Develon takes safety to the next level with optional smart technology for the -9 series

Develon has announced that its -9 series crawler excavators are now available with advanced, intelligent safety technologies.

Building on the successful introduction of the -9 series last year, Develon is introducing a new generation of smart safety solutions. One of the most important innovations is the groundbreaking E-Stop system – a technology developed specifically for the excavator market.

Modern construction sites are still among the most hazardous working environments. Limited visibility, moving machinery and complex work processes create constant safety challenges. Develon's latest innovations address these issues with the help of artificial intelligence, advanced sensors and automatic safety systems.

Excavators from the -9 series can be optionally equipped with smart safety technologies such as 360° monitoring, collision warnings and the E-Stop system. This system automatically stops the machine when a person is detected within a 4-metre safety zone.

Stéphane Dieu, Product Manager Excavators Europe at Develon, explains: ‘E-Stop technology is similar to emergency braking systems in the automotive industry and has already attracted a lot of interest from operators looking for practical solutions to improve safety on the construction site.’

How it works

The Smart All-Around Viewing Monitor (SAVM) and the E-Stop system together form an AI-driven safety platform that enables real-time 360° monitoring around the machine.

With six cameras and three radar sensors, the system continuously monitors a detection range of up to 13 metres. This gives the operator an accurate picture of the surroundings and effectively minimises blind spots. Seven selectable display modes make it possible to keep a constant eye on the front, rear, left and right sides of the machine.

When people are detected, the operator immediately receives visual and audible warnings via the monitor in the cab. This significantly increases situational awareness.

The E-Stop system works in conjunction with a Virtual Wall function to prevent accidents that the operator may not see or anticipate. The working area around the machine is divided into clearly defined safety zones:

Zone 1 – Red danger zone:
Automatic stopping of turning movements and reversing from 4 metres.

Zone 2 – Yellow warning zone:
Early warnings and automatic speed reduction from 6 metres.

The system operates in three intelligent phases and is designed exclusively to recognise people. It distinguishes human presence from objects, thus preventing unnecessary interruptions:

• HD camera detects people
• Warning signals and speed reduction from 6 metres
• Automatic stopping of the machine (turning and reversing) at 4 metres

Advanced features for zero-accident construction sites

The E-Stop system has been developed to control or completely stop machine movements in dangerous situations, providing better protection for both operators and employees in the immediate vicinity. The Virtual Wall feature also allows operators to set safe working boundaries, preventing movement towards risk areas or potential collision zones.

Although collisions with structures or equipment can cause costly damage, the most serious accidents on construction sites almost always involve people. In busy and complex work locations, an operator cannot always fully see where employees are located. Intelligent automation offers an important solution to this problem.

By prioritising person detection and proactive intervention, Develon expects these optional smart safety technologies to contribute to a significant reduction in the number of accidents.

The long-term vision is clear: construction sites where serious accidents are no longer considered inevitable, but are actively prevented before they can occur.

Contact our sales team by telephone on 010 200 4383 or email info@elmgroep.nl.