Kobelco excavator with AI safety system: Advanced technology for urban demolition projects

Kobelco is presenting a new excavator model that has been developed for use in urban areas. The machine combines a compact design with a modern safety system based on artificial intelligence. It recognizes when people are in the vicinity and intervenes automatically if necessary. Already in use in Japan, the system could also become relevant in Europe - provided that demand confirms the need.

Person recognition through AI: more safety on the construction site

At the heart of the new excavator is an environment monitoring system that works with the help of artificial intelligence. The aim is to detect dangerous situations at an early stage and react to them automatically. The technology continuously analyzes the machine's surroundings and registers whether there are people in the working area - even while the uppercarriage is rotating.

As soon as an approach is detected, a warning signal sounds in the cab. If the danger persists, the machine automatically interrupts its operation. This measure is intended to help reduce the risk of accidents on construction sites - especially in situations with limited visibility or high working pressure. The system works regardless of the number or position of people and is designed for various application scenarios.

360-degree all-round view thanks to cameras and cabin display

Several cameras on the machine provide a complete image of the surroundings. The images are combined on a large-format display inside the cab. This allows the machine operator to see what is happening around him at all times - even in areas that would otherwise be difficult to see.

This all-round view relieves the driver, increases visibility and helps to identify potential hazards in good time. This function is a noticeable gain, especially on tight construction sites, for example in existing buildings or on inner-city projects. The system supplements existing mirrors and actively supports the driver in his work.

Short tail and high reach boom: For demanding urban applications

The model shown is designed as a short-tail excavator and is particularly suitable for confined spaces. The compact design makes it possible to work efficiently even where larger machines quickly reach their limits. The low rear overhang allows safe turning in confined spaces - for example when demolishing between existing buildings.

The excavator can also be equipped with a high reach boom. This allows components to be reached at a height of several meters and dismantled in a targeted manner. The machine has a reinforced design for these tasks. An additional weight at the rear provides the necessary stability, even at maximum reach. The combination of reach, compactness and load capacity is particularly advantageous in urban demolition.

Model from Japan - not yet on the European market

The machine shown here comes from Japanese series production and bears a corresponding sticker of origin. It is currently only available on the domestic market. However, a market launch in Europe is conceivable if there is interest from the construction industry.

The concept offers many advantages, especially for companies that regularly work on inner-city construction sites. The combination of innovative safety technology, compact design and high functionality should be particularly convincing where space is limited and precision requirements are high.

Sustainable operation with HVO: Machines are suitable for alternative fuels

Kobelco also follows a contemporary approach when it comes to fuel. The machine is suitable for operation with HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) ex works. The alternative plant-based diesel fuel offers the possibility of significantly reducing CO₂ emissions - without any adjustments to the technology.

All of the manufacturer's current models support this fuel standard. This means that they are not only equipped for current environmental requirements, but also for future developments in the field of sustainable construction site logistics. The use of HVO can be a relevant criterion for public tenders in particular.