Technical Innovations
Cummins captures data
 QuickCheck II from Cummins will support SAE-compliant transmission, engine, or braking systems. |
The QuickCheck II system from Cummins Inc. (Booth S-13221) for Palm or HandEra handheld devices plugs into an engine control module to read and capture engine, transmission, and brake-system information from electronic diesel engines. The system now covers all diesel-engine broadcasts, including SAE J1939 and J1587 data.
Using the parameter screen on a Palm, a range of engine functions can be checked in real time, including data from sensors and switches to engine diagnostic information, including engine load and speed, coolant and intake manifold temperatures, output torque, fuel rate, and transmission oil pressure. Cummins first introduced QuickCheck two years ago to obtain SAE J587 engine data using a datalink adapter plugged into the appropriate equipment harness. QuickCheck II is capable of gathering engine information from any manufacturer's electronic diesel engine.
The QuickCheck kit includes the datalink adapter, all necessary interface cables and connectors, and the diagnostic software application.
- Jean L. Broge
Horton's off-highway fan drive
 Horton claims that its MagForce electromagnetic fan drive improves engine and hydraulic functions while boosting cab heat in cold-weather applications. |
Horton, Inc. (Booth S-17920) has released a "smart" electromagnetic fan drive for heavy-duty engines. The MagForce has a two-speed fan design, automatically switching between eddy current for low-speed conditions and electric current for high-speed conditions. According to Horton, the new fan drive saves fuel, provides precise temperature control, and reduces noise by up to 50% through its ability to switch speeds depending on operating conditions. This design feature, which also adds to reduced maintenance according to the company, is in contrast to direct drives, which operate continuously at full speed.
Its compact size and large fan capacity make it suitable for a variety of construction and agricultural equipment, skid steers, and other off-highway machinery. The MagForce is designed for applications with fans up to 660 mm (26 in) and 37 to 149-kW (50 to 200-hp) diesel engines.
- Jean L. Broge
