INNOVATION INSIGHTS
For the first time at Bauma, HCME hosts an exclusive interactive Digital Experience to highlight the capabilities and benefits of its digital solutions.
Among the many challenges facing Europe’s construction industry today are: the high costs of materials; a shortage of skilled workers; and unexpected disruptions that can cause project delays. To overcome these challenges and remain profitable, contractors are seeking ways to increase flexibility and work more efficiently.
In response, Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) is focusing on technological advancements and digital developments to build innovative solutions for its customers.
“We have evolved from being solely equipment manufacturers to becoming comprehensive solution providers,” says Pooja Gupta, HCME Product Manager Solution Linkage. “By adopting new technologies and digital tools – and utilising them in the correct way – owners and operators can work with greater precision, productivity and ease.”
Simplifying mixed-fleet management
A perfect example of a recent Hitachi innovation is the all-in-one fleet management tool, LANDCROS CONNECT.
Designed to meet the demands of today’s construction industry, it provides instant access to the latest performance data on Hitachi construction machinery, as well as other brands of equipment.
All from one system, users can gain a bird’s-eye view of their fleet, generate custom reports on key metrics – such as idling time, fuel consumption or CO2 emissions – and also create geofences to analyse productivity.
Intuitive and user-friendly, the CONNECT platform can be easily accessed via smartphone or tablet, and is available in 24 languages. It is also integrated with Hitachi Global e-Service and the ConSite service solution.
“We look forward to demonstrating the benefits of CONNECT to customers at Bauma this year,” adds Pooja.
“If they want to improve efficiency, manage their entire fleet more effectively, or enhance the performance of their equipment, we can show them how CONNECT can make that happen.”
“We understand that our customers require smart and efficient solutions.
Turning data into insights
Alongside new solutions, HCME is continuing to develop and update its existing digital offering. According to HCME Product Manager Arthur da Rocha Geremia: “We want to be at the forefront, always offering cutting-edge technology to our customers, ensuring their demands are met.”
An important element is the ConSite family of applications and services. This is unique due to its comprehensive approach to machine health management, and industry-leading innovations, such as the oil condition monitoring sensor.
Now the ConSite platform is evolving to provide even more information about machine health. “Coupled with artificial intelligence, and over 20 years of machine data, we are developing predictive systems to further reduce the total cost of ownership and enhance the reliability of Hitachi machines,” explains Arthur.
At Bauma, HCME will show how ConSite Pocket, ConSite Scan, ConSite Helmet, and the 3D parts catalogue are being enhanced with advanced technology. “Customers will be able to try a state-ofthe-art ConSite helmet – an extended reality headset that supports the customer in identifying and solving problems, and visualises a machine, part by part. Many more exciting uses are being developed.”
In addition, there will be a demonstration of how ConSite Scan can measure the extent of wear of certain components. This helps to ensure customers are always operating their Hitachi machines with optimum levels of performance.
Telematics API advances
Further updates are being made to the Hitachi telematics API, reflecting the increasing adoption of this technology. With the introduction of 10-minute and 60-minute data frequency options, customers now gain near real-time insights and a more accurate, up-to-date view of their fleet operations.
As part of HCME’s commitment to making machine data more accessible, the latest Hitachi mini excavators – from the ZX33U-6 to ZX65USB-6 models – are now equipped with advanced data capabilities of telematics API. Remote data frequency adjustments are possible through Global e-Service, enhancing efficiency and streamlining machine management.
More digital developments
Another exciting announcement is that customers can now request 2D and 3D CAD drawings of their Hitachi construction equipment for use with BIM (building information modelling). “This new service marks a significant step in our digital transformation, designed to better support our customers’ growing demands,” explains Pooja.
New collaborations
The Digital Experience will also showcase three new solutions from start-up companies who were winners of a challenge programme launched by HCM last year. These include a theft prevention system from Veristart, autonomous technology from Teleo, and real-time construction and mining site management from Sodex.
“By collaborating with start-ups that have innovative ideas and technological capabilities beyond our own, we can find partners that will help us to integrate solutions for the future,” said Rene Koops, HCME General Manager Development & Marketing.
The focus on innovation at this year’s Bauma exhibition shows how HCME is evolving into a true solution provider for Europe’s construction sector. As the shift towards increased digitalisation and data utilisation continues, it will be perfectly placed to tackle the industry challenges that lie ahead.
“We understand that our customers require smart and efficient solutions to stay ahead in this evolving industry,” says Pooja, “and we will continue to focus on digitalisation and innovation to meet their needs.”