STW will present the BCX.4 series for agricultural equipment at Agritechnica. It combines central electrics and control functionality in a compact device, is ISOBUS certified, flexible in use, and Tractor Implement Management (TIM) ready.
Autonomously operating tractor-implement combinations require intelligent components that can transfer and process commands, sensor data, and parameters between the tractor and the implement. STW has developed the BCX.4cs-ag for this purpose. With a 32-bit multicore processor, the unit is powerful enough for these applications, and its large number of inputs and outputs makes it flexible in use. The CAN interface facilitates integration into the automation structure.
The body control unit also performs the tasks of a central electrical system and can switch currents of up to 15 A per switch via 4 high-side switches. These can be operated in parallel for even higher currents. With its very compact dimensions and the absence of electromechanical components, the smart body control unit can also be installed in inaccessible locations. In addition to switching, the BCX.4 series also handles the distribution, protection, and diagnosis of electrical currents. This is a fundamental safety feature, particularly in autonomous processes and applications, enabling faults to be detected at an early stage and maintenance measures to be initiated before significant damage occurs.
Multifunctional use
Depending on the machine class, the BCX.4 series can perform a variety of tasks. In conventional tractor-implement combinations, it allows the implement to be controlled from the cab, either via an ISOBUS terminal or a separate display if ISOBUS is not to be used. Thanks to its bidirectional communication capability, the BCX.4 series can be used to implement tractor-implement management applications. With the help of TIM, the implement guides the process. The intelligent towed implement communicates with the tractor based on sensor and controller values, thereby providing information on, for example, how much power is required or at what speed to drive. This makes the process more efficient and reduces the workload for the machine operator.
In compact machines, the BCX.4cs-ag can act as an all-in-one solution and control vehicle functions. These include controlling and switching electric motors or valves while simultaneously reading sensor data and providing the information on control elements.
Large machines benefit from the BCX.4cs-f variant, which enables decentralized power distribution on the machine. The compact device can be integrated in the immediate vicinity of the consumers and can switch large consumers such as heating systems or headlights. Like the BCX.4cs-ag, the BCX.4cs-f also allows for diagnostics and troubleshooting, which can reduce maintenance and downtime for complex machines and thus reduce operating costs.
Optimized for robust use
Like all STW components, the BCX.4cs-ag meets the high requirements of agricultural applications in terms of shock and vibration resistance. The housing with protection class IP6K9 is designed for use in harsh environmental conditions such as mud, moisture, or heat. The operating temperature range is between -40 and +85 °C. For application development, programmers can choose between C and IEC61131-3, while system integration is user-friendly via the STW software platform openSYDE. A CANopen software is planned for mid-2026.
STW will be exhibiting the BCX.4 series at Agritechnica in Hanover from November 9-15 in Hall 17, Booth D12.
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