The new WA100M-8 compact wheel loader by Komatsu is the manufacturer’s first machine to be equipped with components from Würth Elektronik ICS. The company is supplying Komatsu with a new display with enhanced functionalities and a customer-specific GUI for the driver’s cab. A unique solution for power distribution, signal transfer and function control was also developed in order to significantly reduce the cable harness in the machine.

The customized solution comprises a central electrical unit with an ICCS 64P V2 CAN Controller and a relay box with ICCS PropCAN. The display of the Komatsu wheel loader is based on the WEcabin Display i7 by Würth Elektronik ICS. The WEcabin Display i7 is a robust display specially designed for mobile machines and commercial vehicles with a wide range of interfaces. With an ARM Cortex-A8 processor with 512 MB RAM, 4 GB flash drive, and a Linux-based operating system, it is powerful enough for complex controlling tasks and features a sophisticated graphical user interface. This was programmed specially by Würth Elektronik ICS according to Komatsu’s design specifications.

Reduced Cable Harness

A CAN-capable central electrical unit and a relay box were also developed by Würth Elektronik ICS for the new machine generation. The PCB-based integrated solution with its self-programmed ICCS modules (Intelligent Control and Command Systems) has replaced the previous hardwired system. With the solution from Würth Elektronik ICS, Komatsu has significantly reduced the size of the wiring harness and shortened assembly times.

The central electrical unit is located in the cab. It protects, controls and monitors different vehicle functions and establishes the connection to the display. The control functions are executed by an ICCS 64P V2 Controller which is integrated in the central electrical unit. The control unit acts as a gateway module and enables data exchange between two independent CAN buses: the one of the engine control, as well as the one of the ICCS 64P V2 Controller and the display. The relay box is integrated in the battery compartment. Different fuses and relays that switch and protect the starter, glow plug and battery are located in the relay box, as well as an ICCS PropCAN relay to control the hydraulic cooling fan.

Positive Feedback

Komatsu is very satisfied with its new compact wheel loader and electrical equipment from Würth Elektronik ICS. The new components in the vehicle electrics do not just offer important functions, such as displaying error codes in plain language for faster maintenance, but also serve as an upgrade to the compact wheel loader due to their modern design. The new display was considered by visitors to different trade fairs as tangible proof of the new machine’s high quality upon presentation of the WA100M‐8.