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EIZO and Obayashi Corporation Pioneering Remote Control Solutions in Disaster Recovery

EIZO Corporation, headquartered in Hakusan, Ishikawa, has entered into a collaborative effort with Obayashi Corporation to advance remote control technology for construction machinery. This initiative aims to leverage 3D imaging technology during disaster recovery activities in the Noto Peninsula region. The practical demonstration marks a significant step forward in ensuring safety and efficiency in construction operations following natural disasters.

Background of the Initiative

The collaboration focuses on the urgent recovery efforts due to the Noto Peninsula earthquake. Obayashi Corporation was tasked with the emergency landslide recovery construction work, which emphasized the critical need for remote construction operations to enhance safety measures in hazardous areas prone to secondary disasters. By connecting the recovery site in Wajima, Ishikawa, with a remote control hub in Kimitsu, Chiba, they successfully implemented unmanned construction initiatives to mitigate disaster risks associated with falling debris.

Historically, remote control has faced challenges such as limited perception of spatial awareness, as traditional 2D video feeds do not provide an adequate sense of distance, hampering operational effectiveness.

Innovative Approach

To address these challenges, EIZO and Obayashi have deployed a trial of a 3D imaging remote control solution. This technology allows operators to recreate a spatial understanding similar to being physically present in the equipment. As a result, operators can focus on a single 3D visual feed without needing to divide their attention across multiple 2D displays, significantly enhancing work efficiency and safety. This solution was developed with collaboration from Hitachi Construction Machinery, with plans for a formal announcement slated for April 2024.

Validation Results

The initial outcomes from the site demonstrations have revealed several impactful benefits:

1. Enhanced Work Efficiency: In trials comparing the traditional 2D operation versus the new 3D model, notable improvements were observed in task duration for soil loading operations. The depth perception offered by 3D imaging has directly contributed to speedier work execution.

2. Improved Safety Protocols: Utilizing EIZO's streaming gateway technology enabled stable transmissions of synchronized stereo images over long distances, guaranteeing safe remote demonstrations without compromising quality.

3. Accelerated Disaster Recovery: In disaster scenarios where rapid response is crucial, the time consumed for installing overhead cameras can delay initial response efforts. By adopting 3D imagery, the need for such setups is alleviated, therefore streamlining responses during critical phases of recovery.

Exhibition of Achievements

The successful outcomes of this practical demonstration were showcased at the Kensetsu Fair Hokuriku 2025 in Niigata held in October 2025, at the Obayashi booth. Here, the efforts to solve the distance perception challenges in remote operations gained significant interest from attendees.

Going forward, EIZO aims to further develop and refine the 3D remote operation solution across various construction equipment and projects. The objective remains to contribute to faster recovery in natural disaster scenarios and tackle the pressing issue of operator shortages in machinery handling.

EIZO's Sustainability Commitment

EIZO operates under the guiding principle of