Category: Concrete Blogs

Komatsu and AgJunction have are partnering in a project designed to automate the operation of multiple off-highway trucks on construction sites.

The two companies will use what Komatsu is calling “Digital Transformation Smartconstruction” or DX Smartconstruction to examine how multiple automated trucks can flexibly respond to different work conditions. First fruits of the joint project are expected to be unveiled in Japan within the next two years.

The challenges to effectively using automation in the ever-changing construction environment are many, Komatsu notes. Loading, dumping and haul routes frequently change and the trucks must find their way around workers, other equipment and materials.

The partnership will combine AgJunction’s general-purpose automation kit, which enables real-time obstacle detection and avoidance, with Komatsu’s planned automation-compatible dump trucks. The two companies say they will take advantage of Komatsu’s DX Smartconstruction platform, which provides truck operating instructions that respond to position information and downloaded construction plans.  This joint effort is also designed to cut both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by using optimal truck deployment and haul routes.

[Related: Komatsu, Honda Team Up to Build Micro Electric Excavators.]

AgJunction, located in Scottsdale, Arizona, previously integrated customized autosteering systems for Komatsu’s construction equipment used in agricultural markets. AgJunction currently provides automation modules that support mapping, path planning and autosteering for these machines.

The two companies will work together to provide automated operations for construction sites that build on AgJunction’s Novariant division’s proprietary autosteering, connectivity and sensor fusion technology. During the first phase, the partnership will develop a proof-of-concept system to showcase safe operations using Noviariant’s advanced obstacle detection and avoidance  algorithms. 

“After the successful integration of the customized autosteering, we look forward to continuing our collaboration with Novariant in developing an automated system capable of being integrated on multiple vehicle platforms for construction workplaces,” says Yuichi Iwamoto, Komatsu chief technology officer. “Automated operation of multiple dump trucks is required to achieve safe, highly-productive, smart and clean workplaces of the future.”

Caterpillar has taken the wraps off a pair of new wheeled excavators, the Cat M319 with a short front-end design and the Cat M320 with a longer wheelbase.

Wheeled excavators excel at urban sites, whether it be working from paved surfaces, traveling from point to point or operating inside cities. The compact footprint of the Cat M319 gets you into and out of confined workspaces whether it be utility work, general excavating or trenching.

With its minimal, 6-foot, 3-inch tail swing, you can dig, swing and dump with limited side overhang making it possible to work up against buildings, built structures, other machines or barriers. And when scooting over to the next job, you can road this machine at speeds up to 21.7 miles per hour.

The 46,407-pound M319 runs on a Cat C4.4 diesel engine putting out 171 net horsepower. It digs down to 18-feet, 10-inches and reaches up to 30-feet, 3-inches. Maximum loading height is 25-feet, 7-inches.  Auxiliary hydraulic options with high- and medium-pressure circuits and one and two-way pressure flow allow you to tailor the machine configuration a wide range of attachments.  

Cat M320

With its longer wheelbase, the Cat M320 increases operating stability, improves machine ride when roading and offers up to nine percent more swing torque than its predecessor, the Cat M320F.

A Cat C4.4 diesel engine with 129.4 horsepower provides the punch as this 46,740-pound machine digs to a depth of 19-feet, 9-inches. Max reach is 30-feet, 6-inches and loading height comes in at 22-feet, 10-inches. On-demand electric cooling fans conserve fuel and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) to lower operating costs. And it can run on B20 biodiesel.

A dedicated swing pump provides consistent power. The advanced hydraulic system automatically balances power and efficiency to give operators more machine control for precise working requirements. When the job calls for it, a heavy lift mode boosts lifting capacities.

The M320 also reduces service time with centralized grease points and an automatic lubrication system option for the implement and swing system. 

Features in common

On both machines you’ll find an updated the cab on with a new 10-inch touchscreen monitor and intuitive machine controls. You can program joystick configurations and power preferences and recall operator-specific settings based on a unique operator ID.  A tilt-up console makes cab entry and exit easier and viscous mounts reduce vibration feedback in the cab, keeping you more comfortable and focused during all-day work sessions. 

As for maintenance, fluid sampling ports and daily maintenance points can all be accessed from ground level to simplify these chores. You can also track filter life and maintenance intervals inside the cab via the touchscreen monitor.

The operator ID features a push button start for added security, and the M320 offers a Bluetooth enabled key fob. Also useful on crowded jobsites is an optional 360-degree visibility system that pulls together video from multiple cameras around the machine to give operators a complete view of their surroundings.

Two cab designs are available. Deluxe comes standard with a heated and air-adjustable seat. Premium offers a heated and ventilated seat that automatically adjusts.

 

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