Japanese construction giant Shimizu developed the world’s first tower crane with a horizontal boom which can stretch and contract. “Exter,” maximum capacity of which is 12 tons, can provide designated operating radius between 3 and 25 meters. As it is expected to improve productivity of construction and working environment, the company positions the tower crane as a part of its production system of next-generation, Shimz Smart Site, which integrates information technologies, robotics, and engineering. It can be operated safely in the protective cover for structures being constructed and in areas of obstacle limitation in height due to the aviation law as the crane is 20-25 meters shorter than ruffing jib cranes. (2017/08/28)