Komatsu Smart Quarry Autonomous, powered by Pronto, has been named a finalist for the ConExpo-Con/Agg Next Level Awards, which recognize equipment and technologies that demonstrate measurable potential to advance operations.
The technology awards highlight solutions that apply emerging automation and digital capabilities to real-world jobsite challenges, with the winner determined by votes cast during the show March 3-7.
“Quarry operations are under pressure to keep production moving despite ongoing labor challenges,” says Michael Gidaspow, chief digital officer at Komatsu North America. “Autonomous haulage can help address ongoing workforce challenges by reducing reliance on skilled operators, helping to mitigate the impact of absenteeism and shift changes and enabling more predictable haul cycles across operating hours. Being recognized as a Next Level Award finalist reinforces that quarry-scale autonomy can deliver meaningful operational wins without unnecessary complexity.”
Komatsu says Smart Quarry Autonomous is designed to be deployed quickly and economically without the need for extensive site infrastructure or a dedicated control center. The solution can be installed as a retrofit on select Komatsu haul trucks, enabling quarry operators to adopt autonomy in stages and match the sensor stack to their specific haul roads and environment.
The autonomous system utilizes AI, onboard computing and sensor-based perception technologies to navigate mapped haul routes. System configurations are determined based on site requirements and applicable commercial agreements.
Komatsu says its dealers support Smart Quarry Autonomous through hardware installation, system deployment, training and ongoing service. Components are supplied through Komatsu’s distribution network, helping ensure consistency, supportability and long-term service readiness.
