Komatsu partners with Ouster to expand autonomous capabilities on mining machines

Komatsu has partnered with Ouster to add a suite of autonomous mining equipment featuring lidar technology to its lineup. The two companies signed a multimillion-dollar agreement to equip Komatsu's equipment with 3D digital lidar sensors. Ouster sensors include zone monitoring and routine firmware updates that continuously improve the performance of the stack and accelerate product development. 

Komatsu's autonomous offerings are designed to increase productivity and reduce the total cost of ownership while promoting zero harm. 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 to benefit future offerings to provide increased capabilities and intelligence, including improved detection, navigation, and collision avoidance.

Komatsu advances safe and sustainable mining 

This agreement marks a significant milestone in Komatsu's ongoing journey to advance mining automation and safety. By integrating Ouster's cutting-edge lidar technology into mining equipment, Komatsu reaffirms its commitment to empower contractors to operate more efficiently, safely, and sustainably. 

"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," said Matt Reiland, technical director, automation innovation at Komatsu.