SECTOR SPOTLIGHT Ӏ SELF ERECTING TOWER CRANES
assistance algorithms to be
processed in real time. A battery- powered IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) sensor system measures hook inclination and angular velocity, while a sensor system on the tower detects the inclination of the tower.
ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS Sway Control is included as standard with all cranes; the other four, Sway Control Plus, Guided Hook, Vertical Line Finder and Positioning Pilot, are all optional. The Sway Control Plus assistance
system is designed to support the crane operator with sway-free operation by actively correcting hook block sway in both slewing and trolley directions. A sensor system also recognises sway that already exists before the system is activated or is caused by external influences, such as wind. According to Liebherr, this assistant is particularly beneficial for occasional crane operators who have sufficient space, and for new crane operators as less training is needed. The Guided Hook assistance
system means an operator on the ground is able to move the hook by hand and so guide it to the load themselves. The hook can be moved in slewing and trolley directions. This means constant
communication between the crane operator and ground operative is no longer necessary, says Liebherr, reducing the likelihood of errors or misunderstandings and so increasing efficiency and safety on site. The Vertical Line Finder
supports the crane operator with the lifting of loads by preventing diagonal pull, and therefore sway, when lifting. The crane automatically controls the slewing gear and trolley to ensure that the load hook is always optimally positioned above the load’s centre of gravity. As a result, the load is always lifted vertically, without any sway, which increases safety for people and sensitive components on site. For a Cranes Today video of the Vertical Line Finder in action (on a 33 L fast erector) see here:
https://shorturl.at/jMcwI. The Positioning Pilot assistance
system makes it possible to move the hook to saved points semi-automatically and to follow predefined routes. Up to three hook positions can be repeatedly and accurately accessed as required and two individually mapped routes can be navigated. The routes can be travelled forwards and backwards, and stopping in between is also an option. This makes Positioning Pilot well-suited to repetitive,
SCHILLER APPOINTED PRESIDENT OF UPERIO NORTH AMERICA
In November 2024 the North American division of the Uperio Group appointed crane industry veteran Ingo Schiller as President. The Uperio Group is a provider of tower crane solutions
offering tower crane sales, rental, and related services. It also manufactures its own line of Arcomet self-erecting tower cranes and the Opti crane aimed at contractors, roofers and carpenters. Schiller brings more than 30 years of experience in the crane and construction industry and is now responsible for strengthening the Uperio Group’s market position in North America via the expansion of strategic partnerships and development of new customer solutions. “We are delighted to welcome Ingo Schiller to lead our North American operations. His deep industry knowledge and proven leadership abilities align perfectly with our mission to provide lifting solutions and deliver exceptional value to our customers,” said Sébastien Desreumaux, CEO of Uperio Group. “We are pleased to welcome him and look forward to continuing to build together on the success of Uperio North America.”
Vertical Line Finder prevents unwanted load sway caused by diagonal pull when lifting Sway Control
Plus aims to make sway-free crane operation easier than ever before
monotonous lifting tasks like concreting work and truck unloading processes that require several lifts. These semi-automated movements are carried out without sway. Already established features, such as variable hook heights and manoeuvrability in tight spaces, continue to be part of the new series along with the familiar functions Speed2Lift, Load-Plus and Micromove for maximum lifting speeds, increased jib head lifting capacity and precise positioning of loads. The crane names now reflect the lifting capacities according to Load-Plus. As Bauma 2025 approaches
the self erecting crane sector is demonstrating its resilience and innovation. Despite economic challenges in key markets, manufacturers continue to refine and expand their offerings, with a clear focus on mobility, efficiency, and advanced technology. As demand for faster, more adaptable lifting solutions grows the latest generation of self erecting cranes is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of the construction industry.
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