Claxton’s Camera Upgrade Puts Crane Safety in Focus

Claxton Engineering Services Ltd, an Acteon company, launched the latest version for its ATEX and safe-area crane boom cameras to improve operational safety through substantial upgrades in camera performance and its user interface.

Enhancements to the camera, which according to Claxton is one in a range of best-in-class subsea and surface cameras, include state-of-the-art charge-coupled device (CCD) modules; a best-in-class 324-1 digital zoom (compared with 312-1 digital zoom on previous systems); and a 28× optical zoom lens (compared with a 26× on previous systems). The new system also offers 3D noise reduction (3D NR) for low noise images in low light environments, image stabilization, better resolution (now 550 from 450 TVL) and a lower minimum illumination level (now 0.25 rather than 1 lux). The camera retains the auto/manual day to night switching feature for night viewing in monochrome. A joystick control replaces the push button system and enables operators to concentrate on the screen without looking at the controller.

Mounted on the tip of the jib, the camera provides operators with a high-quality view of the crane loads to help maximize the safety of crane operations. The mounting incorporates a self-righting adjustable oil filled damping system to suit all climates globally, which maintains the camera position regardless of the jib’s angle. Through the new image stabilization, the operator will always see a clear stable picture even when the crane boom is moving.

The system includes a 12.1 in., high-resolution daylight viewable LCD screen and a control console that can be mounted on any suitable surface within the cab. The monitor is fully sealed, has an integral sunshield and a swivel bracket and the monitor is delivered ready for mounting on an industry-standard Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) bracket, which makes it suitable for any crane cab. For ease of operation, the unit includes manual or auto-focus at the flick of a switch.

Gary Omer, product leader, Claxton, said, “This upgraded camera system offers significant benefits to crane operators, as it delivers detailed color images in daylight or twilight and automatically switches to high-sensitivity monochrome images for night operations. In addition, the system can be extended to support three cameras, which can provide extra safety monitoring in areas such as the crane’s spooling drum and walkways.”

claxtonengineering.com