Aimed at OEMs and system integrators developing mobile and off-highway equipment, a new programmable hydraulics controller from Parker Hannifin enables both safety and operational functions to be controlled from a single module — system design and build times and costs can be cut, while machine performance, safety and productivity can be improved.
Launch of this new controller — designated the IQAN-MC3, and forming part of Parker’s IQAN family of motion and control products — coincides with growing demand from manufacturers of mobile and off-highway equipment for components and software used in the production and development of safety systems to offer improved performance and be certified to accepted functional safety standards, such as EN ISO 13849-1 or IEC 61508.
Used in conjunction with Parker’s dedicated IQAN Studio Software Tools, the new MC3 module allows both operational and safety functions to be programmed, controlled and monitored through a single controller. This helps machine builders minimise the number of components required and so reduce overall system complexity and cost.
Safety takes priority
To make this possible, the MC3 is designed to IEC 61508 (certification pending) and effectively enables the operation and performance level of all safety functions to be proven as part of a SIL2 (Safety Integrity Level) methodology, or to be used as part of a PLd subsystem within EN ISO 138489-1.
Although the IQAN-MC3 can be used to manage both safety and operational functions, it is always the former that takes priority, says Parker. The module can be used as a standalone controller, with local I/O, or be integrated into larger systems using four CAN buses. Each module has 16 digital inputs and 16 analogue inputs all of which can be set for safety related signals. Additionally, there are four proportional current outputs designed to drive proportional hydraulic valves, with each output controlling one bi-directional valve section, as well as five digital outputs for driving on and off solenoids.
Each MC3 unit is constructed to meet the rigours of mobile and off-highway applications, with a robust enclosure that withstands high levels of vibration and humidity, is sealed to IP66 and operates at temperatures from -40 to +85ºC.
