Eaton Releases New Sensor for Tracking Machine Location and Machine Dynamics

Eaton recently released its new GFX machine dynamics sensor. This device monitors machine dynamics data, which helps maximize vehicle efficiency and safe operations.

 

The GFX Machine Dynamics Sensor

According to Eaton, the two-in-one device is space-saving, featuring an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and a global positioning system (GPS) in one compact device. The GF sensor integrates into a vehicle, offering both CAN and serial output messaging. This flexibility allows for substantial cost savings and better utilization of space, as there is no need to buy and integrate any other unnecessary components. 

 

Eaton’s GFX machine dynamics sensor. Image courtesy of Eaton. 

 

Customers can expect a highly durable device, as the sensor comes with ingress protection (IP)67 rating. The device is 100% protected against solid matter such as dust and sand and tested to function when submerged under 15cm to 1m of water. This makes it ideal for open-cab machinery.

 

Built to Track Machine Location

The GFX sensor also features geopositioning used for tracking machine location and operation while retaining an accuracy within 4 meters. It also provides users with accurate ground speed data as an ISOBUS message or digital output. This feature and the geopositioning enables the optimization of operations such as harvesting, seeding, and earthmoving. 

Eaton’s sensor maintains safe vehicle operations through the ability to collect acceleration, magnetic field, and angular data to help avoid potential rollover accidents on uneven terrain. Accidents and the personal and business costs that come with them can also be avoided. 

 

Eaton’s GFX machine dynamics sensor. Image courtesy of Eaton. 

 

“As off-highway machinery becomes smarter and more dynamic, the need to track vehicle performance and equipment usage is only growing,” said Brent Schenk, global product manager, Dynamic Machine Control, Hydraulics Group, Eaton in a recent news release.

“The GFX machine dynamics sensor provides added intelligence to help users operate their machinery safely and more efficiently while enabling better control of intelligent machine functions,” Brent added.

Customers using the GFX sensor can benefit from a wide operating temperature range of between -40°C to 85°C, built for working in harsh environments not relegated to the highway. Other features of the devices include easy installation and use, NMEA 2000 (CAN) and NMEA 0183 (RS232) output messaging, and low current consumption (up to 120mA).