The COVID-19 global health crisis had a major impact on everyone's lives in 2020, making it no surprise some of this year's most popular articles were ones focused on the pandemic and its effect on the industry. One of the most popular pieces of content on our site this year was one in which we compiled any content we had related to the health crisis and the heavy equipment industries, entitled "COVID-19 and the Heavy Equipment Industry."
Despite what was going on in the world, new technology was the dominant theme in this year's Top Ten Articles. Whether that was new machine designs or components, our readers wanted to learn about the latest technologies and trends in the industry. The types of technologies that interested our audience ranged from the current "hot" topics of electrification and automation to those which aim to improve the efficiency of traditionally powered (and still relevant) machines and systems.
1. Tractor of the Year Award Honors Innovations in Agricultural Equipment
by Sara Jensen
Originally appeared in: Industry News eNewsletter, December 19, 2019
Summary: Winners of the annual Tractor of the Year awards demonstrate growing trends in the agricultural equipment industry. While winners are typically European based, they represent what is happening in the industry on a global level. The tractor designs include many of the features important to the market such as improved operator comfort and visibility, as well as increased performance and more data collection and connectivity.
2. Drivetrain Components will Evolve due to Vehicle Electrification
by Sara Jensen
Originally appeared in: January/February 2020
Summary: Drivetrain systems and components are anticipated to see many changes regarding size, packaging and gearing as electrification continues to increase. Every aspect of a vehicle is expected to evolve, from the largest to the smallest components.
The Dana Spicer e-Axle concept replaces a traditional off-highway driveline with one featuring two independent axles powered by parallel-mounted electric motors.Dana Inc.
3. Beyond the Data Sheet: Using Real-World Variances to Develop Sensors for Off-Highway Environments
contributed by Jody Dunklee, MicroStrain, a division of Parker LORD
Originally appeared in: Industry News eNewsletter, January 16, 2020
Summary: Real-world testing of inertial measurement units ensures accurate, reliable performance in heavy-duty off-road equipment applications. This type of testing can ensure the functionality and safety of equipment, and the components used within it.
4. Electrification a Key Driver for the Foreseeable Future
responses contributed by Marcus King, Dana Inc.
Originally appeared in: October 2020
Summary: Rapid development and adoption of electrification technologies will continue to drive the market.
5. New Approach to Fastener Design Prevents Loosening in Off-Road Equipment
contributed by Del Williams on behalf of Multi Piece Fastener L.L.C.
Originally appeared in: Drivetrain Technology Update eNewsletter, July 20, 2020
Summary: The three-piece fastener physically prevents vehicular bolt loosening without the traditional limitations of excess weight, complexity and length.
6. A Need for Speed: Building the World's Fastest Tractor
by Sara Jensen
Originally appeared in: Industry News eNewsletter, December 5, 2019
Summary: JCB developed a new version of its Fastrac which reached a top speed of 153 mph and secured the title of the world's fastest tractor. The Fastrac Two uses a JCB 7.2 L Dieselmax engine which provided the machine with more horsepower.
JCB developed a new version of its Fastrac which reached a top speed of 153 mph.JCB
7. Heavy Equipment Manufacturers Alter Operations due to Impacts of COVID-19
by Gigi Wood
Originally appeared: Online March 31, 2020
Summary: In the wake of the global COVID-19 crisis, manufacturers in the heavy equipment industries are implementing new safety procedures and methods to continue production as normal where possible.
8. Manufacturers Report First Quarter 2020 Negatively Impacted by COVID-19
by Sara Jensen
Originally appeared in: Equipment Market Outlook eNewsletter, May 26, 2020
Summary: Demand for heavy equipment, vehicles and most components was much lower during the first quarter of 2020 due in large part to the global spread of coronavirus.
9. Analysis-Led Design will Play a Major Role in Future Engine Development
by Sara Jensen
Originally appeared in: Powerbook 2020
Summary: Use of virtual analysis and telematics data enables better understanding of engine systems to optimize and improve the next generation of engines.
10. A Machine for All Seasons: Autonomous Robot Provides Snow and Lawn Care Abilities
by Sara Jensen
Originally appeared in: January/February 2020 Digital Edition eNewsletter, February 5, 2020
Summary: Left Hand Robotics has added large area mowing capabilities to its autonomous robot, enabling use of the machine throughout the entire year.
Adding the mower attachment to the RT-1000 signals the machine to dynamically change sensor information to ensure the correct obstacle detection is used for the application.Left Hand Robotics
