top 10 technologies of 2003

A review of the 10 most significant stories published in SAE Off-Highway Engineering over the past years, as selected by the magazine's readers and editors.

Because heavy-duty equipment is used for long periods of time with frequent stops, the transmission lever, switches, and electronics interface must be very durable.

Two Delphi designs, an electronic push-button interface and lever interface, can be customized to meet heavy-duty-specific requirements. The units are fully sealed to protect them from severe operating environments and are of a durable lightweight construction. The package size, mounting, graphics, display, and lighting can also be adapted per customer specifications. Both units also use a vacuum fluorescent display (VFD) instead of a liquid crystal display (LCD). A VFD functions better than an LCD in extreme temperature and lighting environments, according to the company.