Bobcat takes operator comfort to new heights
01 January 2000
THE Next Generation Bobcat loaders are claimed to offer new levels of operator comfort and convenience.
The combination of a new cab design and new instrumentation in the loaders enhances their operation and reduces operator fatigue, allowing more work to be carried out for longer periods, says a company spokesman.
In light of the rapid rise in equipment theft, the latest version of the Bobcat Keyless Ignition System is an important option on the Next Generation loaders. With the new keyless ignition, a Bobcat loader can only be started using a password comprising a unique code with up to 10 digits. The optional advanced instrumentation system also offers multiple levels of passwords allowing the operator to lock out certain functions, such as high-flow hydraulics, an especially useful feature in the rental industry.
The air-conditioning/heating system on Next Generation Bobcat loaders has been redesigned, with new directional flow vents, allowing the user to point the cooling in the desired direction for optimised comfort levels. This system will be available as a factory-installed option in the near future, says the spokesman.
"The new cab on the loaders offers a larger front opening for easier entry and exit from the machine. Inside the cab, the operator has increased head clearance and is seated in a new, full suspension seat that is fully adjustable to the operator's weight and size.
"The inclinable backrest on the seat moves up and down with the seat cushion to provide a true suspension effect. All adjustment points are easy to reach and operate," he says.
The spokesman continues: "A new (patent-pending) rear-pivot seat bar, which is easy to pull down or push up, provides more room for larger operators. It has an ergonomic foam profile offering more area for arms to rest and at a more comfortable height. The rear-pivot seat bar is integrated into the Bobcat Interlock Control System (BICS) safety system.
"The enhanced operator comfort of the Next Generation loaders is complemented by the option of the new ''drive-by-wire'' advanced hand controls (AHC) system. The latter is aimed at new users of skid-steer loaders and those operators who prefer hand controls. Located on either side of the operator's seat, the handles in the AHC system tilt only 15 degrees right and left from the neutral position to ensure easy operation and very low operator fatigue. The first half of the lever stroke is used for precise control of the hydraulic function, while the second half of the stroke is designed to regulate its speed.
Top and side windows are now standard on the new cab. They can be removed for cleaning quickly and easily on site without special tools.
In the optional air-conditioning/heating system, the blower motor and heater core have been removed from the operator area - the heater core has been relocated behind the cab - giving the operator more elbowroom.
"Further options for the cab include a dome light on the cab ceiling and a power port for electrical items such as a mobile telephone.
The instrument panels and gauges are designed to enhance ease of operation. They are arranged in convenient locations in two groups at the front of the cab, one in the top left-hand corner and the other in the top right. The instrumentation on the left-hand side is the same on all models, while there is a choice of panels on the right-hand side - a standard system and an optional advanced control panel with additional features.
"The hourmeter also functions as a mini-information centre, providing diagnostic codes and a glow plug counter. Two sweep gauges display the temperature and fuel level and an audible alarm alerts the operator of any potential system problem. All the current BICS functions have remained the same. A microprocessor-controlled electronic spool lock system replaces the mechanical interlocks to lock the lift and tilt spools when the seat bar is not in the lowered position.
Bobcat has a complete range of skid-steer loader models with operating weights from 1.2 to 4.5 tonnes and rated operating capacities from 317 kg to 1,600 kg. Alongside the skid-steer loader range is a line of nine Bobcat mini-excavators ranging in weight from 1.5 to 5.5 tonnes. In addition, there are over 40 different attachments available for use on Bobcat loaders and mini-excavators, he says.
