Eaton’s eMobility business has launched a new line of Eaton OMNEX Trusted Wireless mobile control solutions for heavy machinery and field operations. The 900 MHz two-way remote-control units allow for the wireless control of high-value machinery in harsh environments, including mining, construction, agriculture, locomotive and marine markets.
“Our next generation of rugged, weatherproof OMNEX wireless controllers were designed with customer input, and offer a number of benefits, including enhanced safety and productivity for machine operators,” said Scott Adams, president of eMobility at Eaton. “Overall, we’ve improved upon the reliability and connectivity that was always a benefit over the competition – and we continue to advance our wireless technology in those areas.”
Eaton’s new wireless lineup offers flexible solutions for customers in the following models:
- Hand-held TD110
- Hand-held TD1140 with optional E-Stop
- Pistol-grip TD2100
- Small belly-pack TD3100
On a construction site, the wireless controllers can operate heavy machinery, such as vacuum trucks, tow trucks, concrete mixers and cranes. Remote operation provides a number of benefits, including reducing the amount of personnel on-site and keeping workers out of harm’s way. The new units have a range of up to 1,650 feet and can be programmed for a wide range of functions.
For example, an operator could remotely control boom functions, rotate a mixer barrel, or raise and lower a crane, all from a safe distance. The wireless controls can also be programmed to provide feedback via a screen, haptic response or sequenced light-emitting diodes. This function can be used to signal an operator when a crane is fully extended or be programmed to display the amount of weight a trailer is carrying.
The units have undergone Eaton’s cyber security protocols to prevent the signal being hacked into by an outside source, while sophisticated control algorithms guarantee fail-safe operation. Each controller can be programmed to connect with a vehicle that has been equipped with a receiver installed in the electronic systems of a remote vehicle or machinery.
The wireless controls are compliant with Ingress Protection Code 65 & 67 (IP65 & IP67) ratings, which are “dust tight” and protected against water spray as well as complete, continuous submersion in water. The new control units also feature updated radios and lithium-ion batteries for better performance.
