Yanmar HD Tackles Labour Shortages with Automated Construction Machinery

Yanmar HD has developed an electric work machine with advanced force management capabilities, using a Series Elastic Actuator (SEA) as part of the Moonshot Research and Development Program.

FREMONT, CA: Yanmar Holdings Co., Ltd. (Yanmar HD) recently revealed a pioneering prototype of an electric work machine featuring advanced force management during the Construction DX Challenge 2023, hosted by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism.

This groundbreaking prototype showcased the integration of the massive Series Elastic Actuator (SEA), a collaborative creation between Yanmar HD and JAXA's Space Exploration Innovation Hub Center. Developed as part of the Moonshot Research and Development Program, the SEA represents a pivotal component within the next-generation work machine prototype. Its implementation marks a significant leap forward in force control capabilities, a feat previously challenging for conventional hydraulic systems.

Yanmar HD effectively harnessed force control capabilities within an electric mini-excavator by leveraging the SEA's innovative design. Comprising an electric motor, reducer, and spring, the SEA played a pivotal role in achieving enhanced functionality within the prototype, setting a new standard in the industry.

The primary objective of this technology is to address the labour shortage prevalent at construction sites through the automation of intricate manual tasks. To further explore and implement the practical uses of advanced work machinery in construction sites and similar settings, the company is committed to conducting additional verification processes in the future.

Aligned with the overarching initiative of the YANMAR GREEN CHALLENGE 2050, the Yanmar Group remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a sustainable society. As part of this commitment, we actively support our clients in minimising their carbon footprint by consistently advancing electrification and other innovative technologies.

Key Features

The focus of this initiative revolves around advancing the force control functionality through rigorous testing on a sizable Series Elastic Actuator (SEA) suitable for installation on construction equipment. A pivotal aspect involves the integration of this technology into a prototype mini-excavator, aligning with the objectives of the Moonshot Research and Development Program. This pioneering endeavour aims to mechanise intricate tasks within civil and construction sites, significantly streamlining labour-intensive material placement operations.

Notably, incorporating an articulated motor, rather than a conventional electric cylinder, is a pivotal innovation enabling expanded motion capabilities through electrification. This advancement facilitates high-altitude operations such as ceiling work, presenting a transformative leap in construction machinery capabilities.

The development of this electric work machine represents a significant step forward in the construction industry. By leveraging the SEA's innovative design, Yanmar HD has overcome the limitations of conventional hydraulic systems and achieved enhanced force control capabilities. This breakthrough is expected to significantly impact the automation of intricate manual tasks and reduce labour shortages at construction sites. Furthermore, incorporating an articulated motor enables expanded motion capabilities, making it possible for construction machinery to perform previously impossible tasks. As Yanmar HD continues to develop and refine this technology, it is clear that the future of construction is electric.