Examples &
Case Studies

Automated Storage & Retrieval, Factory Automation and Material Handling Systems

Shipboard Refrigerated Container Monitoring

Mass Transit

Utility Remote Meter Reading

Portable Retail Point-of-Sale networks

Mining

Healthcare/Hospital

Hotel/Casino Gaming

Electronic Signage
 

Problem/Opportunity
HK Systems needed to abandon the high-maintenance festoon communications systems that are part of their large overhead crane products. The cranes move over electrified rails (similar to trains) down long aisles between tall shelving systems and on manufacturing lines. The festoon rolls out communications cable to the crane as it moves forward, and recoils as it returns. Maintenance of these systems by HK’s customers requires frequent worker attention in a dangerous environment.


Requirements

  • No-maintenance system
  • Highly reliable and robust--24/7 operation
  • Able to overcome severe noise, distortion and reflections on rail

 

Solution
With Adaptive Networks' powerline modems installed on the crane and with the PC controlling the cranes movements through another modem, the festoon was eliminated. The PC controls the crane by sending data over the electrified rails.

Results
HK Systems and others sell our modems to companies such as Ford, Chrysler, Kodak and Nabisco using these systems for material handling and factory automation increasing productivity, operating efficiency and workplace safety.