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Q&A. Will Equipment Operators Become Redundant ?

Q&A. Will Equipment Operators Become Redundant ?

At BAUMA 2016 in Munich, Bosch presented the operator’s cab of the future, Genius Cab, a post designed for maximum visibility and protection in difficult surroundings like construction sites. It not only received great attention, but also the Bauma innovation award in the Design category. DirectIndustry e-magazine talked to Johannes-Jörg Rüger, president of Bosch’s newly established Commercial Vehicle & Off-Road Unit.

DirectIndustry e-magazine: The Genius Cab is an innovative operator’s cab for construction machinery. What are its unique features?

DI18-Genius-CAB-Johannes-Jörg Rüger

Johannes-Jörg Rüger: The cab reflects the trends of electrification, automation, and connectivity with regard to construction sites. Operating data is analyzed in real time on a tablet display. The brain of the cab is a central computer that we call “body computer”, as it controls all sensors. This makes for less complex circuits that reduce error rates. It can also be customized to meet client requirements. The integrated ultrasonic sensor system for 360° vision reliably monitors the environment, even in low-light conditions. Displays replacing the side-view mirrors help the driver monitor the blind spots right behind him. Everything can be operated via the 7-inch display controlled by buttons or touchscreen.

DirectIndustry e-magazine: How will life change for users of the new cab?

Johannes-Jörg Rüger: All the mentioned features improve operating safety, as do the ultrasonic and video sensors that monitor the machinery’s surroundings. Other elements, like the direct wiper drive, an optimized wiping device for snow, hail or rain, as well as the central joystick, improve intuitive handling and safety. This also boosts productivity by reducing failure rate. Safety and usability are further enhanced by the surround sensors and cameras.

DirectIndustry e-magazine: Who developed the cabin?

Johannes-Jörg Rüger: A network of suppliers, as well as the Technical University in Dresden and the German Association for Construction, Environmental and Machine Technology were involved in the development. Fritzmeier assembled the prototype.

DirectIndustry e-magazine: Will the next step be a cabin without an operator?

Johannes-Jörg Rüger: No, certainly not. There will, however, be more and more systems designed to assist the driver. The driver’s role will become scheduling work, while the vehicle carries out specific tasks automatically.

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