Innovative Product Awards 2011 Category Winners

The Rental Equipment Register Innovative Product Award honors excellence in new product development in the equipment rental industry. This prestigious award showcases the most innovative products introduced between Aug. 1, 2010 and July 31, 2011, and recognizes the talent and commitment of the people involved in every aspect of development, from concept through sales. With your help, RER is proud to bestow the Innovative Product Award, which will be selected by a panel of respected industry experts.

Following are the winners in each of 13 categories. Please review each of the 13 products below and then select the one product that represents the most significant innovation to ensure rental professionals and contractors are able to do their jobs more efficiently and effectively. The product with the majority of votes will receive the grand award.

Compressors / Air Tools: CATEGORY WINNER

ZoneAir XATS 1020Atlas Copco Specialty Rental, Humble, TexasIntroduced: June 10, 2011
Key innovation: The ZoneAir XATS 1020 containerized portable compressor features a 15-foot DNV container that is ATEX 94/9/EC certified for Zone 2 hazardous area operation.

Atlas Copco Specialty Rental introduces the ZoneAir XATS 1020, an ATEX-certified containerized portable compressor designed for the oil and gas industry. With a capacity of 1,020 cfm at 150 psi (10.3 bar), the ZoneAir XATS 1020 provides energy-efficient performance in numerous applications. The ZoneAir XATS 1020 is designed for work on offshore platforms and vessels, and is suitable for painting and sandblasting, gas flaring, well testing, and enhanced oil recovery.

As a rental option, the ZoneAir XATS 1020 is designed for seasonal or temporary oil and gas applications. Its containerized housing and forklift slots make it easier to transport and stack for flexibility and versatility on site. Rental customers benefit from the latest Zone-2 (Class 1, Div. 2) compressor technology and reduced downtime with optional 24/7 service support from Atlas Copco's Specialty Rental division. The ZoneAir XATS 1020 is driven by a Cummins QSM 11 Tier 3 compliant engine and includes the new C190 screw element from Atlas Copco. The engine features flameproof Pyroban components such as an inlet shutdown valve, inlet flame trap, explosion proof alternator and battery system, water-cooled exhaust gas cooler, spark arrestor and engine safety control system. An 800-liter fuel tank ensures 8 hours full-load operation, resulting in increased uptime.

The ZoneAir XATS 1020 also includes Pyroban's 3GP gas-detection system - a proactive gas-detection system designed to guarantee safe operation in a hazardous area. The ZoneAir XATS 1020 is housed in a 15-foot DNV container that is fully ATEX 94/9/EC-certified for Zone 2 hazardous area operation. There is a single service side for easy accessibility.

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Computer Software: CATEGORY WINNER

The GPS integration in the latest version of Point-of-Rental Systems' Dispatch Center puts the rental company's dispatcher in the driver's seat, giving drivers tools for success, and allowing the whole team to provide superior customer service. The new GPS integration features computer-aided routing, GPS vehicle tracking, in-cab directions and stop details, arrival and departure updates that allow for proactive route adjustments and customer notifications — all to help actively manage the rental operation and stand out among the competition.

Using GPS devices from TSO Mobile and the Point-of-Rental Dispatch Center, the dispatcher can send stop-by-stop instructions or messages directly to delivery vehicles. The driver can view the stops on the in-cab display, hear turn-by-turn directions, and receive messages on the unit. The GPS unit transmits the arrival and departure time displaying real-time stop statuses and on-time reporting as well as estimated arrival times based on workflow and traffic conditions.

Counter personnel are able to inform the customer of their order's status in real-time. Management can isolate drivers that spend time in non-authorized locations and can even be alerted when a driver enters such locations. Dispatchers can quickly find the nearest truck to pick up items that are called off rent or that require service. Users will be able to determine how often the driver is on time and how good onsite time estimations are. Benefits include more efficient driving, eliminating out-of-sight goofing off, not having to refund delivery fees caused by late arrivals, and accurately pre-planning weeks in advance, all making the ROI on these features attractive.

