For small and medium-sized telescopic cranes, including boom trucks and rough-terrain cranes, Chambersburg, Pa.-based Hirschmann offers the qSCALE I2 LMI for retrofit and new crane applications. Key features include simple configuration, simplified calibration of the cranes HMI graphic interface, integrated real-time PLC control, and extensive diagnostic and service functions. The qSCALE I2 is current available in North America.
The fully configurable operator aid does not require knowledge of a computer programming language for the LMI to work with the crane. Instead, the simple configuration of crane parameters and features can be executed by a system integrator or service partner, which reduces integration time. Depending on the crane requirements and complexity of the crane, the configuration tool is available in three modes: service, basic, and expert.
The qSCALE I2 crane configuration tool comes with a comprehensive set of default graphics and languages, so the graphic layout can be defined quickly through a few mouse clicks. The calibration process determines the geometric details of through the crane by entering some basic geometric data. This process is completed within a few hours and is only necessary for the first crane model. Cranes of the same model in the fleet require only a small amount of recalibration to compensate production tolerances. Documentation of the crane configuration and data is available on the console or a PC.
Benefits for the operator include a user-friendly LMI console that supports the crane operator and increases protection against operator mistakes. The operator is guided through each setting, and graphic elements show the crane is set up and allows the operator to verify by watching the real crane configuration. Operating modes can be selected by graphics rather than numeric codes, which reduces the risk of selecting the wrong operating mode.
Out of the box, the qSCALE I2 support a number of features used in telescopic crane applications. These include indirect measurement using pressure sensors and angle sensors; telescoping; jibs or inserts; outrigger monitoring; rigging and transport modes; multiple pick points; multiple winches; working range alarms; and configurable cut-off in situations like overload, high winds, and high voltage.