cthECU
cthECU is an electronic output expansion control unit (ECU) designed for the distributed control of electric actuators on agricultural machinery, equipment, off-highway vehicles and special-purpose vehicles. Its modular and scalable architecture allows machine control capabilities to be expanded while simplifying the integration and management of electrical loads.
Each module features 6 bidirectional outputs in full H-bridge configuration or 12 outputs in half-bridge configuration, enabling the control of DC motors, linear actuators, motorized valves, hydraulic solenoid valves and other auxiliary loads. CAN communication allows the main ECU to configure, control and monitor outputs from a single point, ensuring coordinated management of the machine’s various functions.
The ability to daisy-chain up to 16 modules on the same CAN network, with automatic ID assignment, eliminates the need for individual configuration and simplifies system installation, maintenance and expansion. Daisy-chain connections for power and CAN also help reduce wiring complexity, while synchronized control enables simultaneous actuation of devices connected to different modules.
The compact design with IP67 protection and integrated electrical protection features contribute to reliable operation even under demanding conditions. Flexible and reusable across different machine configurations, cthECU provides OEMs with a versatile solution for a wide range of applications, from agricultural machinery to road maintenance and earthmoving equipment.
TECHNICAL FEATURES
- Power supply: 9–32 VDC; 10 A typical current, 18 A max.
- Dimensions: 123 × 92 × 35 mm.
- Outputs: 6 full H-bridges rated at 1.5 A or 12 half-bridges rated at 1.5 A, for controlling DC actuators and loads.
- Communication: 1 CAN interface for output configuration, control and monitoring.
- Scalability: Daisy-chain connection of up to 16 modules on the same CAN network.
- Automatic addressing: ID assignment based on each module’s position in the chain, without individual configuration.
- Synchronized control: Ability to prepare and execute commands simultaneously across multiple modules.
- Protection: IP67, with a potted PC-PBT enclosure and integrated protection against overcurrent, overvoltage, reverse polarity and overtemperature.
- Operating temperature: −40 °C to +85 °C.
- Standards: ISO 14982; ISO 13766.
- Available configurations: Versions supporting J1939 or CANopen protocols.
- Applications: Agricultural machinery, equipment, off-highway and special-purpose vehicles.