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Concrete -Working Equipment: CATEGORY WINNER

Lavina 30G ProSuperabrasive Inc., Hoschton, Ga.Introduced: June 1, 2011Key innovation: Propane-driven planetary-grinding, polishing and burnishing machine all in one, featuring three new 13.5-inch heads for a 30-inch working area, and a unique low-profile base that can easily reach underneath shelving, cabinets, and other hard-to-reach places.

Lavina 30G Pro by Superabrasive Inc. is a new propane-driven 30-inch planetary-grinding, polishing and burnishing machine all in one. It features three new 13.5-inch heads for a 30-inch working area of productivity and a unique low-profile base designed to easily reach underneath shelving, cabinets and other hard-to-reach places. This gives the contractor a distinct advantage underneath racking and shelves, and allows for less edge work.

The machine is driven by a Kawasaki 18-hp propane-converted engine, and eliminates the need for generators and cables. It can be used for both wet and dry applications, and like all other Lavina machines, should be accompanied by Superabrasive’s standard line of recommended tooling (QuickChange, NATO, V-HARR, Calibra, etc). Lavina 30G Pro is well suited for big box store projects where an efficient, high-speed, large-area concrete-polishing solution is needed.

One Lavina 30G Pro is capable of completing 1,500 square feet per hour, using Superabrasive’s three-step big box store polishing system, and unlike other propane machines that are on the market, this machine is designed to fit very easily underneath racking and cabinets to minimize the need for edge work.

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Cutting / Drilling: CATEGORY WINNER

MAB 1300 Magnetic Drill
CS Unitec, Norwalk, Conn.
Introduced: May 2011
Key innovation:The MAB 1300 features a unique 4-gear, variable-speed, 20-amp motor that is reversible for tapping applications. It has the largest drilling and tapping capacity for a portable magnetic drill (drills up to 5-1/8-inch diameter, taps up to 1-5/8-inch diameter).

CS Unitec's new magnetic drilling machine, the MAB 1300, is designed for continuous use in heavy-duty drilling applications. The drill's powerful 20-amp/110-volt double-insulated, reversible motor is designed for drilling structural steel and other metals. The versatility of the 4-speed oil-bath gearbox (30-80, 50-120, 130-350 and 210-550 rpm) allows drilling of holes from 7/16-inch up to 5 1/8-inch diameter with annular cutters and twist drilling up to 1 3/4 inch. Capabilities include large-hole tapping up to 1 5/8-inch diameter and reaming up to 2 inches. The MAB 1300 has a Morse Taper No. 4 spindle with a 1 1/4-inch arbor with an adapter for ¾ inch. The drill can also be used with a special-purpose cutting tool. The unit includes an integrated automatic cooling/lubrication system to increase the life of the annular cutters by reducing friction and wear.

The high-density, three-coil magnet has a holding strength of up to 23,600 pounds, providing the pulling power required for heavy-duty drilling. The Electronic Safety Shutoff Sensor automatically shuts down the drill motor if the magnet loses contact with the material. An internal cable routing system helps protect the motor power cord from external damage. The drill weighs 112 pounds and is equipped with an eye-hook for lifting with a hoist. Standard equipment includes a steel carrying case, safety chain, drift key and hexagon socket screw key.

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Earthmoving Equipment: CATEGORY WINNER

JCB New Generation Skid Steers
JCB, Savannah, Ga.
Introduced: Nov. 8, 2010
Key innovation: These skid steers utilize a “PowerBoom” design that eliminates the need for a rear torque tube, greatly increasing operator safety by offering unmatched visibility and a side-entry door. As a result, operators can enter and exit the machine without stepping over the attachment and loader arm.

In 1993, JCB introduced the industry’s first mono-boom skid steer, a machine based upon the same principles as a telescopic handler. Today, the company’s New Generation Skid Steers embody this same innovative spirit while taking performance and safety to a higher level. Available in a range of models featuring radial or vertical lift and compatible with more than 30 attachment families, these skid steers are safe, durable, comfortable and simple to use for operators at all skill levels.

