Gravis Robotics announced its earthmoving autonomous platform at Bauma 2020, which allows any excavator, wheel loader, or other machine to be controlled by a built-in system, with 3D surveying, and remote control capabilities. The plug-and play system can be retrofitted to existing machines to achieve up to 30% faster performance for high-volume tasks such as truck loading or trenching. The system is driven by two key components: the Gravis Rack, and the Gravis Slate. The Gravis Rack, a rooftop mounted autonomous control kit, adds real-time 3D scanning, visual situational intelligence, geospatial position and performance-focused artificial intelligence to your fleet. The Gravis Slate is a rugged touchscreen interface which, according to the company, makes it easy to get started with autonomy. All you have to do is tap the screen, define the area you want excavated, and press play. The Slate allows the operator to control the excavator either from inside the cab while standing outside, or from a remote teleoperation station.
This system uses AI to improve fill rates and cycle times for autonomous excavation tasks. The system adapts and “feels” the changing ground conditions.
At Bauma 2025, attendees got a glimpse of the technology through several live demonstrations. These included autonomous truck loading using a Develon DX225LC-7 electric excavator, and autonomous trenching using a Hitachi ZE135 electrical excavator. Case, Sumitomo, and Yanmar were also OEMs that collaborated at the show.
For a visualisation of the technology, check out this video from Gravis Robotics:
This scalable autonomy platform is designed to make heavy equipment efficient and easy to operate – regardless of the operator’s level of skill. Operators can choose the level of control they desire with the Gravis Slate: from AR guidance to replace conventional machine control, to setting up an automated task from a distant location.
Partner Insights.
Information from industry suppliers to help you advance your business.
With global labor shortages and the rising demand for critical infrastructures, the industry must focus on productivity to drive automation. “The industry needs to improve tools to help operators to dig faster, more safely, and with less rework. It also needs to attract, upskill and retain the next-generation of operators.” Gravis makes autonomy like adaptive cruise control – practical, powerful and ready to use today.
Gravis is available as an annual software license, plus a one-time upgrade of hardware (including installation). Leasing options are available.
(19459030)Close-up of the Gravis Rack mounted on a rooftop. Gravis Robotics ()
