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Three new MC4x series controllers combine robust, real-time performance and easy integration with IQANdesign5
The Electronic Controls Business Unit of Parker Hannifin Corporation has released new functional safety controllers for mobile machinery applications.
As well as offering high levels of robustness and straightforward system integration, the new RISE (SP) certified IQAN-MC4xFS controllers have been developed to provide a more cost-effective way of meeting the safety standards required for heavy mobile machinery.
Typical applications include reach stackers, aerial platforms, refuse truck loaders, mobile cranes, telehandlers, and steer-by-wire forestry machinery and construction machinery.
Designed for controlling hydraulic valves and certified to IEC 61508 SIL2, the IQAN-MC4xFS is an ideal choice for mobile machinery applications where electronic controllers are evolving with safety functions up to SIL2/PLd required.
The Machinery Directive states that control systems must be designed to prevent hazardous situations, and with the EN ISO 13849-1:2015 update, there is now a precise limit for safety functions where safety ratings (SIL/PL) by the controller manufacturers is required. IQAN-MC4xFS is suited for use in applications where non-certified controllers were previously accepted.
The new IQAN-MC4xFS builds on the success of Parker’s earlier MC4x versions, with full pin compatibility, and incorporates a significant amount of monitoring functionality to meet application requirements.
Extended diagnostics measures have also been introduced, such as the run-time diagnostics of dangerous faults, along with extensive start-up tests.
Further features include the execution of safety-related applications in the lockstep core, ECC-protected Flash and RAM, and the implementation of a safety-certified Real-Time Operating System.
Parker offers three versions of the MC4xFS controller: the MC41FS, which is designed for one or two safety functions in support of cost-efficient, task-oriented control; the MC42FS, which offers a higher number of safe outputs for mid-size applications and I/O distribution; and the MC43FS, a large centralised controller for applications involving multiple safety functions.
Delivering precise, real-time control of hydraulic systems, Parker’s IQAN-MC4xFS controllers are based on the same robust hardware as IQAN-MC4x performance-optimised standard versions featuring state-of-the-art automotive grade safety components. Scalable feature sets, connectivity and the same pinout configuration facilitate easy up or downsizing of applications.
Parker offers solutions from small standalone subsystem controls, to total machine control in an integrated IQAN system, with multiple modules or a large centralised controller.
Using the IQAN tool chain, it is possible to build larger systems without generating unmanageable growth in complexity.
The new IQAN-MC4xFS controllers have been designed to simplify and ease implementation in customer applications allowing faster development of new machine functionality.
This is supported and enabled by full compatibility with the established IQANdesign platform which provides an intuitive tool for programming, simulation, testing, production, service and maintenance.
