Automotive/Aerospace Synergism Through Optimum Selection/Use of Ground Support Equipment (GSE) 911122
This paper demonstrates and sheds light on the fact that optimum selection and use of a judicious mix of ground-support equipment (GSE), rather than use of a single piece of equipment (like a Super Loader) has a synergistic effect on overall efficiency and productivity. The paper also deals with a conceptual aircraft cargo loader “that can do everything” commonly referred to as The Super Loader. The Super Loader is intended for use at air terminals to transport various unit load devices (ULDs) such as loaded cargo pallets, stuffed containers, airdrop platforms, shelters, and wheeled vehicles from the storage docks to military and civil aircraft, and vice versa. The loader may be described as a self-propelled air transportable (in a C-141, C-17, or C-5) 60,000 lb. lifting capacity, adjustable-height vehicle that can on/off-load all transport aircraft from a C-130, whose cargo deck is only 3 feet, 3 inches high to a B-747 whose main deck upper limit is about 18 feet high.