Curtis 1212S User Manual

Manual

Model 1212S

Electronic Motor Controller

Read Instructions Carefully!

Specications are subject to change without notice.
© 2016 Curtis Instruments, Inc. ® Curtis is a registered trademark of Curtis Instruments, Inc.
© The design and appearance of the products depicted herein are the copyright of Curtis Instruments, Inc. 53153 Rev B 10/2016

Curtis Instruments, Inc.

200 Kisco Avenue

Mt. Kisco, NY 10549

www.curtisinstruments.com

CONTENTS

1. OVERVIEW ............................................................................. 1

2. INSTALLATION AND WIRING ............................................ 4

Mounting the Controller ................................................... 4

Connections: High Current .............................................. 5

Connections: Low Current ................................................ 5

Controller Wiring .............................................................. 6

Throttle Wiring ................................................................. 7

Switches and Other Hardware ............................................ 8

3. PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS ..................................... 10

Program Menus ................................................................ 10

4. MONITOR MENU ............................................................... 22

5. INITIAL SETUP .................................................................... 24

6. VEHICLE PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENT ..................... 27

7. DIAGNOSTICS AND TROUBLESHOOTING ................... 32

8. MAINTENANCE ................................................................... 35

appendix a Vehicle Design Considerations
appendix b EN 13849 Compliance, 1212S Controller
appendix c Battery Discharge Indicator (BDI) Setup
appendix d Programming Devices
appendix e 1212S Controller Specifications

ii

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

FIGURES

fig. 1: Curtis 1212S electronic motor controller ................................. 1

fig. 2: Mounting dimensions, Curtis 1212S controller ....................... 4

fig. 3: Standard wiring configuration, 1212S controller ...................... 6

fig. 4: Wiring for 5kΩ, 3-wire potentiometer ..................................... 7

fig. 5: Wiring for voltage throttle ....................................................... 7

fig. 6: Effect of adjusting the Throttle Map parameter ..................... 15

fig. 7: Wiring for Pump SRO ........................................................... 21

fig. B-1: Safety channel block diagram ................................................. 38

TABLES

table 1: Programmable parameter menus ....................................... 10

table 2: Troubleshooting chart ....................................................... 33

table E-1: Specifications, 1212S controllers ....................................... 44

iii

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

1

Fig. 1 Curtis 1212S

electronic motor controller.

1 — OVERVIEW

OVERVIEW

The Curtis 1212S motor speed controller provides precise and smooth control
of permanent magnet drive motors for battery powered vehicles. This controller
is designed for use in pallet truck applications.

The 1212S controller is fully programmable by means of a Curtis pro­gramming device. Use of the programmer offers diagnostic and test capability
as well as configuration flexibility.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

Like all Curtis motor controllers, the 1212S offers superior operator control
of the vehicle’s motor drive speed. Key features include:

Smooth and Secure Control

✓ Advanced speed regulation maintains precise speed over varied terrain,

obstacles, curbs, and ramps

✓ Linear cutback of current ensures smooth control, with no sudden loss

of power during undervoltage or overtemperature

✓ Proprietary algorithms help prevent gearbox wear while providing

smooth starts and reversals

✓ The vehicle is brought to a complete stop before the electromagnetic

brake is applied, ensuring safe and secure stops under all conditions

✓ Charger inhibit input prevents driving while charger is attached

✓ Key Off Decel function ensures a smooth “brake to stop” when the

key is turned off while driving or when a fault occurs that requires the

vehicle to stop

More Features

☞

1

1 — OVERVIEW

✓ Anti-Rollback/Roll-forward function provides smooth and safe vehicle

control on hills and ramps

✓ Internal main relay provides secure power-off

✓ Boost current gives a brief boost of current greatly improving

transient loads such as starting on a hill, crossing thresholds, etc.

Easy Installation and Setup

✓ Industry standard footprint, mounting centers, and wiring allows

drop-in replacement of other controllers

✓ 1212S controller is easily programmed with a Curtis

programming device, or can be supplied pre-programmed

✓ Accepts standard single-ended voltage/resistance throttles

✓ Throttle sense can be inverted for all throttle types

✓ Simplified troubleshooting and diagnostics

✓ Standard Molex Mini-Fit-Jr. terminals provide proven connections

for the control wiring

✓ Bolt-on terminals provide robust connections for the high current

wiring

Valuable Additional Features

✓ Automatic compensation for changes in motor condition to ensure

optimum drive performance at all times

✓ Multi-mode provides for two distinct and programmable control

modes (indoor/outdoor)

✓ Emergency reverse with belly button switch input

✓ Emergency stop provides immediate EM braking when throttle

transitioned through neutral to >80% reverse request

✓ Lift Lockout input from Curtis 906 battery discharge indicator meter

✓ Output Lift Lockout signal, which can drive a pump contactor

✓ Pump SRO can be enabled to prevent pump startup when KSI

first turned on

✓ Sleep function prevents the controller draining the battery

when the vehicle is inactive

✓ Battery Discharge Indicator output

2

✓ Adjustable brake hold voltage reduces heating of the brake coil

✓ Reverse polarity protection

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

1 — OVERVIEW

Robust Safety and Reliability

✓ High RF immunity prevents speed variation and shutdowns in noisy

RF environments

✓ Controller power circuits and microprocessor software are

continuously monitored for proper operation

✓ On power-up, system automatically checks the throttle, brake,

and associated wiring, and disables drive if a fault is found

✓ Whenever the 1212S senses a loss of KSI or any fault that requires a

stop, it smoothly decelerates the vehicle to a stop

Meets or Complies with Relevant US and International regulations

✓ Electronics sealed to IPX5

✓ Designed to meet EN 12895:2000, EN 13849-1(PL=B, Cat 2),

and UL583.

Familiarity with your Curtis controller will help you install and operate it
properly. We encourage you to read this manual carefully. If you have questions,
please contact the Curtis office nearest you.

Working on electric vehicles is potentially dangerous. You should protect
yourself against runaways and high current arcs:

RUNAWAYS — Some conditions could cause the vehicle to run out of control.

Disconnect the motor or jack up the vehicle and get the drive wheels off
the ground before attempting any work on the motor control circuitry.

HIGH CURRENT ARCS — Always open the battery circuit before working on

the motor control circuit. Wear safety glasses, and use properly insulated
tools to prevent shorts.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

3

2 — INSTALLATION & WIRING

2

Fig. 2 Mounting

dimensions, Curtis 1212S
controller.

INSTALLATION AND WIRING

MOUNTING THE CONTROLLER

The 1212S controller can be oriented in any position, but the location should
be carefully chosen to keep the controller clean and dry. If a clean, dry
mounting location cannot be found, a cover must be used to shield the
controller from water and contaminants.

The outline and mounting hole dimensions are shown in Figure 2. The
controller should be mounted by means of the mounting holes at the opposing
corners of the base, using two M4 screws.

Dimensions in millimeters.

end product to ensure that its EMC performance complies with applicable
regulations; suggestions are presented in Appendix A.

✭

4

You will need to take steps during the design and development of your

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

2 — INSTALLATION & WIRING

12

34

CONNECTIONS: High Current

Four M4 bolt-on power terminals are provided for the high current connections:
two for the motor

(M1, M2) and two for the battery (B-, B+). The recommended

assembly torque for the M4 bolts is 1.6±0.2 N.m.

CONNECTIONS: Low Current

The low current logic control connections are provided by a 14-pin connector.

J1

1234567

8910 11 12 13 14

J1 Pin 1
J1 Pin 2 Pot High
J1 Pin 3 Lift Lockout Output
J1 Pin 4 Mode Switch (open=M1, closed=M2)
J1 Pin 5 Keyswitch Input (KSI)
J1 Pin 6 Interlock Input
J1 Pin 7 B+

J1 Pin 8 Pot Low
J1 Pin 9 Lift Lockout Input / Pump SRO input
J1 Pin 10 Forward Input
J1 Pin 11 BDI Output (0–5V)
J1 Pin 12 Reverse Input
J1 Pin 13 I/O GND
J1 Pin 14 Emergency Reverse

Pot Wiper

A 4-pin low power connector is provided for the programmer and the charge
inhibit input, and a 2-pin low power connector for the electromagnetic brake.

J2

J2 Pin 1 Rx
J2 Pin 2 I/O GND
J2 Pin 3 Tx/charge inhibit
J2 Pin 4 +15V

J3

1

2

J3 Pin 1 Brake +
J3 Pin 2 Brake -

The mating connectors are:

J1 Molex Mini-Fit-Jr. receptacle p/n 39-01-2140
J2 Molex Mini-Fit-Jr. receptacle p/n 39-01-2040
J3 Molex Mini-Fit-Jr. receptacle p/n 39-01-2020,

all with appropriate 45750-series crimp terminals.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

5

2 — INSTALLATION & WIRING

WIRING: STANDARD INSTALLATION, 1212S

The wiring diagram presented in Figure 3 shows a typical installation for a
pallet truck application. This installation is shown with a Curtis ET-1XX MCU
electronic throttle.

The J2 connector can be used interchangeably for the programmer or
for the charge inhibit input.

HORN

KEYSWITCH

PUMP CONTACTOR

COIL

INTERLOCK SW

MODE SW

EMR REV SW

CURTIS

KSI

ET-

1XXMCU

GND

HORN SW

CONTROL

LIFT SW

FWD

0-5V

REV

BDI

FUSE

J1-7

B+

J1-5

KSI

LIFT LOCKOUT

J1-3

OUTPUT

J1-6

INTERLOCK

J1-4

MODE (M1, M2)

J1-14

EMERGENCY REVERSE

J1-8

POT LOW

J1-2

POT HIGH

J1-10

FORWARD

J1-1

POT WIPER

J1-12

REVERSE

J1-11

BDI (0–5V)

J1-13

I/O GND

B+

B-

M1

M2

BRAKE +

BRAKE -

LIFT LOCKOUT

INPUT

CHARGE INHIBIT

+15V

I/O GND

Rx

POWER

FUSE

MOTOR

J3-1

J3-2

J1-9

J2-3

J2-4

J2-3

Tx

J2-2

J2-1

EMERGENCY

STOP

M

EM BRAKE

B+

BATTERY

CURTIS 906

Pin 3

CHARGER

SOCKET

B-

PROGRAMMER

Fig. 3 Standard wiring configuration, Curtis 1212S controller.

