Remote Control Reduces Risk

Caterpillar's new electro-hydraulic platform is ready for expanded automated and remote-operation technologies.

Remote control for heavy construction and earthmoving machines was a major focus area across Caterpillar product groups at the ConExpo-Con/Agg 2020 tradeshow in Las Vegas. Cat Command, the term it uses for remote control and other automated capabilities, now is available for select machines: D6 and D7 dozers; 320-340 next-generation excavators and a variety of wheel loaders.

“Applications where you're putting that machine in harm's way. You're trying to lower that risk level for the operator,” said product application specialist Brian Stellbrink, during a ConExpo press event. For example, machines operating in ship holds or in high-risk environments for remediation or demolition work. “Whether it's out of the factory or added to an existing machine, that's key. It's a kit that you can put on a machine if and when a customer decides that's the route they want to go.”