State-of-the-art display for electric skid steer

Mobile and industrial hydraulics and electric powertrain systems supplier Danfoss Power Solutions is supplying its DM700 display for use on the third-generation Elise 900 all-electric skid steer loader manufactured by FIRSTGREEN Industries (previously known as Kovaco Electric).

The seven-inch display screen is designed for use in sunlight to ensure improved viewing and it boasts IP66/IP67 ingress protection ratings, making it particularly suitable for rugged conditions.

A hard-mounted display is seen as offering several benefits compared to the mobile phone-linked controls used in previous loader models. Mobile phones are not usually very robust, and a phone’s small screen and poor readability in direct sunlight impairs operator ease-of-use, productivity and safety. Use of a dedicated display also prevents the distractions of using a personal device for machine operation, along with problems that emerge if the phone is misplaced or not charged. The large screen area of the DM700 also provides better visibility of important machine information for the operator.

Situated in the top right corner of the cab, the display is connected to the skid steer’s CAN bus system, to ensure reliable, rapid communication and higher data throughput, which is seen as an advance compared to using a phone’s Bluetooth connection.

The Danfoss DM700 display allows users to set three profiles that are customised to the needs of the operator or working conditions, including travel speeds and hydraulic settings. The display also transmits error messages and diagnostics, which helps minimise machine downtime and improve productivity.

The display facilitates safer operation by prompting the operator to shut the door and fasten the seat belt before starting the machine, and can help avoid rollovers by showing a real-time overview of the skid steer’s roll and pitch angles.

The control joysticks can also be customised, and, unlike previous generation models, Danfoss JS1-H CAN joysticks are said to offer greater accuracy and allow for the adjustment of parameters. The joysticks are designed to be more reliable and simpler to install, service and replace than previous analogue devices.

Currently the DM700 hard-mounted display is an optional extra on the third-generation Elise 900 machines, but reports suggest that most purchasers request its inclusion. In addition, FIRSTGREEN Industries is working on retrofitting older machines to be able to use the display.