Ultimation launches new specialty automated delivery systems for new Ram TRX truck launch
ROSEVILLE, Mich. (September 16, 2020) – Ultimation is launching a new range of specialty automated delivery systems. The products target the automotive and e-commerce industries. The new range builds on the success of automated tire and wheel delivery systems. They will deliver oversize and performance style tires. Initially the first application is a fleet of tire and wheel delivery trucks for the new Ram TRX performance off-road trucks. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) will launch the TRX later this year.
“The new Ram TRX tire and wheel assemblies are enormous” said John Daugherty, Engineering and Projects VP at Ultimation. “And because they don’t fit inside existing delivery systems, it required a new look at how to handle these type of off-road style tires. We’re seeing many of these larger mud-style tires used in light truck applications. For performance vehicles, we need to ensure that the delivery method doesn’t include stacking assemblies. They are expensive and easy to damage. Ultimation’s new automated delivery trucks protect the wheel surfaces at all times.”
Ultimation’s automated system utilizes a continuous loop of conveyors inside the trucks. Motor driven roller (MDR) conveyors move the tires during loading and unloading. Trucks are loaded with tires at the logistics sub assembly site location. When Ultimation’s truck system is backed into a delivery dock, the conveyor inside the truck connects with a shipping conveyor. At the supplier plants the tires enter into the truck at the upper right hand side. Loading continues with the required number of tire and wheel assemblies for each delivery. At the FCA plant, the trucks back into the dock and the unloading process begins. Most importantly, the entire process is automated.
“Avoiding forklift movements for loading and unloading wheel and tire assemblies has major value for the auto companies and suppliers alike” said Daugherty. The productivity savings are significant. Also, each forklift movement in a busy assembly environment carries safety risks. Ultimation believes that many more commodities in the e-commerce segment will soon use these automated processes.”
Automated Delivery System Options
Ultimation’s automated delivery systems can be fitted to vehicles as small as the Navistar MV series stake trucks. At the upper end of the range, they are as large as 53′ long tractor trailers. Each application includes 3 – 8 vehicles or trailers that can service the just-in-time deliveries. Some of the larger systems include 800 feet of motorized conveyor per trailer. These systems have over 500 individual motorized conveyor rollers. MDR suppliers for the motors are Japanese supplier Itoh Denki and Swiss supplier Interroll.
Ultimation recently joined the Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest growing private companies. The company was also a finalist for Amazon’s Woman-Owned Small Business Spotlight Awards in 2019. Ultimation was listed as one of Metro Detroit’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® in 2019. For more information about Ultimation Industries, visit https://www.ultimationinc.com.
About Ultimation:
Ultimation Industries, LLC is a woman-owned leader in the conveyor and automation industry. Founded in 1989, Ultimation designs, manufactures and installs machinery and equipment for customers throughout the Americas. The company offers a line of proprietary automation systems and is also a leading integrator of Jervis Webb Conveyor Systems. Ultimation’s e-commerce channel sells Ultimation, Interroll, Itoh Denki, Jervis Webb, and a wide range of other conveyor equipment. Visit https://www.ultimationinc.com/ for the latest product information and news about Ultimation.
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For further information please contact:
Nancy Sarpolis / [email protected] / 248-219-5651
