A new generation of Genie’s articulating boom

Genie articulating boom

Genie has released the next generation of its self-propelled Genie ZX 135/70 articulating boom.

The new model includes the new Genie mini XChassis axle design, a platform load sensing system, as well as a simple two-point calibration process to set up the primary boom, secondary boom and jib bell crank.

The new Genie mini XChassis axle design extends and retracts the axles to and from the stowed position with a more compact footprint of 8 ft., 2 in. x 13 ft., 6 in. retracted, or 12 ft., 11 in. x 13 ft., 6 in. extended. This is designed to provide both stability on the job and a narrow profile for transport.

Similar in design to the full-size X-Chassis expanding axle on previous, the mini XChassis system boasts two-thirds the footprint of the full-size.

This boom is engineered to meet the proposed overload restriction guidelines in North America, as well as the current European and Australian standards. To comply, all new Genie ZX-135/70 booms are equipped with new load sense cell technology, which monitors the weight in the platform and disables drive, steer and certain boom functions if the load exceeds the platform load limit.

As well, the updated Genie ZX-135/70 can be customized to meet jobsite needs with one of three hydraulically driven generator options: A 12 kW welder-ready package, a 7.5 kW welder-ready package or 3 kW AC generator for general needs.

Replacing the previous generation’s six-point process, the 4.11 software on the redesigned envelope-controlled machines now only need two calibration points. The first point is when the boom is lowered to the stowed position. The second is when the boom is fully raised, without the use of an inclinometer.

According to Genie, calibrations may be completed in 15 minutes, saving up to an hour or more of set-up time.

For example, with the secondary boom fully lowered to the stowed position, the operator will input “secondary boom fully lowered” into the software. Then, the operator fully raises the secondary boom until it stops at the end of the cylinder stroke, at about 76 degrees, and input into the software “secondary boom fully raised.”

Holding the engine start button for about five seconds will shut off the engine and save the calibration settings.

To achieve a two-point calibration process, the 4.11 software works with the boom’s angle sensors to ensure the boom is fully elevated. The machine’s angle sensors provide input to the control system, and the control system determines the appropriate boom angle for safe operation.

The Genie ZX-135/70 lift continues to feature a maximum platform height of 135 ft., and 69 ft., 9 in. of horizontal outreach as well as 75 ft. of up-and-over clearance — all accessible with a 600 lbs. platform capacity.

Continuous rotation

The Telescoping Jib-Extend jib on the boom provides access by extending from a retracted length of 12 ft. to an extended length of 20 ft. This design includes 360 degree continuous rotation turntable, 160 degree platform rotation for fast, easy positioning and 110 degree vertical range of motion. The design provides access to “up, over, and in” applications inaccessible by a traditional jib.

To handle rough ground, the Genie ZX-135/70 boom includes four-wheel drive with full-time positive traction to enhance the smoothness of the ride.

Four-wheel steer with front-wheel, rear-wheel, crab- and coordinated- steer options are also available to provide additional manoeuverability.

This unit’s intuitive control system provides menu-based adjustments for machine and component calibration, as well as on-screen diagnostics. Platform controls include toggle switches, a tactile membrane surface as well as proportional Hall-effect joysticks for all major functions.

To maximize rental return on investment, the revamped ZX-135/70 boom shares design, parts and accessories, as well as serviceability benefits, with other Genie products.