Doosan Infracore announced in March that it had introduced the industry’s first wheel loader with a “transparent bucket” function.
The transparent bucket is a system that allows the wheel loader driver to see even blind spots in front of the bucket through the monitor in the cockpit. The innovative system records images in front of the wheel loader with cameras installed at the top and bottom and shows the combined images in real time using a curved projection method.
The front of the wheel loader has been considered a major safety issue due to blind spots. With the transparent bucket function, however, the driver can easily check the blind spot in front of the bucket with a monitor to prevent safety accidents.
Another advantage is that it can significantly improve work efficiency by enabling a forward perspective through the monitor during loading/unloading work or carrying of soil and sand.
“As construction safety standards have been significantly reinforced, the advanced safety system has become the key equipment option. We plan to continue developing functions that can protect the safety of drivers and nearby workers and lead the creation of accident-free construction sites,” a Doosan Infracore official said.
Source: Doosan Infracore Official Website (The original article was partially revised by the author.)
PSR Analysis: This is a good example of how digital technology can dramatically improve safety and work efficiency. Blind spots in equipment are a cause of accidents, and if blind spots can be reduced, this in itself can contribute to safety. In addition, the increased visibility will help close the gap between novice and experienced drivers in terms of operability.
Doosan Infracore has applied for patents for this technology in Korea, North America, Europe, and China. The time will soon come when around-view monitor (AVM) systems that can monitor the surroundings and rear warning systems that use ultrasonic sensors will be standard equipment on future construction machinery. PSR
Akihiro Komuro is Research Analyst, Far East and Southeast Asia, for Power Systems Research
