Section 3 Forklift Stacking Aisle Width & Minimum Aisle Width Simulation

Overview of Forklift Stacking Aisle Width Calculation

This feature calculates the minimum aisle width (stacking aisle width) required for a forklift loaded with cargo to turn and operate safely in warehouse layout design.

Basic Operations

• Selecting Vehicle Model & Series: Select the forklift series and vehicle model to be used, then click the "Recalculate" button to instantly compute the minimum required aisle width.
• Cross-Manufacturer Compatibility: When vehicle models and specifications are equivalent across manufacturers, calculated stacking aisle widths remain virtually identical.

Calculation Logic for Stacking Aisle Width (Minimum Aisle Width)

A forklift's stacking aisle width $R$ is defined by the following mathematical formula based on vehicle characteristics and load dimensions:

• $R1$: Element relating to the vehicle turning radius.
• $R2$: Element relating to the outer overhang including the loaded cargo.
• $C$ (Clearance): Safety operational margin, typically configured at 100 mm.

Differences in Forklift Turning Pivot Points by Vehicle Type

Because the physical position of the turning axis varies according to forklift structural designs, these differences must be incorporated into minimum aisle width calculations.

• 3-Wheel Forklifts: The turning pivot center is located at the center of the front axle.
• 4-Wheel Forklifts: The turning pivot center is located at the outer edge of the front axle.

Key Benefits of Application

• High-Precision Layout Engineering: Enables precise simulations based on manufacturer dimension specifications (forklift dimensions), achieving efficient minimum aisle width design without wasted floor area.
• Ensuring Operational Safety: Verifying calculated values including safety clearances reduces collision accident risks for forklifts in field operations.

Selectable Forklift Models and Calculation Interface

Adding or modifying vehicle models is performed via "Tera計算Data\トラック軌跡計算\トラック寸法.xlsx".
Select the target vehicle model from the calculation screen and click the start calculation button.

Select the forklift series/model and click the Recalculate button.
If vehicle specifications are identical across manufacturers, required stacking aisle widths remain virtually equivalent.

Detailed Formulas for Stacking Aisle Width

3-wheel forklifts have their turning pivot center located at the center of the front axle,

while 4-wheel forklifts have their turning pivot center located on the outer edge of the front axle.

For both vehicle types, the stacking aisle width $R$ representing the minimum required aisle width is derived as $R = R1 + R2 + C$.
(Safety clearance $C$ normally maintains 100 mm).

Example Specification Dimension Data from a Forklift Manufacturer