Komatsu’s autonomous water truck concept vehicle is designed to work well with other autonomous vehicles
Komatsu aims to have its first autonomous water truck available for sale next year, after releasing a concept vehicle in September.
The company says its concept HS785-7 truck allows the operator to control both the truck itself and its water disbursement through the same platform.
Developed using Komatsu’s autonomous haulage system technology, the vehicle is intended for use on mine sites, to help enhance safety and productivity.
“Komatsu’s AHS enables the water truck to travel autonomously on a pre-defined haul road and work cooperatively with other autonomous trucks and staffed equipment,” the company says.
“The system controls the amount of water disbursed, according to the vehicle speed and haul road inclination, and also manages the watering history to avoid overwatering.”