Altec LS Series Material Handling Attachment: Efficient Light and Sign Installation
What is the LS Series Material Handling Attachment?
The LS Series Material Handling Attachment is a new product option for Altec’s LS models designed for the lights and signs industry. The attachment mounts on the existing boom-tip structures of any LS60, LS63, or LS87 unit to install electronic message boards as part of an existing sign.
The material handling attachment helps customers avoid damage to signs or buildings by installing from underneath an existing sign rather than reaching from above with a crane or other lifting mechanism. As a result, this may eliminate the need for additional crew members or equipment, which can ultimately help customers reduce costs and time spent on a project or job site. Also, by installing from underneath an awning or building soffit, customers do not have to worry about the winch load line hitting the building.
Katherine Niebuhr, Altec Lights & Signs Market Manager, says this product was created as a solution based on customer feedback.
“Providing customers with the ability to install boards underneath existing signs or building features with the same unit they already have on the job site is a novel idea. We listened to our customers, saw their frustrations, and were able to provide a solution that fits their needs,” Niebuhr said.
How it Works
The material handling attachment can be installed on the LS unit by using the quick disconnect process to remove the platform. This product is installed using the same brackets and pins as the platform. Once the attachment is mounted to the boom-tip brackets, it can be used to pick up a sign. The sign can then be secured and lifted for final installation. The product can also be operated with radio controls to provide the operator with a clear line of sight and the ability to control loads.
Design Features
The material handling attachment was designed by Altec engineers to streamline the sign installation process for the lights and signs industry.
The product includes the following features:
- Adjustable side-to-side load arms to support the load as needed
- Minimum of eight anchor points provided for securing the load to the attachment
- Removable load arms to facilitate stowage
- Crane loop to facilitate stowing/un-stowing from the truck
- UHMW protective pads to protect the load from damage
- Bolt-on storage solution that is easily secured for travel
Increased Efficiency, Productivity and Safety
This new material handling attachment provides another means of lifting signs and equipment into position, resulting in increased productivity, safety and job site efficiency.
Jason Cox, a Colortech installer says the material handling attachment has changed the company’s approach to sign installation for the better. By allowing for a more substantial lift and reducing the number of crew members needed on the job site, Jason and his team have been able to achieve a greater sense of job satisfaction and safety.
Colortech is a sign and graphics company located in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
“Before using this attachment, we would have to bring our forklift along or tear the entire sign apart and use a crane or some other method of lifting. This attachment has saved us a lot of time,” said Cox.
The Future of Sign Installation
Altec Lights and Signs Sales Manager Mark Kruger says the material handling attachment was engineered with a customer-first approach.
“This product is yet another example of Altec’s commitment to improving work practices and advancements for those working in the lights and signs industry,” Kruger stated.
Kruger added, “We are focused on creating products that are a direct result of customer-driven innovation.”
For more information on the material handling attachment and other Altec equipment, call 800-958-2555 or contact an Altec representative online.