EUREKA’s Drone-Powered Solar Panel Retrieval Redefines Construction at Osaka Expo

EUREKA's Breakthrough: Drone-Powered Solar Panel Retrieval at Osaka Expo

EUREKA Inc., based in Chuo, Tokyo, has achieved a significant milestone in construction by employing drones to retrieve approximately 250 solar panels from a prominent Middle Eastern national pavilion at the Osaka Expo. This groundbreaking operation, utilizing large drones equipped with winches, is a first in Japan, aiming to reshape traditional practices in the construction industry. It successfully demonstrates how to drastically reduce construction times, costs, and ensure safety in an eco-friendly manner.

Background: Confronting Complexity and Time Constraints

The operation took place in a meticulously designed pavilion resembling traditional urban structures, featuring numerous buildings of varying heights. Each building was outfitted with solar panels on the rooftops, necessitating extensive scaffolding to facilitate their retrieval. However, the site was further complicated by the simultaneous demolition of adjacent pavilions, making scaffolding installation financially and logistically impractical. The high risks posed to worker safety rendered conventional methods nearly impossible.

Challenge Accepted: Opting for Aerial Solutions

In response to these challenges, EUREKA shifted from conventional ground approaches to innovative aerial methods, effectively streamlining the retrieval process of solar panels. The teams devised a groundbreaking procedure to lift solar panels weighing approximately 23kg each directly to areas accessible by cranes.

Not only was this efficient, but it also showcased exceptional innovation:

- Remarkable Efficiency: By eliminating the need for scaffolding entirely, EUREKA accomplished the complete retrieval of all panels in just two days.
- Meeting QCDSE Standards: EUREKA maintained high standards across construction and manufacturing’s five major management criteria—Quality, Cost, Delivery, Safety, and Environment—with remarkable success.

This project was conducted under the strict oversight of Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism and received approval from RIMOND JAPAN, a leading global construction corporation. The solid partnership with Sky Seeker Ltd. and Aim LLC was crucial for the project’s execution.

Paving the Way for a Sustainable Future

In line with the Osaka Expo’s theme of “A Testing Ground for Future Societies,” this project also prioritized reducing environmental impacts. Utilizing cutting-edge semi-solid batteries for drone power management, EUREKA employed a high-capacity portable battery (SuperBase V) for quick charging at 200V. This not only shortened operating timelines but also achieved a carbon-neutral outcome, ensuring zero CO2 emissions throughout the process.

Acknowledgments

Mert Cek, CEO of RIMOND JAPAN

Mert Cek expressed gratitude for EUREKA’s exemplary service, emphasizing their comprehensive power solutions provided during the project. He noted their professionalism and the innovative methods used during the retrieval of solar panels, which catered to the specific conditions on-site. Cek further highlighted EUREKA’s flexible approach towards collaboration with international firms as a significant asset, fostering effective communication.

John Herald Chong, CEO of EUREKA Inc.

John Harold Chong stated, “The success of this project symbolizes the dawn of a new era in Japan's construction industry. Faced with the pavilion's intricate structure, we believed that sustainability and efficiency could coexist.” He remarked on the astonishment of staff from neighboring pavilions as they witnessed drones transporting the solar panels, marking a historic technological advancement. EUREKA aims to continue merging global standards with Japanese quality to enhance disaster preparedness and promote renewable energy, contributing to a safer, more convenient future for all.

About EUREKA Inc.

EUREKA stands firm on the principle of sustainability, offering a comprehensive rental service from design and installation to removal. They particularly excel in providing reliable temporary power solutions critical for televised events and international engagements, utilizing innovative technologies like HVO fuels and semi-solid batteries to support carbon-neutral energy distribution.