Manitowoc and Trimble Introduce a New Generation of Collision Avoidance Systems for Cranes

Manitowoc and Trimble introduced today Manitowoc Falcon—a new generation collision avoidance solution for cranes. Manitowoc Falcon combines precision global navigation satellite system (GNSS) with collision avoidance technology to provide real time, centimeter level, positioning for multiple cranes working on a construction site. The solution enhances crane operator awareness to improve safety and productivity in the construction lifting industry.

The announcement was made today at Bauma 2013, the 30^th international fair for construction machinery, building material machines, mining machines, construction vehicles and construction equipment.

Manitowoc Falcon leverages precise positioning technology, wireless communications and comprehensive software capabilities to transform how cranes and information are managed on a construction site. It combines a GNSS solution from Trimble with a proven anti-collision system from Manitowoc Cranes. Rugged GNSS sensors are mounted on mobile cranes to measure exact coordinates to determine precisely where each part of the crane is located. In the cab, the Manitowoc Cranes display allows the operator to see in real-time, any obstacles or other cranes that are in close proximity. If unplanned or dangerous activity is detected, alarms will sound and tower crane operation can even be halted.

Manitowoc Falcon provides the ability to avoid potential collisions on the construction site. Congested jobsites are common throughout the world where development is in different stages and numerous cranes and other equipment are moving about the site at the same time. Real-time positioning will allow all the cranes to stay in their operating zones, which can increase the efficiency and productivity of the construction site.

In January of 2013, Trimble and Manitowoc Cranes announced that the companies entered into a development agreement to enhance crane productivity, positioning and detection.

“Through our collaboration with Manitowoc Cranes, a lifting industry leader, we have co-developed a solution capable of lifting and delivering materials on congested construction sites," said John Cameron, general manager of Trimble’s Integrated Technologies Division. “Trimble leverages multiple technologies to provide substantial improvements for the productivity and safety of lifting operations.

“Manitowoc Cranes is committed to providing the most advanced and comprehensive range of lifting solutions in the industry,” said Bob Hund, executive vice president, Crane Care for Manitowoc Cranes. “As a result of our collaboration with Trimble, the Manitowoc Falcon will provide innovative crane tools to enable increased operator awareness and enhanced safety in the industry.”