JCB’s “PowerBoom” design provides an unobstructed rear view and best-in-class visibility. This design also gives skid-steer operators access via a side-entry door, clear of the attachment and loader arm. Redesigned control panels are located in the panels at the top of the cab within the operator’s line of sight. A 17-percent larger cab, multifunction joystick controls and an optional heated air-suspension seat improve operator comfort.

Servicing these skid steers is designed to be fast and easy, for less time spent in the shop and more on the jobsite. A simplified design has decreased the total number of parts by 38 percent. A tilting cab provides better access to the machine’s power train and hydraulic components. The machines also include a rear service door for fast access to the engine and daily checkpoints. Operators can quickly switch attachments with a standard universal mechanical hitch or optional hydraulic quick hitch.

JCB’s New Generation Skid Steers are engineered with value in mind. Not only do owners benefit from increased productivity and serviceability, but these machines also use 16-percent less fuel for significant savings. For more information, visit: www.jcbvision.com.

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Generators / Welders: CATEGORY WINNER

EB6500 Generator
Honda Power Equipment, Alpharetta, Ga.
Introduced: January 2011
Key innovation: The Honda EB6500 generator features CycloConverter technology that results in power equal in quality to automatic voltage regulator generators but dramatically lighter weight than other units producing the same amount of power. It also includes iAVR, a Honda generator exclusive system that realizes a 50-percent reduction in voltage fluctuation over current AVR systems.

The new Honda EB6500 generator is the flagship model of the Honda Industrial Series — an offering that incorporates advanced innovative technologies, and premium features and benefits for the construction and rental industries. The EB6500 is designed with Honda CycloConverter technology that results in power equal in quality to automatic voltage regulator generators but dramatically lighter weight than other units producing the same amount of power. This lighter weight is achieved by reducing the number of traditional parts with a central processing unit that conditions the raw power produced by the generator and eliminates the need for a bulky alternator. Honda CycloConverter technology offers the best pound-per-watt ratio available anywhere, the maker says.

The Honda EB6500 also includes the all-new Honda iAVR Power advantage. iAVR is a Honda Generator exclusive system that realizes a 50-percent reduction in voltage fluctuation over current AVR systems. For up to 10 seconds, the Honda exclusive iAVR allows for increased wattage above the maximum rating to start high-amp load applications.

Powering the Honda EB6500 generator is the newly designed iGX390 engine — a revolutionary, intelligent, computer-controlled general-purpose engine that sets an even higher standard for ease of use, fuel efficiency, and quiet operation for complex applications. The engine incorporates an electronic self-tuning regulator governor and features an integrated electronic control unit that delivers remote control capability and controls key aspects of engine operation. Benefiting both consumers and the environment, iGX technology results in lower fuel consumption and lower noise through reduced total engine running time and engine speed that can be lowered based on power demands. This intelligent technology works in conjunction with the new engine's V-type valve layout and sparkplug-center combustion chamber to yield a fuel economy increase of approximately 15 percent compared to a similar conventional engine.

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Lawn & Garden Equipment: CATEGORY WINNER

ECO Drive Powered Carts
Granite Industries, Archbold, Ohio
Introduced: August 2010
Key innovation: Along with being completely electric, omitting fumes and resulting in virtually no noise, the ECO Drive Powered Carts feature one chassis with multiple quick attachments.

The ECO Power cart by American Cart and Equipment, a division of Granite Industries, is designed to help the user work more efficiently and with less stress. The innovative ECO Power cart is built to operate both indoors and outdoors, and is completely electric, so it omits no fumes and virtually no noise.

The ECO Power cart offers a range of attachments such a 7-foot cubic hopper, 7-foot cubic dump tray, and several sizes of flat platform for optimal hauling. Other features include a speed range of 0 to 24 mph; static braking, allowing the user to start and stop on ramps and hills without additional breaks; a battery life of 300 to 500 charge/discharge cycles; an operating time of 5 to 7 ½ hours of continuous running; and 7 ½ to 11 ¼ hours of start/stop.

