Capital Equipment News March 2017

EARTHMOVING EQUIPMENT – CONEXPO 2017 REVIEW

Caterpillar showcased the new Cat 745 articulated truck, featuring a next generation cab design, advanced truck control features that drive comfort and productivity gains.

managers to connect all of their assets – from the largest earthmover to the smallest generator, and including both light and heavy-duty trucks and utility vehicles. New Cat Product Link technologies connect any brand and type of equipment, powered or non-powered, and all report through a single system, VisionLink,” said Umpleby. The new technologies offer multiple communications channels – cellular, satellite and Bluetooth – to best match the type of asset and the needs of the user. The systems are designed for easy installation using plug-and-play technology and apps for mobile devices. Battery backup for machine- powered devices and long-life batteries for units on non-powered assets help ensure reliable operation. The new Product Link device for monitoring production machines has scalable features that enable increasing data collected as needed – from machine hours and location through to machine health parameters and production numbers. In contrast, a new

tracking device for non-powered assets, such as attachments and trailers, reports location only. The innovative device uses Bluetooth technology to connect with VisionLink, which enables managers to monitor equipment remotely using their smart phones, tablets and desktop computers. The new truck monitoring hardware is designed for retrofitting all brands of light and heavy-duty trucks, including pickup trucks, service trucks and materials haulers. Using cellular technology, the system can provide information to enhance driver safety and to assist both production and maintenance managers.

Meanwhile, the company also showcased the new Cat 745 articulated truck, featuring a next generation cab design, advanced truck control features said to drive comfort and productivity gains. Offering a 41 t rated payload capacity, the new Cat 745 articulated truck features a new cab design, said to be completely re- engineered from the inside-out using global operator feedback to advance comfort and ease of operation. Upon cab entry, the new “wake up” feature initiates machine displays as soon as the door is opened, while the lighter/stronger cab door offers shut assist for improved sealing against dust infiltration.

“Today we have autonomous trucks and augmented reality to allow drawings through glasses on a job site. It is CONEXPO-CON/AGG’s role to raise awareness of new products and technologies, drive adoption and industry efficiency.”

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