Cylinders have been around for centuries, providing movement and stability in multiple applications. As technology advances, it has pushed the boundaries of a timeless invention.
Smart cylinders have more capabilities and introduce a new set of potential issues as your control system does not communicate directly with the cylinder. Issues with smart cylinder outputs can be confusing, but there are ways to troubleshoot.
Aurelius Manufacturing can help you work through and resolve sensor output issues.
What Are Smart Cylinder Outputs?
Smart cylinder outputs are signal types for the positional feedback sent to the hydraulic control system. Common types of sensor outputs include analog or digital, such as CAN J1939, CAN Open, and PWM.
Common Issues and How to Resolve Them
Smart cylinder outputs have their fair share of issues, but there are a few simple troubleshooting options.
Signal Issues
Smart cylinder output can suffer signal loss or irregular signal reception. This can be caused by a power supply issue or some form of technological hardware problem.
The first troubleshooting tip is to inspect the power supply component for proper voltage along with the sensor and controller. From there, look at signal cables to make sure they aren’t loose or damaged.
Output Configuration Issues
Perhaps the most avoidable problem is configuration issues with your smart cylinder output. This problem arises when the output does not match the controller. Make sure you are using the correct output type and that all software and firmware is updated.
Communication Loss
Loss of communication is perhaps the biggest concern when using smart cylinders. But similar to when your WiFi goes out, the solution isn’t as difficult as it may seem.
If you’re experiencing communication loss or interference, check your network connections. This is especially important if you are using CAN or CANOpen outputs. Once you’ve checked the connection, inspect your output for any issues with modules. And lastly, if any error codes are displayed, communicate those codes with the manufacturer in order to resolve the issue.
Contact Us Aurelius Manufacturing
Is your smart cylinder output having issues? Are you interested in learning more about how this advanced cylinder system functions? Connect with us at Aurelius Manufacturing today.
For over 40 years, we’ve been an industry leader in all things hydraulic cylinders. As technology advances, so do our capabilities. We’re proud to be part of your next smart cylinder solution.
