March 2014, Vol. 69 No. 3
New Products
Remote Control Introduced For Track Trenchers
Vermeer has introduced a remote control function for its lines of track trenchers and terrain leveler equipment.
The feature is available on all machines equipped with Vermeer’s Tec Plus electronic control system which encompasses virtually all models in these two equipment categories, said Chris Lynch, sales manager for specialty excavation. Introduced in December 2013, the remote control feature is available now on most units.
Remote control has benefits for a broad range of trencher and terrain leveler users and it already has attracted a wide interest, especially for work on large pipeline projects, said Lynch. Vermeer currently offers 10 track trencher models that can accommodate the remote function.
“The primary benefit is safety,” said Lynch. “It removes the operator from the machine for loading and unloading, maneuvering around job sites and all operational functions. For example, if any unplanned event occurs during trenching, the operator can react from a safe distance.”
The handheld control has two modes: transport and operation.
Typically the operator will control operations from the cab of a pickup or service truck, Lynch explained. The control device can be connected to the vehicle’s DC plug-in or operated on battery power. All machine functions can be activated or stopped with the handheld controller.
Safety
To be able to execute remote operation, Lynch said the user must be seated on a pad that contains a safety cutoff switch. If the operator leaves the pad for more than three seconds, all functions will stop, but the engine remains running.
Vermeer’s remote trencher control can be purchased with a new machine or retrofitted on any Vermeer tractor equipped with the TEC Plus operating system, he added.
“The remote operations are very similar to the TEC Plus on the tractor,” he pointed out. “For operators familiar with TEC Plus, it will take little time to get accustomed to remote operation. As with all Vermeer products, Vermeer dealers are fully capable of supporting the remote control.”
For terrain leveler units working in surface mines, remote control removes the operator from potential cave-in incidents and falling debris when working near high side walls and the risk posed by other equipment moving around the work site.
“Remote control of construction equipment is not new,” said Lynch. “Many large earth-moving machines and other equipment are operating with it today and now Vermeer has brought remote operation to track trenchers and terrain leveler equipment. It’s another step in getting operators away from the machines they run. The day is coming when someone can sit in an office or other remote location and control equipment on remote job sites.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Vermeer Corp., (888) 837-6337, www.vermeer.com
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