Komatsu have launched Smart Quarry Site, a tool that they claim can improve the productivity and fuel efficiency of a quarry. The tool allows operators to monitor and improve workplace safety in real time while reducing overall emissions on site.

The system is scheduled to be released by Komatsu at the end of 2023, following its sneak preview at Bauma 2022. This solution which will work across any make of machine focuses on six key areas: safety, site management, production, machine health, maintenance, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions for quarry operations and large civil construction projects.

Smart Quarry Site provides real time data of all machines in the fleet, of their payloads and production rates. It helps users to increase safety and production and reduces operating costs by identifying issues and bottlenecks. Operators will be able to quickly make decisions to optimise their fleet’s efficiency.

“Smart Quarry Site gives our quarry and large construction customers an ongoing real-time overview of every machine’s movement and condition and allows to visualise opportunities and achieve targets for each”, says Daniel Heussen, General Manager Business Transformation at Komatsu Europe. He adds: “Important KPI’s for the whole fleet, such as payload, fuel use and machine work time, are reported to let site managers make educated decisions without having to spend hours analysing raw data.”

With a unique ID, each operator can login to the system and receive instant information. The in-cab screen gives real time feedback on current payload, material type and destination.

Data can be exchanged between machines via a mesh network of peer-to-peer connections. When a machine is in an area with no connectivity, data shared on this network will automatically upload once one of the mobile machines comes back within range.

Thanks to this mesh network, the loader and truck will connect, allowing the loader’s operator to optimise the trucks’ payload with every cycle.

The easy-to-use dashboards and real-time view facilitate quick access to fleet and production information for all back-office personnel. At a glance, they provide necessary details and insights on several aspects of the jobsite, such as safety, production, idling, CO2 and fuel and machine status.

To receive a quick overview on topics such the pre-start checks or production, a report and schedule can be configured and it will be sent to a mailbox at the scheduled time.