Crane Sentry® Pre-alarm Option

Key Features

• Provides a pre-alarm set point
• (2) additional mechanical NO/NC relay outputs (8A);
  

The Crane Sentry Pre-alarm option is a feature within crane safety and collision detection systems, particularly those manufactured by Laser-View Technologies under the "Crane Sentry" brand. It's designed to provide an early warning before a potentially dangerous condition, such as an overload or collision, becomes critical.

Here's a breakdown of its description, features, and benefits:

Description:

The pre-alarm option typically involves a visual and/or audible alert that activates when a crane approaches a pre-set limit or condition, but before the "main" alarm or function limitation kicks in. This gives the operator and nearby personnel valuable time to react and prevent an incident.

For example, in a rated capacity limiter system, the pre-alarm (often a yellow indicator) might illuminate when the crane reaches 90% of its maximum rated capacity, whereas the main overload alarm (red indicator) would activate at 100%, often coupled with function limitations.

Similarly, in collision avoidance systems, a pre-alarm could sound when a crane is still a certain distance from an obstacle or another crane, allowing for a controlled slowdown or stop, rather than an abrupt halt when it's too close.

Features:

• Adjustable Thresholds: The pre-alarm can often be programmed to activate at specific distances (for collision avoidance) or percentages of load capacity (for overload protection).
• Audible and Visual Signals: It typically includes both sound (beeps, gongs) and light (flashing LEDs, bar graphs) to ensure the warning is noticed in various industrial environments.
• Integration with Control Systems: Pre-alarms are integrated with the crane's overall control and safety system, providing real-time data to the operator's display.
• Operator Settable Alarms: Some systems allow operators to set custom pre-alarms for specific job site conditions, such as defining "no-fly" zones or maximum boom angles/radii for obstacle avoidance.
• Wireless or Wired Connectivity: Depending on the Crane Sentry model, these features can be delivered via wired connections or wireless I/O modules for greater flexibility.

Benefits:

• Enhanced Safety: The primary benefit is improved safety by providing early warnings, allowing operators to take corrective action before a dangerous situation fully develops. This reduces the risk of collisions, overloads, and other accidents.
• Reduced Downtime and Damage: By preventing collisions and overloads, the pre-alarm option helps avoid costly damage to cranes, loads, infrastructure, and other equipment, minimizing downtime for repairs.
• Increased Efficiency: Operators can work more confidently and efficiently knowing they have an advanced warning system in place. This can help optimize crane movements and prevent unnecessary stops.
• Improved Situational Awareness: The continuous display of key parameters (like load, radius, boom angle) combined with pre-alarms helps the operator maintain better situational awareness.
• Proactive Problem Solving: Rather than reacting to an immediate danger, the pre-alarm allows for a proactive approach to crane operation, contributing to a safer and more productive work environment.

In essence, the Crane Sentry Pre-alarm option acts as an "early warning system" within the broader crane safety suite, giving operators and personnel precious time to respond to potential hazards.