Caterpillar unveils new smart creep feature
For Cat D3 Series skid steer loaders and compact track loaders, the system is said to maximise work tool productivityCaterpillar is poised to release a new smart creep feature for Cat D3 skid steer loader and compact track loaders for operating Cat cold planer and wheel saw attachments.
The new system senses the load on the attachment and adjusts the drive command to keep the cold planer or wheel saw running at the most productive speed.
A combination of attachment sensors and proprietary software optimally balances attachment load and machine speed to maximise productivity. By continually sensing the load on the attachment, smart creep increases machine speed when encountering less resistance and automatically slows the machine when encountering higher load. Engine load remains constant, while the operator can monitor hydraulic pressure on the in-cab display panel.
Caterpillar says that smart creep takes the guesswork out of setting the right creep speed for operating the attachment. Without the aid of this feature, setting creep speed too fast can lead to stalling the attachment, while setting the speed too low results in productivity loss. The smart creep software, however, is said to smoothly and efficiently determine the optimal machine speed for cutting conditions.
To utilise the feature, the operator needs only to activate the standard creep control system and set the maximum creep speed on the advanced display inside the cab.
Once the tool engages the cut, smart creep measures load on the attachment and adjusts the drive command automatically as cutting begins. In the event of the cutter jamming or stalling, an auto reverse feature within smart creep quickly changes machine direction to allow the tool to clear the jam.
Targeted availability for smart creep on Cat D3 SSL and CTL machines is the third quarter of 2022. A field installation kit comprising sensors and machine software for operating the new feature will be made available for existing fleet loaders and attachments.
Once commercially available, new cold planer and wheel saw purchases will be shipped from the factory with the required hardware installed, and new D3 SSL and CTL models will come smart creep ready from the factory.
Visit www.cat.com for more information.
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