Making communications count
CVS' Can Bus system allows easy transmission of on board data to a maintenance office
GSM-equipped reachstackers are becoming more common as operators look to improve communications and diagnostics of units.
Linde installs as standard a modem which can be activated by the owner to allow direct communication with the equipment. This can be used by the customer workshop or by the Global Linde service support team for notification of faults and to undertake remote diagnostic assessment.
Although CVS Ferrari does offer GSM-equipped reachstackers, the company's Paolo Tavola concedes that, up to now, it has not been a popular option. However, the Can Bus electronic system it offers makes it possible to transmit on board data to a maintenance office, which can identify potential problems. The manufacturer can also share this information and suggest changes to working parameters to make units run better.
However, ICTSI's Brian Oakley notes that GSM is not considered important enough in the types of operation currently undertaken by the group for the company to invest in it.
Asked whether the demanding port terminal environment in which reachstackers are deployed means that there is a limit to the amount of electronics that can reasonably be incorporated into front-line units, Linde's Mark Timothy says that the working environment does impose practical restrictions in this respect.
“However, with the increasing reliability of components, arguments in favour of the 'basic truck requirement' become less substantiated, and the ability to manage the equipment more effectively increases. In fact, the use of control systems is effectively driven by legislation and regulation, as is the case with engines and emissions.”
Mr Oakley is similarity upbeat about electronics, with the caveat that they have to be reliable.
“Engines with 'electronic' features have made a big difference to data needed for maintenance functions. The time between oil changes and major overhauls has therefore been extended to lengths thought impossible just a few years ago,” he says.
Mr Tavola agrees that electronic systems have to be well protected to ensure they are not negatively impacted by the working environment. CVS Ferrari also makes it easy to replace circuit boards, if necessary, while using common electronics across all its various port equipment, thereby reducing down time.
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