CAUTION

☞

The polarity of the motor M1 and M2 connections will affect the operation of
the emergency reverse feature. The forward and reverse switches and the
and
the operator when the emergency reverse button is pressed.

6

1212S CONTROLLER

M1

M2 connections must be configured so that the vehicle drives away from

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

1234567

8910 11 12 13 14

Fig. 4 Wiring for voltage

1234567

8910 11 12 13 14

+

-

VOLTAGE

THROTTLE

Pot Wiper input (Pin 1)

B-

throttle.

2 — INSTALLATION & WIRING: Throttle

THROTTLE WIRING

Either a resistance throttle or a voltage throttle can be used with the 1212S
controller. The controller can accept a single-ended or inverse single-ended
input signal from the throttle, depending on how the Throttle Type parameter
is programmed; see page 14.

Voltage Throttle

Wiring for a voltage throttle is shown in the wiring diagram (Figure 3) for a
Curtis ET-1XX MCU, and here in Figure 4 for a simple voltage throttle that
would require forward and reverse switches. With a voltage throttle, the con­troller can be programmed for a Throttle Type 0 or 1 input signal; see page 14.

Fig. 5 Wiring for 5k

3-wire potentiometer
throttle.

Ω

The PotHigh and PotLow parameters are used to set the voltage range of
these throttles. If the pot wiper voltage is higher than the programmed PotHigh
value or lower than the programmed PotLow value, the controller will issue
an out-of-range throttle fault. In order for the controller to be able to detect
out-of-range throttle faults, the throttle must have a range within the limits
of 0.4–4.6 V.

Note: If a 0–5V throttle is used, it is the responsibility of the OEM
to provide appropriate throttle fault detection.

5kΩ, 3-Wire Potentiometer

A resistance throttle is shown in Figure 5. With this throttle, the controller can
be programmed for a Throttle Type 2 or 3 input signal; see page 14.

,

wires anywhere in the throttle assembly. The overall pot resistance should be

4.3 to 7.0 kΩ. Values outside this range will trigger a fault condition. If a pot
fault occurs while the vehicle is moving, the controller will decelerate the vehicle
to a smooth stop using the decel rate set by the Key Off Decel parameter. If
the fault is corrected while the throttle is still applied, an HPD fault will be

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

issued and driving is disabled until throttle is reduced to neutral.

The controller provides full pot fault protection against open or shorted

7

2 — INSTALLATION & WIRING: Switches, etc.

SWITCHES AND OTHER HARDWARE

Keyswitch

The vehicle should have a master on/off switch to turn the system off when
not in use. The keyswitch provides logic power for the controller and for the
other control input switches. It must be sized to carry the 150 mA quiescent
logic current plus the current necessary to drive the precharge function (1.5
A for 0.5 seconds) and the horn and any other accessories powered from the
keyswitch circuit.

Emergency Reverse Switch

When the vehicle moves forward or stops, if the emergency reverse switch
is pressed the vehicle will decelerate to a stop (if it was moving) and then be
driven in the reverse direction. The active input level depends on the setting
of the Switch Normally Closed parameter; see page 20.

Emergency Stop Switch

When the emergency stop button is pressed, the 1212S controller shuts off
the EM brake output regardless of vehicle speed, thus engaging the brake
immediately.

Mode Switch

A mode switch is used to select operation in Mode 1 or Mode 2. Typically,
Mode 1 is programmed for slower indoor driving and Mode 2 for faster outdoor
driving; see Speed menu. The controller is in Mode 2 when the mode switch is
in the On position (input connected to B+). Leaving the mode input floating
or actively switching it Off (pulling it to B-) puts the controller in Mode 1.
The two modes have independent programmable settings.

Interlock Switch

The interlock switch, typically implemented as a tiller switch, deadman
footswitch, or seat switch, provides a safety interlock for the system. The switch
is allowed to be cycled within a set time (the Sequencing Delay). This feature is
useful in applications where the switch may bounce or be momentarily cycled
during operation.

Forward/Reverse Switches

Direction switches connected to B+ are used to select the driving direction.

Battery Discharge Indicator (BDI)

The 1212S controller can drive a BDI panel meter to show the battery pack’s
state of charge as a percentage of the ampere-hour capacity of the batteries. The
batteries must be put through a full charge cycle with the controller installed
before the BDI will begin operation.

8

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

2 — INSTALLATION & WIRING: Switches, etc.

Circuitry Protection Devices

To protect the control wiring from accidental shorts, a low current fuse (ap­propriately sized for the maximum control circuit current draw) should be
connected in series with the B+ logic supply. A fuse is also recommended in
the high power circuit from the battery to the controller’s B+ terminal. This
fuse will protect the power system from external shorts and should be sized
appropriately for the maximum rated current of the controller.

Charge Inhibit

Typically, battery chargers have a dedicated third terminal that automatically
provides inhibit. Inhibit is provided through J2 Pin 3; see wiring diagram, page 6.
When J2 Pin 3 (charge inhibit input) is pulled low, the controller disables the
drive functions and engages the EM brake while the charger is connected. The
charger inhibit automatically powers up the controller without the keyswitch
on so that BDI can be tracked during charge. After BDI is 100% reset, power
is totally shut off (no current used) to avoid draining the battery.

Status LED

The 1212S controller has an internal Status LED, which can be used to tell the
operator, at a glance, the controller’s status. This LED always indicates whether
the controller is powered on or off. It will also provide diagnostics information
via flash codes (see Section 7).

Lift Lockout / Pump SRO

When the External Lift Lockout parameter is programmed on (see page 19),
the 1212S will take the external lift lockout signal from a Curtis 906 meter
to control the lift lockout driver when lift lockout is triggered, and the driver
will be activated when the input signal is low. The maximum current for this
low-side driver is 1.5 A.

The Pump SRO safety feature can be used to check the status of the pump
switch wired to B+. When the Lift Lockout Enable parameter (see page 19) is
programmed on, if the switch is closed before KSI is turned on, the 1212S will
report a Pump SRO fault and will disable the Lift Lockout Output.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

9

3 — PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS

The 1212S controller has a number of parameters that can be programmed

3

using a Curtis handheld programmer or Curtis PC Programming Station. These
programmable parameters allow the vehicle’s performance to be customized to
best fit the needs of individual vehicle operators.

see Section 6.

The programmable parameters are grouped hierarchically into menus, as shown
in Table 1. Not all of these parameters are displayed on all controllers; the list
for any given controller depends on its specifications.

Table 1 Programmable Parameter Menus: 1311 Programmer

PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS

For information on programmming devices, see Appendix D.

For information on how to use the parameters to optimize performance,

DRIVE MENU ............................ p. 11

—Accel Max Speed

—Accel Min Speed

—Decel High Speed

—Decel Low Speed

—Rev Accel Max Speed

—Rev Accel Min Speed

—Rev Decel High Speed

—Rev Decel Low Speed

—Key Off Decel

—E Stop Decel

—E Stop Pause

—Soft Start

—Gear Soften

—Creep Speed

—Soft Stop Speed

—Speed ........................... p. 13

—Mode 1

—Max Speed

—Rev Max Speed

—Mode 2 (same)

THROTTLE MENU ........................p. 14

—Type

—PotHigh

—PotLow

—Neutral Deadband

—Throttle Max

—HPD

—Throttle Map

CURRENT MENU ......................... p. 16

—Main Current Limit

—Braking Current Limit

—Boost Current

—Boost Time

BRAKE MENU ............................ p. 16

—Delay

—Fault Check

—Hold Voltage

—Interlock Decel

—Interlock Brake Timeout

MOTOR MENU ............................p. 17

—System Resistance

—Resistance Auto Comp

—Auto Comp Current Limit

—Speed Scaler

BDI MENU ..................................p. 18

—Full Voltage

—Empty Voltage

—Full Charge Voltage

—Start Charge Voltage

—Reset Voltage

—Discharge Factor

—Charge Factor

—Low BDI Level

—Low BDI Max Speed

—External Lift Lockout

—Lift Lockout Enable

—Lift Lockout Threshold

—Lift Lockout Output Type

COMPENSATION MENU ................ p. 19

—IR Comp

—Anti-Rollback Comp

EMERGENCY REVERSE MENU .......p. 20

—Speed

—Time Limit

—Decel Rate

—Accel Rate

—Max Braking Current

—Switch Normally Closed

—EMR Interlock

MISCELLANEOUS MENU ............... p. 21

—Sequencing Delay

—Sleep

—Reset Drive Time

—Emergency Stop

—Pump SRO

—Reset Parameter

10

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

3 — PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS:

Drive Parameters

DRIVE MENU

ALLOWABLE
PARAMETER RANGE DESCRIPTION

Accel Max Speed 0.2 – 8.0 s Sets the rate (in seconds) at which the speed command increases when

full throttle is applied and the vehicle is traveling forward. Larger values
represent slower response.
Note: Allowable range is restricted by the Accel Min Speed setting.

Accel Min Speed 0.2 – 8.0 s Sets the rate (in seconds) at which the speed command increases when

minimal throttle is applied and the vehicle is traveling forward. Larger
values represent slower response
Note: Allowable range is restricted by the Accel Max Speed setting.

Decel High Speed 0.2 – 8.0 s Sets the rate (in seconds) that is used to slow down the vehicle when it

is traveling forward at high speed and throttle is reduced. Larger values
represent slower response.
Note: Allowable range is restricted by the Decel Low Speed setting.

Decel Low Speed 0.2 – 8.0 s Sets the rate (in seconds) that is used to slow down the vehicle when it

is traveling forward at low speed and throttle is reduced. Larger values
represent slower response.
Note: Allowable range is restricted by the Decel High Speed setting.

