Wireless Crane Controls offer PLC-based operation.
Press Release Summary:
COMMAND CHIEF® remote control systems, based on Communicator® RF control module incorporated into Allen Bradley SLC-500 PLC platform with dedicated Watchdog module, enable frequency and crane address to be programmed for each crane from within application program. Product communicates directly through backplane of PLC, providing real-time wireless control. Unit supports remote logging, programming, and interrogation of PLC ladder logic via PC or network.
Original Press Release:
Control Chief Corporation Introduces the First & Only PLC-based Wireless Crane Controls - Command Chief®
Bradford, PA - Control Chief, the leader in the engineering and manufacturing of industrial wireless remote controls, is proud to introduce the first PLC-based wireless crane controls for advanced functionality in the material handling industry. COMMAND CHIEF® remote control systems from Control Chief are based on the industries leading developments of RF control incorporated into a PLC platform. Control Chief, has developed the Communicator®, a fully integrated wireless communication module designed for the Allen Bradley SLC-500 series platform that communicates directly through the backplane of the PLC. By incorporating the Communicator® RF module with Control Chiefs dedicated Watchdog module, true real time wireless control is now possible in a PLC platform.
Benefits of PLC based crane controls include:
o Increased Safety and Security - Frequency and crane address are programmed for each crane from within the application program, not hard coded into the radio module. This method of addressing significantly reduces the possibility of getting two cranes set to the same address and frequency due to human error.
o Zoning Feature - By providing the operator with precise control tailored to the handling requirements of specific operating zones , the risk of damage to plant and equipment and injury to personnel is reduced.
o Reduced Cost of Ownership - Interchangeable modules, including the radio receiver module are available locally through Allen-Bradley distribution hence reducing inventory costs.
o Increased Functionality - Remote logging of day to day crane operation, usage and performance for preventative maintenance and safety requirements.
-Log critical crane parameters, excessive motor temperature, brake wear, etc.
-Integrate data from all cranes into internal network architecture or maintenance database
-Remote programming and interrogation of PLC ladder logic via PC or network
-Preventative maintenance based on actual work done by each crane
-Hoisting limit status proof test confirmation with date/time stamp
-Future expansion of functionality is possible utilizing standard Allen-Bradley I/O modules
Control Chief, a Rockwell Automation Encompass Partner, is part of a worldwide team offering automation solutions to an ever-changing marketplace. Combining the power and flexibility of an Allen-Bradley PLC with Control Chiefs tightly integrated radio control module and the safety aspects of our Watchdog Modules, we provide today's industry the most advanced, robust and flexible wireless control systems for overhead cranes and other material handling applications. Spare parts can be purchased directly through local Allen-Bradley distributors with product support from Control Chief.
Control Chief Corporation is proud to provide these innovative solutions for improved safety and efficiencies in the material handling industry.
