Every technological innovation brings the promise of expanded efficiency and performance; however, it often brings with it exposures to security and risk. Addressing the increased industrial reliance on autonomous machines, Danfoss Power Solutions has released an update to its Plus+1 Autonomous Control Library (ACL) software. Curated for off-highway machinery, ACL 4.0 enables users to create virtual boundaries around specific geographic areas, known as geofences. The capability helps ensure reliability and enables location tracking when a machine enters or exits a boundary.

AUTONOMOUS FUNCTIONALITY TO MOBILE MACHINERY

Danfoss Plus+1 ACL software comprises preprogrammed and pretested software blocks covering areas such as perception, positioning, and navigation. The software enables users to add autonomous functionality to mobile machinery by integrating the blocks into their machine software applications, eliminating the need to develop software from scratch. Designed for engineering teams at original equipment manufacturers and distributors, ACL software reduces development time and costs.

ACCELERATE YOUR AUTONOMOUS MACHINE DEVELOPMENT 

Plus+1 autonomous software solutions from Danfoss power solutions reduce development time and associated costs for OEMs. Designed for in-house engineering teams, our Plus+1 Autonomous Control Library (ACL) Essentials and Plus+1 ACL Advanced packages consist of preprogrammed and pretested software blocks specifically for autonomous solutions, built directly into our Danfoss XM100 controller hardware. 

  • ACL Essentials: Available to Plus+1 Guide users with a professional license, this foundational software offers tools to kickstart the road to autonomy.
  • ACL Advanced: A paid solution providing advanced path-following software and access to future features and updates, this package is designed for those needing a high level of autonomy.

YOUR MACHINERY, YOUR BOUNDARIES

ACL 4.0 also includes the following new software blocks, allowing users to customize their applications and set their boundary data in real time:

  • Boundary recorder allows an operator to create a boundary by driving around a specific area. This results in saving a polygon to a file.
  • Boundary converter allows users to generate a polygon using geographical coordinates, creating a more precise boundary.
  • Boundary loader loads a file with a polygon to be used with geofence checker. This enables the operator to choose from files that have been previously saved to match the machine’s intended activity.
  • Geofence checker compares the vehicle coordinates to the boundary. It also provides a vector to the nearest point of the boundary, as well as the straight-ahead distance to the boundary.
  • Transform GNSS is an independent block that translates the GNSS position to a given point in the machine, providing greater flexibility when installing the GNSS antenna. 

With multiple means for defining a boundary, ACL 4.0 offers greater flexibility for geofencing needs in sectors such as airport ground support, construction, and other applications. With its Plus+1 integration, the software is easier to use than other methods for creating a geofence. 

DELIVERED AUTONOMY 

ACL 4.0 enhances Level 3 autonomous functionality while providing a baseline for more advanced capabilities. Level 3 autonomy introduces automated driving features to mobile machinery, enabling task consistency regardless of operator experience. This improves precision and productivity while enhancing safety.

“With geofencing capabilities integrated in our Autonomous Control Library, customers can achieve greater operational control in a flexible, easy-to-use package,” says Adam Khaw, head of autonomy, Danfoss Power Solutions. “ACL 4.0 highlights our Delivered Autonomy strategy, where proven software, robust hardware, and development expertise come together to deliver unmatched value. It’s not about individual components, but about making the entire system work effectively from day one.”

Danfoss engineers solutions that increase machine productivity, reduce emissions, lower energy consumption, and enable electrification. Our solutions are used in such areas as refrigeration, air conditioning, heating, power conversion, motor control, industrial machinery, automotive, marine, and off- and on-highway equipment. We also provide solutions for renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, as well as district-energy infrastructure for cities. Our innovative engineering dates back to 1933. Danfoss is family-owned, employing more than 42,000 people, serving customers in more than 100 countries through a global footprint of ninety-five factories. For more information, visit www.danfoss.com.