Construction tech startup Xpanner has rolled out its X1 Panel Lift, an excavator-based solar panel installation system that automates repetitive material handling tasks.
The platform, previously deployed on pile drivers for solar piling applications, has been expanded to automate panel lifting and placement as well, allowing crews to focus on the higher-value work of aligning, fastening and quality-checking each panel, the company says.
“Solar installation has long been held back by its dependence on large skilled crews and complex equipment setups,” said Henri Lee, co-founder and CEO of Xpanner. “Our solution changes that equation entirely and now handles not just solar piling, but panel lifting as well. One machine, one button, one workflow, any operator can run it from day one.”
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The X1 Panel Lift transports the PV panel box, picks panels directly from it and installs them using a single excavator, without the need for additional feeder equipment such as a compact track loader or forklift.
With the touch of one button, the system guides the operator through the full installation sequence, including pick-up, lifting, placement and pre-release. Xpanner says the intuitive interface does not require specialized training. X1 automates repetitive panel handling while keeping the operator in control.
Powered byThe system uses sensor-controlled automated vacuum handling and assisted panel positioning with a built-in Precision Align Assist function to ensure uniform placement on each cycle. A standardized installation sequence with audible and visual cues helps crews follow the repeated process.
By shifting that material handling from workers to the machine, Xpanner says the X1 is designed to reduce manual lifting and the associated strain and injury risk for installation crews, while the system’s remote operation keeps personnel clear of the load path during lifts.
The X1 is powered by Mango, Xpanner's proprietary automation controller for the attachment’s hydraulic, electric and mechanical systems. The system merges data from LIDAR, vision and GNSS sensors to build a live 3D model of the jobsite, allowing it to hold a consistent path across variable field conditions.
The tech stack sits on top of a standard excavator, allowing users to use exisiting equipment. The platform is available under an all-inclusive subscription that covers the hardware, X1 kit and license, Xpanner Connect software, and on-site field operations support (XFO).
Xpanner Connect gives project managers visibility into machine status, production progress, and fleet activity. The Xpanner Field Operations (XFO) team provides hands-on support, from demo and site validation through project scope and setup, training and operation, maintenance, and subscription end.
Xpanner plans to extend the architecture to additional jobsite workflows in the future.
