Development of an automatic detection support system using AI image analysis for large wheel loaders

February 19, 2024 -- Komatsu (President: Hiroyuki Ogawa) has developed an assistance system for the WA900-8R large wheel loader that uses AI image analysis to automatically detect missing bucket teeth (*1) and rolling stones (*2) around the vehicle. In order to improve the productivity and safety of our customers' sites, we aim to start general sales by the end of fiscal 2025.

At the customer's site, the crusher fails due to the falling tooth entering the crusher (crusher), and the wheel loader rides on a sharp rolling stone at the stone crushing site, causing tire cut (damage). When these occur, there are costs associated with repairing and replacing crushers and tires, as well as opportunity losses due to on-site shutdowns. In addition, the work of searching for a dropped tooth in the field is fraught with great danger.

In order to solve these problems, Komatsu has developed an automatic detection support system for large wheel loaders. This assistance system can automatically detect tooth dropouts and rolling stones near the vehicle using AI-based image analysis. The tooth drop detection support system monitors the condition of the tooth in real time using a camera unit installed under the front lights on the left and right sides of the vehicle body and AI image analysis. If the system detects a tooth dropout, the operator is notified of the tooth omission by a monitor display and an audible warning.

In addition, the rolling stone detection assist system monitors the front and side directions of the front tires in real time using camera units installed above the front lights on the left and right sides of the vehicle body and AI image analysis. If the system detects a falling stone of a predetermined size in the detection area, a display on the monitor and an audible warning will prompt the operator to avoid the falling stone.

Komatsu has adopted the medium-term management plan "DANTOTSU Value – Together, to "The Next" for sustainable growth through the Dantotsu Value (creation of customer value that creates a virtuous cycle of improving profitability and solving ESG issues), we will step into the next stage of the future workplace and aim to create new value in order to pass on a sustainable future to the next generation.

*1 Tooth shedding: The tooth (claw) attached to the tip of the bucket to improve excavation performance falls off due to damage caused by impact during loading work.
*2 Rolling rock: Rock that has fallen at a mining site immediately after blasting or during loading.

Management number: 0091(3314)

*The information contained in this news release is current at the time of announcement and is subject to change without notice.