For Worldwide Release: February 2011
Sandy Price
Price_Sandy@cat.com
A new air suspension seat, better airflow and improved night vision are a few highlights of the new Cat® 550 wheel harvester cab.
New Cat® Wheel Harvester Cab Offers More Comfort and Same Great Visibility
Caterpillar Forest Products recently introduced a new cab on the Cat® 550 wheel harvester that significantly improves the ergonomics and operator comfort. Better airflow, a more comfortable seat and improved night visibility are a few highlights.
“The enhanced ergonomics and other new cab features provide the level of comfort today’s operators expect in order to work comfortably for extended hours,” said Glenn Brown, harvester and forwarder product specialist for Caterpillar Forest Products. “This is a completely redesigned cab except that we didn’t change anything to interfere with the visibility Cat harvesters are known for.”
The new air suspension seat absorbs shocks and provides added comfort during extended shifts. Lumbar support and neck rests are adjustable. Armrests and joysticks are also adjustable in all directions and angles. The seat and back support are heated for additional warmth on cold winter days. For an added level of comfort in warmer climates, the seat is available with optional air venting.
The AC/heater system’s capacity has been increased for more effective cooling and heating. “Set it and forget it” automatic control maintains a consistent cab temperature. Airflow is channeled through louvered vents to all areas of the cab including the windows for defrosting/defogging. In summer, cool air circulates around the operator and in winter, the heat extends to the floor to keep the operator’s feet warm.
The molded cab components provide updated styling and appeal. Consoles on both sides of the operator have storage areas, open trays and a cup holder to control cab clutter. Each console has a 12-volt power source for flexibility in mounting additional electronic/electrical equipment. The molded head liner has built in stereo speakers, lighting and air flow vents.
The IQAN-MDL control system has been updated to accommodate new programming features for easier operator interface. For increased fuel efficiency, the operator can now select an automatic idle down mode to reduce rpm when the machine is not active.
The new style foot pedals that control carrier movement are positioned at a more comfortable angle. The third pedal, for telescopic boom or fixed head side tilt, has been replaced with a slider switch on the joystick, allowing the operator to move the carrier while operating other functions.
Instead of twist handles, the door opens via a handle and thumb control, which is easier to operate and structurally superior.
Three additional double bulb light assemblies have been added to the top of the door for increased night visibility. A guard around the upper door lights protects them from damage. In addition, several new options will be available including pull-down window shades on all windows and an HID lighting package for better vision during night operations.
Although the reverse slope front window sheds rain and debris, the new windshield wiper/washer provides increased visibility during inclement weather.
For more information visit http://www.cat.com/forestry.
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Caterpillar Forest Products is a leading manufacturer and worldwide marketer of timber harvesting, millyard, road-building and land management equipment. Products are marketed under the Cat, Prentice and CTR brand names through a global independent dealer network. The company operates plants in the Americas, Asia and Europe.
Caterpillar Forest Products is a division of Caterpillar Inc., the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. The company also is a leading services provider through Caterpillar Financial Services, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services, Caterpillar Logistics Services and Progress Rail Services. More information is available at http://www.caterpillar.com.
For more information on Cat, Prentice and CTR products, visit http://www.cat.com and http://www.prenticeforestry.com.