Doosan “transparent bucket” breaks cover

Korean heavy machinery brand, Doosan, has launched what it claimed to be the world’s first “transparent bucket” for wheel loaders that allow operators to see what’s in front of the machine and bucket.

No, it’s not a literal see-through bucket made of glass which will frankly be silly in any material handling application, but instead the machine uses cameras and front projection tech to capture what’s in front of it and display it to the operator in real time.

The tech involves cameras installed on the top and bottom of the bucket recording images in front of the wheel loader, which are then stitched into combined images displayed to the operator using a curved projection method.

Doosan said the tech will significantly enhance safety on work sites by allowing operators to see in front of their machines especially with the bucket raised, to avoid colliding with another machine or worker on site. In addition, the technology can improve work efficiency by enabling a forward perspective through the monitor during loading and unloading tasks, Doosan added.

“As construction safety standards have been significantly reinforced, the advanced safety system has become the key equipment option,” Doosan said.

“We plan to continue developing functions that can protect the safety of drivers and nearby workers and lead the creation of accident-free construction sites.”

The transparent bucket concept was first introduced at the 2020 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas where it received favourable reviews, Doosan said.

The company added it has applied for patents for it in Korea, North America, Europe, and China.