Kanoo Machinery has launched Hyster’s new-generation computer-controlled ‘fly-by-wire’ reach trucks in Saudi Arabia.

Though not a new concept by itself, this is the first reach truck designed from scratch and the first ever built using Demand Flow Technology (DFT), claims Kanoo which markets Hyster machines in Saudi Arabia.
The Matrix has been built to order to meet the specific demands of its operating environment and the Gulf environment, says a spokesman for the company.
The basic Matrix model has a range of standard features such as an ergonomically-designed operator compartment, the accuracy of 180-degree fly-by-wire steering, the operating benefits of AC electronics technology and a controlled area network (CANbus) electronic system. There are options such as 360-degree fly-by-wire steering or a unique joystick control in place of lever hydraulic controls.
“The customer can choose a basic model that incorporates standard features,” said company spokesman Ali Abdullah Kanoo, “but the innovative design means that there is a matrix of options that will deliver a product that best matches their requirements.”
The real attraction of the truck is its computer. A joystick or free rotating miniature steering wheel and an array of neat levers control the onboard computer. As in modern aircraft, the operator doesn’t physically control any part of the machine – he merely instructs the computer through the control panel. Ultra-fine levels of control are possible, and this allows much safer operation, he says.
Electrically and mechanically, there are a lot of new features – the new mast design being one of them. It gives the driver greater visibility, offers high lift/lower speeds and a full residual capacity to a height of 7.5 m. Hyster has also incorporated intersection dampening facilitating a smooth and controlled performance.
Kanoo claims that the trucks offer maximum performance with minimal power consumption. The CANbus electronic system allows operators the capability to change between preset performance parameters, and access service diagnostic information.
The technological advances in the steering console includes a password security feature to control driver access, a height and weight indicator and a height pre-selection facility with a memory for storing up to 20 different height levels.
The truck that is designed to operate in narrow warehouse aisles allows greater storage and racking density per sq m, a real potential money-saver for businesses,” says Jim Elliott, divisional operations manager of Kanoo Machinery.