Rev Accel Max Speed 0.2 – 8.0 s Sets the rate (in seconds) at which the speed command increases when

full throttle is applied and the vehicle is traveling in reverse. Larger values
represent slower response.
Note: Allowable range is restricted by Rev Accel Min Speed setting.

Rev Accel Min Speed 0.2 – 8.0 s Sets the rate (in seconds) at which the speed command increases when

minimal throttle is applied and the vehicle is traveling in reverse. Larger
values represent slower response.
Note: Allowable range is restricted by Rev Accel Max Speed setting.

Rev Decel High Speed 0.2 – 8.0 s Sets the rate (in seconds) that is used to slow down the vehicle when it is

traveling in reverse at high speed and throttle is reduced. Larger values
represent slower response.
Note: Allowable range is restricted by Rev Decel Low Speed setting.

Rev Decel Low Speed 0.2 – 8.0 s Sets the rate (in seconds) that is used to slow down the vehicle when it

is traveling in reverse at low speed and throttle is reduced. Larger values
represent slower response.
Note: Allowable range is restricted by Rev Decel High Speed setting.

Key Off Decel 0.2 – 4.0 s Sets the rate (in seconds) that is used to slow down the vehicle at key-off

or in the event of a major fault.

E Stop Decel 0.2 – 4.0 s Sets the rate (in seconds) that is used to slow down the vehicle during

emergency reverse, i.e., when a throttle command >80% in the reverse
direction is given while the vehicle is moving forward. This gives the
operator a way to stop more quickly when unexpected conditions arise.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

11

3 — PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS:

Drive Parameters

DRIVE MENU, cont’d

ALLOWABLE
PARAMETER RANGE DESCRIPTION

E Stop Pause 0.0 – 1.0 s Sets a pause before reversing direction after an emergency reverse stop.

This gives the operator time to return the throttle to neutral without moving
backwards.

Soft Start 0 – 100 % This parameter can be used to soften the bump associated with gear

slack in the transaxle when throttle is applied from the neutral state.
Larger values provide a softer slack take-up.

Gear Soften 0 – 100 % This parameter is intended to soften the bump associated with gear slack

in the transaxle when throttle is released and then reapplied while the
vehicle is still moving. Larger values provide a softer slack take-up.

Creep Speed 0 – 10 % Creep Speed helps to prevent vehicle rollback on inclines when the brake

is released with very little throttle applied. It is activated when the throttle
request exceeds the throttle deadband threshold.

Soft Stop Speed 0 – 30 % Sets the speed at which a gentler deceleration is initiated when the throttle

is released to neutral. Larger values start the soft stop deceleration sooner.

12

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

3 — PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS: M1/M2 Speed Parameters

SPEED MODES

The 1212S controller’s Multi-Mode™ feature allows operation in two distinct
modes: Mode 1 and Mode 2. These modes can be programmed to provide two
different sets of operating characteristics, which can be useful for operation in
different conditions. For example, Mode 1 could be programmed such that the
vehicle moves slowly for precise, indoor maneuvering, and Mode 2 programmed
for higher speed, long distance travel outdoors.

The controller is in Mode 2 when the mode switch is in the On position
(input connected to B+). Leaving the mode input floating or actively switching
it Off (pulling it to B-) puts the controller in Mode 1.

The

Speed menu allows the maximum speed in forward and reverse to

be set independently in Mode 1 and Mode 2. Speed is varied linearly over the
range between the two speeds in each mode, in forward and reverse.

SPEED MENU

ALLOWABLE
PARAMETER RANGE DESCRIPTION

M1/M2 Max Speed 0–100% Duringforwardoperation,denesthemaximumspeedallowedatfullthrottle.

M1/M2 Rev Max Speed 0–100% Duringreverseoperation,denesthemaximumspeedallowedatfullthrottle.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

13

3 — PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS: Throttle Parameters

THROTTLE MENU

ALLOWABLE
PARAMETER RANGE DESCRIPTION

Type 0–3 The 1212S controller can accept inputs from voltage throttles and from

resistive throttles. Set the throttle type parameter to match the throttle used in
your application.

Voltage throttles

 0=single-ended;neutralwhenwiper≤NeutralDeadbandsetting
 1=invertedsingle-ended;neutralwhenwiper≥ThrottleMaxsetting

Resistive throttles

2 = single-ended; neutral when wiper is at Pot Low side
3 = inverted single-ended; neutral when wiper is at Pot High side.

PotHigh 3.0 – 5.0 V Sets the maximum voltage for voltage throttles (Types 0, 1).

(For resistive throttles, PotHigh is determined by the throttle itself.)

PotLow 0.0 – 2.0 V Sets the minimum voltage for voltage throttles (Types 0, 1).

(For resistive throttles, PotLow is determined by the throttle itself.)

Neutral Deadband 5 – 30 % Sets how far from neutral the throttle must move to begin vehicle movement

and release the brakes. This parameter allows the neutral deadband to be

denedwideenoughtoensurethecontrollergoesintoneutralwhenthe

throttle is released.

V

vnb = PotLow + (DB%) (PotRange)

Voltage throttles

PotRange = (PotHigh – PotLow)

Resistive throttles

PotRange = 5V – 2*PotLow

Guidelines for adjusting this parameter are provided in Section 5.

Throttle Max 40 – 100 % Sets how far from neutral the throttle must move to request 100% input.

V

max = PotLow + (Max%) (PotRange)

Voltage throttles

PotRange = (PotHigh – PotLow)

Resistive throttles

PotRange = 5V – 2*PotLow

Guidelines for adjusting this parameter are provided in Section 5.

HPD On, Off When programmed On, the 1212S inhibits vehicle drive if a throttle command

outside the neutral deadband is issued when the interlock switch is turned on.
Drive will continue to be inhibited until the throttle is returned to within the
neutral deadband. If the HPD fault is not cleared within 10 seconds,
a wiring fault is declared and a power cycle is required.

14

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

3 — PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS: Throttle Parameters

THROTTLE COMMAND (percent)

THROTTLE MENU, cont’d

ALLOWABLE
PARAMETER RANGE DESCRIPTION

Throttle Map 20 – 80 % The throttle map parameter adjusts the static throttle map. The parameter

setting corresponds to the throttle command at half throttle, as shown in
Figure 6.
A setting of 50% provides linear response. Values below 50% reduce the
throttle command at low throttle positions, providing enhanced slow speed
maneuverability. Values above 50% give the vehicle a faster, more responsive
feel at low throttle positions.
The 0% and 100% endpoints remain unchanged.

Fig. 6 Effect of throttle

adjustment parameters.
These three parameters
determine the controller’s
response to throttle position,
in forward and reverse.

Here,
Deadband = 10%
Throttle Max = 90%.

100

90

80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

Map determines the “knee”
in the output; this knee is at
an 80% map setting.

0

Deadband parameter
adjusts this endpoint.

THROTTLE POSITION (percent)

Throttle Max parameter

adjusts this endpoint.

THROTTLE MAP

100908070605040302010 0

80%

65%

50%

35%

20%

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

15

3 — PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS: Current and Brake Parameters

CURRENT MENU

ALLOWABLE
PARAMETER RANGE DESCRIPTION

Main Current Limit 15 – 90 A Sets the maximum current the controller will supply to the motor during
normal driving. By limiting the current supplied, this parameter can be

Braking Current Limit 15 – 90 A Sets the maximum current the controller will supply to the motor during
braking. By limiting the current supplied, this parameter can be used to

Boost Current 15 – 100 A Boost current gives a brief boost of current that greatly improves
performance with transient loads, such as starting on a hill, crossing a

1212S-25xx/35xx:
15–90 A

1212S-26xx:
15– 110 A

1212S-25xx/35xx:
15–90 A

1212S-26xx:
15– 110 A

1212S-25xx/35xx:
15–100 A

1212S-26xx:
15– 125 A

used to protect the motor from potentially damaging currents or to reduce
the maximum torque applied to the drive system.

protect the motor from potentially damaging currents or to reduce the
maximum braking torque applied to the drive system.

threshold, climbing obstacles, etc. When the controller recognizes that the
motor needs more current to respond to a drive request, it provides
a current boost of a set amount for a set time.

 TheBoostCurrentparameterdenesthemotorcurrentlimitduring

the boost period.

Boost Time 0 – 5 s This parameter sets the maximum time that the boost current is allowed.

1212S-25xx/35xx:
0–5 s

1212S-26xx:
0–10 s

BRAKE MENU

ALLOWABLE
PARAMETER RANGE DESCRIPTION

Delay 0.0 – 1.0 s Sets the length of delay between when zero speed is commanded and the

electromagnetic brake is engaged.

Fault Check On, Off Enables/disables the fault detection on the EM brake.

Hold Voltage 10–24V Ahighinitialvoltageisappliedtothebrakecoilwhenthebrakeisrst

released. After approximately 1 second, this peak voltage drops to the
programmed Hold Voltage. The parameter should be set high enough to
hold the brake released under all the shock and vibration conditions the
vehicle will be subjected to.

Interlock Decel  0.2−4.0s Setstherate(inseconds)thatisusedtoslowdownthevehiclewhen

the interlock is released. Larger values represent slower response.

Interlock Brake Timeout  0.0−8.0s Controlsthemaximumallowabledurationofaninterlockbrakingevent.

The timer starts as soon as the interlock signal is removed. If the time
expires before the vehicle has slowed down to zero, the EM brake will
engage automatically.

16

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

3 — PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS: Motor Parameters

MOTOR MENU

ALLOWABLE
PARAMETER RANGE DESCRIPTION

System Resistance 0 – 800 mΩ Sets the system resistance (motor + brushes + wiring + connections) used

for load compensation and speed estimation. Control system performance
depends on this parameter being set correctly; it must be set to the actual
cold motor resistance.
For instructions, see initial setup procedure

4, on page 25.

Resistance Auto Comp On, Off Resistance can be automatically measured under a preset low current

before the brake is released. The measured motor resistance plays an
important role in IR compensation.
The Resistance Auto Comp parameter enables/disables this
automatic function.

