As the driver gets into the truck, his seat position, display and language are automatically adjusted to suit his individual requirements. The information required for this process is saved in the "TaLindesman", which the driver keeps about his person.

Movement requires space
The students based their proposal on the structural conditions and requirements of the Linde electric forklift truck that features a two-tonne load-bearing capacity. A lithium-ion battery, which replaces the lead batteries, frees up more room and leads to new design options such as a very low entry point into the truck, which allows drivers to get in and out of the truck safely. The lower weight of the lithium-ion batteries is offset by weights attached to the underbody. Furthermore, the driver's field of vision is expanded by omitting the A-columns. A rotary seated workstation, which can be converted into a standing workstation as required using a handle, allows the driver to adopt different positions in the truck and prevents just one area of the body from being put under strain.

 
The driver is able to reach the operating elements in either the seated or standing position, enabling him to move more flexibly and obtain a good overview when lifting and lowering the load.

The TaLindesman
In order to motivate and show appreciation toward the forklift truck drivers, as well as to improve the way information was being processed, the students worked on additional concepts. One such concept involves the driver being informed about the forklift truck's battery charge status from the truck exterior. In addition, each user is given his own electronic key — his TaLindesman. This key stores personal data, such as the font size for the display or the preferred seating position in the forklift truck. When the driver gets into the truck, the system identifies the key and automatically adopts all the settings stored on the key. As all keys are in contact with one another, an early warning system is in place for when another forklift truck approaches: The TaLindesman vibrates and beeps to alert the driver. The on-screen display of the forklift truck is deliberately kept to a minimum and provides the driver with only the most vital information, such as the wheel position, lift mast tilt or position of the fork arms. However, there is also a touchscreen function that allows the driver to communicate with colleagues.

 
The driver can control the truck whether he is in a seated or standing position, meaning he does not come under strain from always staying in one position or the other. This can help prevent long-term complaints such as back pain.