Transparent Bucket technology. (Photo courtesy of DEVELON)
DEVELON’s lineup of -7 Series wheel loaders features 12 models with bucket capacities that range from 2.6 to 7.6 cubic yards and horsepower ratings spanning from 142 to 343. The company offers two tool carrier variations designed specifically for lift-and-carry applications. Many of the models offer a high-lift option for enhanced dump height.
Most recently, the manufacturer introduced several new technologies on its next-generation -7 Series wheel loaders aimed at improving operator productivity, visibility and safety. Technologies including the Transparent Bucket, around view monitor (AVM) camera system and object detection are offered as standard on all next-generation machines, from the DL200-7 through the DL580-7.
“DEVELON is the only construction equipment manufacturer in the industry with the Transparent Bucket technology,” says Bill Zak, wheel loader product manager. “When it’s paired with the AVM, our 2023 -7 Series wheel loaders will help operators and owners be more productive while increasing their visibility and safety.”
Transparent Bucket technology helps minimize blind spots for wheel loader operators when the bucket is raised by providing a view from a monitor inside the cab. The system uses two cameras and a processor that merges the camera inputs into a single image that makes the bucket appear transparent.
With an unobstructed view in front of the wheel loader bucket, operators can see objects such as large rocks, construction materials, obstacles and even people in front of the machine — objects that would otherwise be obstructed from view by the bucket.
For additional visibility and safety on jobsites, the company’s -7 Series wheel loaders have an AVM camera system. Three cameras and several sensors are mounted on the rear of the wheel loader, giving operators up to 270 degrees of enhanced visibility.
“If there’s an object eight to 12 feet behind the machine, a flashing green caution box will appear, notifying the wheel loader operator,” says Zak. “A yellow caution box will show up if the object is four to eight feet and a red triangle and red border notification if the object is closer than four feet.”
When wheel loader operators combine the AVM camera system, floor-to-ceiling side cab windows and the Transparent Bucket technology, they have nearly 360 degrees of visibility. This level of visibility can help reduce the possibility of the operator hitting another object on a busy jobsite.
Other smart technology in the lineup includes the DEVELON Fleet Management telematics system, Situation Awareness Technology that automatically monitors the machine’s activity and adjusts the wheel loader engine’s output to match real-time requirements of the hydraulic system and drivetrain, a Smart Guidance System that analyzes operator driving habits, a Load Isolation System to improves wheel loader stability while moving, and a Smart Load weighing system that tells the operator the weight of material in the bucket.
