The new remote operator station for dozing, part of Cat MineStar Command for dozing, provides a safe, comfortable environment removed from the active dozing area. The station itself is modeled on the actual cab of the machine, with all ergonomic controls, alarms and features operating just as they do in the dozer. The system can be equipped for line-of-sight operation or for tele-remote operation with the addition of video feeds from the site and optional video and audio feeds from the dozer.
The remote operator station is available for the D10T, D10T2, D11T and D11T CD. The remote station controls are fully integrated with these Cat dozers and provide quick response and enable use of on-board dozer systems, such as auto-carry, auto blade assist and automatic ripper control. The remote operator station also integrates with Cat MineStar Terrain capabilities, such as grade control and avoidance zones. The system also allows switching control quickly and easily from one dozer to another, which enables one operator to control multiple dozers when the work does not require simultaneous operation.
The design of the remote operator station allows it to be configured for easy transport in a truck or trailer, which adds flexibility in its application. Remote operation allows dozers to be used under highwalls and in other situations that present potential safety and health hazards. Typical applications include highwall and edge work, operation on or near unstable ground, leach pad ripping and maintenance, aggressive ripping, and pushing stockpile material to underground feeders.
The remote operator station also can make shift changes as simple and fast as one operator taking another’s place in the seat. Fast shift changes reduce machine downtime and optimize productivity. Remote operation also enables a dozer to continue production immediately after blasting operations, rather than waiting for the air to clear.
The new remote operator station builds on the over-the-shoulder command for dozing console introduced in 2011. The line-of-sight remote operator station is commercially available now, and the tele-remote system will be commercially available in the fourth quarter this year. Building further on these technologies, Caterpillar is working with select mining customers to develop and field test the Cat semi-autonomous dozing system, which enables one operator to manage multiple dozers simultaneously.
For more information, visit cat.com.
