Palfinger launches Smart Control

The new control system is offered to its cranes with capacities from 29t to 58t. Up to eight extensions can be controlled - covering the entire TEC 7-range from PK 29.502 TEC 7 to PK 58.002 TEC 7.

Palfinger says this technology saves time and increases efficiency of work operations. The crane tip can be moved vertically or horizontally to the desired position with one lever movement on the radio remote control. The manufacturer compared this with the several lever movements required when conventional control is used.  

The logic of the movements of the new crane control is processed in the Paltronic control unit. The system independently calculates the direction of movement using sensors and electronics. In conjunction with the HPSC-Plus Load function, the truck inclination can also be included and compensated.

When the extension boom system is fully extended, Smart Control calculates the deflection of the position of the boom up to the crane tip and automatically compensates it. “Thanks to Flow Sharing, the electronic oil quantity distribution system, the amount of required hydraulic oil always adapts to the current requirements. This guarantees smooth movements of the crane. If the crane operator does not need the assistance system, it can simply be deactivated or overridden at any time,” Palfinger explained.

“Loader cranes with Smart Control can even be operated with an additional knuckle boom system.” In this case, the main boom, knuckle boom and extension boom system are operated via the new type of crane control. Conventional control is used from the additional articulated boom system onwards. The manufacturer said that additional equipment such as grapples, pallet forks or earth augers can also be used.