Modern Contractor Solutions January 2025 - 20

equipment solution
MACHINE OPERATION
RC Comes to
Compact Equipment
off-the-shelf radio remote control for mini skid-steers
By Shane Samson
I
n a time when automation and operator
safety are becoming increasingly critical,
manufacturers of compact construction
equipment are facing growing pressure to
offer remote control capabilities. However, the
cost and complexity of developing proprietary,
technically demanding systems have typically
limited these features to large OEMs. A
recent collaboration between control systems
specialist Cattron and compact equipment
manufacturer Baumalight demonstrates how
this barrier can be overcome, bringing a new
level of competitiveness to every corner of the
yellow iron market-and beyond.
RAPID DEPLOYMENT
The project began when Baumalight, a
Canada-based manufacturer of mini skidsteer
equipment and related specialty
attachments, received customer requests for
wireless remote-control capabilities. Rather
than attempting to develop an in-house
solution, they approached Cattron, with whom
they already had a relationship through the
use of Cattron's engine control panels.
The collaboration expanded into a
comprehensive control system integration
project that would ultimately transform their
mini skid-steer equipment. The TRL740 series
skid steer is a new offering that came as a
result of upgrading the company's TRL620
to include a larger engine, bigger, higher-flow
electronic pumps, wider tracks, and a beefier
frame. Baumalight felt it was the perfect time
to incorporate Cattron's radio remote control
and engine control capabilities.
20
JANUARY 2025
The integration process occurred in two
main phases. The first phase, lasting six
to eight months, focused on implementing
advanced engine and machine control using
the Cattron DynaGen PRO600 controller.
The DynaGen PRO600 provides engine and
generator control for autostart or manual
operations on mechanically or electronically
governed engines. The TE600 and TG600
engine and generator controllers offer
CANbus and Modbus communication, 22
inputs and 10 outputs, ruggedized for use in
extremely harsh environments.
Cattron's digital control system replaced
Baumalight's basic manual controls and
provided enhanced monitoring capabilities,
including hydraulic system parameters and
maintenance indicators.
The second phase, requiring an
additional six to eight months, integrated
the CattronControl LRC-S1 radio remote
control system.
SEAMLESS INTEGRATION
The solution combines several key
technologies. At its core is the PRO600 engine
controller, which provides complete control
and protection of the vehicle's engine. The
system features a sunlight-readable color
display and offers extensive configuration
options for startup speeds, diagnostic
readouts, and sensor feedback.
For wireless remote operation, the LRC-S1
bellybox and new CBMCU receiver enables
control of up to six motions through two multiaxis
joystick controllers and an axis switch.
The system includes redundant hardware
and software architecture for safety, along
with the IP65-rated bellybox for durability in
demanding environments.
A unique aspect of the implementation is
the docking system, allowing operators to use
the same control unit whether operating the
machine from the ride-on platform or remotely
once they dismount. Cattron also offered
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Modern Contractor Solutions January 2025

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