German mobile crane manufacturer Liebherr Ehingen launched an upgrade to its Liccon computer-based crane control system in June. The system combines displays, sensors, load-moment indicator, vehicle controller and lift planner in one system. The controller and a single display used to live inside the crane cabin, until now.
A new control unit is called a BTT, or Bluetooth Terminal, named after a European short-distance radio communications protocol. It takes some set-up operations in all-terrain cranes outside the cab for the first time.
The BTT unit is standard on the newest ATs with the new control systems (Liebherr LTM 1050-3.1, LTM 1150-6.1 and LTM 11200-9.1). It controls engine start/stop function, engine output, an electronic water level and automatic leveling during set-up on the outriggers. Outrigger forces can be displayed as an option.
The biggest benefit of the BTT is that the operator can use it to take off the hook block from the front of the carrier, or put it back on, by watching the operation himself. “This new function is a considerable relief for the driver, because up to now he only could view the hook block through a mirror or an assistant was necessary for guidance,” the company says. With the BTT, the driver can operate the crane’s luffing jib and hoist winch simultaneously.
The BTT unit can also be programmed to mount the folding swingaway jib, or to help mount counterweights. The BTT unit also controls set-up functions to mount the boom of the 1,000t-capacity LTM 11200-9.1 mobile crane.
The BTT control cannot drive the mobile crane carrier, change steering programmes, or adjust suspension in mobile cranes, although a spokesman said that Liebherr is planning to make it possible to drive crawlers with it; already the narrow-track LR 1400/2-W, intended for wind farm construction, can be operated by remote control.
In its standard version, the BTT cannot actually do a lift. Although it can control several crane movements, the LMI limits loads. But as an option, a complete crane remote control with joysticks that attaches to the BTT has been developed.
When mounted inside the carrier driver’s cab, the BTT displays travel statistics such as mileage, working hours for carrier and superstructure, actual time, inclination of carrier (an electronic water level) and timer for engine-independent heating system.
The new Liccon system features a colour screen display as well as a new modular control architecture optimised for computing power, capacity and security, the company says, that will be rolled out to all its cranes. Liebherr has developed the system largely on its own, a spokesman says, through cooperation with the Liebherr electronics factory in Lindau, Germany. “We think it is very important to develop our own crane control systems,” he says. “It is our know-how and we have full control over our electronic systems. We do not depend on suppliers. So we can assure availability of spare parts for the whole crane life.”??