Komatsu established a partnership with Ouster, a provider of lidar sensors and software solutions, for its suite of autonomous mining equipment offerings.
According to Komatsu, the companies signed a multimillion-dollar agreement to equip Komatsu’s equipment with advanced 3D digital lidar sensors. Ouster sensors feature benefits such as zone monitoring and routine firmware updates that continuously improve the performance of the stack, accelerating product development.
Additionally, Komatsu says the deal provides a pathway to an upgraded autonomy stack to replace legacy 2D lidar systems with 3D lidar for maximum perception and enhanced vehicle functionality. Komatsu’s autonomous solutions will incorporate a mix of long and short-range OS sensors from Ouster’s REV7 series that offer improved detection, navigation and collision avoidance.
“Ouster’s products developed through this partnership can withstand the shock, vibration and temperature constraints while delivering the enhanced range and spatial awareness necessary to operate in harsh mining environments,” says Matt Reiland, technical director of automation innovation at Komatsu.
Ouster is headquartered in San Francisco.
