Knight has launched its first electronic positioner, the Servo Hoist. The servo-controlled chain hoist uses an electronic handle to assist workers lifting loads of 250lb (113kg), 500 lb (227kg) and 1,000 lb (453kg). Users can set and reset the upper and lower hook end stops with buttons on the control handle.
Unlike competitors’ models, the hoist uses chain instead of wire rope for greater durability. The hoist is rated at continuous duty and will come with a two-year warranty. It also has ports for an external limit switch or solenoid for suction-cup lifting.
At Promat in January, the company showed the first two models built. There, controls engineer Douglas Jones said that the company was trying out two different technologies prior to shipping the first units in February. By the show, the company had seven orders, said president Jim Zaguroli.
Knight Industries also demoed a powered travel drive that uses a rack and pinion gear instead of a friction wheel. The intention is for the travel drive to be mounted on the Servo Hoist, Zaguroli said. ‘All the knowledge we need to do it is there.’
