5G Empowers Remote-Controlled Excavator Applications

As autonomous driving technology and artificial intelligence continue to advance, self-driving construction machinery will play an increasingly important role in various fields. These machines can improve work efficiency, reduce labor costs, and enhance work safety. The application trends for autonomous construction vehicles include construction operations, agricultural work, mining and logistics, urban construction and maintenance, as well as mining and hazardous environments.

Remote operation of construction machinery serves as a complement to autonomous driving, mainly targeting scenarios involving work in dangerous areas. Traditionally, WiFi or 433 MHz methods were used to transmit control and monitoring commands. However, the current 5G network, with its low latency and high-speed characteristics, can effectively enable remote control of hydraulic main valves for the boom, arm, bucket, slewing, traveling, dozer blade, and attachment actions. It also allows remote control of hydraulic solenoid valves, such as pilot enable valves and travel two-speed valves, as well as remote control of the engine for starting, speed regulation, and shutdown. Additionally, 5G enables remote control of peripheral electrical components like horns and lighting.

The remote controller can display real-time video from various angles of the excavator, as well as machine operating parameters and alarm information such as engine speed, oil pressure, water temperature, fuel level, and hydraulic pressure. This approach can reduce the risk factor for operators.

 Application Solution Introduction

Data Collection Terminal:

On-board system image acquisition, on-board computer, on-board controller and other devices are connected to the communication equipment.

Communication:

Mainly provides network access. The on-board and remote controller networks need to be interconnected (using a 5G private network approach).

**Remote Controller**:
1. Controls excavation actions through a portable remote controller.
2. A computer can view real-time video from four directions of the current excavator.