Danfoss Power Solutions has launched its Best Point Control (BPC) software technology, which increases machine efficiency by detecting the power needed for current operating conditions and automatically adjusting the engine speed to meet optimum efficiency points. Danfoss says the increased efficiency can save mobile machinery up to 25% on fuel use.
As a PLUS+1-compliant software block, BPC offers plug-and-perform integration into existing work flows, reducing development time and shortening time to market, with an estimated four to eight weeks from quotation to prototype.
“Danfoss is proud to offer Best Point Control as the latest addition to the Danfoss portfolio of software blocks designed for seamless integration,” said Markus Plassmann, Danfoss product marketing manager for high-powered closed-circuit products. “With Best Point Control, there is no longer a need to rely on operator skill level to get the most out of a machine and to achieve performance goals.”
In traditional hydrostatic transmissions, the operator controls engine speed with a foot pedal. With BPC, the operator still controls a vehicle's movement, but the software manages engine speed and hydrostatic ratio.
BPC is designed for multiple single-path application types such as wheel loaders, large forklifts, reach stackers, telehandlers, forestry machines, and dumpers, among others.
The modular software supports efficient integration of human-to-machine interfaces, such as pedals, joysticks, and mode switches, as well as integration of various gearbox solutions.
Danfoss BPC software technology provides greater efficiency through intelligent engine control and creates a variety of user benefits.
* It provides average fuel savings of up to 25%, depending on the application, duty cycle, and system configuration. BPC delivers fuel savings at almost every operating point, including transport driving, acceleration, deceleration, and work tasks.
* It gets the most work out of engines as the ultra-efficient use of power for each task frees up engine power to operate other subsystems, such as work functions, fan drive, and steering. That also may reduce OEM costs, and help with Tier IV and eventually Tier V compliance by allowing the use of smaller engines.
* It increases driver comfort and productivity. In microseconds, BPC determines the lowest possible engine speed to accomplish any task and takes the burden of controlling engine speed off operators, therefore reducing fatigue and increasing focus on tasks and steering.
* It decreases disruption to the work area by keeping engine work at the appropriate level for every task and reducing overall noise and emissions. Lower engine noise is easier on the operator and also critical when working on sites that have noise restrictions, such as residential areas.
Danfoss Propel Application Library coming in 2016
The global release of BPC will be followed by the summer 2016 launch of the Danfoss PLUS+1 Propel Application Library (PAL). PAL is a collection of easy-to-use, pre-tested and qualified software function blocks that allow Danfoss distributors to provide customers with solutions that decrease development and system integration times.
PAL cuts development time by approximately 50% or more, and supports the complete development process. Developers benefit from access to PLUS+1 function blocks, P1D service tool screens, user manual snippets and thorough support documentation.
“With the Danfoss Propel Application Library, PLUS+1 users will be able to develop propel solutions more quickly and at a higher overall quality, which is a clear differentiator in the market,” Plassmann said. “We are excited to offer more innovative, functional and complete libraries to our customers.”
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
