While the next generation -7 wheel loaders from Doosan feature a new design, cab and larger buckets than their -5 predecessors, the machines are also loaded with new smart technologies.
The -7 series loaders currently include seven models, with standard bucket capacities between 2.8 and 5.8 cubic metres, and are now available in Canada and the United States.
Doosan also plans to introduce five additional models with bucket capacities between 2 and 2.5 cubic metres in early 2022.
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The loaders are designed with standard technology features that owners and operators can utilize to make meaningful improvements in productivity.
The Doosan Smart Guidance System, for example, analyzes operator driving habits and provides tips during operation on the Doosan Smart Touch display to improve efficiency.
“We’ve all been to school. We study, we take a test, and get a grade on it. The same thing is happening here,” said Bill Zak, Doosan’s wheel loader product specialist. “It’s monitoring the different parameters on that machine and how efficiently you’re using the machine.”
Through the guidance system, the operator can access a report on where they may be able to improve their technique. The system can also deliver real-time notifications with improvement suggestions.
“As the operator operates the machine, it will pop up on the in-cab monitor and give him guidance,” Zak said.
Situational awareness
Situation Awareness Technology (SAT) automatically monitors the machine’s activity and adjusts the wheel loader engine’s output to match real-time requirements of the hydraulic system and drivetrain. SAT is one of three engines modes available alongside standard and power mode.
“SAT will tailor the output of that machine to what you’re doing. If the machine’s not being utilized really hard, it will recognize that and it will make sure you’re not working the engine as hard to conserve fuel,” Zak said.
Load Isolation System
An improved Load Isolation System improves wheel loader stability while moving, which can reduce cycle times, increase productivity and boost fuel efficiency.
The system uses the boom’s lift cylinders as shock absorbers to improve ride quality.
“We added a nitrogen accumulator into that circuit,” Zak said. “You’ll see the bucket arms actually floating up and down as you’re running through the field.”
The Load Isolation System also allows its user to set speed-based parameters to ensure the system doesn’t reduce force.
“As I go into a pile of dirt, I don’t want those lift cylinders to act as shock absorbers, so I can tell the system at 1 km an hour, I want the system off,” Zak said. “When I go into that pile, I have full force available.”
Smart Load
The new Doosan Smart Load weighing system tells the operator the weight of material in the bucket. As well, all menus and settings are integrated into the Doosan Smart Touch screen.
“I can put in my target weight, and through the system, it will tell me my cumulative load,” Zak said. “It will tell you what’s in your truck, what’s in your bucket and what’s left to load.”
Transparent bucket
The -7 wheel loaders will also be available with Doosan’s transparent bucket, unveiled earlier this year.
The transparent bucket system photographs the front of the wheel loader with cameras installed at the top and bottom of the loader and shows the combined image in real time using a curved projection method.
“The bucket itself doesn’t actually become transparent, but the cameras compensate for each other and you’re able to see right through the bucket,” Zak said.
“If there’s a person walking in front and blocked by the bucket, I’ll be able to see them on the monitor.”
The Doosan Smart Key is another new feature, which uses a key fob to unlock the cab and allows the push-button engine to start.
DoosanCONNECT telematics makes it easy for owners to monitor their Doosan fleet and manage maintenance to reduce operating costs.
Using a smartphone, tablet or computer, owners can check machine location, operating hours, fuel usage, engine idle versus work time, error codes, engine and hydraulic oil temperature and various other data points.
