Nikken Rental Launches the Automated Excavator 'Yoisyo-Tonyu-kun' to Tackle Workforce Shortage

Nikken Rental's Innovative Step Towards Automation

In response to the recurring labor shortages and the challenges of skill inheritance in the construction industry, Nikken Rental, headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, has launched the rental of the autonomous hydraulic excavator RX, aptly named "Yoisyo-Tonyu-kun." This initiative is a collaborative effort with ARAV Corporation, based in Bunkyo, Tokyo, which has developed this state-of-the-art machinery.

The Context of the Rental Launch

Automation in construction equipment is increasingly recognized as a critical solution for improving both productivity and safety at construction sites. However, the high costs and barriers to entry often make automated machinery impractical, particularly for small to medium-sized enterprises. By offering the Yoisyo-Tonyu-kun for rental rather than outright purchase, Nikken Rental aims to provide an accessible pathway for construction firms to experiment with this advanced technology without committing to significant capital outlays.

Rental Details

- Start Date: September 1, 2025.
- Model Provided: CAT320, using ARAV's Model E retrofit technology.
- Equipment Type: Autonomous hydraulic excavator RX "Yoisyo-Tonyu-kun."
- Service Area: Initially available at major locations nationwide, with plans for expansion.
- Applications: Ideal for various operations in plants, yards, and recycling facilities.

What is Yoisyo-Tonyu-kun?

Yoisyo-Tonyu-kun is an innovative hydraulic excavator equipped with a retrofit autonomous driving system developed by ARAV. It is designed to automate the critical loading processes in settings such as plants and recycling yards. By utilizing sensors like LiDAR and IMU, the machine can accurately perceive its surroundings in real-time and perform optimal digging and dumping actions autonomously.

Future Developments

Looking ahead, Nikken Rental plans to leverage its extensive nationwide network of construction machinery to enhance support and maintenance for the Yoisyo-Tonyu-kun. The company is also focused on incorporating feedback from real-world applications to develop customized machinery and variations that cater to a broader range of operational needs.

Nikken Rental and ARAV Corporation are committed to strengthening their partnership as they work towards reducing labor requirements and enhancing safety in the construction sector.

About ARAV Corporation

ARAV Corporation specializes in developing remote operation and autonomous driving solutions for construction machinery. Their goal is to ensure a safe and secure working environment while applying their accumulated technologies and expertise to deploy practical solutions across various sectors.