Auto Comp Current Limit 5 – 50 % Sets the current limit used for automatic resistance testing, as

a percentage of the Main Current Limit (see Current menu).

Speed Scaler model specic Themotorspeedisproportionaltothemotor’sbackEMF.TheSpeed

Scaler parameter sets the maximum voltage that the back EMF can
reach.

V

V

motor=voltagemeasuredbetweenthemotor’stwoterminals

bemf = Vmotor – I*R

Allowable Speed Scaler range

1212S-2xxx: 20 – 27 V
1212S-3xxx: 30 – 40 V.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

17

3 — PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS: BDI Parameters

The Battery menu allows any lead acid battery to be installed and the BDI
algorithm tailored to match it. Actual usage duty cycle greatly affects the settings
and the overall accuracy of the BDI algorithm. The power level and type of
battery charger used also affect the BDI algorithm, and therefore testing must
be done to match the charger as well.

See Appendix C for guidelines on setting up these BDI parameters.

BDI MENU

ALLOWABLE
PARAMETER RANGE DESCRIPTION

Full Voltage model specic Voltage when the battery is fully charged.

Note: Allowable range is restricted by the Empty Voltage,
Start Charge Voltage, and Reset Voltage settings.

Allowable Full Voltage range:

1212S-2xxx: 20.0 – 28.0 V
1212S-3xxx: 30.0 – 42.0 V.

Empty Voltage model specic Voltage when the battery is fully discharged.

Note: Allowable range is restricted by the Full Voltage setting.

Allowable Empty Voltage range:

1212S-2xxx: 16.0 – 24.0 V
1212S-3xxx: 24.0 – 36.0 V.

Full Charge Voltage model specic Voltage, when a charger is connected, above which the battery

isconsiderednishedcharging.
Note: Allowable range is restricted by the Start Charge setting.

Allowable Full Charge Voltage range:

1212S-2xxx: 20.0 –32.0 V
1212S-3xxx: 36.0 – 48.0 V.

Start Charge Voltage model specic Voltage above which the battery is considered to start charging.

Note: Allowable range is restricted by the Full Voltage and
Full Charge Voltage settings.

Allowable Start Charge Voltage range:

1212S-2xxx: 21.0 – 29.0 V
1212S-3xxx: 31.5 – 43.5 V.

Reset Voltage model specic Voltage at which the BDI calculator will be reset to 100%, after

the charger is disconnected and the controller is powered up.
Note: Allowable range is restricted by the Full Voltage setting..

Allowable Reset Voltage range:

1212S-2xxx: 20.0 – 28.0 V
1212S-3xxx: 30.0 – 42.0 V.

Discharge Factor 0.1–10.0 Discharge rate of the battery. Larger values are for larger batteries,

which discharge more slowly.

Charge Factor 0.1–10.0 Charge rate of the battery. Larger values are for larger batteries,

18

which charge more slowly.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

3 — PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS: Compensation Parameters

BDI MENU, cont’d

ALLOWABLE
PARAMETER RANGE DESCRIPTION

Low BDI Level 0 – 100 % Sets the battery charge level at which maximum vehicle speed will be

limited in order to protect the battery from deep discharge.
Setting Low BDI Level to zero disables this function and allows the
battery to discharge completely.

Low BDI Max Speed 10 – 100 % Sets the maximum allowed vehicle speed when the battery charge falls

below the programmed Low BDI Level.

External Lift Lockout On,Off Deneshowtheliftlockoutfeaturewillbeactivated.

On = lift lockout activated by the lift lockout input (pin J1-9).

 Off=liftlockoutactivatedbythecontroller’sinternalBDI.

Lift Lockout Enable On,Off DeneswhethertheLiftLockoutoutputisenabled.

On = lift lockout output is enabled and can be used to drive a pump
contactor.
Off = lift lockout output is disabled.

Lift Lockout Threshold 0 – 50 % Sets the lift lockout BDI threshold when External Lift Lockout = Off.

The lift lockout output will be active when the BDI falls below the
programmed threshold.

Lift Lockout Output Type 0 , 1 Sets the lift lockout type when Lift Lockout Enable = On.

0 = output will be pulled low when active.
1 = output will be open circuit when active.

COMPENSATION MENU

ALLOWABLE
PARAMETER RANGE DESCRIPTION

IR Comp 0 – 100 % Sets the motor load compensation. Higher values provide stronger

disturbance rejection, while lower values provide smoother operation.

Anti-Rollback Comp 0 – 125 % Sets the motor load compensation after the throttle is released to neutral

and the speed is estimated to be near zero. Higher values provide more
hill-holding force.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

19

3 — PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS: Emergency Reverse Parameters

EMERGENCY REVERSE MENU

ALLOWABLE
PARAMETER RANGE DESCRIPTION

Speed 10–100% Denesthemaximumreversespeedofthemotorwhenemergency

reverse is active.

Time Limit 0–10s Deneshowlongemergencyreverseisallowedtobeactiveafter

the vehicle is moving in reverse direction. Setting this parameter to zero
means there is no time limit.

Decel Rate 0.2 – 4.0 s Sets the rate at which the vehicle brakes to a stop when emergency

reverse is activated and the vehicle is moving forward. If the vehicle is
already moving in the reverse direction above the programmed EMR
speed, the vehicle will be brought down to the EMR speed.

Accel Rate 0.2 – 8.0 s Sets the rate at which the vehicle sccelerates in the reverse direction

when emergency reverse is activated.

Max Braking Current 15–90A Denesthemaximumallowedmotorcurrentwhenthevehiclebrakes

to a stop when emergency reverse is activated.

Switch Normally Closed On,Off Denestheemergencyreverseswitch(bellybuttonswitch)type.

On = BB switch is normally closed when it is not pressed.
Off = BB switch is normally open when it is not pressed.

EMR Interlock On , Off Enables the emergency reverse interlock feature.

On = the controller forces the throttle command to zero after
emergency reverse is activated until the interlock
switch is cycled.
Off = this feature is not enabled.

20

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

3 — PROGRAMMABLE PARAMETERS: Miscellaneous Parameters

MISCELLANEOUS MENU

ALLOWABLE
PARAMETER RANGE DESCRIPTION

Sequencing Delay 0 – 1000 ms Sets the delay time for the interlock switch debounce.

Sleep 0 – 60 minutes Sets the delay time between the last throttle request or serial communication and

when the controller goes into sleep mode. Setting the delay to zero disables the
sleep function.

Reset Drive Time On,Off Thecontroller’shourmeterlogsthetotaldrivetimesincethelastreset;this

record is accessible through the Monitor menu.
Setting this parameter On zeroes the hourmeter and starts a new log; this is
typically done when the vehicle is serviced. Reset Drive Time is automatically set
to Off after the hourmeter is reset.

Emergency Stop On,Off Deneshowthevehiclewillrespondwhentheemergencystopbuttonispressed.

On = The EM brake will be engaged rapidly when the emergency stop button
is pressed; the battery is disconnected and the vehicle will stop abruptly.
Off = When the emergency stop button is pressed, the battery is disconnected
and the vehicle will decelerate for a short distance before it fully stops.

Pump SRO On , Off Pin J1-9 can be used to check the status of lift/lower switches that are wired to

KSI; if these switches are closed before KSI is turned on, the controller will issue
a Pump SRO Fault. Wiring is shown in Figure 7.
To enable this feature, set the Pump SRO parameter On.
The Lift Lockout Output is affected by both the External Lift Lockout
parameter (see BDI menu) and the Pump SRO parameter as follows.

PUMP SRO EXTERNAL LIFT LOCKOUT

Off Internal BDI

PARAMETER SETTINGS

On

On Lift Lockout input from 906

Off

—

LIFT LOCKOUT OUTPUT

TRIGGERED BY

Pump SRO Fault
or Internal BDI

Reset Parameter On , Off When programmed On, all program parameters are reset to their default values.

Fig. 7 Wiring

for Pump SRO.

J1-3

PUMP CONTACTOR COIL

LOWER VALVE COIL

LIFT SWITCH

LOWER SWITCH

KSI

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

B–

❉

VRRM ≥100 V,

IF ≥1A

❉

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

(Pin 9)

21

4 — MONITOR MENU

4

MONITOR MENU

Through its Monitor menu, the 1313/1314 programmers provide access to
real-time data during vehicle operation. This information is helpful during diag­nostics and troubleshooting, and also while adjusting programmable parameters.

MONITOR MENU

DISPLAY
VARIABLE RANGE DESCRIPTION

Temp -55–+127°C Controller’sinternaltemperature.

Battery Voltage model specic Battery voltage.

1212S-2xxx: 0.0 – 38.2 V
1212S-3xxx: 0.0 – 55.0 V

Motor Voltage model specic Voltage drop between the motor terminals.

1212S-2xxx: -27.4 – +27.4 V
1212S-3xxx: -41.1 – +41.1 V

Motor Thermal Cutback 0–100 % Current cutback during motor overtemperature,

as a percentage of max current.
100% = no cutback.

Armature Current -100 – +100 A Measured motor armature current.

Current Limit 0–100 A Ultimate current limit of the controller, taking

into account boost mode, thermal protection,
etc.

Resistance 0–854 m

Throttle 0–100 % Available throttle input.

Mode Input On , Off Status of the mode switch (at J1-4).

Forward Input On , Off Status of the forward switch (at J1-10).

Reverse Input On , Off Status of the reverse switch (at J1-12).

Interlock Input On , Off Status of the interlock input switch (at J1-6).

Ω Measured system resistance, when the

motor is stalled.

EMR Input On , Off Status of the emergency reverse switch

Lift Lockout Input On , Off Status of the lift lockout input signal from

22

(belly button switch, at J1-14).

Curtis 906 (at J1-9).

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

4 — MONITOR MENU

MONITOR MENU, cont’d

DISPLAY
VARIABLE RANGE DESCRIPTION

Main Relay On , Off Status of the main relay driver.

