Andrew Latham

Andrew has over 15 years of experience in research and development, specializing in cutting-edge electrohydraulic systems and off-highway electrification. He began his career designing innovative electrohydraulic solutions for renewable energy and heavy equipment applications. His expertise spans a range of industries, including agricultural robotics, energy storage and satellite systems. As a co-founder of Orion Research, Andrew is dedicated to creating groundbreaking technologies and solutions that advance off-highway electrification. Backed by the collective expertise of Orion Research’s team, Andrew continues to drive innovation in sustainable machinery development.

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Presentation

Rethinking excavator system architecture with decentralized electrohydraulic drives

Electrification of off-highway equipment such as excavators presents unique challenges, particularly regarding system efficiency. Low efficiency necessitates larger battery packs to ensure full-day operation. Orion Research has identified that, in conventional excavators, up to 80% of hydraulic energy is lost as heat. This talk explores the transformative potential of a modular, decentralized electrohydraulic drivetrain to dramatically enhance efficiency, extend operational range and reduce battery size. We will share key insights gained from the development and testing of a prototype electrohydraulic system integrated with an excavator boom, highlighting its implications for the future of sustainable construction equipment.