In numerous industries such as construction, mining, agriculture, and forestry, the excavator, as a core construction machinery, its technological innovation process reflects the crystallization of human industrial development wisdom. From the simple mechanical structure at its birth to the intelligent equipment integrating advanced technologies today, excavators have undergone earth – shattering changes.​

In the early days, the power source of excavators mainly relied on steam engines. Although this power method could provide a certain driving force, it was inefficient, bulky, and required frequent refueling. With the maturity of internal combustion engine technology, diesel engines became the mainstream power for excavators. Compared with steam engines, diesel engines have a high power density and high thermal efficiency, significantly improving the working efficiency of excavators and greatly enhancing their mobility. For example, in large – scale open – pit coal mine mining, excavators equipped with high – power diesel engines can quickly complete a large amount of earthwork excavation operations.​

The introduction of hydraulic technology is a milestone in the development of excavators. Traditional mechanical excavators transmit power through mechanical linkages, which are complex to operate and have poor action flexibility. The hydraulic system uses liquid pressure to transmit power, making the actions of excavators more stable and precise, and enabling them to easily complete various complex excavation actions. For example, when excavating a narrow ditch, a hydraulic excavator can accurately control the excavation depth and width, avoiding excessive disturbance to the surrounding soil.​

The integration of electronic control systems has brought new changes to excavators. Electronic sensors continuously monitor the working status of excavators, such as parameters like engine speed, oil temperature, and oil pressure, and feed the information back to the control system. Once the parameters are abnormal, the system immediately alarms and takes corresponding protective measures, effectively reducing the risk of equipment failure and extending the service life. At the same time, the electronic control system has also optimized the operating performance. For example, through the electronic signal transmission of the joystick, a more accurate and sensitive operating response can be achieved.​

The development of intelligent technology has pushed excavators to a new height. Nowadays, some high – end excavators are equipped with an automatic driving function. In some repetitive and regular operation scenarios, such as site leveling, the excavator can automatically complete excavation, leveling, and other work according to the preset program, not only reducing the labor intensity of the operator but also improving the operation accuracy and efficiency. In addition, remote monitoring and fault diagnosis technology allow operators to remotely and real – time monitor the working conditions of excavators and promptly detect and solve potential problems.​

With the in – depth implementation of the environmental protection concept, new energy technologies are gradually emerging in the field of excavators. Electric excavators are characterized by zero emissions and low noise.