The unit also includes a 2-amp charger connected to the chassis. The drive system is an open differential that allows the machine to turn efficiently without tire skids. The ECO Drive requires no extra maintenance beyond recharging after a day of work. The drive system is sealed for life, thus no lubrication is required.

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Lifts: CATEGORY WINNER

1500SJ
JLG Industries, McConnellsburg, Pa.
Introduced: Jan. 10, 2011
Key innovation: The 1500SJ is the first boomlift that elevates operators 150 feet requiring only a weight permit.

JLG added a new model to its line of Ultra Series boomlifts. The 1500SJ is the largest self-propelled telescopic boomlift available with a platform height of 150 feet that delivers greater work envelope flexibility and superior reach at elevated heights. As the first 150-foot boom lift that requires only a weight permit, the 1500SJ serves a previously unmet need for customers looking for both greater reach and flexibility. The 1500SJ includes a telescopic jib that extends up to 25 feet for additional vertical and horizontal reach. In addition, the 1500SJ delivers industry-leading terrainability and access to more work with the industry’s best work envelope, the maker says.

Standard steel hoods provide improved durability, reduced cost of ownership and greater long-term value. In addition, operators receive key information with new graphic LCD displays in the platform to further increase ease of operation. As with all Ultra Booms, the 1500SJ delivers dual 1,000-/500-pound capacity, three steering modes and advanced systems to assist in safely positioning the platform. The 1500SJ is designed for general contractors, glaziers, window cleaners and welders, among many others.

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Light Towers: CATEGORY WINNER

H2LT hydrogen fuel cell-powered light tower
Multiquip, Carson, Calif.
Introduced: December 2010
Key innovation: Hydrogen fuel powered light tower that is quiet, clean and uses renewable energy.

Innovative by design, the Multiquip, Earth Smart H2LT hydrogen fuel cell-powered light tower is environmentally friendly and pollution-free, allowing it to be operated indoors for up to 68 hours at a remarkable low noise level of only 43 decibels at 23 feet. Because of the load-following feature of the fuel cell, power is only produced as needed providing an unmatched fuel efficiency compared to conventional combustion engines running at full load at all times.

As the first hydrogen fuel cell-powered light tower, the system features a fuel cell running on pure hydrogen, resulting in zero-emission electrical power. The fuel cell produces electricity for an advanced, power-saving Light Emitting Plasma (LEP) lighting system and additional auxiliary power up to 2.5 kW, which allows additional equipment (such as drills, power tools, public address systems, or security metal detectors) to be powered by the unit at the same time the system is providing illumination.

Using a process discovered more than 150 years ago, fuel cells began supplying electric power for spacecrafts in the 1960s and were pursued for commercial use in the 1970s. Fuel cells are an alternative to the internal combustion engine with an energy efficiency of 50-plus percent, while, on average, internal combustion engines convert only 20 percent.

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Material Handling: CATEGORY WINNER

Cat TH514 Telehandler
Caterpillar, Peoria, Ill.
Introduced: December 2010
Key innovation: Designed to lift and place, load and carry, the TH514 gives workers 4990 kg (11,000 pounds) capacity and 13.7 meters (45 feet) of lift height. It features an upgraded cab and improved LCD display for added user visibility and access to information.

With a capacity of 4,990 kg (11,000 pounds) and a lift height of 13.7 meters (45 feet), the Cat TH514 telehandler is designed for construction, oil rigging and wind farming applications. A limited slip differential in the front axle provides added traction and allows the machine to work effectively in harsh terrain.

The TH514 telehandler reduces both fuel consumption and heat generation with a load-sensing variable displacement piston pump that delivers flow on demand. The side-mounted, turbo-charged Cat C4.4 DITAAC mechanical control engine with 74.5kW (101 hp) reduces emissions and runs cleaner. A transmission disconnect button on the joystick delivers full engine power to the hydraulics without manually disconnecting the drive.

