Komatsu has confirmed a partnership with Ouster, which will provide lidar sensors for Komatsu’s autonomous equipment offerings.
It is understood that the companies have signed a multi-million dollar agreement. Under this agreement between Komatsu and Ouster, Komatsu’s autonomous solutions will be equipped with advanced 3D digital lidar sensors from Ouster.
Komatsu technical director for automation innovation Matt Reiland said this agreement marks a significant milestone in Komatsu’s ongoing journey to advance mining automation and safety.
“Ouster’s products developed through this partnership can withstand the shock, vibration and temperature constraints while delivering the enhanced range and spatial awareness necessary to operate in harsh mining environments,” he said.
Komatsu’s autonomous solutions will incorporate a mix of long—and short-range OS sensors from Ouster’s REV7 series to benefit future offerings and provide increased capabilities and intelligence, including improved detection, navigation, and collision avoidance.
Following the agreement announcement, Komatsu will have advanced access to Ouster’s future products for testing and development. The strategic partnership will provide a pathway to an upgraded autonomy stack to replace legacy 2D lidar systems with 3D lidar for maximum perception and enhanced vehicle functionality.
Ouster sensors include benefits such as zone monitoring and routine firmware updates that continuously improve the performance of the stack and accelerate product development.
