Simple Non-Manipulators:
Strong, Industrial Lifting Devices for Holding or Supporting Loads

Despite their simple design, lifting devices such as our non-manipulators are a vital and highly practical solution for many critical industrial and logistical tasks.

Unlike electrical or manual manipulators, which are capable of performing complex movements like swinging, rotating, or tilting a load, non-manipulators are designed to perform a simpler, yet effective task: to support, hold, or stabilise a load during lift and transport.

This straightforward functionality makes them ideal for situations where the lifting task is simple and the need is to only lift the load up and down (no active load manipulation).

Please find links to more information on specific non-manipulators in the next section. For more general information on non-manipulators, please continue reading this article.

In the Realm of Non-Manipulators Flexibility and Versatility Take Centre Stage

Despite being a simple tool, a non-manipulator often offers the broadest range of applications, as some versions are adjustable, and many can be used to lift various types of loads.

Flexible Adjustment to the Load

As mentioned, a non-manipulator is defined by its inability to actively manipulate the load. However, this static characteristic does not mean that a non-manipulator cannot offer flexibility in terms of adapting to the load.

Our adjustable forks, double mandrels and clamps, for example, are lifting devices that can be adjusted to accommodate the size and dimensions of the load.

Using the Same Versatile Tool for Different Loads

Many non-manipulators, whether adjustable or not, are versatile choices for handling a wide range of loads in various sizes:

– Forks can be used to lift common items such as pallets and boxes.

– Platforms are suitable for lifting a variety of loads, including boxes and drums.

– Crane arms can also be used to lift different types of loads, such as machine covers, plates, machine parts, cans, and more.

– Mandrels are primarily used to lift rolls, but they can also function as a crane arm when a strap with a hook or carabiner is placed over them.

The Main Job of a Non-Manipulator Is to Hold a Load
– A Simple Task That Can Be Performed in Four Overall Ways

Since there are so many different types of non-manipulators, the way that they lift and transport a load will also differ. Generally speaking, the load can be passively supported or held in three main ways: from below, from the sides, and from the top.

– Top-down lifting: Here, tools like crane arms hold the load from above using a chain and hook or carabiner. This method is ideal for lifting large or heavy items where the load needs to be suspended from above for easy transport or placement.
– Bottom-up lifting: In this configuration, the load is placed on top of the lifting tool. This is typically the case when using various platforms, forks, or mandrels, where the load rests on the surface of the tool for stabilization and transport.
– Side-grip lifting: In this case, lifting devices like clamps or other side-grip tools hold the load by gripping its outer perimeter. This method is particularly useful for handling items like barrels, boxes, or other irregularly shaped loads where support is needed along the sides to keep the load stable.
– Inner-grip lifting: Here, a tool like the electric expander unit will hold the load from within the core with an electrically expanded gripper. This lifting tool is perfectly suited for lifting rolls.

Some manipulators are only capable of performing a movement and cannot grip the load. For instance, this is the case with rotation units or tipping units. These manipulators need to be combined with a non-manipulator with side-grip in order to hold the load.

In Doubt as to When to Choose Non-Manipulative Lifting Devices?
– Here Are Some Factors to Consider

As mentioned earlier, the primary reason to choose a non-manipulator over an electric or manual lifting tool is when the task only requires lifting the load along the vertical axis.

Beyond this, there are several other factors – such as load weight and available space – that should be considered before opting for a non-manipulator:

– Lighter loads (only in some cases, however). When using tools like platforms or mandrels, the load should be relatively light. This is because loading and unloading require manual handling, with the operator having direct contact with the load. The load must be pushed onto and off the lifting tool by hand.
– Easy access to the load (in most cases). Since loading and unloading need to be done in close proximity to the operator, sufficient free space around the lifting device is necessary to allow for easy access to the load.

The Advantages of Simple Non-Manipulators

Due to their simplicity, non-manipulators offer several advantages over regular manipulators, some of which include:

– Cost effectiveness. Since no complex manipulation is required, the design of the tool is significantly simplified, making it a more budget-friendly option. Additionally, we have an efficient system for customizing our standard non-manipulators, making individual tailoring quick and easy, something which is also reflected in the price.
– Versatility in use. Since many of our lifting devices are capable of handling multiple types of loads, you will in many instances only need one flexible tool instead of several different ones.
– Simplicity in operation. Since a lifter with a non-manipulator only supports one motion – lifting a load up and down – operating the lifter is very straightforward and user-friendly.
– Ease of maintenance. Non-manipulators have fewer moving parts and are therefore generally easier to maintain and service.
– Increased safety (in most cases). As a general rule, the fewer degrees of freedom a tool has, the safer it is to operate. Fewer movement options equal fewer risks for error. However, the need for close proximity to the load does introduce some degree of risk, which an electric manipulator, operated at a distance, may mitigate or eliminate.

Thus, a non-manipulator is the preferred choice when a simple, cost-effective, easy-to-use solution is needed for straightforward vertical lifting tasks.

If you need further guidance regarding your specific situation, we are available by phone to answer any questions you may have.