Robot excavator operates alone for 24 hours

By Mike Hayes14 July 2021

Autonomous machine ‘key step’ on road to unmanned construction site equipment

Graphic showing the AES elements that operate on board the autonomous excavator

A robotic excavator has been tested in real-world construction scenarios, working continuously for more than 24 hours.

The autonomous excavator system (AES) was developed by researchers from Baidu Research Robotics, Auto-Driving Lab (RAL) and the University of Maryland, who say the technology allows the machine to perform on a par with an experienced human operator, working without intervention for long periods.

The AES uses algorithms to perceive its environment, plan actions and control its movements, utilising multiple proprioceptive sensors, LiDAR and camera technology to identify and target material to be excavated.

The developers say the same technology could be used on excavators of all sizes and has the potential to increase productivity across a range of applications, as well as mitigating the increasing skills shortage.

The research team published a paper in Science Robotics, in which it said, “While most industry robots are comparatively smaller and function in more predictable environments, excavator robots are required to operate in an extensive range of hazardous environmental conditions. They must be able to identify target materials, avoid obstacles, handle uncontrollable environments, and continue running under difficult weather conditions.”

During testing, the AES was successfully deployed at a waste disposal site, at which toxic and harmful substances were present. The system was also tested in conditions of extreme cold, where the machine managed to excavate more than 67m3 of material per hour (comparable with the anticipated output of a manned excavator with the same operating weight).

Baidu says it has been collaborating with several of the world’s leading construction OEMs to automate traditional heavy construction machinery with the AES.

Dr Haifeng Wang, CTO of Baidu, said, “We aim to leverage our robust and secure platform, infused with our powerful AI and cloud capabilities to transform the construction industry.”

MAGAZINE
NEWSLETTER
Delivered directly to your inbox, Construction Technology Newsletter features the pick of the breaking news stories, product launches, show reports and more from KHL's world-class editorial team.
Latest News
How technology can advance modular construction
Modular construction can play a role in the industry becoming more sustainable, and tech can turbocharge this process, says Eva Carranza, Hexagon’s Global Director ESG & Sustainability
Rapid tech adoption and optimism at heart of global construction
KPMG survey reveals sector’s increased takeup of robotic process automation, virtual reality, project management information systems (PIMS), drones, smart sensors and AI
B2W Software expands alerts and notifications capabilities
New features from a Trimble company lets contractors communicate automatically and in real time
CONNECT WITH THE TEAM
Andy Brown Editor, Editorial, UK - Wadhurst Tel: +44 (0) 1892 786224 E-mail: andy.brown@khl.com
Mike Hayes Editor, Construction Europe Tel: +44 (0)1892 786 231 E-mail: mike.hayes@khl.com
Catrin Jones Deputy Editor, Editorial, UK – Wadhurst Tel: +44 (0) 791 2298 133 E-mail: catrin.jones@khl.com
Eleanor Shefford Sales Manager Tel: +44 (0)1892 786236 E-mail: eleanor.shefford@khl.com
CONNECT WITH SOCIAL MEDIA