Anti-Sway Automation for Any Crane

INSTALLATION OPTIONS

Open Loop or Closed Loop. Open Loop anti-sway operates “blind” except for continuous input of hoist, trolley, and crane positions. Closed Loop is required for precise moves to a destination, for removal of sway induced by non-vertical lift or other sources. These two methods are implemented together for maximum effectiveness.

PLC Function. SmartCrane can provide a function block to support open loop motion control directly in almost any PLC or drive. This function supplies motor speed demands to prevent sway caused by operator control.

Closed Loop. Closed loop motion control requires a machine vision camera mounted on the trolley above a passive reflector on the head block or hook. SmartCrane uses the camera tracking data to remove sway at initial hoist and to make final adjustments to minimize both residual sway and position error simultaneously.

Touch Screen Control. A computer drives graphics and pushbuttons on one of several versions and screen sizes, from 12” to 17”. The touch screen may be mounted in the crane or remote. Multiple cranes can be controlled at one remote station.

PLC Interface. The dedicated SmartCrane computer operates on an Ethernet LAN, exchanging data with PLC, SmartCamera, and external data systems. SmartCrane can supply Ethernet Gateways for PROFIBUS or other networks.

Other Sensors. SmartCrane can provide and integrate other vision or range sensors to measure the crane’s environment in real time, such as measuring a truck or ship position for container terminal operations.

WE AUTOMATE CRANE OPERATION

Moving loads by crane is dangerous and time consuming, requiring extensive operator training. SmartCrane’s automatic move software provides fly-by-wire control of the crane motion, allowing safe moves at maximum rated speed, every time, with minimal training required.

WHY AUTOMATE?

Improved Safety. SmartCrane’s fully automated move controls the load, prevents dangerous sway at every phase, and stops the load precisely at the target, every time. In an emergency, SmartCrane’s “SmartStop” feature brings the load to an immediate, swing-free stop. When obstacles are present, SmartCrane’s “SmartRoute” feature safely guides the load over or around them, all automatically. Operators experience reduced fatigue and are better able to monitor operational safety for long shifts.

Increased Productivity. SmartCrane automatic moves take place at full rated speeds, accelerating and decelerating within rated motor ramps. Cyclic duty cranes, as in maritime container operations, experience immediate productivity gains of 30% or more.

Reduced Structural Stress. Every uncontrolled swing of a load causes stress on the crane structure, eventually leading to stress cracks or failure. SmartCrane’s sway control limits the sway to the minimum needed to accelerate and decelerate the load at the ends of the move, or at turns.

Reduced Training Requirements. With SmartCrane, even an untrained operator can move any crane at full speed to the destination, with a simple press of a button. SmartCrane’s touch screen interfaces can be customized to any operating requirement.

THE OPERATOR TOUCH SCREEN

Control Buttons. The operator selects a saved destination by pushbutton, or any other location by moving the crosshairs on the screen. Operator may save any location as a new destination. “GO” and “STOP” buttons control the activation.

Data Display. Displays are easily customized to any plant and crane configuration. The optional 3D display allows the operator to pan, zoom, or rotate the image. The “PAGE” button replaces the 3D page with other data displays or engineering strip chart.

SmartRoute. When an operator selects a destination, the SmartCrane screen displays the best route around any obstacles.

SmartCrane, LLC

11 Canal Drive

Poquoson, VA 23662

757-303-0167

757-598-0111 fax

info@smartcrane.com

E-Mail SmartCrane

Anti-Sway Automation for Any Crane