Potain launches ECS a new era of smart, connected tower crane control for emerging markets

• Customizable control, intelligent data logging, and faster fault diagnosis define the new platform.
• The system harnesses CAN bus architecture for simpler and more reliable maintenance of Potain tower cranes.

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 for a smoother and more comfortable user experience.

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. 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 jobsites,” said Leong Kwong-Joon, regional product manager for tower cranes in Asia.

Behind the HMI, the Potain ECS harnesses Controller Area Network (CAN) bus architecture for simpler, more reliable 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.

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.

CONTACT

Lirong Ma
Digital Marketing Specialist – Emerging Markets
Manitowoc    
T +86 021 64570066
Lirong.Ma@manitowoc.com