Manitowoc has introduced the ECS (Ergo Control System), a new operational and monitoring platform for Potain tower cranes in emerging markets.
The system will be standard on all next-generation Potain tower cranes manufactured in Zhangjiagang, China and Pune, India, with the first ECS-equipped model scheduled for launch later this year.
Potain ECS enables faster crane installation while reducing wiring complexity, improving reliability and simplifying troubleshooting. The system is built for simple scalability, so will easily incorporate new functionality as it is added. It includes a data logging function to track historical data and enable better fleet management and control comes via an HMI (Human Machine Interface) in the cab, featuring a 13.3 in. touchscreen with 1920 x 1080 resolution.
ECS offers service and maintenance assistance by highlighting operational issues and recommending steps to resolve. For the operator there is customizable driving control, so the movement and speed of the crane can be increased or decreased by adjusting the settings. This allows operators to maximize speeds for duty cycle work or minimize speeds for more accurate positioning.
“The Potain ECS represents a significant advance in the operation, management and maintenance of tower cranes for emerging markets," said Leong Kwong-Joon, regional product manager for tower cranes in Asia. "There's greater control for the operator, faster troubleshooting for the technician, and better data for the owner. As construction, energy, and infrastructure projects advance across emerging markets, Potain is bringing new technology to drive greater efficiency on tomorrow's job sites.”
Behind the HMI, the Potain ECS harnesses Controller Area Network (CAN) bus architecture for maintenance. The easier layout uses just two wires to replace dozens that would typically connect the crane's motors, sensors, and switches. It's faster to install, lighter, more reliable, simpler to troubleshoot and easy to expand and modify as new functionality is added. according to Potain.
Management of the ECS is controlled by either the operator or technician directly from the HMI. Details of the crane's status and performance are displayed on the HMI, showing wind speed, working radius, weight of the load, slewing angle and more. It is connected to a central controller which connects via the CAN wiring to the slewing, hoisting, luffing, trolleying controls plus the control units, load sensors, and limiters/encoders.
Using the HMI, operators can switch between eight display screens that provide access to crane data, operating preferences, zoning functions, display settings and other key system information. Additional control modes are available for technicians and fleet administrators, with greater functionality.