The machine features an all-cylinder extension/retraction system boom and non-metallic wear pads; faster boom cycle times and proportional control of all three boom cycles allow loads to be placed with greater accuracy. A Cat powersynchro transmission delivers high power and torque levels that result in lower RPM operation with decreased sound levels. Low boom pivot design and an enlarged window surface provide outstanding visibility of the jobsite. An interactive LCD display helps diagnose equipment, monitor speed, view operating hours and check the boom angle. The keypad functions include steering modes, bucket mode and hydraulic system lock-out.

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Miscellaneous: CATEGORY WINNER

EQ Systems
EcoQuip Inc., Virginia Beach, Va.
Introduced: January 12, 2011
Key innovation: A wet abrasive blast system that produces no dust, is safe, versatile and environmentally friendly.

EcoQuip, a manufacturer that designs and builds environmentally friendly and highly effective wet abrasive blast equipment, introduces its EQ Systems series of blasting systems, designed to achieve minimal blast media consumption between 50 to100 pounds per hour and lower water usage to less than 1 quart per minute. Dust suppression of more than 97 percent can be accomplished in open-air blasting without the need of full containment. EcoQuip’s new design helps achieve a powerful, cost efficient answer to many of today’s surface-coating removal and preparation challenges.

EcoQuip’s series of blasting systems are successfully being used in a variety of industries for a wide-range of applications. The EQ200T and EQ400T represent advanced, mobile, self-contained surface-preparation systems. The EQ300C and EQ600C are high-production, high-performance, economical blast systems that utilize the customer’s on-site air supply.

EcoQuip has also designed and implemented the rental-ready surface-preparation and coating-removal system as well as abrasive cleaning system on the market today with proven success, the maker says. One EQ System can take the place of a multitude of equipment because of the versatility to blast as low as 30 psi to a high of 130 psi. This gives rental companies multiple markets in which this system can be rented.

Until now, general rental companies were extremely limited on their ability to rent blasting equipment because of safety concerns and OSHA regulations, environmental regulations and hazards, containment and disposal dilemmas, cumbersome ancillary equipment needed for setup, and operational understanding without extensive professional training. EcoQuip created a system that eliminates the restrictions the average general rental company encounters in order to capture this multi-million dollar market, as well as increase utilization on existing air compressor equipment.

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Power Tools: CATEGORY WINNER

Hilti TE 3000-AVR Breaker
Hilti Inc., Tulsa, Okla.
Introduced: January 2011
Key innovation: The brushless SR motor with advanced electronics allows the tool to work well on generators and makes it less sensitive to voltage drops due to long extension cords on jobsites. The unique brushless Hilti motor eliminates the need to replace carbon brushes, which results in longer intervals between service and twice the expected tool life. Utilizing Active Vibration Reduction, the TE 3000-AVR achieves the lowest vibration in its class.

Designed for heavy breaking applications and demolition work at floor level, Hilti unveils its newest electro pneumatic tool, the TE 3000-AVR Breaker. The Hilti TE 3000-AVR Breaker offers the power of an air tool, at the same weight level, to deliver explosive breaking power in concrete and asphalt with exceptional mobility.

Weighing 65 pounds, the TE 3000-AVR delivers 50 foot-pounds of impact energy to break up to six tons of material per hour, a rate comparable with 60- to 65-pound air tools. This tool offers rental customers easy, flexible operation from anywhere on the jobsite. The TE 3000 features advanced electronics that allow the tool to work well on generators and make it less sensitive to voltage drops due to long extension cords on jobsites. For maximum versatility, the TE 3000-AVR accepts standard 1-1/8-inch chisels, the same as air-powered tools.

The TE 3000-AVR incorporates Hilti's AVR system designed to dramatically cut the vibration passed along to the operator during operation, reducing fatigue and allowing them to work longer.

An active cooling system reduces wear and tear on the motor, electronics and hammering mechanism, improving durability. Plus, the TE 3000-AVR features a brushless SR motor that eliminates the need to replace carbon brushes — allowing longer intervals between service and twice the expected motor life.

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