Applications
An aerial working platform can safely lift operators and materials to different heights by using a system of articulated or telescopic booms, a rotating turret and a work basket. Aerial working platforms must ensure the safe and efficient lifting of operators and materials to different heights. This requires carefully controlling the extension and inclination of the booms for precise manoeuvres, maintaining the stability of the base and basket (for operator safety), the smooth management of hydraulic pressures for reliable movements, and the constant verification of loads to prevent overloading. This optimises the safety, performance and productivity of the machine.
Requirements:
Steering angle control
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Vehicle tilt monitoring
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Basket tilt monitoring
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Boom position detection
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Basket load control
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Stabilizer positioning adjustment
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Hydraulic circuit pressure monitoring
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Requirement:
Steering angle control
The control of the steering angle is an essential requirement to ensure the safe and precise manoeuvrability of the aerial working platform. An accurate detection system allows the operator to efficiently manage the vehicle positioning phases, even in limited spaces or on complex terrain. This improves the overall stability of the machine, reduces the risk of incorrect manoeuvres and ensures greater reliability and safety during lifting and working at height.
Solution:
To ensure precise and reliable steering control, Gefran offers the GRN rotary sensor without shaft because:
- it uses non-contact Hall-effect magnetic technology, which guarantees a long operating life;
- it is compact and simple to install, easily adapting to different construction layouts;
- it has a high resistance to shocks, vibrations and external agents.
Requirement:
Vehicle tilt monitoring
The inclination of an aerial working platform’s base must be monitored to ensure stability and safety during all lifting operations. A precise detection system makes it possible to detect any variations from the optimal position, reducing the risk of overturning and ensuring safe support, even when working on uneven terrain. This function protects the operator and the equipment, improves the efficiency of the manoeuvres and the life of the machine over time
Solution:
To monitor the inclination of the chassis, especially on uneven terrain, Gefran offers the GIB inclinometer, which is:
- a sensor with a compact design, which simplifies installation even in small spaces;
- designed to withstand collisions, shocks and vibrations.
Requirement:
Basket tilt monitoring
The control of the inclination of the basket guarantees the safety of the operator and the correct execution of the activities at height. An accurate monitoring system prevents hazardous movements of the work platform during the positioning phases, reducing the risk of stability loss or of accidental collisions with surrounding obstacles. Working conditions are safe and comfortable, increasing machine efficiency and productivity.
Solution:
To accurately monitor the inclination of the basket of an aerial working platform, Gefran provides the GIG inclinometer, which:
- is available in single or redundant output version;
- has a sensor case sealed with resin, to offer complete protection against external agents;
- has a high resistance to shocks and vibrations.
Requirement:
Boom position detection
Accurate control of the linear and angular position of the telescopic boom is a fundamental requirement to ensure precision and safety in lifting operations. A reliable monitoring system allows operators to accurately adjust the extension and inclination of the boom, so that the load can be positioned efficiently even in complex working conditions. This function improves the stability of the machine, reduces the risk of error and increases operational efficiency.
To accurately and reliably monitor the boom, Gefran offers the GSH-A sensor:
- 2-in-1 sensor, which allows operators to measure linear position and tilt;
- available with redundant outputs for both linear and tilt measurement;
- sturdy and compact design, suitable for installation inside the boom or outside.
Requirement:
Basket load control
The control of the load on the basket is crucial to ensure the safety of operators and compliance with the operational limits of an aerial working platform. Reliable monitoring makes it possible to detect any overloads in real time, preventing risky situations that could compromise the stability of the machine. This function protects the people on board, preserves the integrity of the machine and ensures efficient use and compliance with safety regulations.
Solution:
Gefran’s response to this need is the KM series of pressure sensors, a reliable and effective solution for indirect control of the load on the basket.
- compact design, ideal for installations even in small spaces;
- high resistance to shocks, vibrations and high temperatures;
- SIL2/PLd certified sensor, which guarantees high standards of functional safety.
Requirement:
Stabilizer positioning adjustment
Correctly positioning the stabilisers is essential to ensure the operational safety of an aerial working platform and its stability. A precise monitoring system makes it possible to verify that each stabiliser is correctly extended and resting evenly on the ground, avoiding unbalanced conditions that could compromise operator safety. This function improves the efficiency of lifting manoeuvres, reduces the risk of rollover and ensures the durability and reliability of the machine.
Solution:
To guarantee the accurate control of the extension of the stabilisers and ensure the stability of the machine, Gefran offers the GSH-S linear wire position transducer. Its features include:
- non-contact Hall-effect technology, which guarantees a long operating life;
- robust design, made to withstand shocks, vibrations and harsh environmental conditions;
- available with digital and analogue interfaces.
Requirement:
Hydraulic circuit pressure monitoring
Monitoring the pressure in the hydraulic circuit is a fundamental requirement to ensure the correct operation of the aerial working platforms and maintain their operational efficiency. An accurate control system allows the prompt detection of anomalies or out-of-threshold values, preventing failures that could compromise safety and cause machine downtime. This ensures continuity in performance, reduces maintenance costs and extends the life of the hydraulic system components.
Solution:
For the precise and safe control of the pressure in the hydraulic circuit, Gefran recommends the pressure transducers of the KM series. Their features include:
- small dimensions, for easy installation even in limited spaces;
- high resistance to shocks, vibrations and high temperatures;
- SIL2/PLd certification, which ensures high standards of functional safety.
Operating principle
The aerial platform uses one or more articulated or telescopic booms connected to a hydraulic system that enables vertical and horizontal movement. A rotating turret allows the boom to be positioned as needed, while the work basket ensures stability and operator safety. The engine provides power to the hydraulic and control systems that manage lifting, extension, rotation, and stabilization of the machine, ensuring smooth movements and precise manoeuvres. To ensure all these operations are performed safely, accurately, and efficiently, the aerial platform must rely on continuous monitoring of mechanical, hydraulic, and stability parameters.
Requiremnets and Technology
Aerial working platforms must guarantee precision and stability even in complex operating conditions, characterised by considerable heights, variable loads and terrains that are often uneven. For this reason, it is essential to integrate advanced sensor systems that can withstand vibrations, shocks, dust, humidity and extreme temperatures.
Key technology requirements include:
- Steering angle control
- Vehicle tilt monitoring
- Basket tilt monitoring
- Boom position detection
- Basket load control
- Stabilizer positioning adjustment
- Hydraulic circuit pressure monitoring
Gefran offers a complete portfolio of tilt, linear position and pressure sensors, designed to support aerial working platform builders and operators in the development of safe, efficient and durable solutions.
