Snowplows Go Wireless

RFID and wireless are only limited by your imagination. Where there are harsh environments, going wireless can be more reliable and cost less than watertight connections and copper wire. While the technology cost to implement wireless is relatively high, the amount of materials to manufacture a wireless control is relatively small. One could think of it as a “Green” or sustainable solution. A snow plow that mounts on the front of a truck moves up and down in cold weather with wires covered by snow and ice. The control is exposed to a lot of vibration and salt spray. These are all very adverse conditions for electrical connectors and wiring. Choosing the correct frequency to transmit through snow and ice is extremely important for reliable communications. Lower frequencies are needed for the signal to pass through moisture without great attenuation. 433MHz is a good choice that Matrix has experience with on our Wyze-Temp® temperature sensor used in the conveyor type commercial cooking ovens. 433MHz is a good frequency because it can be used in the USA, Europe, Australia and other countries. In addition to wireless communications, angle sensors and 3-axis acceleration sensors are incorporated into the control located on the plow to set elevation, blade angles, and perform automatic lift operations. The handheld control in the cab often times has a series of setup buttons, LED’s and a joystick of sorts. Matrix Product Development is unique because we have a wide expertise in wireless, encapsulation, low power battery designs, angle and motion sensing.