A pickup for loading pickups

Most pickup trucks can carry plenty of cargo, once it's in the cargo bed. X-tra-Lift, a device invented by Rinspeed, a Swiss design firm, and manufactured by Stellar Industries in Garner, Iowa, simplifies the process by using hydraulics to lift 3,000 lb up into or out of a truck bed on a stable platform. Cargo stays level while being lifted and moves from the ground (or any other level platform such as a loading dock) to the in just 45 sec.

The device will load motorcycles, ATVs, jet skis, appliances, furniture, and even loads of grael and mulch. It fits most trucks, but is said to work best on 3/4-ton, heavy-duty trucks with full-sized beds. A 6.5-ft bed version is also available.

Awards
For the fifth consecutive year, Aegis Industrial Software accepted top honors for Service Excellence from UP Media Group Inc.

D2 Sales LLC, a manufacturer of custom-designed interactive kiosks, signage, and environments, received the 2005 DIGI Award in recognition of innovation and excellence in the digital signage industry.