Command Remote Operation for Cat D5, D6, D7 Medium Dozers
To boost jobsite safety in hazardous dozing conditions, Caterpillar announces the expansion of Command remote machine operation to Cat® D5, D6, and D7 Dozers. Command for Dozing removes operators from the cab and offers remote operating from a safe distance in applications such as overburden/reclamation work, ripping overburden or leach pads, slurry pond dozing, and operation around hazardous materials or unstable surfaces.
Next generation dozers are shipped from the factory remote ready, making field installation fast with only a few additional parts required. With Command fully integrated with the machine’s electronic and hydraulic systems, remote operation delivers quick response, smooth control and virtually no latency. Companies have the option of equipping dozers with line-of-sight (LOS) or non-line-of-sight (NLOS) operation, and a ground-level switch quickly toggles between manual and remote dozer operation. To help improve jobsite productivity, Command allows production to restart immediately following disruptive processes, such as blasting in quarry applications.
Beyond improving safe operation and increasing productivity, Command for Dozing offers a potential solution to worker shortages and added training opportunities for newer operators. By allowing the operator to work outside the machine, Command opens opportunities to those with physical limitations which prevent them from climbing into the equipment. It can attract a new generation of worker while increasing the longevity of experienced operators.
Two options, precise control
Portable and lightweight, the Command console (LOS) allows workers to work outside of the cab while remaining on site and in direct visual contact with the dozer. With its range reaching 437 yd (499 m), the console positions the user for optimum visibility. Requiring no on-site communications infrastructure, it is ideal for short-term and emergency remote operation. An ergonomic console layout features intuitive controls with ISO symbols that provides access to all dozer functions, while an LED display offers clear readout of machine status.
Furthering operation simplicity, the console (LOS) system supports multiple assist technologies the operator would have from inside the cab, including traction control, AutoCarry and stable blade. Unlocking with an electronic access card, the console can be configured to control another machine equipped with Command by simply changing out an RFID chip. Its lithium-ion battery provides a quick charge and long run times in varying ambient temperatures. Built-in safety features stop all dozer movements if the remote shutdown switch is pressed, wireless communication is lost, or the console is tilted more than 45 degrees.
The Command station provides non-line-of-site operation from the comfort of an air-conditioned office on-site or many miles away, as distance is limited only by the capabilities of the wireless network. By eliminating the fatigue-inducing vibration of machine movements in the cab, operators can work with less fatigue. The configurable station features a similar feel to the cab with familiar controls, complete with pedals, joysticks, adjustable seat, switches and storage. Multiple screen displays offer visuals from the left and right cutting edges, blade top-center and rearview that includes the ripper.
Beyond supporting assist technologies offered by the console (LOS), the Command station (NLOS) offers compatibility with blade load monitor, slope assist and Grade with 3D with the same response time as in the cab. Users can easily switch to operating a different Command-equipped machine – dozer, wheel loader or excavator – from the same or different sites with virtually no downtime for shift changes or for travel to the jobsite.
Cat® Command Remote Control Operation Expands to Cat 374 and 395 Excavators
Cat® 374 and 395 Large Hydraulic Excavators can now be equipped with Command for Excavating, offering remote-control operation. Command for Excavating removes operators from potentially hazardous jobsite conditions by offering remote machine operation from a safe distance, eliminating safety risks, and reducing injuries from climbing on and off machines.
Offering line-of-sight (LOS) and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) operating options, Command for Excavating users comfortably control dig, lift and tracking functions from outside the cab. The technology enhances safety and improves machine productivity on a range of projects like operating in unstable underfoot conditions, brownfields, shore work, demolition, and stevedoring. It also allows production to restart immediately following disruptive processes, such as blasting in quarry applications.
Two Remote Options
The Command console offers quick transition to line-of-sight machine control at the jobsite through a lightweight, compact console, supported by a comfortable shoulder harness. With no on-site communications infrastructure required, it is ideal for temporary or emergency remote operation. Using either a 900 MHz or 2.4 GHz frequency communications protocol, the console offers a machine control range reaching up to 437 ft (400 m), managing excavator functions with virtually no response delay. If the remote shutdown switch is pressed, wireless communication is lost or the console is tilted more than 45 degrees, built-in safety features stop all excavator movements.
The Command station provides non-line-of-site operation from the comfort of an air-conditioned office on-site or many miles away, as distance is limited only by the capabilities of the wireless network. The Command station comfortably seats the operator in a customized “virtual cab” with familiar controls and machine displays. Users can control up to five different machines from the same or different locations, reducing downtime for shift changes or the need to travel to the jobsite. Touchscreen monitors similar to the in-cab display offers precise machine control, while screen mounts positioned in front of the user provide easy view of the excavator’s camera feeds.
Delivering a high level of precision and productivity, Command controls are deeply integrated with the excavator’s electronics to give users the same machine response experience as if they were operating from inside the cab. Grade Assist, Swing Assist, E-Fence and other machine technologies are set, activated and deactivated remotely without being set manually from inside the cab.
By removing the operator from the cab, Command for Excavating offers a solution to workforce shortages and training advantages for newer operators. It opens opportunities to those with physical limitations that prevent them from climbing into the equipment, attracting a new generation of worker and increasing the longevity of experienced operators.
More information about Cat Command for Excavating can be found by contacting the local Cat dealer or visiting: https://www.cat.com/commandforexcavating.