AUTOMATION
Being ‘fully automated’ means the entire lift is automatically handled from the start to the final position.
human intervention. It also raises the load, moves it to its pre- programmed destination, lowers it accurately and precisely into the correct position, then lets it go and starts all over again with the next load. Semi-automation involves some kind of operator input. Demag defines it thus: “Semi-automation is a process that has an automated component but requires some operator interface, normally to begin or end the process.” Intuition tells us that repetitive actions are the most suited
to being automated or semi-automated, and this is semi-true. “Automation is useful for highly repetitive processes and
the storage and retrieval of materials. Automated cranes have no trouble coping with the monotony of repetitive work, such as assembly,” say Konecranes. “They keep on working without distraction or fatigue which helps reduce the risk of accidents. In warehouses, crane automation increases accuracy and efficiency of stacking and retrieving items. Automated cranes know right where to find things. In addition, they optimise storage space and logically organise storage based on shipping schedules.” But – and nothing is absolute in this world – “some crane users,” add Konecranes “prefer maintaining human control over equipment in their facility.” Semi-automation provides that: an operator stays at the controls to override automated operation to interrupt a pre-programmed crane path, for instance. There is an important distinction to be made here between full and semi-automation, and it is about safety. We
32 | March 2026 |
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have pointed out already one safety advantage – namely, that automation removes the need to have people in the danger zone. “Automation can also be used strategically to remove personnel from dangerous or high-risk process areas or those that pose ergonomic challenges. For example, if you’re transporting molten metal or moving a heavy object repeatedly, automation can help keep your employees safe and reduce fatigue. Then, they can be redeployed to other areas within the facility to increase production where needed,” so says Emmer of Columbus McKinnon. But there is more to it than that. If your lifting system is fully automated, personnel not only can be kept from under a possible load path – they must be kept away. Premium Industrial Group is a Quebec company specialising in industrial lifting equipment who design, manufacture and install overhead cranes. They explain it thus: “In a semi-automated system there is a human operator, and that operator is responsible for his load at all times, even when the equipment switches to automated mode. In fact, even if he is not in control of the operation in progress, he must be ready to intervene at any time by regaining control of the load. For example, in order to prevent an accident, he must be able to press the red stop- reset button (commonly referred to as the emergency stop), which will temporarily disable the automation.” But for a fully automated overhead crane, there is no
operator. Safety must, therefore, be managed in a very different way. “The environment itself has to be made
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