Åkerströms Björbo
Akerströms Björbo is launching several radio remote control products as part of a new product series called Era. This includes a receiver and a transmitter worn around the waist for industrial use. The new product series belongs to the Remotus family of radio control products for safety in industrial and mobile applications.
The Era 100 transmitter launched now is worn around the waist and can control up to six movements. The receiver, model Rx160, is wall-mounted and contains 16 outputs (4 changing and 12 open contacts, including 6 safety relays).
The transmitter is available in both a standard model and a customized model, in which functionality, design and layout can all be tailored to the customer’s needs. The transmitter is equipped with two CPUs and can be fitted with a wide variety of control boxes. The LCD screen provides a clear, graphical user interface for ease of use. The display has a replaceable self-healing display shield and is readable in sunlight.
The transmitter has an ergonomic design and is highly robust with a sturdy rubberized handle to grip. Metal feet protect the transmitter from damage and wear.
The transmitter and its receiver are equipped with two-way communication as standard and can be operated over several radio frequencies: 433-434 MHz, 863- 870 MHz, 902-928 MHz as well as 2.4 GHz, which allows them to potentially be used anywhere in the world. The receiver has two safety outputs and security on transmitted radio signals. The double microchips monitor each other, and each signal is verified before the functionality is activated; diagnostics are performed during operation. The safety stop feature is approved as per EN ISO 13849-1 Cat 3 Pl d, and it is possible to receive safety approval for the movements and functionality under the same standard.
The series is designed to complement the existing series Remotus Jupiter (for standard products) and Remotus Mercury (for customized products). The Era series is designed for very rough, exposed environments in which stress and strain such as large temperature ranges, dust, vibrations, oil and moisture are common. The products are rated for IP protection class IP65-IP67, reflecting their ability to repel moisture and dust.
Autec
Autec Safety Remote Controls has introduced the FJR transmitting unit, part of its Dynamic series of radio remote controls for mobile hydraulic applications. The FJR transmitter has relatively compact dimensions (260x200x190mm) and has a range of different possible configurations. The company says that this makes it the ideal solution for machines like concrete pumps, telehandlers, mid size aerial work platforms or autonomous vehicles.
A 2.7in graphic display is available with LCD or OLED technology, which can be used outdoors or indoors. Information that is displayed on the screen is sent to the receiving unit via the CAN bus; the receiving unit takes care of sending the information to the transmitting unit via radio link. When multi-axis control is required in one hand, triple-axis joysticks are now available.
Three receivers are available to fit different machines I/O interfaces and CANopen is always available. The communication protocol is based on CiA’s profile 401 and enables the radio remote control system to be easily integrated in a CAN network as a slave node. All Dynamic series receivers also provide redundant and monitored outputs for the Stop and the UMFS (protection from Unintended Movements From Standstill) safety functions.
Autec also developed a Basket/Observer system, a dedicated solution for EWP (elevated work platform) control in live overhead power lines. The system ensures operators can safely operate using a "Basket" transmitter, used to control the machine during normal operations. An "Observer" transmitter, is able to intervene and take control in case of emergency.
The company says that the distinguishing feature of the Dynamic series is the dynamic access to the frequency band. The control systems constantly scan the frequency band and automatically move to a free frequency. This way, the systems ensure high performance and reliability, even when working in crowded environments or when radio interference occurs.
The Dynamic series has been certified for functional safety by TÜV SÜD. The Stop safety function complies with requirements of EN ISO 13849-1 Performance Level "e", Cat. 4 and EN IEC 62061 Safety Integrity Level 3. The UMFS safety function provides PL "d", Cat. 3 / SIL2. Dynamic series’ working frequencies are approved in all major global markets.
HBC-radiomatic
At this year’s Bauma, HBCradiomatic launched Spectrum E, a control with features that include colour display and live video transmission.
Spectrum E is the new high-end entry in HBC-radiomatic’s Spectrum series. The radio control has space for a large number of operating elements and features. The device is suited for applications with exceptionally large function ranges, such as bucket excavators, special transport vehicles and drilling machines.
