Raymond unveils new lift trucks, virtual reality training simulator

The buzz was heavy at The Raymond Corp.'s booth, where the lift truck maker drew crowds of attendees who wanted to take the company's new virtual reality (VR) training simulator for a test drive. Using a VR headset, new operators train on preprogrammed exercises in a warehouse environment. Because the simulator attaches to Raymond's trucks, trainees use it on the equipment they will actually be driving. The simulator, which augments OSHA-required classroom training, allows operators to train with a coach by their side before they take equipment out on the warehouse floor for hands-on training.

Raymond also formally introduced several new pieces of equipment:

• The Model 8720 low-level orderpicker, which increases productivity by allowing operators to move from pick to pick without having to lower the platform.

• The Model 8250 walkie pallet jack with lithium-ion battery, which allows operators to move more pallets with longer run time and faster recharging times. The batteries can be repeatedly charged to 100 percent capacity without an equalization charge, and no cool-down period is required.

• The new Model 4460 three-wheel sit-down counterbalanced truck, which has a dual entry and exit, a lower step height, and larger entry and operator compartment, as well as an open-view mast design, integral side shift combined with three-stage mast, and full free lift.

For more information, go to The Raymond Corp. website.