Caterpillar has expanded its Cat Command for Loading program for all medium-wheeled loaders, excluding GC Models. The Command for Loading enables semi-autonomous remote control of Caterpillar's wheeled loaders from the 50, 962, 966, 966 XE, 972, 972 XE, 980, 980 XE, 982, and 982 XE series.
The company said the program’s expansion would increase operational safety in hazardous environments like quarries.
The program enables operators to control the wheel loader semi-autonomously from a remote location. This means operators can maintain their production levels in demolition, environmental remediation or handling bulk materials while keeping them safe from a potentially hazardous environment.
To further enhance the operator’s and others’ safety on-site, the platform has safety features that will stop all movements from the wheeled loader when required. This includes when the automatic stop or remote shutdown is pressed, as well as when wireless communication is lost, the Command console is tilted more than 45 degrees from its normal position, or a severe fault is detected.
The remote operation has flexible options depending on the customer’s preferences, with line-of-sight and non-line-of-sight configurations available.
For non-line-of-sight configurations, the Command for Loading station can connect to different machines at the same or other job sites. From there, the operator can control one machine at their job site or remotely. It is also compatible with other Cat Command offerings for Caterpillar equipment, including excavators and dozers.
The Cat Command for Loading program fully integrates with the wheeled loader’s electronic and hydraulic systems. Additionally, operators can switch between remote and manual in-cab operation to enable smooth operation.
The Cat Command comes complete in a dealer-installed package that includes a low-profile design on the roof of the loader, requiring no welding or wire splicing.
Caterpillar has equipped the operator with an ergonomic console, which allows them to pilot the machine seamlessly as their inputs are sent directly to the wheeled loader’s electronics. The console makes basic machine functions, including wheel loader startup/shutdown, bucket rack/dump and lift/lower, easy to access.