Brake On , Off Status of the EM brake driver.

BDI 0 – 100 % Status of battery capacity, as a percentage.

Drive Time 0 – 65535 hours Hours of operation since the hourmeter was

last reset (Reset Drive Time = On).

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

23

5 — INITIAL SETUP

5

INITIAL SETUP

Before operating the vehicle, carefully complete the following initial setup
procedures. If you find a problem during the checkout, refer to the diagnostics
and troubleshooting section (Section 7) for further information.

Before starting the setup procedures, jack the vehicle drive wheels up
off the ground so that they spin freely. Doublecheck all wiring to ensure
that it is consistent with the wiring guidelines presented in Section 2. Make
sure all connections are tight.

1 Begin the setup procedures

1-a. Put the throttle in neutral, and open the forward/reverse switches.

1-b. Turn on the controller and plug in the programming device. The

programmer should power up with an initial display. If it does not, check for
continuity in the keyswitch circuit and controller ground.

2 Throttle

Set the Throttle Type parameter (Program » Throttle » Type) to match the throttle
you are using; see page 14.

It is important to ensure that the controller output is operating over its
full range. The following tuning procedures will establish the Neutral Dead­band and Throttle Max parameter values that correspond to the absolute full
range of your particular throttle mechanism. It is advisable to include some
buffer around the absolute full range of the throttle mechanism to allow for
throttle resistance variations over time and temperature as well as variations in
the tolerance of potentiometer values between individual throttle mechanisms.

Tuning the Neutral Deadband

Starting with the Neutral Deadband set to its default value, adjust this parameter
if necessary to provide a good balance. The deadband should be wide enough for
the throttle to reliably return to neutral when released, yet without an excessive
amount of travel in the “dead” zone before power is applied.

2-a. If the throttle travels too far when starting out of neutral before the
brake disengages, decrease the Neutral Deadband value. If the brake sometimes
doesn’t engage when the throttle is returned to neutral, increase the Neutral
Deadband value. The default setting of 10% should work for most applications.

Tuning the Throttle Max

should be 100%. If it is less than 100%, the Throttle Max value should be
decreased to get 100% throttle. After entering a smaller Throttle Max value
(Program » Throttle » Throttle Max), return to the Monitor menu and repeat
this step until the Throttle % value is 100% at maximum throttle position.

24

2-b. Apply full throttle and observe the Throttle value. This value

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

5 — INITIAL SETUP

2-c. Now that the full throttle position results in a 100% value for
Throttle, slowly reduce throttle until the Throttle value drops below 100% and
note the throttle position. This represents the extra range of motion allowed by
the throttle mechanism. If this range is large, you may wish to decrease it by
increasing Throttle Max. Entering a larger Throttle Max value (Program » Throt­tle » Throttle Max) will provide a larger active throttle range and more vehicle
control. Return to the Monitor menu and repeat this step until an appropriate
amount of extra range is attained.

Confirming proper throttle operation

Select a direction and operate the throttle. The motor should begin to turn
in the selected direction. If it does not, verify the wiring to the throttle and
motor. The motor should run proportionally faster with increasing throttle. If
not, refer to Section 7.

CAUTION

☞

The polarity of the motor’s
the emergency reverse feature. The forward and reverse switches and the

M2 connections must be configured so that the vehicle drives away from the

operator when the emergency reverse button (the belly button switch) is pressed.

M1 and M2 connections will affect the operation of

M1 and

3 Basic vehicle checkout

Using the Monitor menu, observe the status of each of the switches included
in your application: mode, forward, reverse, interlock, emergency reverse, lift
lockout, EM brake. Cycle each input in turn, observing the programmer. The
programmer should display the correct status for each input.

Similarly, check the throttle input. The correct value should be displayed.

Verify that all options, such as HPD, are as desired. Verify the operation
of the horn and the emergency stop switch.

To verify the status of the charge inhibit input, plug in the charger and
apply the throttle; the motor should not run.

If everything checks out, lower the vehicle drive wheels onto the ground.

4 Setting system resistance

It is very important that the System Resistance parameter be set accurately.
This procedure must be conducted quickly and with the motor cold. If the
procedure needs to be repeated, ample time must be allowed for the motor to
cool completely. Conducting the procedure with a warm motor will lead to
erroneous settings.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

25

5 — INITIAL SETUP

The correct System Resistance value is determined as follows.

4-a. Position the vehicle up against a wall, high curb, or some other
immovable object.

4-b. Plug in the programmer and turn the keyswitch on.

4-c. Set the Main Current Limit parameter (Program » Current » Main

Current Limit) to 35 A.

4-d. Set the Boost Current parameter (Program » Current » Boost Current)
to the same value as the Main Current Limit (35 A).

4-e. In the Monitor menu, scroll down to the Resistance field.

4-f. Apply the throttle full forward, driving the vehicle against the

immovable object.

4-g. Observe the Resistance value displayed in the Monitor menu.

4-h. Repeat steps 4-f and 4-g three more times. Do these measure-

ments quickly, to minimize motor heating, and note all four Resistance values.

4-i. Program the System Resistance parameter (Program » Motor » System
Resistance) to the average of the four Resistance values that were displayed in
the Monitor menu.

4-j. Before moving on to Section 6, Vehicle Performance Adjustment, be
sure to set the Main Current Limit and Boost Current back to their default settings.

26

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

6

6 — VEHICLE PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENT

VEHICLE PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENT

The 1212S controller’s adjustable parameters allow many aspects of vehicle
performance to be optimized. Once a vehicle/motor/controller combination
has been tuned, the parameter values can be made standard for that system
or vehicle model. Any changes in the motor, the vehicle drive system, or the
controller will require that the system be tuned again to provide optimum
performance.

The tuning procedures should be conducted in the sequence given, because
successive steps build upon the ones before. It is important that the effect of
these programmable parameters be understood in order to take full advantage
of the controller’s features. Please refer to the descriptions of the applicable
parameters in Section 3 if there is any question about what any of them do.

Instructions are provided for the following four tuning steps.

5

6 Setting the acceleration and deceleration rates

7 Adjusting load compensation

8 Fine-tuning the vehicle’s response smoothness.

Setting the maximum speeds

5 Setting the maximum speeds

The four maximum speeds with full throttle applied are set by the four Max
Speed parameters:

M1/M2 Max Speed and M1/M2 Rev Max Speed.

Each of the maximum speeds is programmed as a percentage of the maximum
possible speed. Set each of the maximum speed parameters to give the desired
performance.

6 Setting the acceleration and deceleration rates

The acceleration and deceleration functions have been designed to provide
smooth throttle response when maneuvering at low speeds and snappy throt­tle response when traveling at high speeds. This is accomplished by defining
acceleration/deceleration rates at each end of the throttle range. The rates are
scaled linearly between these two endpoints. Four pairs of parameters define
the endpoints of the acceleration/deceleration curves:

Forward acceleration: Accel Min Speed — Accel Max Speed

Forward deceleration: Decel Low Speed — Decel High Speed

Reverse acceleration: Rev Accel Min Speed — Rev Accel Max Speed

Reverse deceleration: Rev Decel Low Speed — Rev Decel High Speed.

mode. However, it makes sense to adjust the low speed rates under the slowest
speed conditions (Mode 1) and the high speed rates under the fastest speed

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

The programmed acceleration and deceleration rates are independent of

27

6 — VEHICLE PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENT

conditions (Mode 2). Tuning the rates under the most extreme (slowest, fastest)
conditions will most likely result in good performance throughout the entire
driving range. Note: Smaller values provide faster response.

Forward acceleration and deceleration rates

6-a. First, adjust Accel Min Speed. Select Mode 1 and apply minimum

6-b. Now adjust Decel Low Speed. Driving with the throttle still in its

throttle. For low speed testing, we suggest that you drive in a confined
area such as an office, where low speed maneuverability is crucial. De­pending on how you liked the forward acceleration you experienced,
increase or decrease the Accel Min Speed value. Continue testing and
adjusting this value until you are satisfied with the vehicle’s low speed
forward acceleration.

minimum position, release the throttle to neutral. Depending on how
you liked the deceleration you experienced, increase or decrease the
Decel Low Speed value. Continue testing and adjusting this value until
you are satisfied with the vehicle’s low speed forward deceleration.

6-c. Next, adjust Accel Max Speed. Select Mode 2 and apply full throttle.

Depending on how you liked the forward acceleration you experienced,
increase or decrease the Accel Max Speed value. Continue testing and
adjusting this value until you are satisfied with the vehicle’s high speed
forward acceleration.

6-d. Driving at full throttle, release the throttle to neutral. Depending on

how you liked the deceleration you experienced, increase or decrease
the Decel High Speed value. Continue testing and adjusting this
value until you are satisfied with the vehicle’s high speed forward
deceleration.

Reverse acceleration and deceleration rates

6-e, 6-f, 6-g, 6-h. Adjust Rev Accel Min Speed, Rev Decel Low Speed,

Rev Accel Max Speed, and Rev Decel High Speed using the same
procedures as for the corresponding Forward parameters.

Fine tuning the acceleration and deceleration rates

6-i. Drive around in both Mode 1 and Mode 2, while varying the position

of the throttle. In most cases, setting the acceleration and deceler­ation rates as described in Steps 6-a through 6-h will provide good
performance throughout. However, you may want to make further
adjustments to them.

28

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

6 — VEHICLE PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENT

6-j. For additional softening of the deceleration response, you could adjust

the Soft Stop Speed parameter to a larger value (see page 12).

6-k. In some cases, it may be desirable to adjust the Throttle Map param-

eter. This parameter can be used, for example, to extend the throt­tle’s gentle acceleration range to further enhance maneuverability in
confined areas. See page 15 for a description of Throttle Map.

Key Off deceleration rate

The Key Off Decel parameter sets the decel rate that will be used to slow the
vehicle at key-off or in the event of a major fault.

6-l. Drive fast and turn the key off. The deceleration you experience is

determined by Key Off Decel.

