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CANLink is designed to control all types of component systems — not just the hydraulics. CANLink modules, which are most often configured in a master/slave format. Some examples including typical inputs and outputs include:
Valve banks which reduces hydraulic plumbing costs. Typical inputs include: resistive pressure and temperature sensors. Outputs often include: servo valve pump control, proportional valves, on/off valves.
Engine compartment. Connect directly to electronic engine ECM for engine status and control. Inputs: resistive pressure and temperature sensors, speed pickups and electronic engine or transmission communications. Outputs: servo valves pump control, starter relays, throttle servos and electronic engine or transmission communications.
Console/dash. Use a display module for realtime diagnostics with user menus. Inputs: joysticks, dash switches, potentiometers, dead man switches. Outputs: gauges, displays, LEDs, indicator lights and alarms.
Booms and lifts. RCL/LMI safety and control. Inputs: angle sensors, pressure sensors and length sensors. Outputs: displays, alarms.
It is also possible for the OEM, dealer/distributor and end-user to take advantage of the flexibility of CANLink. As early as four years ago, HED offered a Configurator product that allows OEMs to program their own characteristics into roughly half of the modules in the CANLink family.
In addition to the Configurator, HED also offers a Service Tool option. This diagnostic system allows users to make sure a particular switch is turned on, for example. And by connecting a laptop to the vehicle it is easy to check the output of a particular component.
As electronics in general and the CANLink family more specifically continue to evolve, Heck sees more integration of the electronics systems into machine design.
“We’ve been doing a lot of work taking push buttons and switches on vehicles and combining them with and LCD screens to get more information to the operator faster and get him a better ability to quickly change things.”
