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Cradle Operation Overview

5.1 Orientation​

The cradle is used to contain the lithium battery “core” of the overall battery assembly. It is generally built to be easy to use and trouble-free.

  • The cradle should be installed so the battery opening is away from the typical person-loading side.
  • The power-button for the cradle is located on the opposite side from the battery load/unload opening.
  • Castings are bolted to the “sides” of the cradle and add ballast to the overall assembly.

5.2 Controls / Indicators​

5.2.1 Cradle Power Button and Status Indicator​

The cradle features a power button located on its side, used to manually turn the cradle on or off. The button is surrounded by a green indicator ring that shows the current status of the cradle:

  • Off – Cradle is powered down.
  • Blinking – Cradle is powered on and attempting to connect to a battery.
  • Solid On – Cradle is powered on and has successfully connected to a battery.

Using the Power Button:

  • If the status indicator is off, the operator can power on the cradle by pressing the button momentarily.
  • If the status indicator is blinking or solid, the operator can power off the cradle by pressing and holding the button for approximately 2 seconds.

5.2.2 Battery Display Indicator (BDI)​

The Battery Display Indicator (BDI) is installed on the forklift and provides the operator with real-time information about the status of the battery and cradle system. It uses a combination of indicator lights and audible beeps to communicate important conditions.

5.2.3 Normal Operation​

5.2.3.1 Cradle Power Up​

When the cradle is powered on via the cradle power button, the BDI performs a brief lamp and sound test. During this test, all indicator lights illuminate orange, and the BDI emits a short beep.

5.2.3.2 Connecting to Battery​

The cradle continuously attempts to establish communication with an installed battery:

  • The BDI flashes the Drive Power indicator green.
  • The Battery SoC gauge flashes alternating orange segments.

5.2.3.3 Connected to Battery​

When successfully connected:

  • The BDI displays a solid green Drive Power indicator.
  • The Battery SoC gauge shows the battery’s current state of charge (SoC).

5.2.3.4 Cradle Power Down​

The cradle will power down under 3 different conditions:

  1. If the cradle power button is pressed for 2 seconds.
  2. If a battery is not present or cradle is faulted for more than 10 minutes.
  3. If a battery is connected and the truck is not used for more than 6 hours.

5.2.8 Battery Power Button​

The battery will stay powered for up to 6 hours if unattended or idle. If the battery turns off and the forklift is without power, the operator can press the silver button on the side of the cradle to turn on the system battery.