Project Minotaur is a new machine that will bring dozer and CTL functionality to worksites in a single unit, but it relies on mature, proven technology that will make it easier to manufacture, sell and, when necessary, service.

The CASE team looked, as it always does to ensure reliability and provide a common look and feel for customer interfaces, at the best features of its range of products – from skid steer loaders (SSLs), compact track loaders (CTLs) to dozers, and backhoes — and liberally borrowed lessons learned and best-in-class ideas from across its offering.

Sometimes, the innovation challenge meant finding new components, like a pump to drive the motor, or increased tubing size to yield better flow and performance, so the team researched components and, in most cases, worked with its existing, proven suppliers to find the best solutions.

“There’s an assigned manufacturing person capturing video of each prototype build on a daily basis, which is then shared with the team to create the best installation process,” said Murali Mani, who’s focused on Minotaur’s hydraulics system. “They’re looking for a ways to enhance the current assembly line setup with the help of Minotaur.”

“One place we should see the benefit of using proven technology and reliable components will be in the field,” added Tim Hinkle, Design Engineer, who works on engine dress systems (intake, exhaust, cooling). “There’ll be less to learn for dealers, and parts will be familiar to the service techs, so they can leverage their existing capabilities.”