AIRman introduces automated landing gear for OE and aftermarket applications
AIRman Products, a designer, developer, and manufacturer of pneumatic solutions for commercial transportation and specialty industries, gave attendees at the Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) 2020 a first look at their Automated Landing Gear Deployment and Retraction Technology.
The device eliminates the need for manual cranking required to raise and lower a trailer’s landing gear, which in turn will reduce potential driver injury to the shoulders, knees, back, and upper body. The electrically driven, light-weight landing gear is 15 lbs. and can be OE-installed or retrofitted within an hour. It is compatible with all existing landing gear makes and models.
“The fleets we’ve surveyed tell us that shoulder, back, and rotator cuff injuries are at the top of their list for workers’ comp claims, and that cranking landing gear up and down can cause or exacerbate these injuries,” Jim Babbitt, vice president of sales for AIRman Products, said. “Truck driving is already a physically demanding profession, so our automated system focuses on one primary stressor, making trailer drops and hookup operations safer and faster, while improving the truck driver experience and as a result, driver retention.”
AIRman also notes that the technology can increase lot utilization. Without a crank arm needing to be accessed, as the landing gear’s controller is mounted just under the trailer apron, trailers will be able to park closer together.
The landing gear will come in a kit and include all components and mounting hardware necessary for installation. Installation requires the attachment of the AIRman actuator to the vehicle and the reinstallation of the crossbar.
AIRman’s Automated Landing Gear Deployment and Retraction Technology will available in the third quarter of 2020. The technology will come with a 5-year standard warranty and a 7-year warranty will be available under a fleet agreement.