6-m. Adjust the Key Off Decel value to produce the desirable “feel” for

emergency stops: typically as fast as possible without making the
vehicle unstable.

6-n. Note that Key Off Decel should always be set faster than (or equal

to) the fastest forward deceleration rate, Decel High Speed.

E Stop deceleration rate

The E Stop Decel parameter sets the decel rate that will be used when the
vehicle is moving forward and the throttle makes a fast transition through
neutral to a >80% reverse throttle request. This provides a way to stop more
quickly when unexpected conditions arise.

6-o. Drive fast and throw the throttle into >80% reverse. The deceleration

you experience is determined by E Stop Decel.

6-p. Adjust the E Stop Decel value to produce the desirable “feel” for

emergency reverse stops: typically as fast as possible without making
the vehicle unstable.

6-q. Note that the E Stop Decel rate should always be set faster than (or

equal to) the fastest forward deceleration rate, Decel High Speed.

6-r. The E Stop Pause parameter can be used to create a pause after the

vehicle has come to an emergency stop, thus giving the operator a
chance to return the throttle to neutral before the vehicle starts to
travel backwards. Adjust the E Stop Pause value to provide the ap­propriate pause. A longer pause might be preferred for a vehicle that
will be mainly used indoors, whereas for a vehicle that will be used
outdoors a faster initiation of reverse travel might be desirable.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

29

6 — VEHICLE PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENT

7 Adjusting IR compensation

The IR Comp parameter is used to set the percentage of the maximum motor
resistance that will be applied, i.e., (IR Comp) × (System Resistance), to com­pensate for increased load caused by uneven terrain.

The trade-off in setting this parameter is that as ability to overcome load
disturbances increases, operating smoothness decreases. A high IR Comp value
will allow the vehicle to continue creeping at a low speed, even though it has
just contacted a bump in the threshold of a doorway. But if IR Comp is set too
high, it may make the vehicle “jumpy” during normal driving. Small throttle
movements in this case may no longer provide gentle linear acceleration, but
instead initiate accelerations with a sharp jerk. Therefore, the tuning goal is a
balance between adequate load disturbance response and normal acceleration/
deceleration response.

The normal range for IR Comp is approximately 50–80%. Larger numbers
provide stiffer, stronger response. If the value needs to be much larger or smaller
than this range to achieve acceptable performance, the System Resistance has
probably not been set up correctly and should be checked. Note: Largely different
settings for IR Comp will affect the maximum speeds that were set in Step 5.
Therefore, if you make large changes to IR Comp, you should repeat Step 5.

Just before stopping, when the throttle is in neutral, IR Comp is replaced
by Anti-Rollback Comp. Typically Anti-Rollback Comp is set about 20%
higher than IR Comp.

Assuming that System Resistance is set correctly (within 10–20%), some
general rules of thumb apply:

7-a. If the vehicle is extremely “jumpy” (i.e., responds abruptly to small

throttle changes, IR Comp could be set too high.

7-b. If the vehicle speed varies dramatically when cresting a hill, IR Comp

is most likely set too low.

7-c. If the vehicle rolls the other direction near the end of a stop on flat

ground, Anti-Rollback Comp is set too high.

7-d. If the vehicle is still moving on a modest ramp when the brake gets

set, Anti-Rollback Comp is set too low.

7-e. If the vehicle seems to decelerate to a stop in a nonlinear fashion,

Anti-Rollback Comp could be set too high.

30

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

6 — VEHICLE PERFORMANCE ADJUSTMENT

8 Fine-tuning the vehicle’s response smoothness

Two additional parameters in the Drive menu—Gear Soften and Soft Start—are
available for softening and smoothing vehicle response. In most cases, these
functions can be used to provide smooth vehicle operation while still main­taining a high degree of responsiveness.

Gear Soften and Soft Start

These two parameters can be set from 0–100%, with 100% providing a
great deal of softening and 0% eliminating the function. They have by far
the most noticeable effect on older, worn transaxles.

8-a. Make sure Gear Soften and Soft Start are set to 0%.

8-b. While driving at both high and low speeds, release the throttle to

neutral and then reapply it before coming to a complete stop. Notice
how the transaxle gears bump as you reapply the throttle.

8-c. Change the Gear Soften setting from 0% to 100% and repeat the same

exercise. Notice how the slop transition is softened, at the expense of
a small bit of nonlinearity in the acceleration rate.

8-d. Adjust Gear Soften until you find a setting you like, noting that you

probably won’t notice much of a difference if you’re using a brand
new, tight transaxle. Some users prefer a softened feel, while others
prefer this parameter set to zero because they want complete linearity
in response. In setting this parameter, you also may want to take into
consideration that softened slack take-up is easier on the transaxle
gears and may extend the transaxle operating life.

8-e. Soft Start is the same as Gear Soften, except it applies to accelerations

from zero speed. Note that you’ll feel a transaxle bump only if the
gears are meshed in the opposite direction when torque is applied, so
you may need to nudge the vehicle backwards against the brake when
experimenting with this parameter. We recommend relatively small
values for the Soft Start parameter (typically < 40%) to avoid excessive
delay from a stop. Having separate parameters for the soft start and
gear soften functions allows you to set the Soft Start parameter lower
than the Gear Soften parameter. Setting the two parameters the same
in effect collapses them into a single parameter.

These setup and tuning procedures cover the most critical aspects of vehicle
performance. Additional parameters can be used to make further adjustments,
if necessary. However, in most cases the default values of the other parameters
prove satisfactory.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

31

7 — DIAGNOSTICS & TROUBLESHOOTING

DIAGNOSTICS AND TROUBLESHOOTING

7

The 1212S controller provides diagnostics information to assist technicians in
troubleshooting drive system problems. The diagnostics information can be
obtained in two ways: by reading the appropriate display on the 1313 handheld
programmer or the 1314 PC Programming Station, or by observing the fault
codes displayed by the Status LED.

PROGRAMMER DIAGNOSTICS

The programming devices present complete diagnostic information in plain
language. Faults are displayed in the Faults/Diagnostics menu, and the status
of the controller inputs/outputs is displayed in the Monitor menu.

Additionally, the fault history file in the Faults/Diagnostics menu provides
a list of the faults that have occurred since the file was last cleared. Checking
(and clearing) the fault history file is recommended each time the vehicle is
brought in for maintenance.

Refer to the troubleshooting chart (Table 2) for suggestions about possible
causes of the various faults

For information on programming devices, see Appendix D.

LED DIAGNOSTICS

During normal operation, with no faults present, the status LED is steadily
on. If the controller detects a fault, the status LED flashes a 2-digit fault iden­tification code continuously until the fault is corrected.

For example, code “1,4”—undervoltage—appears as:

¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤ ¤

( 1 , 4 ) ( 1 , 4 ) ( 1 , 4 )

Refer to the troubleshooting chart (Table 2) for the fault codes, and for
suggestions about possible causes of the various faults.

Note: The Status LED can only indicate one fault at a time. If multiple
faults are detected, the highest priority fault code flashes until it is cleared.

FAULT HANDLING

When a fault is detected, the controller operates in a manner that is safe in the
presence of that fault. Depending on the severity of the fault, the response can
range from reduction of current to complete shutdown of drive.

32

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

7 — DIAGNOSTICS & TROUBLESHOOTING

CODE FAULT POSSIBLE CAUSES EFFECT OF FAULT RECOVERY

Table 2 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART

1, 1 Thermal Fault 1. Temperature >80°C or <-10°C. Overtemp: Current limit Correct fault.

2. Excessive load on vehicle. cutback starts at 80°C with

3. Operation in extreme environments. complete cutoff at 105°C,

4. EM brake not releasing. Undertemp: Current limit
cutback starts at -10°C and is
reduced to 50% at -25°C.

1, 2 Throttle Fault 1. Throttle input wire open or shorted. Controlled deceleration to Correct fault.

2. Throttle defective. neutral.

3. Wrong throttle type selected.

1, 4 Undervoltage 1. 1212S-2xxx: battery voltage <17.0 V. Current limit reduced linearly Correct fault.
Fault 1212S-3xxx: battery voltage <25.5 V. from 100% to zero, to keep

2. Bad connection at battery or controller. battery voltage from falling
below main relay dropout voltage
(<14V for 1212S-2xxx, and
(<21V for 1212S-3xxx).
Self resetting upon battery
voltage rising to within
operational limits.

1, 5 Overvoltage Fault 1.1212S-2xxx: battery voltage >31.0 V. Current limit reduced linearly Correct fault.
1212S-3xxx: battery voltage >46.5 V. from 100% to zero. Self

2. Vehicle operating with charger attached. resetting upon battery voltage

3. Intermittent battery connection. falling to within operational
limits.

2, 1 Main Off Fault 1. Main relay driver failed open. Bridge is shorted and throttle Correct fault.
set to zero.

2, 2 EMR Sequencing 1. Emergency Reverse (belly button) Throttle output inhibited. Correct fault by
Fault switch pressed before KSI on. releasing belly button.

2, 3 Main Fault 1. Main relay welded or stuck open. Driving is disabled. Correct fault;

2. Main relay driver fault. cycle KSI.

2, 4 Main On Fault 1. Main relay driver failed closed. Controlled deceleration to Correct fault.
neutral.

2, 5 Pump SRO Fault 1. Pump switches pressed before KSI on. Lift lockout output is disabled Correct fault.
if Lift Lockout Enable = On.

3, 1 Wiring Fault 1. Misadjusted throttle. If fault present continuously Correct fault;

2. Broken throttle pot or throttle for 10s, HPD fault is latched. cycle KSI.
mechanism.

3, 2 Brake On Fault 1. EM brake driver shorted. Controlled deceleration to Correct fault.

2. EM brake coil open. neutral.

3, 3 Precharge Fault 1. EM brake driver shorted. Main relay will not close and Correct fault;

2. Precharge circuit damaged. bridge is shorted. cycle KSI.

3. MOSFET failure.

3, 4 Brake Off Fault 1. EM brake driver open. Bridge is shorted and throttle Correct fault.

