New paths for crane installations
NT-Technik and SAEZ Group optimize the control of cranes with atvise®.
Advancing digitalization is placing ever-greater demands on modern construction projects. The control and monitoring of crane systems in particular requires advanced solutions. NT-Technik GmbH has developed an innovative platform for the automation and visualization of crane control systems in collaboration with the SAEZ Group. This report highlights the technical details, challenges and benefits of this forward-looking collaboration.
Modern crane control: PLC-based solution with visualization and real-time data analysis
The SAEZ Group's crane systems are used in construction projects worldwide and are equipped with a modern control and visualization platform. The core of this solution is a PLC (programmable logic controller) from ABB, supplemented by slave PLC systems depending on the crane type. A panel PC and several frequency converters are used to control and regulate the cranes. The components are integrated into a meshed network without Internet access to ensure maximum security and reliability, guaranteeing robust and trouble-free communication. If required, VPN access can be enabled via a hardware switch in order to identify potential sources of error remotely and take remedial action if necessary. An outstanding feature is the integration of atvise®, which enables visualization, data logging and access to dashboards and web servers. Operating data can be monitored and analyzed in real-time.
atvise®: Intelligent visualization and analysis
- Flexible, integrated and user-friendly: atvise® offers numerous functions that are specially tailored to the requirements of modern crane control systems. This enables seamless integration into existing systems and offers a user-friendly interface. Individual dashboards allow a clear display of all relevant operating data and can be flexibly adapted.
- Precise fault detection and sustainable optimization: atvise® also offers extensive data analysis and evaluation functions. This allows detailed monitoring and analysis of operating data in real-time, enabling fast and precise fault detection and rectification. The use as a data logger also enables the storage and historization of operating data for long-term analysis and optimization.
- Efficient monitoring thanks to seamless network integration: Another advantage of the project is the central monitoring and control of all crane systems thanks to the seamless integration of the control and visualization platform into the existing network. The meshed network without internet access ensures high security and reliability of communication.
Local production and close cooperation for the highest quality
The crane cabins, including the control systems, are produced locally in Germany. The products used were selected for their flexibility and modernity in order to meet the specific requirements of the SAEZ Group. The customized solution guarantees high quality and reliability. The close cooperation between NT-Technik and SAEZ Group was a central aspect of the implementation. This cooperation enabled the specific requirements of the SAEZ Group to be precisely understood and integrated into the development. Training courses ensured that users were able to make optimum use of the new systems.
Efficient, safe and future-proof
The main objectives of the project were to develop an intuitive, visually appealing and expandable control platform with comprehensive diagnostic functions for rapid fault detection. Numerous benefits have been realized since the start of the project: Crane operability has been improved, increasing efficiency and productivity. The platform now serves as the basis for further crane projects, including retrofit and refurbish solutions. Another advantage is the increased security provided by the meshed network without internet access, which minimizes cyber risks and ensures stable performance. atvise® also offers a high degree of flexibility for specific adaptations.
Crane systems with intelligent sensors and innovative visualization
The crane systems are equipped with various sensors such as load measuring pins, rotary encoders and encoders, which enable precise control and monitoring. The network topology is designed to ensure high reliability and data integrity. atvise® offers numerous functions for modern crane control systems and enables seamless integration into existing systems. Individual dashboards provide a clear display of relevant operating data and can be customized as required. One particular highlight, for example, is the hook camera implemented in the visualization, which simplifies handling for the crane operator.
A future-proof solution
NT-Technik plans to implement the knowledge and experience gained in other applications. The solution is already being used in other projects and is being continuously developed further. The platform provides a solid basis for future extensions and adaptations to new technological requirements. The close cooperation between NT-Technik and SAEZ Group will continue in order to further improve the platform and adapt it to the changing requirements of customers. This ensures high quality and reliability of the systems and contributes significantly to the success of the projects.
Setting new standards in crane automation
The SAEZ Group's crane control automation and visualization project shows how modern automation solutions can be implemented effectively. The combination of advanced technology, intuitive operation and comprehensive diagnostic options ensures optimum performance and user-friendliness. The close cooperation between NT-Technik and the atvise® distributor VIDEC Data Engineering GmbH contributed significantly to the success of the project and sets new standards in the industry. The knowledge and experience gained provide a valuable basis for future projects and contribute to continuous improvement and further development in automation.
Distributor: VIDEC Data Engineering GmbH
Customer: NT Technik Ingenieurbüro GmbH
Industry: Mechanical Engineering
Project(s): SCADA for crane systems
Product: atvise® scada
PLC(s): Multiple
