The electronic controls business unit of Parker Hannifin 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, steer-by-wire forestry equipment and construction machinery.
Designed for controlling hydraulic valves and certified to IEC 61508 SIL2, the controller is an ideal choice for mobile machinery applications where safety functions up to SIL2/PLd are 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 device 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 RAM, and the implementation of a safety-certified real-time operating system.
Parker offers three versions of the new 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 pin configuration facilitate easy up or downsizing of applications.
The new 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.
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