Curtis Introduces AC Motor Speed Controller with Enhanced Functional Safety Features

Mount Kisco, New York, Aug. 3, 2012. Curtis Instruments Inc. announces the launch of a very significant upgrade to the Curtis AC motor speed controller family. The new Curtis ‘E’ series of controllers utilize a powerful dual-microprocessor logic core that meets all relevant requirements of the EN ISO 13849-1:2009 functional safety standard, and the updated EN 1175-1:1998+A1:2010 industrial truck safety standard. The first in the ‘E’ series is the Model 1232E AC motor speed controller. Improvements over the earlier Model 1232 include: ¦ Powerful dual-micro logic core allows full compliance with EN ISO 13849-1, eliminating the need for any additional safety/supervisory control modules. ¦ Faster 64MHz micro improves motor control, and more than doubles the VCL code execution speed. ¦ Additional FLASH memory gives twice the available VCL code space. ¦ Increased CAN Master capabilities with 6 additional VCL CAN ‘mailboxes.’ The Curtis model 1232E delivers best-in-class control of AC induction motors and offers the highest levels of functional safety. It is designed for use as the traction controller on class 3 materials handling ‘walkie’ vehicles and other small battery-powered industrial trucks. It is equally suitable as the pump controller for auxiliary hydraulic functions on larger industrial vehicles. Like all Curtis AC controllers, this model features: Curtis VCL™—Vehicle Control Language is an easy to use programming language that allows vehicle developers to write powerful logic functions and create a ‘virtual system controller’. Indirect Field Orientation (IFO) vector control algorithm generates the maximum possible torque and efficiency across the entire speed range for superb drive ‘feel’, improved speed regulation and superior gradient climbing capability. Curtis Auto-Tune function enables quick and easy characterization of the motor without having to remove it from the vehicle. Curtis AC controllers are fully compatible with any brand of AC induction motor. Dual-Drive functionality is standard, allowing correct control of applications featuring twin traction motors. This function ensures smooth and safe operation, minimal tire wear and correct load sharing between the traction motors at all times. Configurable CANbus connection allows communication with other CANbus enabled devices. The Model 1232E is CANopen compatible and can accommodate both 11-bit and 29-bit CAN protocols of various profiles. Integrated System Controller—More than just a motor controller, it is also powerful system controller. The 1232E features a comprehensive allocation of multi-function I/O pins for use as analog inputs, digital inputs, contactor coil drivers and proportional valve drivers. This controller is also capable of functioning as a full CAN system master, using VCL to map and configure the remote I/O available on other CANbus devices, send messages to CAN displays and thus control and monitor the entire system. The new Model 1232 E is available in 24V 180A, 24V 250A, 36-48V 200A, and 48-80V 175A versions.

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