#Japan #Tokyo #DEEPX #Caisson #Oriental Shiraishi

DeepX Achieves Remarkable Autonomous Operations in Construction

DeepX, a Tokyo-based AI startup, recently made headlines for its groundbreaking accomplishment in the realm of construction automation. Under the supervision of Oriental Shiraishi Co., Ltd., DeepX successfully implemented a continuous autonomous operation of three caisson excavators for over six hours at an actual construction site. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the automation of construction machinery, particularly in the field of pneumatic caisson methods.

Overview of the Pneumatic Caisson Method

The pneumatic caisson method is a specialized technique used for constructing various underground structures, such as bridge foundations, dams, sewage pumping stations, and shield tunnel shafts. This method involves creating a reinforced concrete structure above ground, establishing a working space below it, and using compressed air to prevent groundwater intrusion while excavating the soil and lowering the structure into place.

Traditionally, the operation of these machines has relied heavily on skilled operators, often requiring real-time visual monitoring from the surface. However, this dependency on human observation comes with challenges, including difficulty in assessing underground conditions through camera feeds and a general shortage of skilled labor in the construction industry.

Understanding the Autonomous System

DeepX's autonomous excavator system utilizes various sensors, including LiDAR, to create a real-time digital twin of the caisson environment. This system enables the automatic measuring of soil shape, height, and opening rates while autonomously controlling multiple excavators. Key features of the system include:
1. Real-time 3D Visualization: Offers a comprehensive view of the work environment.
2. Automated Soil Transport: Streamlines the soil-moving process with minimal human interference.
3. Proximity Detection and Emergency Functions: Detects close proximity to equipment and automatically plans alternate routes or halts operations in emergencies.
4. Collision Avoidance: Ensures that multiple excavators can operate safely without risk of collision.
5. Seamless Transition: Enables easy switching between autonomous and manual control modes.

By adopting this technology, DeepX aims to reduce reliance on skilled operators for visual judgment while minimizing on-site human presence, enhancing both safety and productivity on construction sites.

Highlights of the Demonstration

1) Successful Obstacle Avoidance and Collision Prevention

In the operational tests, various items within the caisson were designated as obstacles. During the autonomous operation, the system successfully demonstrated its ability to detect these obstacles and autonomously navigate around them, with automatic stopping when collision risks were identified.

2) Six-Hour Continuous Operation with Three Excavators

The most impressive aspect of the demonstration was the successful simultaneous autonomation of three caisson excavators for six continuous hours. With personnel monitoring the operations, the team achieved their goal seamlessly, with no incidents of collisions or accidents throughout the duration of the test.

Future Prospects

In light of the promising results from this demonstration, DeepX is committed to enhancing productivity and fully automating construction methods. Plans are underway for a phased introduction of this autonomous technology across multiple construction sites. The company aims to address the critical labor shortages and the aging workforce challenges the construction industry is facing by advancing automation technologies, ultimately improving safety and productivity on-site.

About DeepX

Founded in 2016 as a spinoff from the University of Tokyo, DeepX operates with the mission of automating machinery and innovating production scenes globally. The company seeks to tackle pressing issues, such as labor shortages and the need for skilled workers, utilizing AI and various advanced technologies to drive automation across diverse sectors.

• - Headquarters: 3-21-4 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
• - Established: April 22, 2016
• - CEO: Shoji Tomiyama
• - Business Focus: Automation of machinery and on-site operations, AI-driven business development, software creation, and R&D.
• - Website: DeepX

About Oriental Shiraishi Co., Ltd.

Dating back to its founding in 1952, Oriental Shiraishi has grown into a leading construction firm specializing in prestressed concrete and pneumatic caisson methods. With a philosophy focused on leveraging human talent and technology, the company aims to continually evolve as a vital contributor to society.

• - Headquarters: 5-6-52 Toyosu, Koto-ku, Tokyo
• - Established: October 21, 1952
• - CEO: Mitsuru Terui
• - Business Focus: Manufacturing and construction of prestressed concrete, pneumatic caissons, reinforcement technology, and earthquake-resistant construction measures.
• - Website: Oriental Shiraishi

Related Releases

DeepX has previously demonstrated autonomy in multiple construction machines simultaneously at pneumatic caisson sites, showcasing the potential for significant advancement in the industry.

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