Caterpillar’s smart blades just got smarter

A Cat 299D3 compact tracked loader with a Smart Dozer Blade. Photo: Caterpillar

At this week’s ConExpo, the manufacturer will show how the external control kit’s capabilities for GB120 and GB124 smart grader blades can now be utilised by Cat D and D2 series skid steer loaders and across its range of compact tracked loaders.

Cat says the new version of its 3D grade control uses existing connections, making the addition of automatic blade control to the Cat Smart Dozer Blade.

A third joystick with the new control kit enables raising-lowering, tilt, angle and wing functions.

Compatible with Cat Grade and Earthworks GO! Systems, Cat says the external control improves operating efficiency with selectable modes for left, right and tandem control, plus cross-slope assist and proportional control of all functions.

Designed for use by both novice and experienced compact tracked loader operators, the new grade control for smart dozer blades provides guidance on vertical blade height and horizontal positioning.

Alternatively, says Cat, the system can control the blade relative to a design that is loaded into the grade control system.