Hitachi partners on tech for automated control of excavators

Hitachi Construction Machinery UK has started a partnership with Topcon Positioning GB to provide automated machine control technology.
Loading, Hauling & Excavation / March 20, 2020
By Liam McLoughlin
David Roberts CEO of HCMUK (left) and Dave Bennett MD of Topcon Positioning GB
David Roberts CEO of HCMUK (left) and Dave Bennett MD of Topcon Positioning GB

The partnership will see HCMUK install the Topcon X53-x automated machine control system on its range of excavators. Hitachi says this will give customers access to sophisticated technology that allows for a more efficient workflow, by minimising the risk of over-digging while improving productivity and helping to save time, money and materials. 

The Topcon X53-x uses some of the same components as Topcon's original machine control system, but has been designed and developed with the addition of hydraulic, automated control. The system provides automated depth control, which Hitachi says means that digging in flat, stepped or sloped applications is done precisely, even by a novice operator. 

David Roberts, CEO of HCMUK, commented: "Our customers are increasingly looking for enhanced productivity and efficiency in their excavators and, with connected technology like ConSite, Hitachi has been proactive in providing solutions for some time now. By entering into this partnership with Topcon, we are taking our intelligent machine offering to the next level, allowing our customers to choose from a base kit to future proof their fleets, through to full automation as seen on the ZX225US-6."

Dave Bennett, MD at Topcon Positioning GB, said that the demand for intelligent machine control systems is continuing to grow across the UK. "The innovative X53-x is improving efficiency and accuracy for machine operators across Europe, and we're looking forward to seeing how it can improve workflows for Hitachi's customers," he added.

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