Paper manuals often deteriorate due to exposure to rain or being chewed on by rodents. A more durable option, such as plastic laminate similar to what was used in telehandlers for load charts, would be ideal. However, it's likely to come with a higher price tag of more than $50. I find the symbols on equipment switches to be confusing. For instance, which switch activates the high flow function in a skid steer? The symbols don't offer a clear answer to that question. Similarly, which switch releases pressure on the hydraulic quick couplers for attaching equipment? Deciphering these functions solely based on the symbols can be challenging.
Nige emphasizes the importance of adapting to pictographic symbols in machinery, as it streamlines production for manufacturers. It's essential to recognize that not everyone speaks English, so global communication requires visual aids. Years ago, we faced a unique challenge with "Grey Market" equipment imported with German labels. Despite the language barrier, we managed to ensure safety by replacing critical warning labels and creating English equivalents for gauges. While inspecting one of the machines, we found an interesting makeshift repair with a newspaper soaked in oil - printed in German. It's unclear if this was a factory-approved fix or a last-minute solution before shipment.
Explore the Dictionary of Pictograph Symbols in PDF format available on Safety.Cat.com. Discover a comprehensive resource of visual symbols commonly used in safety communication.
As someone who has crossed the 50-year mark, I find it frustrating that the dashboard warning lights in modern cars are often small, obscured by scratches and dust, and require consulting lengthy manuals to decipher. While some warnings may be clear, each vehicle has unique systems and alerts that can be hard to remember. It's a reality I've come to accept, though not without some annoyance. Here's to hoping for clearer and more user-friendly car notifications. Cheers! Lanway
I don't mean to be impolite, but committing an 82-page PDF filled with around 20 symbols on each page to memory is as challenging as learning Mandarin Chinese.
Having the Operator Manual is crucial for accessing the necessary symbols when operating a particular machine. In my opinion, it should be mandatory for sellers to include the Operator Manual when selling a used machine.
Operating machinery in a developing country without literacy skills poses significant challenges. Without the ability to read the Operator Manual, the equipment becomes essentially useless. It is imperative to have access to the manual in order to understand the symbols and functions of the machine being used. In my opinion, it should be illegal to sell a used machine without the Operator Manual included.
In the past, our team carried out training missions in remote areas of Angola, Mozambique, and Zambia, where individuals with limited experience were taught to operate heavy machinery. Initially, it seemed odd to me that individuals returning from their 30-day annual leave had to undergo additional training before operating equipment independently. This requirement ensures safety and efficiency on the job site.
A user mentioned the difficulty of remembering a 82-page PDF with around 20 symbols per page, likening it to learning Mandarin. When looking up a French word in a dictionary, it's done alphabetically, but when searching for a pictograph, it can be a daunting task to find it cover to cover. This is why it would have been more helpful for Cat customers to have controls labeled in a language using a common alphabet. In order to better understand these symbols, the user plans to use a label maker to tag them for future reference. Memorizing all those pictures is simply not feasible.
A common issue that can be even more frustrating than deciphering pictographs is a poorly maintained machine. Exposing the switch/gauge panel to the harsh sun without any protection can create a negative experience for both new operators and mechanics unfamiliar with the equipment. Countless hours have been wasted trying to troubleshoot issues due to faded or completely missing symbols on the panel.
When I finally understand these readouts, I will use my dymo label maker in the cab to label them for future reference instead of trying to memorize them all. Most Cat pictographs can be easily interpreted with the right clues. For example, a gear with a thermometer represents transmission temperature, while a gear with two arrows indicates transmission pressure. A gear with a broken line represents a plugged transmission filter, and a similar image with a hydraulic cylinder refers to the hydraulic system. A wavy line with a thermometer signifies coolant temperature. By breaking down the pictures into their components, they become easier to understand. Another important symbol to note is one that resembles a brake shoe, coupled with a thermometer, which signals that the brake oil is too hot. It's important not to overlook indicators just because you have disc brakes. Regardless of the condition of the machine, clear indicators are essential for proper operation. Even if the indicators were in perfect English, it wouldn't matter if the wording fades over time.
lantraxco expressed frustration with the smaller size and obscured visibility of warning lights in modern vehicles. As someone over the age of 50, they find it difficult to interpret the meaning of these lights without consulting long and complex user manuals. The sentiment is clear: when a warning light appears, they just want to know what's wrong without the need for deciphering complicated symbols or instructions.
In a few years, autonomous machines will be the norm, operating efficiently without the need for human intervention. Even machines with operators will have advanced satellite links, enabling them to make decisions independently in case of issues. They will also be capable of reporting faults to a central computer for quick resolution. The rise of self-operating and self-repairing machines raises questions about the future of human workers. With the potential decrease in the need for human labor, what will happen to the workforce? It's a thought-provoking scenario that may redefine the way we live and work in the future.
Lantraxco predicts that in just a few years, autonomous machines without seats will dominate the industry. These machines will be equipped with satellite links to determine and report any issues they encounter. This advancement will streamline maintenance processes as the machines will independently decide whether to shut down, derate, or continue working. The machines will also be able to communicate with a central computer to coordinate necessary servicing. This technology is already making its mark, with recent machines being able to send email alerts for any deviations from their normal operation. The future of fully automated machines is not far off.
Isn't it frustrating when your email inbox gets filled with more unwanted messages that you can't take action on? I asked our nearby dealer to remove me from receiving the automated Product Link-generated emails.
kshansen explained how most Cat pictographs can be easily identified with a few key clues. For example, a gear with a small thermometer in the center represents transmission temperature, while a gear with two arrows pointing at each other signifies transmission pressure. A gear with a broken line across it indicates a plugged transmission filter. Similarly, if there is a small picture of a hydraulic cylinder, the same symbols apply to the hydraulic system. If you see a wavy line with a thermometer in the center, the keyword "wavy" indicates water, so that symbol represents coolant temperature. By breaking down the pictographs into their individual parts, they become much easier to interpret. Thank you for sharing this insightful information!
