Draw wire sensors in mobile applications

WayCon: The relevance of precise position detection is growing in the mobile hydraulics market. Exact positioning of stabiliser legs on crane trucks, for example, is essential to ensure the physical integrity of people and machinery. Sensors in mobile hydraulics must meet very high standards as they are used in extreme conditions.

Sensors used in construction machines must be reliable, robust and resistant. They are primarily used in mobile applications to detect the position of telescopic booms and stabiliser arms. They must reliably show the position regardless of external factors such as rain, snow, abrasive and adhesive dust, temperatures below -20 °C and falling rocks and timber.

WayCon Positionsmesstechnik has developed the MH draw-wire sensor line for mobile hydraulic applications in construction machines and equipment. This mobile hydraulics line features a modular concept, providing the user with maximum flexibility and safety.

In addition to common selection criteria (e.g. measurement range and signal output) the customer can choose the protection class (up to IP69K), measuring cable thickness (up to 1.5 mm), temperature range (up to – 40 °C), design, accuracy and much more to suit the application. Safety-related requirements further include redundant signal outputs.

The position of the legs and the telescopic cylinder is simply transmitted in the form of an analogue measurement signal (potentiometer, 4-20 mA, 0.5-4.5 V, 0-10 V) or even redundant (2 independent sensor elements). In addition to the CANopen interface, a variable analogue interface with additional switching output is also available. This interface provides the customer with the maximum efficiency by simply learning a new measurement range, eliminating complex reprogramming of the vehicle control system.

Rough approaches to the construction site or poor springs can subject the sensor to large shocks and vibrations. All WayCon MH series draw wire sensors therefore feature a highly dynamic spring package to ensure the sensor "arrives" safely at the site.

The sensor can even be pressure washed at the end of a dusty workday on a roller bearing, mobile excavator, track loader, harvester or simply on a mobile elevating work platform. So the IP69K protection class not only protects the sensor in extreme conditions, but even from occasional excessive cleanliness.

Background information
WayCon Positionsmesstechnik GmbH has been developing and manufacturing precision sensors for position and distance measurement since 1999. As an innovative company with headquarters in Taufkirchen near Munich and a branch in Brühl near Cologne, we sell our products all over the world. Our goal is to provide our customers with the best possible measurement technique solution: from high-quality sensors from the standard range to customer-specific solutions, from prototype to series production – for the most varied applications in industry and research. The products made in Taufkirchen are subject to rigorous quality standards and every single one is delivered to our customers with a calibration certificate.