Abstract
Material handling produces around 20-25% of total manufacturing labor cost [1]. Thus, in all manufacturing systems, the design and selection of flexible and ergonomic material handling equipment is of significant importance because of the capital investment needed and the impact on efficiency [2]. In literature we can find many examples for the design of material handling systems for goods with moderate dimensions. This paper analyzes the suitability of different material handling systems for heavy and large goods – especially for sheets / panes of glass. Following Axiomatic Design principles the major requirements for the design of appropriate material handling equipment will be identified and highlighted. An example taken from the glass industry helps illustrate the successful application of this approach to the design of an innovative trolley dedicated to the intercompany transport along the relative supply chain.