This transmitter is 3.5 kg (7.7 lbs.) and has a newly developed housing in the Spectrum design. In contrast to the special housings used up until now, it has much more compact dimensions.
The control is available with up to six joysticks or 10 linear levers as well as numerous push buttons, toggle or rotary switches (maintained or spring-return). As with many Spectrum transmitters, the operating elements can be set in different combinations. An individually configurable 3.5? color TFT shows important machine data, status information, and warnings, depending on the customer’s requirements. A newly developed Li-ion exchange battery has 18 hours of continuous operation at any one time.
It also features a newly developed live video transmission and user identification with the HBC data logger. As well as the radiomatic CPS (Continuous Power Supply) designed to allow interruption free machine operations. This function allows the operator to replace the battery without interrupting power. The control also has a range of HBC features like tandem operation and different frequency management systems.
The new Technos 2 has a 3.5? TFT and colour display as well as an ergonomic housing. The transmitter’s optional features include live video transmission with video camera for the safe control of machines in areas with limited view.
Depending on the customer’s requirements, Technos 2 is available with diverse combinations of up to three HBC joysticks and with a z-axis switch for three drive commands, up to eight linear levers, and numerous other switches and buttons. With the display activated, the transmitter offers up to eighteen hours of continuous operating time.
Technos 2 is available with several HBC Smart Options, such as an integrated LED flashlight. This is useful if the operator changes positions in conditions with limited lighting. Further options include the user identification with data logger, the micro/orthogonal drive for demanding driving maneuvers, as well as several fully or partially automated frequency management systems. With all these options, Technos 2 can be entirely configured according to the customer’s wishes.
Uses range from multifunctional tower cranes to stone crushers and telehandlers, from magnet cranes to logistic vehicles and container transporters.
Both controls have a video function that works with up to eight powerful and robust video cameras simultaneously. They can be installed in a good location on the machine and the working environment, and can then transmit the working situation in high-resolution images directly to the transmitter’s 3.5in TFT with a range of up to 150m over a separate radio link. The images are shown on the non-reflecting TFT with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels. This means the operator always has a perfect view of the application and working area and can operate precisely and safely, even in demanding situations.
Another feature is the integrated day/night-switching. As soon as the illumination of the working area falls below a pre-determined value, the cameras automatically switch to several infrared LEDs. This means that the operator can also work when it is dark. In order to take perfect advantage of the versatile possibilities of the 3.5in TFT, it is also possible to switch back to the standard data indication on the display.
Magnetek
The new Enrange CAN-2 receiver is a wireless control, which can be added to any CANbus machinery. The CAN-2 has two redundant Machine Stop outputs, two CAN-bus ports, and offers the choice of 400MHz, 900MHz, or 2.4GHz RF channels. The optional Radio Control Programmer (RCP) allows users to programme settings from a Windows PC.
The CAN-2 is compatible with a variety of Magnetek’s wireless radio controls, including XLTX, Flex Pro, Flex EM, MLTX2 and Flex VUE. The wireless controls are designed to meet customer specifications.
Magnetek said its systems were highly durable and are configurable to meet the needs of a variety of industries and applications, including tow trucks, cement trucks, boom trucks, truck cranes, concrete mixers, drill rigs, mining equipment and more.
Ikusi
Ikusi has added to its i-KONTROL range of remote controls with the IK2 and IK4 models. The new mini and maxi versions of the transmitter aim to meet the needs of the mobile segment.
i-KONTROL’s can be gradually upgraded to incorporate better features than currently supported by the current console in the TM70 series, as new electronic hardware and software systems are developed.
The whole range now comes equipped with an EEPROM memory card removable from outside; it is highly-resistant and has handles designed with an integrated anti-slip system. The control also features a wider TFT screen, traditional strap with clasps or a strap incorporated directly to the transmitter. There are buttons on the sides, a cable connection option and an incorporated internal anti-condensation system. Ikusi says it believes that in general the whole system is more compact, with a lighter design that makes it easier to use. The whole range incorporates TR400-800CE multiband radio with full-duplex communication.