2. EM brake coil shorted. set to zero.

3, 5 HPD Fault 1. Improper sequence of throttle and Controller held in neutral as Correct fault.
KSI or interlock inputs. long as the throttle request

2. Misadjusted throttle pot. exceeds the neutral deadband
at interlock turn-on. Fault is
cleared by releasing throttle.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

33

7 — DIAGNOSTICS & TROUBLESHOOTING

CODE FAULT POSSIBLE CAUSES EFFECT OF FAULT RECOVERY

Table 2 TROUBLESHOOTING CHART, cont’d

4, 1 Current Sense 1. Short in motor or in motor wiring. Opens bridge and main relay Correct fault;
Fault 2. Controller failure. and drops brake if current cycle KSI.
sense >high threshold or
<low threshold.

4, 2 Hardware Failsafe 1. Motor voltage does not correspond Opens motor and main relay Correct fault;
to throttle request. and drops brake. cycle KSI.

2. Short in motor or in motor wiring.

3. Controller failure.

4, 3 EE Checksum 1. EEPROM failure or fault. Bridge is shorted and throttle Must use programmer
Fault set to zero. to clear, as follows:
select Program menu,
alter data value of any
parameter, cycle KSI.

4, 5 Battery Disconnect 1. Battery not connected. Will short the bridge and Correct fault;
Fault 2. Poor connection to battery terminals. disable the EM brake driver. cycle KSI.

5, 1 Low BDI 1. The battery discharge falls below Vehicle speed is limited to a Correct fault.
the programmed threshold. programmed value after BDI

2. The lift lockout input signal falls below the programmed
(pin J1-9) is active. threshold.

34

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

8

8 — MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE

There are no user serviceable parts in Curtis 1212S controllers. No attempt
should be made to open, repair, or otherwise modify the controller.

Doing so may damage the controller and will void the warranty. However, it
is recommended that the controller’s fault history file be checked and cleared
periodically, as part of routine vehicle maintenance.

DIAGNOSTIC HISTORY

The handheld programmer can be used to access the controller’s fault his­tory file. The programmer will read out all the faults that the controller has
experienced since the last time the history file was cleared. The faults may be
intermittent faults, faults caused by loose wires, or faults caused by operator
errors. Faults such as HPD or overtemperature may be caused by operator
habits or by overloading.

After a problem has been diagnosed and corrected, clearing the history
file is advisable. This allows the controller to accumulate a new file of faults. By
checking the new history file at a later date, you can readily determine whether
the problem was indeed completely fixed.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

35

APPENDIX A: EMC DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

REGARDING ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY (EMC)

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) encompasses two areas: emissions and
immunity. Emissions are radio frequency (RF) energy generated by a product.
This energy has the potential to interfere with communications systems such
as radio, television, cellular phones, dispatching, aircraft, etc. Immunity is the
ability of a product to operate normally in the presence of RF energy.

EMC is ultimately a system design issue. Part of the EMC performance
is designed into or inherent in each component; another part is designed into
or inherent in end product characteristics such as shielding, wiring, and layout;
and, finally, a portion is a function of the interactions between all these parts.
The design techniques presented below can enhance EMC performance in
products that use Curtis motor controllers.

Emissions Signals with high frequency content can produce significant emissions
if connected to a large enough radiating area (created by long wires spaced far
apart). Contactor drivers and the motor drive output from Curtis controllers
can contribute to RF emissions. Both types of output are pulse width modulated
square waves with fast rise and fall times that are rich in harmonics. (Note:
contactor drivers that are not modulated will not contribute to emissions.)
The impact of these switching waveforms can be minimized by making the
wires from the controller to the contactor or motor as short as possible and by
placing the wires near each other (bundle contactor wires with Coil Return;
bundle motor wires separately).

For applications requiring very low emissions, the solution may involve
enclosing the controller, interconnect wires, contactors, and motor together in
one shielded box. Emissions can also couple to battery supply leads and throttle
circuit wires outside the box, so ferrite beads near the controller may also be
required on these unshielded wires in some applications. It is best to keep the
noisy signals as far as possible from sensitive wires.

APPENDIX A

VEHICLE DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Immunity Immunity to radiated electric fields can be improved either by
reducing overall circuit sensitivity or by keeping undesired signals away from
this circuitry. The controller circuitry itself cannot be made less sensitive, since
it must accurately detect and process low level signals from sensors such as the
throttle potentiometer. Thus immunity is generally achieved by preventing the
external RF energy from coupling into sensitive circuitry. This RF energy can
get into the controller circuitry via conducted paths and radiated paths.

These wires act as antennas and the amount of RF energy coupled into them
is generally proportional to their length. The RF voltages and currents induced
in each wire are applied to the controller pin to which the wire is connected.
Curtis controllers include bypass capacitors on the printed circuit board’s
throttle wires to reduce the impact of this RF energy on the internal circuitry.
In some applications, additional filtering in the form of ferrite beads may also
be required on various wires to achieve desired performance levels.

36

Conducted paths are created by the wires connected to the controller.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

APPENDIX A: EMC DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Radiated paths are created when the controller circuitry is immersed in
an external field. This coupling can be reduced by placing the controller as far
as possible from the noise source or by enclosing the controller in a metal box.
Some Curtis controllers are enclosed by a heatsink that also provides shielding
around the controller circuitry, while others are partially shielded or unshielded.
In some applications, the vehicle designer will need to mount the controller
within a shielded box on the end product. The box can be constructed of just
about any metal, although steel and aluminum are most commonly used.

Most coated plastics do not provide good shielding because the coatings
are not true metals, but rather a mixture of small metal particles in a non-con­ductive binder. These relatively isolated particles may appear to be good based
on a dc resistance measurement but do not provide adequate electron mobility
to yield good shielding effectiveness. Electroless plating of plastic will yield a
true metal and can thus be effective as an RF shield, but it is usually more
expensive than the coatings.

A contiguous metal enclosure without any holes or seams, known as a
Faraday cage, provides the best shielding for the given material and frequency.
When a hole or holes are added, RF currents flowing on the outside surface of
the shield must take a longer path to get around the hole than if the surface
was contiguous. As more “bending” is required of these currents, more energy
is coupled to the inside surface, and thus the shielding effectiveness is reduced.
The reduction in shielding is a function of the longest linear dimension of a
hole rather than the area. This concept is often applied where ventilation is
necessary, in which case many small holes are preferable to a few larger ones.

Applying this same concept to seams or joints between adjacent pieces or
segments of a shielded enclosure, it is important to minimize the open length
of these seams. Seam length is the distance between points where good ohmic
contact is made. This contact can be provided by solder, welds, or pressure
contact. If pressure contact is used, attention must be paid to the corrosion
characteristics of the shield material and any corrosion-resistant processes applied
to the base material. If the ohmic contact itself is not continuous, the shielding
effectiveness can be maximized by making the joints between adjacent pieces
overlapping rather than abutted.

The shielding effectiveness of an enclosure is further reduced when a wire
passes through a hole in the enclosure; RF energy on the wire from an external
field is re-radiated into the interior of the enclosure. This coupling mechanism
can be reduced by filtering the wire where it passes through the shield boundary.
Given the safety considerations involved in connecting electrical components
to the chassis or frame in battery powered vehicles, such filtering will usually
consist of a series inductor (or ferrite bead) rather than a shunt capacitor. If a
capacitor is used, it must have a voltage rating and leakage characteristics that
will allow the end product to meet applicable safety regulations.

The B+ (and B-, if applicable) wires that supply power to a control panel
should be bundled with the other control wires to the panel so that all these
wires are routed together. If the wires to the control panel are routed separately,
a larger loop area is formed. Larger loop areas produce more efficient antennas
which will result in decreased immunity performance.

Keep all low power I/O separate from the motor and battery leads. When
this is not possible, cross them at right angles.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

37

APPENDIX B: EN 13849 COMPLIANCE

Since January 1, 2012, conformance to the European Machinery Directive
has required that the Safety Related Parts of the Control System (SRPCS)
be designed and verified upon the general principles outlined in EN13849.
EN13849 supersedes the EN954 standard and expands upon it by requiring
the determination of the safety Performance Level (PL) as a function of Desig­nated Architecture plus Mean Time To Dangerous Failure (MTTFd), Common
Cause Faults (CCF), and Diagnostic Coverage (DC). These figures are used by
the OEM to calculate the overall PL for each of the safety functions of their
vehicle or machine.

design, operation, and environment. Standards such as EN13849-1 provide
guidelines that must be followed in order to achieve compliance. Some indus­tries have developed further standards (called type-C standards) that refer to
EN13849 and specifically outline the path to regulatory compliance. EN1175-1
is a type-C standard for battery-powered industrial trucks. Following a type-C
standard provides a presumption of conformity to the Machinery Directive.

dog” test circuits; see the simplified block diagram in Figure B-1.

APPENDIX B

EN 13849 COMPLIANCE, CURTIS 1212S CONTROLLER

The OEM must determine the hazards that are applicable to their vehicle

Curtis 1212S controllers comply with these directives using basic “watch-

Fig. B-1 Safety channel

block diagram, Curtis
1212S controller.

INPUT

1. Throttle Wiper

2. Mode

3. Emergency Reverse

4. Interlock

5. Forward Switch

6. Reverse Switch

7. Keyswitch

Dashed lines = monitor and test connections

LOGIC

1. MCU

2. Logic Supply

TEST EQUIPMENT

1. Watchdog

2. Powerbase Fault

3. Driver Sense

4. Pot High/Low

5. HPD and SRO

6. Range Checks

OUTPUT

1. Powerbase

2. Brake Output

3. Main Relay Driver

To mitigate the hazards typically found in machine operations, EN13849
requires that safety functions be defined; these must include all the input, logic,
outputs, and power circuits that are involved in any potentially hazardous op­eration. Three safety functions are defined for the Curtis 1212S controller: (1)
crushing due to unintended or uncontrolled movement; (2) crushing through
loss of STO/braking; and (3) loss of stability from excessive speeds, as specified
by vehicle limits.

