CONTROLS
that is sent via its own software. The start-up procedure itself can be secured by a pin code or proximity detection. Autec have a three-position ‘enable and stop’
Konecranes’ remote operating station adds comfort to working conditions.
simultaneously with the relevant operating button to active the command. Manufacturers have devised other ingenious ways
to improve safety. Tele radio systems with the highest safety requirements are certified to PL-d and PL-e levels for the stop function. For these systems, in the receiver there are two stop relays that are monitored by two independent safety microprocessors that operate in parallel and which cross-monitor each other. These stop relays are normally connected in series in order to make sure that the operator retains control of the machine. It means that a single fault will not lead to the loss of the safety function: if one of the microprocessors fails, the machine will stop safely. Tele radio have a safety feature they call the ‘donut’
range. The transmitter can be set up so that it will function only in a specific work area – for example, not in the immediate vicinity of the machine where it is dangerous, but also not too far away where the user has insufficient visibility. With a wired solution, such functionality would be difficult, if not impossible, to realise. In order to prevent a machine coming under the control of an unauthorised transmitter, the tele radio transmitters use a unique key
system. Available as an option on their AIR series LK NEO pushbutton radio control models, it allows the machine to start and operate only when the operator holds the button in the middle position. If the button is either fully released or pressed, the machine cannot be started or controlled, and if already running, it will shut down. The thinking behind it is that machine start-up can occur only as a deliberate action by the operator. If the button is accidently released – due to illness, a fall or sudden unconsciousness – the machine stops immediately. And in panic or stress situations, where the operator might press the button too hard, the machine stops; and the muscle stiffening that follows cases of electrocution will also cause a full button press-down that will trigger shutdown of the system. Hand-held and belly-box remote control systems still assume that the operator is standing somewhere near the crane. One reason for this is to give him a clear view of the operation. That proximity, though, is no longer necessary these days. Cameras and video screens can give closer, clearer views, to whatever degree of magnification is wanted, and from various different viewpoints simultaneously. Hence, perhaps the ultimate in crane control systems: the remote operating system. Video screens show the operator what the crane and the load are doing; a keyboard, or joysticks, tell the crane what to do. The Remote Operating Station is exactly that. Demag have such a system; Konecranes have one also. Given today’s internet connectivity, such systems can be positioned anywhere. They do not have to be near the crane. Instead of a draughty cabin on the crane, it can be in a normal office, with soft chairs and comfort. It can be at the other end of the building from where the crane is; it could be several miles away. It could even be in another city or another country or another continent. The crane operators job can now be carried out efficiently, accurately and now, for the first time, in convenience and comfort as well.
Remote-control
stations offer increased safety by placing operators away from heavy machinery.
28 | March 2026 |
www.hoistmagazine.com
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