DEVELOPMENT OF AN ERGONOMIC CABIN FOR HARVESTERS

摘要

This paper describes the successful development of a futuristic, state-ot-the-art, ergonomic cabin which has been engineered to provide the cane harvester operator with greater comfort and operating ease. All-round visibility from the harvester has been improved. Modified controls have been designed and installed and the location for controls altered for ease of operation. This equipment includes proportional and direct electric over hydraulic controls, a multi-function hand piece, conventional cable controls and foot controls. Refined cabin mounts have been fitted and double glazed rear windows and sound proofing material installed. Many other smaller modifications have been made to the cabin. During testing of the harvester by contractors during the 1993 season many favourable comments were received. Information gathered from a survey of operators is provided. Positive feedback from these operators resulted in Austoft Industries Ltd constructing five ergonomic harvesters for the 1994 season. The new, improved cabin reported on is designed for greater efficiency, improved standards of work, less loss of cane and increased profitability for the sugar industry.