Intelli-Guide Auto-Dispatch System

Columbus McKinnon has expanded its Intelli-Crane family of automation solutions with the new Intelli-Guide Auto-Dispatch System.

Using Magnetek radios, drives and automation programming integrated with motors and brakes, Intelli-Guide allows operators to automatically send a load to different pre-programmed areas in a facility with the push of a button. As the load moves to the programmed destination along a determined route, the operator can work on a different task or start on the next step of the production process, increasing productivity and efficiency.

"If a facility has outdated, manually controlled cranes, hoists or monorail systems, automation technology can bring new life to equipment, increasing their lifecycles and providing new features to make operations safer and more efficient," says Jim Kluck, global product manager for automation. "With the precise positioning and automatic speed control the system provides, Intelli-Guide can help streamline operations and improve efficiency compared with processes that are manually operated."

Auto-dispatch technology does the work for operators by eliminating the need for specialised skills or knowledge of lifting technology, sway control or protected zones. Intelli-Guide also helps reduce the potential for human error by following pre-determined paths to designated positions, which also prevents potential collisions with other equipment or operators. When combined with anti-sway software or no-fly zone technology, auto-dispatch systems can minimise downtime for maintenance due to collisions.

Offered in several different operating modes, Intelli-Guide can be used to safely and accurately position a hoist, crane or monorail. It is also available with various levels of motion control for setting pathways, targeting end locations, specifying height limits and enabling automatic raising and lowering capabilities.

Intelli-Guide is an engineered-to-order solution customised to fit exact application requirements, giving customers flexibility to meet the needs of their unique manufacturing processes, according to Columbus McKinnon.