Vanderlande receives Red Dot design award for innovative baggage handling solution

Material handling specialist Vanderlande has received a Red Dot: Best of the Best design award for its autonomous vehicle-based baggage handling solution, Fleet.

By utilizing intelligent autonomous vehicle technology, Fleet replaces the need for fixed conveyors and sorting systems. Each individual vehicle carries a single bag and determines the optimal route through an airport. In addition, Fleet consumes up to 50% less energy compared with traditional baggage handling systems. Its design also means that vehicles can be recycled, which contributes to a circular economy. Real-time track-and-trace of individual bags can also be facilitated.

Designers and manufacturers from 59 countries submitted more than 6,300 entries for this year’s Red Dot Awards. The Best of the Best award is reserved for designs deemed to be of a superior quality, with only 1% of entries receiving the award.

“Put simply, this accolade is an exciting confirmation that Vanderlande is on the right path with Fleet,” said Andrew Manship, Vanderlande’s executive vice president airports. “It is also testament to the hard work and creativity of everyone involved with the Fleet solution. While its sleek design is a crucial factor, the award also indicates that the industry is receptive to the total concept of the solution. That is, the seamless combination of system, software and service.”

The award winners will be celebrated at the Red Dot Gala on July 9, 2018, before taking part in a four-week exhibition.