Crown equipment discusses forklift connectivity and “Internet of Things” at technology conference

Jim Gaskell, director of global Crown Insite products, Crown Equipment, recently represented the material handling industry as part of a panel discussion on connectivity and the “Internet of Things” at the annual Techweek event, which is promoted as the largest tech conference in the Midwest. Crown Equipment Corporation is one of the world’s largest material handling companies.

Global industry analyst firm Gartner, Inc. defines the “Internet of Things” as “the network of physical objects that contain embedded technology to communicate and sense or interact with their internal states or the external environment.” The research firm recently identified it as one of the top strategic technology trends for 2013.

During the panel, Gaskell shared Crown’s perspective on the current state of forklift technology and the company’s vision for a fully-connected forklift that is the most advanced piece of equipment impacting every part of the warehouse. He also provided an overview of Crown’s InfoLink fleet and operator management system that helps customers monitor and manage the efficient use of their forklift fleet.

“The conference was an excellent opportunity to share ideas with other technology leaders and showcase the innovation taking place in the material handling industry,” said Gaskell. “Forklifts aren’t often on the list of the most technologically advanced equipment, but I believe that may be changing as the industry evaluates and incorporates new technologies into the products that keep warehouses buzzing around the world. There is no question in my mind that our customers stand to benefit in the form of more informed decisions and greater return on investment.”

According to its website, Techweek is “a three-day innovation conference and expo showcasing the technology renaissance and highlighting companies and individuals making technological advances in various industries.” The conference attracts business professionals, software engineers, technology decision-makers, C-level executives, and tech enthusiasts.

Gaskell participated on the panel alongside Michael Smiley, chief financial officer of Zebra Technologies and Eduardo Torrealba, founder of Oso Technologies. The panel was moderated by J Schwan, founder and CEO of Solstice Mobile.