YANMAR has unveiled a prototype of a next generation electric work machine featuring advanced force control at the Construction DX Challenge 2023 in Japan.
Developed in collaboration with JAXA’s Space Exploration Innovation Hub Center, the large SEA (Series Elastic Actuator) was part of a prototype for the work machine under the Moonshot Research and Development Program.
Yanmar revealed it successfully implemented force control capabilities, described as 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 labour shortages on construction sites. The company now plans to conduct further verification to realise the practical applications of next generation work machines.
The base machine used in the project was a Yanmar Vi025 mini-excavator in the three-tonnes class.
