Cat® Command technology streamlines Mississippi bulk operations

Drawing from more than 30 years of equipment autonomy experience, Caterpillar offers Cat Command, a line of remote control and semi-autonomous technologies that can benefit loading and excavation operations.

 

Cat Command remote control system removes operators from potentially hazardous jobsite conditions, such as stevedoring, by keeping them at a safe distance and reducing potential safety risks from climbing on and off machines.

 

Cat Command Console and Station controls are fully integrated with the machines’ electronic and hydraulic systems for quick response and smooth control. Operating commands are sent directly to the machine’s electronics through a dedicated radio transmitter/receiver, resulting in real-time control. Since the system is a dealer-installed kit fully designed and integrated into the machine, the operator can quickly switch between similar machines equipped with Cat Command, giving the customer increased machine flexibility.

 

The line-of-sight Cat Command Console comes complete with a lightweight, compact control console supported by a comfortable shoulder harness. Controlling all machine functions, the Command Console allows the operator to work safely and comfortably away from the machine, while remaining onsite and in direct visual contact with the equipment. This solution requires no onsite communications infrastructure and is ideal for short-term and emergency use when encountering a potentially hazardous work area.

 

The Cat Command station provides non-line-of-sight operation from the comfort of an air-conditioned office on site or many miles away. Distance is limited only by the capabilities of the network. The Cat Command station comfortably seats the operator in a customized ‘virtual cab’ with familiar controls and machine displays. Users can control up to five different machines, one at a time, reducing downtime for shift changes or the need to travel to the jobsite.

 

Touchscreen monitors similar to the in-cab displays offer the same machine information and access to machine settings just like in the machine. Screens mounted in front of the user provide an easy view of the machine’s camera feeds.

 

Jeff Morton, vice president of financial planning and analysis at Associated Terminals, a dry boat and general cargo transloader in Louisiana, says, “The Cat Command solution offers us a very unique way to change the game in that environment. We were able to bring to the lower Mississippi River, the idea of being able to make a safer, more efficient and ultimately, more effective solution for our customers. We had a vision of a safer operation, we had a vision of being able to take our employees, our team members and moving them out of the field and moving them into the office.”

 

By removing the operator from the cab, Cat Command remote control also offers a solution to workforce shortages and training advantages for newer operators in loading and excavation. It opens opportunities to those with physical limitations that prevent them from climbing into the equipment, attracting a new generation of workers, and increasing the longevity of experienced operators.

 

  

Cat Command Console and Station