Technical information

Automated Cone Machine Safe Operation

1.1 Overview

The ACM is an automated piece of equipment that places and retrieves traffic cones. It

allows an operator to perform their task without working outside the vehicle. A solid

state controller is used to automate the process. Unlike a personal computer, this solid

state controller initializes quickly and can be power cycled on and off at any time. The

ACM uses electric and hydraulic power. All electric power is the nominal truck voltage

12 VDC. As with all automated equipment, components can move unexpectedly

therefore, care should be taken to stay out of the equipment’s work area unless the system

is turned off.

1.2 Safety Features

The ACM is equipped with Emergency Stop switches located in the cab center control

console, left seat bucket, and right seat bucket. The E-Stop switches stop all motion on

the ACM. Depressing any one of the E-stop switches will immediately stop the

movement of the machine.

The hydraulic reservoir is located behind the cab on the sign board support rack. The

main shut off valve is on the side of the tank on the passenger side of the vehicle. The

shut off valve is normally left in the open position but in the case of a hydraulic leak

should be closed.

The truck has wide angle mirrors installed on both sides of the vehicle. The operator

should use these mirrors and check their blind spots to insure it is safe to deploy the

ACM components. The ACM components should not be deployed when personnel or

obstructions are in any of the equipments work space.

There is an ABC rated fire extinguisher mounted on the vertical post in the left seat

bucket.

1.2.1 Safety In The Equipment Work Space

Slow moving equipment is often under-estimated as a safety concern. Operators may

develop an over confidence that if caught in between slow moving machinery they will

have the time to move clear. Unfortunately, this confidence often results in injury.

Operators are less cautious when working around slow moving machinery and can easily

find themselves trapped. The left and right drop boxes deploy slowly. Operators should

make sure that these areas are clear before deploying or retrieving either drop box.

There are many moving parts in the lateral conveyor, cone stack, and stowage system

regions located in the middle of the truck (figure 1.0). These areas should be clear of

personnel and any obstructions before the system is turned on and operated and remain

clear during operation.