A recent study by Fact.MR shows that global demand for skid steer loaders will maintain the 3% growth rate through to 2031, according to For Construction Pros. Skid steers have been the most prevalent equipment for decades because of their versatility, maneuverability, low operational costs, and productivity. Their compact size and ability to integrate with different attachments and perform a variety of tasks also make skid steer loaders efficient in construction, landscaping, mining, forestry, and agriculture. And as automakers continue to explore different technologies, including the science of aerodynamics in automobiles, we can expect skid steers to be safer and more comfortable. Read on to get insights into the latest tech innovations in skid steers.
Smart Attachments
Increasing demand for easy skid steer controls has led to the development of smart attachments. This innovative machine technology allows skid steer loaders to detect when an attachment is connected. It then matches the controls and operator information based on the tool attached and the task at hand.
Smart attachments available for skid steer loaders are grade blade, dozer blade, and backhoe. When attached to skid steers, this advanced attachment adds versatility. Typically, smart attachments employ the plug and play mode. This seamless attachment of the backhoe, grader blade, and dozer blade enhances machine utilization and promotes delivery of high-quality work through easy and intuitive operation of digging and excavating tools.
Telematic Systems
Today, many skid steer manufacturers integrate telematics systems into compact loaders to ensure that operators and fleet managers can access critical machine information in real-time. Equipment telematics offers many benefits, such as predictive maintenance, safety, and improved productivity. Telematics help operators stay on top of machine monitoring. For example, telematics diagnose the engine or other vital components in a compact track loader to help you determine necessary repairs or replacements.
With telematics in place, you can quickly tell when to replace certain parts, such as tire tracks. Enhanced wheel alignment and quality tire tracks are an essential part of boosting productivity and fuel efficiency. For instance, if you’re using the Caterpillar 287, investing in high-quality caterpillar 287 tracks helps improve traction. This means you can work on your farm without fear of tipping over or destroying the terrain. Another use of skid steer telematics is remote equipment tracking. You can tell where your skid steer is, monitor user behavior, engine status, and fuel levels.
AI Improves Skid Steer Safety
Safety is of great concern when operating a skid steer at a construction site, farm, or mining site. The rapid movement of skid steer loaders poses a risk to operators and other individuals on the job site. Fortunately, emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning have the potential to prevent skid steer-related accidents. For example, AI-powered pedestrian recognition technology by Arcure Blaxtair can reduce skid steer or pedestrian accidents by two-thirds.
This technology relies on sensors, stereo camera and cloud applications to detect pedestrians near compact loaders and alert operators to prevent collisions. Besides improving skid steer safety, there are other applications of AI in heavy equipment. This includes enhancing equipment performance and optimizing machine usage.
The popularity of skid steer loaders has been increasing over the years. Market experts predict that demand will increase as skid steers become more efficient, thanks to technological advancement. Tech innovations making skid steers more versatile and efficient are telematics, smart attachments, and artificial intelligence.