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Fassi

The Fassi Stability Control (FSC) system offers maximum versatility of outrigger positioning with three interlock options, while complying with the latest requirments of the EC machinery directive.

The FSC system uses the crane's rated capacity limiter to monitor the deployment of each outrigger, making it possible to safely use the crane in space-restricted situations where it is not possible to fully deploy the outriggers, Fassi said.

FSC-S (fully variable outrigger position) was introduced in January 2011 and over the first 12 months in service, Fassi has received client input and made several enhancements to the system.

An upgrade to the latest 2012 version of FSC-S can be installed on any crane with the FSC-S free of charge via Fassi's authorised service network.

Auto Crane

Auto Crane, based in Oklahoma, US, last summer announced an update to its crane management system, called NexStarEH Crane Management System.

The NexStarEH is a new extension of Auto Crane's crane management system specially designed for mechanics' trucks. The original NexStar system, launched in 2010 for large hydraulic cranes, was introduced for industrial material handling, mining, construction and utility markets around the world.

A new upgrade, patent-pending NexStarEHTM electric-hydraulic crane management system, improves proportional truck-mounted crane control on Auto Crane's 3203EH and 4004EH crane series.

It improves control by enabling control of multiple crane functions at once, independently of each other.

NexStar-equipped cranes are the only cranes in their class with load monitoring and load limiting controls, and a visual signal, says Auto Crane.

Available in tethered remote or the fully featured wireless FM, the NexStarEH allows operators to proportionally operate the crane with 100 percent power at four speed settings.

With an eight-button multi-speed control, the system is comprised of a transmitter, receiver and hydraulic valve bank.

For large hydraulic cranes, the system is also offered on Wireless FM models that use a crane load management system.

The crane load management system includes truck level and boom angle sensors, status indicator light, and an LCD diagnostics display and text readouts.

APEM

APEM Components, a UK-based manufacturer of LED indicators, joysticks, and switches, in September introduced its IM Series sealed snap-action pushbutton switch.

The company says that its IM series offers snap-action feel different from its predecessor the IP Series. With a strong and audible tactile feedback, the IM series complements and extends the "I" range of sealed pushbutton switches.

In environments which have high levels of noise, vibrations, the pushbutton produces the required confirming "click".

Optionally available with a reduced bezel, the IM series fits into the tightest spaces. The switches are excellent for agriculture, military vehicles, and crane remote controls markets.

Features of the IM pushbutton series include a snap-action mechanism, an audible tactile feedback, high voltage rating, matching the "I" range design, diameter 12mm bushing.

The IM is available with a light plastic case, two bezel diameters (standard 17 mm, reduced 15 mm.

It can be provided as certified sealed to IP67 with a mechanical lifetime of 1 million cycles.

APEM's switch line includes rockers, slides, toggles, DIPs, rotaries, tacts, keylocks, pushwheels and snap-action switches, in addition to industrial controls, membrane switches, panels, and keypads.

Penny and Giles

Penny and Giles, the international designer and manufacturer of joystick controllers, with headquarters in the UK, is gearing up to introduce a new joystick with a multifunctional handle/grip, called 'HE multifunctional handle or grip.' The new joystick functions on its JC8000, JC6000 and JC1500 ranges of rugged joystick controllers. The joystick can incorporate as many as fifteen functions. The functions are operated using three analogue thumbwheel controllers in the front face and a switch to the main grip. The handle is water resistant. The joystick is provided in three different switch types and six different switch button colours, with each of the switches environmentally-sealed to IP66.

Sauer-Danfoss

The US, Iowa based manufacturer has launched a new series of PLUS+1 compliant safety controllers for mobile cranes, meeting the latest standards for such devices imported into the EU.

The safety controllers can be used not only on mobile cranes, but on other off-highway vehicles. They comply both with the latest relevant sections of the EC machinery directive, and with the updated ISO 13849, which encourages the use of Safety Integrity Level (SIL)-certified components and software.

PLUS+1TM Compliant safety controllers offers outstanding functional safety capabilities to Designated SC024-010, SC024-020 and SC050- 020, simplifying and streamlining the application process, facilitating easier compliance with stringent functional safety standards. The three Sauer-Danfoss safety controller variants help vehicle manufacturers meet European Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and are designed to achieve Safety Integrity Level 2 (IEC 61508) and Performance Level D (ISO 13849-1), with third-party certification pending.

The new controllers join the PLUS+1 family of mobile machine management products. The new Sauer-Danfoss safety controllers update three higher volume Sauer-Danfoss controllers to add improved functional safety capabilities. Each programmable device is a single controller module that includes two independent microprocessors with redundant control of each output. Integral safety layer software provides automatic fault detection monitoring, and enables programming of application-specific responses to fault conditions.

The design architecture facilitates use of the primary microprocessor for non-safety-critical applications, isolating control of safety functions in the secondary or safety microprocessor. The GUIDE-programmable devices are pin-for-pin compatible with equivalent Sauer-Danfoss MC controllers, requiring no wiring changes to transition from the standard controller to a safety controller.

The new series features enhanced performance derived from the logical incorporation of state-of-the-art electronic technology. Upgrades include a larger memory capacity, higher environmental performance and enhanced input/output flexibility. The primary controller offers 512K of flash memory, while the secondary controller provides 128K of flash memory. The devices' operating temperature range has been increased to 85°C. Some multifunction inputs can now read 4-20 mA current, and digital inputs are now digital/analog to facilitate smart digital inputs. The frequency range of PWM outputs has been expanded and supports separate PWM frequencies per channel.