." Unlike traditional flashing beacons on the roof (which can blend into the background lighting), the Blue Spot appears on the floor where pedestrians are looking. The system uses a high-power, 3W LED module with a focused lens, ensuring the spot is visible even on dark concrete or under strong warehouse lighting.
Crucially, the system features "Speed-Linked Logic." The projector is linked to the forklift's CAN bus. When the forklift is stationary, the blue spot is static. When the truck accelerates, the spot flashes rhythmically to indicate the machine is moving. If the truck goes into reverse, the system can switch the projection to the rear (or project a second spot). The projector is mounted on the overhead guard leg, protected by a steel cage to prevent impact damage. This simple yet effective visual warning system significantly reduces the risk of "blind corner" collisions in silent electric forklift operations, acting as a "Virtual Guard" for pedestrian safety.
