Modeling of Energy Recovery from Lowering the Fork Carriage Using the Adams System

The paper discusses a model of energy consumption of a forklift equipped with an innovative fork carriage lifting system. This solution is protected by patent right [16] and may be employed in typical forklifts. The concept of recovering potential energy in the forklift’s lifting mechanism is effected by employing ball screw instead of a hydraulic actuator with chain strand. This solution ensures the best conditions for recuperation and allows to extend the machine’s battery life without a need for loading. Hereinafter presented is a three-dimensional model developed with the use of Autodesk Inventor, as well as a simulation of that solution developed in MSC Adams program. The principle and the conditions required for that solution were determined. The amount of recovered energy is dependent on the potential energy of the lowered load and the energy recovery efficiency. This issue will be subject to further work.