Modifying and refining the S.A.E. classification for construction and mining equipment was undertaken out of practical necessity, and refers primarily to excavating and bulk handling. An existing broad classification was used to accomplish this based on two fundamental principles: relative equipment mobility and whether excavating and/or bulk handling is required. By using an established organizing process, the following categories (in descending order of inclusiveness) resulted: Class, Group, Type, Kind, Model and Variant. There are over eighty (80) Kinds of equipment with almost ten (10) in the Front-end Loader Type (Wheel-Loaders to Scoops). Kinds were primarily distinguished by obvious visual distinctions of structure and configuration.
The S.A.E. classification contains some serious omissions and also confuses levels of refinement. The proposal has many advantages, although to achieve simplicity some inconsistencies were tolerated when Groups and even Types straddled Classes.
The need for a firm and stable classification is critical, especially during rampant hybridization and adaptation. It is recommended that the proposal receive very serious consideration.