Kobelco Construction Machinery Europe B.V. has announced a collaboration with Leica Geosystems and Xwatch Safety Solutions, both part of Hexagon, to drive the evolution of excavation with the innovative K-DIVE remote operation system.
This partnership aims to transform job site operations in Europe by integrating digitalization, automation and enhanced safety into one platform. By combining Kobelco's remote operations, Leica Geosystems' machine control solutions and Xwatch's safety technology, the partnership sets a new industry standard for digital transformation in construction. The integration of these technologies directly addresses industry challenges by mitigating labour shortages through remote operation capabilities, enhancing job site safety with advanced 3D avoidance systems and promoting sustainable construction practices by optimising machine efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
K-DIVE — Remote Operation System for Construction Sites
The K-DIVE system is an advanced remote operation technology developed by Kobelco Construction Machinery Co. Ltd. Japan. It enables excavators to be controlled from a distant location via a specialised cockpit. Equipped with high-definition displays, real-time job site visuals and responsive controls, the system ensures that operators experience the same level of precision and efficiency as if they were on site. By eliminating the need for operators to be physically present, this system enhances efficiency, improves workforce flexibility and ensures operator safety in hazardous environments, according to the companies.
"This collaboration marks a major step towards the future of digital construction in Europe," said Makoto Kato, managing director and excavator division director of Kobelco Construction Machinery Europe. "By leveraging remote operation, digital workflows and advanced safety solutions, we are redefining what is possible on the job site — bringing efficiency, safety and connectivity to a new level. We are very excited to demonstrate this technology at bauma 2025 in a dedicated pavilion that allows us to perform live demonstrations across the world."
Through this collaboration:
Leica Geosystems brings its global expertise in digital positioning and automation to optimise K-DIVE's remote operation system. With its easy-to-use 3D machine control solution and semi-automatic features, it provides unparalleled precision, real-time automation and seamless integration for remote excavation, according to Kobelco.
"Integrating 3D machine control and semi-automatic technology into remote operation systems, heavy construction customers can unlock productivity and efficiency," said Neil Williams, president of the machine control division of Leica Geosystems. "This integration allows operators to execute complex tasks with precision, even when they're far away from the site."
Xwatch Safety Solutions provides safety systems that integrate with Leica Geosystems' machine control, enabling 3D avoidance zones above and below ground. The system automatically controls height, depth and slew movements, preventing collisions and ensuring safer remote operations, according to Kobelco.
"Safety is at the core of everything we do," said Dan Leaney, sales director of Xwatch Safety Solutions. "With our 3D avoidance zone technology integrated into the remote operation workflow, we are setting new standards in hazard prevention, ensuring operators can work remotely with confidence and enhanced protection."
Visit www.KOBELCO-europe.com for further information.
