Bauma 2016: Caterpillar launches ‘Age of Smart Iron’ strategy
American equipment brand highlights new technology
Caterpillar has unveiled “The Age of Smart Iron”, the US-based equipment giant’s digitalisation strategy to improve efficiency, safety and productivity.
“Caterpillar is the world’s leading innovator around iron. We’re going to lead innovation in smart iron, too,” Caterpillar chairman and CEO Doug Oberhelman said.
He was speaking at a press conference at Bauma, the international trade fair in Germany dedicated to construction vehicles, equipment and mining machinery.
Caterpillar and Zeppelin Cat together have 12,000sqm of exhibition space at the trade fair, and Caterpillar is featuring over 60 products, a large selection of work tools and dealer-delivered support services.
“While we always love to showcase our machines and engines, we’re equally excited about what’s at the centre of our exhibit: Caterpillar technology,” said Caterpillar Group President, Rob Charter. “We’re taking the machines, locomotives, engines and parts we’re so well known for and making them smarter.”
Some of the main attractions on display include Cat Connect Technology, which refers to hardware and software available for equipment from Cat or competitors that offers customers with information designed to help them optimise their operations.
Among the specific construction technologies exhibited are: Link, a solution that captures vital performance and product health data; Grade and Compact, two productivity solutions that help operators move material faster and more accurately; and Payload, an on-board system for trucks and loading tools.
Another solution being showcased is the Cat 360-degree Advantage, a collaboration between Caterpillar and Cat dealers to deliver equipment and support services to tackle jobsite challenges.
Meanwhile, products being displayed include the 966M XE wheel loader, as well as three new pavers, AP300F, AP355F and AP555F, built with a quick-heating screed system that increases productivity and reduces idle time. Also at the stand is the 6015B hydraulic mining shovel, optimised to load the Cat 773, 775 and 777 trucks.
At the news conference, Oberhelman also noted that Caterpillar is different from competitors that are also focusing on connectivity.
“We’re already doing it. We have approximately 400,000 connected assets and an installed base of three million machines and engines at work around the world today. That foundation gives us a head start, and we’re building on it.”
