New XBMCU Multi-Interface Machine Control Unit

, ,

Radio Remote Control Xbmcu LeftOur new XBMCU Multi-Interface Machine Control Unit represents a significant advancement in industrial automation technology, offering seamless integration into PLC systems through multiple serial protocols.

The XBMCU is a compact, multi-interface receiver and machine control unit designed for mobile machines, industrial automation, robotics, and machine-to-machine control. The unit works compatibly with Cattron’s Safe-D-Stop wireless emergency stop, most CattronControl radio remote transmitters, and the latest generation of Remtron wireless devices.

According to the company, what sets the XBMCU apart is its robust capability to support machine-to-machine functionality in both directions, handling high data volumes. The unit features dual CANbus interfaces supporting J1939, CAN FD, CANopen, and CANopen Safety protocols, along with lab-certified PROFINET communications for reliable, real-time data handling with Class C Conformance.

For North American customers, the XBMCU will soon support Ethernet IP protocols certified by ODVA, with plans to incorporate CIP safety, making it a comprehensive solution for systems integrators who previously required multiple products from different manufacturers.

The XBMCU is housed in a rugged IP66-rated aluminum enclosure, making it suitable for the most demanding industrial environments. It features a wide range of 9-36 VDC supply, eight digital inputs that can be combined for Category 3 PL-d configurations, and six 3A digital outputs that can be similarly configured for enhanced safety.

The unit incorporates a black channel wireless interface for secure communications. The XBMCU also supports globally recognized safe industrial protocols, such as PROFIsafe (currently under certification), CIP safety, and CANopen Safety, to ensure reliable protection for personnel and machinery in automation environments. The unit supports IEC 61131 programming via the CattronLink programming tool, allowing for configuration via the CattronLink app or over wireless or Ethernet connections, eliminating the need for complex setup procedures.

The XBMCU is ideal for multiple industrial applications, including:

  • Industrial automation systems and robotics
  • Autonomous guided vehicles
  • Logistics control and monitoring
  • Industrial manufacturing equipment
  • Palletizing and packaging equipment
  • Decentralized control systems

The XBMCU is manufactured at Cattron’s Warren, Ohio, facility, offering customers the advantage of American-made quality and local technical support.

Agricultural Robot with Wireless Emergency Stop
, , , , , , ,

 

indus gemini e-stop from tyro

Self-driving Robotti

AGROINTELLI from Denmark is a development company for sustainable farming. It devises advanced products and new technological applications that reduce risk and effort for modern agricultural farmers. One of these products is the agricultural robot: Robotti.

This robot can sow, spray, and even weed autonomously. With its GPS connection and exact data, it gives valuable information to the farmer.

Tablet or smartphone

The control is done via an app on a phone or tablet. This machine ensures greater efficiency in the field and thus saves the farmer money and time.

Safety first

Safety has been very important in the development of the Robotti. An emergency stop has been added, allowing the driver to stop the robot remotely in case of an emergency situation. The choice was made for the Indus emergency stop by Tyro Remotes, which reacts within 0.5 seconds and is impact and shock resistant. The Indus remote control is supplied together with the Gemini receiver and meets the strict safety requirements of Performance Level c (PLc).

Concrete Line Pump Remote Controls
, , ,

 

Click here and Order your system now!

MUSCA 6F Concrete Pumping labelled System

These wireless remote control systems suit mobile, construction, and material handling equipment and, with IP65 to IP68 ratings, resist shock, impact, dust, moisture, and water.

Tyro Pyxis 2S

Customers can personalize their transmitters with specific icons and symbols that match their equipment’s control interfaces, enhancing safety and ease of use.

Tyro 2S systems offer advanced features such as one-button pairing, thus allowing operators to quickly pair a new transmitter with the receiver, minimizing downtime. This is particularly beneficial in mobile applications where equipment may be frequently moved or lost.

Additionally, the systems support multiple transmitters per receiver and vice versa, providing multiple users with flexibility and redundancy in their operations.

The Tyro 2S systems also may have an LCD screen that displays real-time feedback from the connected equipment. This feature is particularly valuable in applications like concrete pumps, stone crushers, and other heavy machinery where monitoring parameters such as oil temperature, fuel level, and operational speeds are crucial.

The integration with CAN bus systems allows for seamless communication between the remote control and the machinery, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.

Machine-to-machine programming is also an option.

Pavement Preservation Equipment Control

Paving the Way for Efficiency with Engine Control Solutions 

dynagen controller on a generator

Crafco Inc. is a global leader in pavement preservation and maintenance, offering a comprehensive range of products, including hot-applied crack sealants and cold mix for asphalt and concrete repair. Renowned for pavement sealing expertise, Crafco provides top-tier materials and equipment supported by multiple manufacturing locations across the US.

