Municipal: Aerial Pumper

This fire truck includes a 105' extension boom and ladder that rotates at the base. Outriggers are deployed to stabilize the truck when the extension ladder is in use. In its initial configuration, the vehicle utilized a control system with limited flexibility. The various hydraulic functions were operated independently, and safe operating limits could be exceeded resulting in an unstable condition.

GS Hydraulics significantly improved the ladder truck's stability and safety by integrating critical hydraulic and electronic control functions. Level, pressure, and proximity sensors measure positions, determine loading, and monitor speeds of critical machine functions. I/O modules interfaced with proportional electro-hydraulic valves control the ladder and outrigger systems. A master controller with color display, combined with an application-specific program, coordinates all of the machine movements to provide the fireman with smooth, safe operation of the ladder. The flexible control software easily integrates safety interlocks and other optional features such as automatic basket leveling.