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.

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.

Unleashing Efficiency and Safety for Your Operations  

When it comes to system design and integration for mobile equipment, we are the industry leader. We take a comprehensive approach, partnering with the Engine OEM and the Machine OEM to enhance productivity, maximize uptime, and prioritize safety.

Our integrated solutions cater to the needs of both the machine OEM and the end user. For instance, we offer durable plug-and-play subsystems, including engine control panels with variable speed capabilities, wireless machine control, and cloud-based remote monitoring and diagnostics. Our CANbus-based hardware seamlessly ties it all together with optimized wire harnesses, sensors, and HMI products.

No matter your mobile equipment application, we’ve got you covered. We start by thoroughly understanding your requirements, specifications, and scope of work. Next, our team of experienced application engineers, project managers, and product experts will collaborate with you throughout the development process.

Mobile Equipment Applications

Airport ground support

Cable reels

Concrete line pumps

Generators

Industrial cleaning

Light towers and signs

Road maintenance

Water pumps

Wood chippers

Aerial work platforms

Bulk feed trailers

Car transport

Concrete mixers

Concrete volumetric mixers

Digger derricks

Fire apparatus

Hook lifts

Knuckle boom cranes

Service truck cranes

Tow recovery

Trailer axle steering

Vacuum trucks

Excavators

Mobile conveyors

Paving equipment

Rock crushers and screeners

Wheel loaders

Forwarders

Harvesters

Horizontal boring

Skid steer loaders

Stump grinders

Trenching

mobile wood chipper cutting logs

Bale wrappers

Frost protection

Harvesters

Mobile conveyors

Mulchers

Planters

Seed tenders

Sprayers

Turf placement

 

Conveyors

Drills

Feeder breakers

General dewatering

Generators

LHDs and Light towers

Network/Communications

Rock breakers

Roof bolters

Shotcrete sprayer

Wheel dozers

Arcxis, located in Belgium, specializes in fitting out commercial vehicles. For one of their customers, they have fitted out a service vehicle that uses a remote control by Tyro Remotes.

The commercial vehicle is fully equipped to provide maintenance and servicing for semi-trailers and trailers on the road should they run into problems. This vehicle is equipped with hose reels for compressed air, gas, and oxygen so that welding or other necessary repairs can also be carried out on the road.

The Pyxis 8F remote control in combination with the Aquarius 10F receiver is specifically configured for the 24V cable reel. The cable reel with 20 meters cable and 13-pin plug is used to control the lighting on e.g. a trailer. With the remote control in your hand, you can stand behind the trailer to easily and efficiently test the lighting.