World’s first turntable SmartControl ladder

December 18, 2024

The time has finally come: Magirus is starting to deliver its new generation of turntable ladders with SmartControl technology. The first vehicle, an M32L-AS SC articulated turntable ladder, was handed over last week by Magirus CEO Thomas Hilse to the professional fire brigade of the city of Offenbach am Main. The intelligent SmartControl (SC) technology sets new standards for ergonomics, efficiency, and safety in firefighting operations. What for a long time seemed to be an ambitious vision of the future is now, after intensive engineering and development, to be used for the first time in the world in the German state of Hesse.

What is SmartControl?

Magirus SmartControl technology is a newly developed, comprehensive, intelligent control system that intuitively supports emergency and rescue services. With newly designed ergonomic controls and fast menu navigation, SmartControl turntable ladders are easy, comfortable, and intuitive to operate. Advanced assistance functions provide the best possible support for firefighters in targeted and safe operations.

The new turntable ladder technology offers a completely new user experience. Where previously the turntable ladder was often controlled with successive simple movements to the targeted position, SmartControl enables combined movements with unprecedented ease—quickly and efficiently directly to where help is needed.

“With SmartControl, we are offering our customers a solution that perfectly equips them for today’s challenges and at the same time allows them to react flexibly to future requirements,” says Thomas Hilse, CEO of Magirus. “The ability to move the cage in any direction and the automation of the control system make the work of the firefighters easier, while at the same time increasing precision and safety. This helps not only in challenging situations, but in every operation.”

Smart assistance functions for optimal support and maximum safety
An outstanding feature of the new generation of turntable ladders is the introduction of SmartFunctions. They assist emergency and rescue personnel to work quickly, accurately, and safely at all times. Magirus CageControl, for example, is one such function. It enables particularly simple, automatic control of the rescue cage and ladder tip in all four directions (forwards/backwards/ up/down). In addition, the FacadeFunction supports automated control of the cage and ladder tip parallel to any facade in the room. The assistant for the articulated arm provides further automatic functions to ensure the articulated arm is always optimally aligned. Automatic levelling of the arm maximises outreach and ensures greater operational flexibility. In addition, the integrated camera system ensures optimum visibility around the vehicle and the basket. Up to four camera views can be displayed simultaneously on the video screen at the main control station – an invaluable advantage in confusing situations.

A new era in turntable ladder control
The 32-metre articulated ladder with SmartControl technology is equipped with the SingleExtension system and Magirus DirectEntry for direct access in front of the cab. As standard, every SmartControl turntable ladder comes with the specially developed new controls for ergonomic and comfortable operation of the turntable ladder. The Magirus RescuePilot is located on the main control panel. It enables movement congruent control while the operators’ hand can be comfortably placed on it. This is a decisive advantage, especially during longer operations. This is where the ClassicPilot comes in. It enables intuitive, sensitive motion control with just one hand. In addition, the MenuPilot and SwitchPilot make function selection quick and easy. On the jacking control stands, the JackingPilot intuitively supports the operator throughout the entire jacking process. Additional displays on both jacking control panels provide a perfect overview. In addition, the operator’s cabin is equipped with a new SC control unit with a high-resolution, fully networked display.

The latest generation of turntable ladders in the heart of the Rhine-Main area
With the procurement of the new M32L-AS SC, the Offenbach fire brigade is not only aiming to use the latest technology, but also to make a conceptual change. ‘With a modern vehicle fleet, we ensure that our firefighters are optimally equipped to act quickly, effectively and safely. With the first SmartControl turntable ladder from Magirus, we are naturally taking a big step into the future,’ explains Klaus Grimm, head of the Offenbach fire brigade’s technical department.

However, the safety of citizens and emergency services was not the sole focus of the purchase. ‘When every second counts, the perfect interaction between superstructure, chassis and control technology is essential. Together with the city of Offenbach, we have decided not only to purchase the most modern turntable ladder technology, but also to invest in sustainable, future-proof technology,” adds Grimm. With the Magirus SmartControl turntable ladder, the fire brigade in the Rhine-Main metropolitan region will in future rely on a two-axle series chassis with rear axle steering – in this case a Mercedes-Benz Atego 1530 F – instead of the previous three-axle chassis with power-controlled trailing axle. Among other things, this makes the firefighting vehicle even more manoeuvrable.

Future-proof and flexibly adaptable
The new generation of turntable ladders from Magirus sets a new milestone not only in turntable ladder technology, but also in terms of sustainability. Thanks to the adaptability and expandability of the technology used, functions and displays can be updated, adapted and/or expanded both during initial operation and at a later point in the vehicle’s life cycle. This makes Magirus turntable ladders a long-term sustainable investment with maximum flexibility for fire services worldwide.

‘The ability to continuously update and adapt the system to new requirements ensures the future viability of our aerial ladders and ensures that they meet the constantly evolving needs of fire services,’ says Marc Kuntz, Director Sales & Customer Service at Magirus.

The delivery of the first turntable ladder with SmartControl technology to the Offenbach am Main professional fire brigade marks another important milestone in Magirus’ 160-year history. Further deliveries of the new turntable ladder generation are imminent.

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