A remote construction system using two 6-axis Elephant Robotics robotic arms as relay devices to reproduce joystick inputs and remotely control a backhoe for excavation via 5G.
Construction sites are hazardous, while labor shortages are increasing the demand for remote and automated construction. However, existing backhoe teleoperation systems are often bulky, expensive, and difficult to install.
Key Challenges:
The system needed to enable reliable remote operation without modifying the backhoe’s original cockpit controller, while also providing real-time information about the machine’s posture, position, and working environment.
Solution:
The researchers used two 6-axis Elephant Robotics robotic arms as relay devices for the Cat Command system, physically reproducing remote joystick inputs to control the backhoe. Combined with 5G communication, onboard sensing, and a 360° camera, the system enabled remote operation from an office 1.2 km away and successfully completed soil excavation.
