Cat Command added to excavators

Cat Command remote control operation has been introduced to a number of Cat excavators, which Cat says will allow users to experience the same machine response as if they were operating from inside the cab.

Cat 320, 323, 326, 330, 336 and 340 excavators are now compatible with remote operation.

Six Cat excavators spanning the 20-to-40 metric ton class sizes—Cat 320, 323, 326, 330, 336 and 340 models are now compatible with either line-of-sight or non-line-of-sight remote operation.

Remote operation is made possible through a dealer-installed field kit for new or existing fleet machines, which includes multiple cameras for non-line-of-site operation from the Command station.

The cameras offer a view of the area and a stream of on-site video feeds. Indicator lights, microphone, wireless receiver, and antenna are also mounted on top of the cab.

Grade Assist, Swing Assist and E-Fence can also be set, activated and deactivated remotely. Excavators are switched between remote and manual operation via a ground-level switch.

The system comes with safety features that stop excavator movements if the remote shutdown switch is pressed, wireless communication is lost, or the console is tilted more than 45 degrees from normal operating position.

Cat presented on its Cat Command remote-control stations at a virtual conference, broadcast from Malaga, Spain in late 2020, where it confirmed they would be available for purchase in Europe in 2021.