38

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

APPENDIX B: EN 13849 COMPLIANCE

Curtis has analyzed each safety function and calculated its Mean Time
To Dangerous Failure (MTTFd) and Diagnostic Coverage (DC), and designed
them against Common Cause Faults (CCF). The safety-related performance of
the Curtis 1212S is summarized as follows:

Safety Function

Architecture Score

Crushing* 2 ≥ 22 yrs ≥    60% 70 b
Crushing** 2 ≥ 22 yrs ≥   60% 70 b
Loss of stablility*** 2 ≥ 22 yrs ≥   60% 70 b

* due to unintended or uncontrolled movement
** through loss of STO/braking
*** fromexcessivespeeds,asspeciedbyvehiclelimits

Designated

MTTFd DC

CCF

PL

EN1175 specifies that traction and hydraulic electronic control systems
must use Designated Architecture 2 or greater. This design employs input, logic,
and output circuits that are monitored and tested by independent circuits and
software to ensure a high level of safety performance (up to PL=d).

Mean Time To Dangerous Failure (MTTFd) is related to the expected
reliability of the safety related parts used in the controller. Only failures that
can result in a dangerous situation are included in the calculation.

Diagnostic Coverage (DC) is a measure of the effectiveness of the control
system’s self-test and monitoring measures to detect failures and provide a safe
shutdown.

Common Cause Faults (CCF) are so named because some faults within
a controller can affect several systems. EN13849 provides a checklist of design
techniques that should be followed to achieve sufficient mitigation of CCFs.
All circuits used by a safety function must be designed in such a way as to
score 65 or better on the CCF score sheet as provided by EN13849 table F.1.

Performance Level (PL) categorizes the quality or effectiveness of a safety
channel to reduce the potential risk caused by dangerous faults within the system
with “a” being the lowest and “e” being the highest achievable performance.

Contact Curtis technical support for more details.

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

39

APPENDIX C: BDI SETUP

APPENDIX C

BATTERY DISCHARGE INDICATOR (BDI) SETUP

The Battery Discharge Indicator used with the 1212S is quite flexible and,
once set up, will provide the user with reliable information on the status of
the battery system.

The BDI parameters (Program
for the type and size of the charger, the battery size, and the vehicle’s expected
drive cycle.

When setting up the BDI parameters, use the same vehicle and set of
batteries for the entire procedure. Do not drive the vehicle or charge the bat­teries except when requested to do so in the procedure.

Follow the steps in the order they are presented.

Before beginning the procedure, set the following initial values:

Full Voltage = 24.4

Empty Voltage = 20.8

Full Charge Voltage = 28.2

Start Charge Voltage = 25.2

Reset Voltage = 25.0

Discharge Factor = 2.0

Charge Factor = 2.0

Low BDI Level = 0

Low BDI Max Speed = 50.

» BDI menu) must be set up specifically

Step 1. Setting the Reset Voltage

1.a Plug in the charger, and fully charge the batteries. With the charger still
attached and running, measure the final battery voltage with a Digital
Volt Meter (DVM).

1.b Set the Full Charge Voltage 0.2 V lower than the measured value.

1.c Turn off or disconnect the charger and let the batteries sit for 1 hour.
Measure the battery voltage again.

1.d Set the Reset Voltage 0.2 V lower than the new measured value.

Step 2. Setting the Full Voltage

2.a Select a medium speed mode and drive the vehicle for 10–15 minutes.

2.b After this time and while driving straight on a level surface, record the
battery voltage displayed in the 1313’s Monitor menu.

2.c Set the Full Voltage parameter to this value.

Step 3. Setting the Empty Voltage

3.a Normally a value of 1.7 volts per cell is used as the empty point. This
corresponds to a setting of 20.4 V. For some sealed batteries, this may
be too low. Consult the battery manufacturer if you are unsure.

40

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

APPENDIX C: BDI SETUP

Step 4. Setting the Discharge Factor

4.a Resume driving the vehicle, with a heavy load.

4.b Pay attention to the battery voltage, BDI, and time.

4.c At some point, you will feel the vehicle become sluggish and notice the
battery voltage drop significantly with basic maneuvers. This is the fully
discharged point of the battery. Stop driving.

4.d The BDI should have indicated 0% before this point, to prevent the
battery pack from wearing out prematurely.

4.e If the BDI does not read 0%, reduce the Discharge Factor parameter
proportionately to the indicated remaining BDI. Use this formula to
determine the new setting:

New Discharge Factor = Present Discharge Factor * (1 – BDI%),

with the BDI% being expressed decimally (e.g., 90% = 0.90).

Step 5. Setting the Charge Factor and Start Charge Voltage

How you set the Charge Factor and Start Charge Voltage parameters depends
on how you want the BDI gauge to respond to partial charging. The traditional
method is to require a full recharge and not to reset the BDI gauge until the
battery is full. The 1212S can also be programmed to allow the user to stop the
charge in mid-cycle and display a proportional amount of charge, or “partial
charge” reading.

If you want to require a full charge to reset the BDI gauge:

5.a Set the Charge Factor to 10.0.

5.b Set the Start Charge Voltage equal to the Full Charge Voltage.

With these settings, the BDI will not recalculate until the very end of the charge
cycle, and the Reset Voltage—not the charge time—will trigger the BDI to 100%.

If you want to use the partial charge feature:

5.c Based on the Amp Hour rating of the batteries and the charger’s aver­age amp output, initially calculate and set the Charge Factor using this
formula:

5.d Starting with the dead battery from Step 4, plug in the charger. After

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

Charge Factor = 1.5 * (Battery amp-hrs / Charger amps).

10 minutes of charging, measure the battery voltage with a meter. Set
the Start Charge Voltage parameter to this value.

41

APPENDIX C: BDI SETUP

Step 6. Rerun and Verify

This procedure will give good initial settings for the BDI algorithm. You
should test these settings under various conditions to verify that they provide
an acceptable indication of the battery state of charge. The settings can be fine
tuned by repeating the entire procedure.

It is important to note that battery age and driving conditions (hilliness,
driving surface, weight of user) will all affect the accuracy of the BDI
measurement.

42

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

APPENDIX D: PROGRAMMING DEVICES

APPENDIX D

PROGRAMMING DEVICES

Curtis programmers provide programming, diagnostic, and test capabilities for
the 1212S controllers. The power for operating the programmer is supplied by
the host controller via a 4-pin connector. When the programmer powers up, it
gathers information from the controller.

Two types of programming devices are available: the 1314 PC Program­ming Station and the 1313 handheld programmer. The Programming Station
has the advantage of a large, easily read screen; on the other hand, the hand­held programmer (with its 45×60mm screen) has the advantage of being more
portable and hence convenient for making adjustments in the field.

Both programmers are available in User, Service, Dealer, and OEM ver­sions. Each programmer can perform the actions available at its own level and
the levels below that—a User-access programmer can operate at only the User
level, whereas an OEM programmer has full access.

PC PROGRAMMING STATION (1314)

The Programming Station is an MS-Windows 32-bit application that runs on
a standard Windows PC. Instructions for using the Programming Station are
included with the software.

HANDHELD PROGRAMMER (1313)

The 1313 handheld programmer is functionally equivalent to the PC Pro­gramming Station; operating instructions are provided in the 1313 manual.
This programmer replaces the 1311, an earlier model with fewer functions.

PROGRAMMER FUNCTIONS

Programmer functions include:

Parameter adjustment — provides access to the individual programmable

parameters.

Monitoring — presents real-time values during vehicle operation; these include

all inputs and outputs.

Diagnostics and troubleshooting — presents diagnostic information, and

also a means to clear the fault history file.

Programming — allows you to save/restore custom parameter settings files

and also to update the system software (not available on the 1311).

Favorites — allows you to create shortcuts to your frequently-used adjustable

parameters and monitor variables (not available on the 1311).

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B

43

APPENDIX E: SPECIFICATIONS

APPENDIX E

SPECIFICATIONS

Table E-1 SPECIFICATIONS: 1212S CONTROLLER

Nominal input voltage 24 V, 36 V

Operating voltage 1212S-2xxx: 17 – 31 V; 1212S-3xxx: 25.5 – 46.5 V

PWM operating frequency 15.6 kHz

Electrical isolation to heatsink (min.) 500 V

KSI input current (max) 250 mA

Logic input current (max) 1 mA

+15V output current,
for programmer (max.) 60 mA

Minimum motor resistance 120 m

Lift Lockout output current (max.) 1.5 A

BDI output voltage, resistance (max.) 0 – 5 V, 10 k

EM brake coil resistance (min.) 20 Ω

Throttle type resistance or voltage;
single-ended or inverted single-ended

Storageambienttemperaturerange −40°Cto85°C

Operatingambienttemp.range −25°Cto50°C

Overvoltage cutoff 1212S-2xxx: 34 V; 1212S-3xxx: 51 V

Package environmental rating ISTA 2A; electronics sealed to IPX5

Weight 0.45 kg

Dimensions (W× L×H) 79 × 141 × 47.5 mm

Regulatory compliance EMC: EN12895:2000

UL List: UL583

Safety: EN13849-1(PL=B, Cat 2)

Ω

Ω

NOMINAL 20 SECOND 120 SECOND 1 HOUR PEAK MAX BOOST CURRENT
MODEL BATTERY VOLTAGE CURRENT RATING CURRENT RATING CURRENT RATING BOOST CURRENT DURATION
NUMBER (volts) (amps) (amps) (amps) (amps) (seconds)

1212S-25xx 24 90 50 30 100 5
1212S-26xx 24 110 (60 sec) 70 50 125 10
1212S-35xx 36 90 50 30 100 5

Note: All current ratings are rms values per motor phase. Internal algorithms automatically reduce maximum current limit when
heatsink temperature is >80°C or battery voltage is outside the allowed limits. Heatsink temperature is measured internally near the
power MOSFETs.

44

Curtis 1212S Manual, Rev. B