Earlier this week, Danfoss Power Solutions launched CAN 2 Current, a compact solenoid-mounted microcontroller designed to work with Danfoss cartridge valves, hydraulic integrated circuits (HICs), hybrid PVG/HIC valves, and open-circuit pumps. C2C connects the valve, HIC, or pump to the controller area network (CAN) bus, enabling accurate and efficient component actuation as well as simple diagnostics.
Its key characteristics include repeatable and consistent control. It communicates using CAN bus protocols to provide closed-loop current control on one or two outputs. C2C can be used with on/off and proportional solenoids and is available as either a single- or dual-channel device. The single-channel device commands one coil while the dual-channel device can command two coils sequentially. It is compliant with ISOBUS and SAE J1939 communication protocols.
C2C maximizes energy efficiency through peak-and-hold control technology. This feature reduces current in the hold phase to only the power required to maintain the solenoid’s position, thus holding the function. Using retention current on extended-hold functions, such as clamping, reduces energy consumption by up to 70%. This minimizes cooling needs and may reduce the battery capacity required in some types of battery-electric machinery.
The controller’s compact, robust design maximizes space efficiency as well as durability. C2C features resin-potted construction that offers protection from dust and dirt, as well as shock and vibration resistance. With its IP67 ingress protection rating, C2C is built to last in harsh off-highway environments.
“The C2C is a very small coil-mounted solution. It is not much wider than the coil itself so only a little care is needed when designing a compact HIC ensuring the C2C can fit. On application where you want something constantly rotating or pressurized you always need more power to start a motion. But maintaining it when started requires less power,” said Michael Hartmann Andresen, Global Product Portfolio Manager, Actuators, Danfoss Power Solutions. “With the retention current feature, the C2C will automatically scale down power usage thereby saving energy. And when the coil uses less energy then less power is lost to heat giving added benefit of reduced cooling demand.”
By connecting the valve or pump to the CAN bus, C2C simplifies diagnostics. The CAN bus enables real-time communication between the C2C and the machine controller, enabling status messages to be shared with the operator via cabin display. This eliminates the need for manual troubleshooting to identify solenoid issues.
“With CAN 2 Current now part of our portfolio of closed-loop current control actuators, Danfoss can deliver a truly fantastic, complete subsystem with all the benefits of CAN bus. Our full portfolio of solutions addresses every requirement, delivering functionality perfectly matched to the machine,” said Andresen. “We aim to develop the strongest actuator platform on the market. We will continue to build out our closed-loop CAN actuator portfolio while not forgetting the need for durable, reliable open- and closed-loop analog actuators.”
C2C offers quick and simple setup. The full Danfoss Power Solutions actuator portfolio features a standardized approach for setup and control, which is applicable across C2C and PVE configurations for various valve solutions. The actuators are configured within the PLUS+1 Service Tool, offering a familiar, easy-to-use setup platform. The C2C device’s configurable parameters include communication time guarding, dither, minimum and maximum current, and hold current.
The C2C will be on display at Danfoss’ Agritechnica booth in Hall 16, Booth A20. But Andresen notes the device is for many mobile applications. “The C2C is not only intended for Ag machines but can also cover a lot of other needs. All machines having HIC or many functions could benefit from getting those parts onto the CAN bus,” he told Fluid Power World. “Also, machines that have CAN bus already for some functions can benefit from adding C2C. Typical machines in Ag with a lot of functions and HIC are harvesters and telehandlers. Also, balers could be a major potential. Non-Ag machines include construction telehandlers, skid steer loaders, cranes and many more. ”
Danfoss Power Solutions
danfoss.com
