Yanmar Holdings Co. announced Nov. 21 it has unveiled a prototype of a cutting-edge electric work machine with advanced force control at the Construction DX Challenge 2023, organized by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism.
Developed in collaboration with JAXA's Space Exploration Innovation Hub Center※1, the large SEA (Series Elastic Actuator), was part of a prototype for the next-generation work machine under the Moonshot Research and Development Program※2. Yanmar HD successfully implemented force control capabilities, a challenge for conventional hydraulic systems. Using the SEA composed of an electric motor, reducer, and spring, the functionality was implemented in an electric mini-excavator.
This technology aims to automate fine manual tasks, addressing labor shortages at construction sites. Moving forward, the company plans to conduct further verification to realize the practical applications of next-generation work machines in construction sites and similar environments.
Key Features:
- Test development of force control function using a large SEA that can be mounted on construction machinery.
- Development of a prototype incorporating this technology into a mini-excavator as part of the Moonshot Research and Development Program.
- Mechanization of delicate work in civil and construction sites, contributing to the labor-saving of material placement operations.
- Implementation of an articulated motor, not a conventional electric cylinder, to expand the range of motion through electrification, enabling high-altitude work like ceiling operations.
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