Nige exclaimed the voice of reason has finally emerged. There are valid arguments for both perspectives on the impact of globalization. In the past, the US had products labeled in English, manufactured domestically with high quality and durability. Now, we often purchase lower quality goods from developing countries with multilingual packaging. The use of international symbols reflects a troubling trend influenced by globalists. Many believe these changes have not been beneficial and we are forced to adapt to them.
An online decal store should have a wide selection of CAD files for various dashboards, providing customized labels for different machines and panels. Simply specify your preferences and have the decals peel-and-stick around switches. If they wear out over time, simply reorder and push "print". Rest assured, this process should not affect any warranties.
In a recent conversation, Digger Doug suggested that an online decal shop should have created CAD files of various dashboards by now, offering personalized labels for different machines and panels. This would allow customers to easily choose their desired text and simply peel and stick the labels around the switches. In case of any wear or damage, customers could simply reorder the decals with the click of a button. This convenient solution wouldn't void any warranties and proves that it wouldn't have been costly or inconvenient for Cat to have initially provided English readouts.
According to check, the argument that it would have been expensive or inconvenient for Cat to provide readouts in English has been debunked. However, using different decals means using different part numbers. As someone who has designed decals before, I can attest that a multi-million dollar machine could be delayed for customer acceptance and payment due to a simple $10 decal. This seemingly inexpensive decal can become very costly and high-priority. In order to avoid late delivery fees amounting to millions, I have witnessed $10 decals being flown in to ensure timely delivery.
According to Digger Doug, different decals have different part numbers, which can cause delays in customer acceptance and payment for a multi-million dollar machine. A seemingly insignificant $10 decal can become a costly and urgent problem, leading to expedited shipping to avoid late delivery fees. This emphasizes the importance of addressing potential issues promptly to prevent significant financial consequences. It appears that the perception of an issue may be more significant than the actual problem itself, as swift action is often taken to rectify any potential issues and maximize profits.
Nige suggested that the perception of an issue may be more prevalent than the actual existence of one. If it were a real problem, someone, possibly the OEMs, would have already addressed it to capitalize on the opportunity. On a related note, there have been instances where a customer, accompanied by an inspector, refused to approve a product until all decals were properly placed. This occurrence has been witnessed multiple times, prompting the company to have a local vinyl sign shop ready to produce decals at a moment's notice.
Hey Doug, just to clarify - I'm talking about using decals on dashboard panels to add English translations for those who may struggle with interpreting the pictographic symbols provided by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
Apologies, Nigel, I made a mistake.
lantraxco mentioned that in the past, CAT and DEERE had a practice of attaching a cable to the manual of the machine to ensure that it remained inside the cab for liability reasons. Despite this, CAT still allows for the manual to be easily removed if desired. Some operators remove the manuals due to damage from water or pests.
It's important to note that understanding pictographs can be challenging, especially for those who do not speak or read English. However, the use of ISO symbols aims to create a universal standard that transcends language barriers. While English may be common in many countries, it's essential to consider non-English speaking operators as well.
The use of ISO symbols in machinery is not about being politically correct but rather about establishing a universal language for equipment operation. These symbols help standardize communication across different platforms, languages, and manufacturers, ultimately making it easier for operators to understand and operate machinery efficiently.
When it comes to deciphering symbols on machinery, it can be frustrating for some individuals, especially as they age. However, the use of ISO symbols aims to eliminate variations in symbols across different machines and manufacturers, providing a consistent standard for operators to learn and understand.
While it may be challenging to remember every symbol on every machine, the consistent use of ISO symbols helps to create a universal language for equipment operation. Learning and familiarizing oneself with these symbols can simplify the process of operating different machines, regardless of the language spoken by the operator.
Some people find it challenging to remember a plethora of symbols in an operator manual, comparing it to learning a new language like Mandarin Chinese. However, in the case of a B series skid steer loader, the number of switches and lights is minimal, making it relatively easy to operate the machine without memorizing every symbol.
It is advisable to familiarize oneself with the essential functions of the machine rather than getting overwhelmed by the multitude of symbols. Learning on the go is effective for most individuals, as modern machines are designed to be user-friendly. It is prudent to understand the basic operations of the machine and not wait until faced with an issue to learn about its features.
In instances where language barriers or illiteracy pose a challenge, symbols on switches and controls can be more beneficial than written labels. Taking the time to understand the functions of each switch can prevent accidents and improve operational efficiency.
With advancements in technology, the future may see autonomous machines with minimal human intervention. Telematics enable remote control and diagnostic capabilities, streamlining maintenance and troubleshooting processes. While this automation offers convenience, it may also lead to job displacement and changes in workforce dynamics.
Globalization has brought about changes in the manufacturing industry, with equipment now manufactured in various countries with multilingual labeling. Embracing international symbols can enhance interoperability and foster collaboration among different cultures.
To simplify the process of labeling switches and controls, online decal shops can provide customized solutions for different machinery. Ordering customized labels or decals can help operators easily identify functions and enhance operational efficiency without compromising warranty agreements.
That was very well articulated! 😊👍 Keep up the great work!
Instead of placing stickers directly onto rocker switches, I prefer replicating the panel design surrounding them by applying a single large decal on the dashboard surface. This method ensures that lighted switches remain visible and the original markings on the switches are not obscured.