Dock leveller EVO X
- safer, faster and more efficient thanks to digitalisation
Werth, January 2019. The ideal for every logistics provider is smooth processes with maximum transparency at every step of the process and efficient use of resources. In this respect, there is a need for optimisation in the loading situation, especially in large warehouses and logistics centres. When loading and unloading, the objectives of speed and work safety must be harmonised, and the more dock levellers and doors a property has, the more difficult it is to keep an eye on all processes at all times and to coordinate the use of the levellers in the best possible way. Novoferm, one of Europe's leading system suppliers of doors, gates, frames and operators, has now developed the EVO X to meet these requirements. As a next-generation dock leveller, it combines intelligent safety technology with digital information management and control that is as simple as it is fast.
The developers at Novoferm set themselves the goal of designing the safest and most efficient dock leveller using state-of-the-art technology. The result is the EVO X, the top-of-the-range model that offers almost all marketable innovations as standard. One example of this is the patented iQ-Slide, which eliminates one of the biggest accident risks during the loading process.
iQ-Slide and SLOD
The so-called SLOD function provides additional safety: the feed is adjusted with just one operating button so that the gap between the ramp and the loading area is bridged before the lorry is opened. This enables the rear lorry doors to be opened safely. IQ-Slide is the first intelligent feed system. If a truck or trailer is pushed forwards by a forklift truck, the slide automatically follows and prevents the truck from slipping off.
Novoferm uses particularly long - and therefore support-safe - segments made of high-strength aluminium for the transition from the truck to the dock leveller. The aluminium slide system ensures a particularly even and therefore smooth transition. This is good for the forklift drivers' backs and protects the goods being transported. Alu-Slide is also significantly quieter than other systems and the optional Silence Plus coating can further enhance this effect.
Simple, fast and safe operation
The EVO is operated with the Novo i-vision X, a control system with which all functions, from iQ-Slide and SLOD to the time-saving QuickDock, can be triggered literally at the touch of a button; the user guidance via LED largely eliminates operating errors. And, as is usual with Novoferm new and further developments, the latest environmentally friendly technologies have been used; in addition, energy consumption can be reduced by up to 70 per cent thanks to an innovative energy-saving function.
While the EVO X thus ensures noticeable improvements in each individual loading process, Novoferm's combination with the innovative LION 4.0 software enables continuous monitoring and optimised use of all loading points - at any time and from any location. LION provides information on the current status of one or all gates and bridges, the duration and frequency of their use.
Information management for transparency and efficiency
A dashboard as a sophisticated graphical user interface of LION 4.0 visualises data such as loading cycles or the average loading duration of the entire system. In addition to internal benchmarks, the export function also allows comparisons with other centres. The system also actively contacts the responsible employees if required: Information is sent to mobile phones or email addresses according to pre-settings.
For example, the system actively and automatically informs about deviations or unusual utilisation of gates and bridges. It also displays the actual maintenance status - the EVO X is not serviced rigidly according to a calendar, but according to practical necessity, i.e. actual utilisation. The remote monitoring option makes it possible to dispense with site-based supervisors or administrators. This makes the EVO X a prime example of the use of digital technologies for maximum safety, efficiency and transparency in loading management.
