Enhanced Cab for Rotary Blasthole Drill Line


Bucyrus is offering an enhanced operator’s cab for the its 49HR line of rotary blasthole drills. The cab enhancements, according to the company, are predicated upon the premise that drill operators work more efficiently when they are comfortable and alert, so a major aspect of Bucyrus’s reconfiguration of the 49HR controls and console centered on improved ergonomics and comfort for operators. Bucyrus has incorporated a six-way adjustable seat with a mechanical swing suspension into the cab design. In addition, in-seat controls are included, allowing operators to work in an ergonomically correct position. All primary controls for drill operation are included on the in-seat control panels, while secondary controls are on a separate control panel also within reach of the seated operator. The operator’s on-board monitor is programmed for enhanced visibility in all conditions, including direct sunlight and night conditions. Likewise, operator screens are positioned to facilitate easy viewing without associated head and neck movement by drill operators. Bucyrus also has addressed cognitive ergonomic hurdles with improved programming—for example, “Active Logic Screens” for all major drill functions. These screens allow drill operators to view and follow permissives to facilitate proper functioning of a given drill operation. In addition, the preset programs for “Program Drill Control” (auto-drilling) have been increased from five programs to 20, covering more operating parameters than its predecessor. Both the Active Logic Screens and Program Drill Control enhancements incorporated universally recognized symbols which further contribute to their intuitive usability.

www.bucyrus.com

As featured in Womp 2009 Vol 08 - www.womp-int.com