Hey guys, I'm new here. I'm doing a design for CAT in a Mechanical Engineering course. They want us to solve the problem of the right side windows being difficult to reach (for cleaning/maintenance) on the K-Series. The M-Series had a second door on the right side with a ladder so this want a problem before. I'm hoping to get some insight into the problem from people who use these machines for real. --Thanks, Zak
Took delivery of my new CAT 930K today. Will let you know.
How feasible would it be to add a wiper washer combination to the Windows in question? Removing the need to access for cleaning, only maintenance of the wiper? Even if this was an optional extra, as many mining companies may purchase this, but smaller contractors may not want this option. Important to remember if access needs to be given, then operators need to be able to maintain 3 points if contact. All h series I have seen have a small ladder platform to gain access, quiet often the grease system is mounted up there.
Thanks drummer, I look forward to your reply. fsmech, good points. The design is for an optional extra that companies could have installed on currently-in-use tractors by a return trip to the dealer. I should have mentioned that. My team has discussed a wiper/washer comination. It is one of our leading ideas currently. It seems like that design would be a well accepted solution if it can be implimented without costing too much (eg. no extra pumps/minimal electronics).
I haven't seen a k series in the flesh yet, will be good to check onwille out! It could be combined with the rear system, eliminating the need for extra pump and switches. Would still need another wiper motor and wiring to it but if it makes the job safer, companies shouldn't worry about the cost. Will be interesting to see what you come up with
A wider running board, and an upper handrail, like my Deere and Volvo machines.
We have a 950k at work....it has a ladder on the right side to reach the window...my gripe is not keeping it clean , its seeing out of it. The side windows seem so much smaller than the f g or h series. That being said I dont think a wiper will work on such a small window. Why not simply make one of the sliders swing out so you could open one to reach out and clean the other ? In my opinion cat is trying too hard to make the k series loaders and even the e series excavators look better than the competition instead working better for the operator. Another gripe is the ride control button...why not put it near the joystick instead of way up on the cab pillar ? Annoying to have to press and hold the button to put it in service mode. A simple rocker switch on top of the stick would have much simpler and a lot more user friendly. One more complaint. The tiny clips under the sliding window that hold it on track break very easily and cannot be purchased for replacement. You have to buy a whole new window frame. Again poor design.
knock the glass out then you wont have to clean it. no worries.