Designed for the ultimate operator experience
Each working environment is different, with special requirements and conditions, and end-users with different needs. This is why Ruukki uses virtual 3D modeling to make a systematic analysis of ergonomics during the design phase of each cabin project. The end-result is a high-class cabin environment that delivers excellent end-user experience and enhanced operator commitment.
The right design and material solutions not only impact greatly on total cabin cost, but also on operator experience. The cabin is a key factor affecting operator safety, comfort and productivity. It also plays an integral part in the operator’s motivation and capability to safely carry out precise, faultless work. Ruukki utilizes concept design combined with virtual reality models throughout the design and prototyping stages of all operator cabins.
Ruukki’s strong cabin production expertise – supported by its own centre of excellence in R&D – enables the company to develop the best possible cabins at optimized total product cost, in cooperation with its customers. Smart design leads to functionality for the end-user and efficiency in manufacturing.
Virtual modeling puts you in the operator’s seat
A cabin is a human-machine interface and therefore an essential component of any mobile machine. The location of the control devices and the usage of space have a great affect on operator satisfaction, safety and productivity. Ruukki employs realistic 3D human visualization in a virtual reality laboratory to analyze working positions, usability and visibility from the cabin. User experience studies are other tools used to ensure good ergonomics and safety. Virtual modeling marks a step towards machine operatorcentric design. Customers and end-users can take part in designing cabins for mobile machines from the very start.
The customer is able to see whether a cabin is taking shape as required, and also whether there are any shortcomings. This ensures the ultimate working environment for the cabin operator. Any technical failings are detected during the test stage. New generations of cabins are designed virtually and increasingly in a modular process. Instead of individual cabins, Ruukki provides customers with total cabin solutions ready for installation.
Modular design enables variations to be built based on configurations sold to specific end-customers. This provides greater flexibility, and shorter lead times compared to making modifications and tailored structures. When developing new generations of cabin, Ruukki not only engineers the product, but also plans the order-to-delivery process, including sourcing, manufacturing, assembly, testing and logistics.
The cabin is the operator’s office
The operator cabin of an RTG crane is a good example of a cabin requiring careful design. Not only is the cabin made of glass and steel, it is also located at a height of 20 meters and exposed to extreme weather conditions. The cabin of an RTG crane is like an office, with an array of electronic equipment, including screens showing where the containers are located. Visibility is an extremely important factor, not least from the ergonomics and safety aspects. Working high up, a harbor crane operator has to constantly look down at the containers when moving them. At Ruukki, ergonomics is an integrated feature of cabin design. Joysticks must be within easy reach to enable an operator to control the crane’s functions. This in turn minimizes the risk of accidents.
From design to delivery
Ruukki manufactures fully assembled operator cabins for mobile machines used in goods and container handling, mining, forestry and construction. All the customer needs to do is to install the finished cabin on the vehicle. Ruukki does the rest. And all Ruukki’s cabins are designed for ultimate operator experience.