Crafco faced limitations in controlling and monitoring engine-driven equipment, as their sealant melters and applicators for engine control relied on multiple gauges for monitoring and control, as well as very limited historical information when there were engine warnings and failures. These limitations made it difficult to precisely diagnose engine-related performance issues to ensure continuous material application, resulting in suboptimal performance, frequent maintenance issues, and a lack of real-time diagnostic information. These challenges led to inefficiencies in diagnosing engine-related issues, potential equipment damage, and compromised project quality. DynaGen controllers enhanced their performance and provided key engine and system information/diagnostics, allowing operators to better manage engine and machine performance.

DynaGen Engine Controllers for Optimal Performance 

The DynaGen TG410 engine controller was a game-changer for Crafco, transforming their equipment from a single dashboard light to a fully equipped control center. This advanced controller revolutionized their operations by offering enhanced engine information and diagnostics, and control and monitoring capabilities for pavement sealing operations. The controller allowed for precise control of the engine and connected equipment, ensuring the equipment ran smoothly and significantly boosting operational efficiency.

dynagen tg410 generator controller

Its real-time diagnostics for oil pressure, engine temperature, engine speed, CAN data, controls of idle rated based on material temperature, disabling burner system controls until the engine has started (eliminating brownouts), and other key metrics enabled operators to quickly identify and address issues, reducing downtime, and provide fuel savings with idle/rated speed control. The TG410’s fuel efficiency features, such as speed control and idle management, helped reduce fuel consumption, leading to cost savings. With its robust reliability and safety features,

These newfound control benefits enhanced Crafco’s equipment reliability and performance, improved diagnostics, and lowered operational costs, making the TG410 an essential component in their pursuit of superior pavement preservation solutions. The controller integrated different machine functions, streamlining the sealing process and giving operators a clear picture of engine health, allowing them to catch and fix minor issues before they become major problems.

Ultimately, the DynaGen TG410 has empowered Crafco to tackle any pavement sealing project confidently, sustain its industry leadership in pavement preservation, maximize efficiency, and minimize downtime, all while delivering superior results. The controller offers Crafco and their customers the opportunity to easily integrate remote telemetry for real-time field data.

The Importance of Black Channel Communication in Radio Remote Control
, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Radio remote controls are an integral part of modern manufacturing plants and operations. They allow operators to manage machinery and equipment from a safe distance while reducing the need for direct human interaction with potentially hazardous machines. Radio remote controls also enable precise equipment control, leading to improved efficiency and less risk of operator error. With additional protection like Black Channel Communication, radio remote controls become even more secure and reliable.

Overview of Black Channel Communications

Black Channel Communication is a communication technology used to ensure the reliability of transmitted signals within control systems, particularly in manufacturing plants. This communication strategy involves the use of a functional safety protocol that operates on a separate, dedicated channel (the “black channel”) to verify the integrity of transmitted signals.

How Black Channel Communications Works  

Black Channel Communication revolutionizes how signals are transmitted in control systems by utilizing a dedicated, functional safety protocol that operates independently of noncritical communication channels. This safety protocol inspects the integrity of signals sent across the ‘black channel’. Functioning independently ensures that even if the noncritical channel is compromised or experiences interference, the safety protocol remains unscathed, thus providing a failsafe mechanism.

How the Black Channel Enhances Safety  

Another aspect of Black Channel Communication is the safety mechanisms to verify outgoing and incoming data sequencing. The sequencing mechanisms ensure that the correct data is processed in a very particular order. This technology is especially beneficial in high-stakes environments like manufacturing plants, where the slightest error or interruption can have far-reaching consequences. Its application is vital in systems where safety is paramount, as it can detect and react to any interference or corruption of the data.

Implementing Black Channel Communication can improve safety and efficiency metrics, especially in large manufacturing plants. For example, consider a plant experiencing occasional signal interference within its control systems, leading to sporadic operational glitches and potential safety hazards. With Black Channel Communication integrated into its radio remote control systems, the functional safety protocol can monitor the integrity of critical data, immediately detecting errors and taking necessary, safe approaches to correcting the problem. As a result, the instances of operational glitches will drop, thereby enhancing overall safety. Additionally, the newfound reliability of the plant’s control systems improves production efficiency by minimizing downtime.

Partner for Safe and Reliable Radio Remote Controls

Black Channel Communication is a technology that strengthens safety and efficiency within manufacturing plants and beyond. Ensuring the integrity of signals transmitted via radio remote control eliminates the risk of interference or corruption that can lead to operational glitches and potential safety hazards.

We selected radio remote controls enhanced with black channel communication to provide a robust solution for protecting control signals from unauthorized access or tampering. Products include Remtron and Safe-D-Stop.