Machine control advances from key suppliers

Important developments in machine control technologies are now coming to market. The major suppliers are making major advances to offer new solutions for customers, which can help boost accuracy while reducing the time needed to carry out a project, as well as minimising the need for reworking. From 342 Topcon Positioning Group comes a sophisticated 3D machine control package that the firm says delivers a quicker aftermarket solution for excavation applications called the X-53x. Featuring a modular architecture, the package can also be easily upgraded as required by the customer.

Murray Lodge, senior vice president and general manager for the Topcon Construction Business Unit said that the system benefits from fully integrated GR-i3 receivers that allow greater precision when it comes to positioning an excavator’s boom, stick and bucket. The system also features the firm’s MC-X1 controller, which is said to be compatible with all brands and models of excavators. An added advantage of this system is that it offers a customisable machine control platform for future project demands, according to Lodge. He explained that fitting the X-53x system can boost the output of an excavator by as much as 30% in comparison with machines not equipped with a 3D system.

The GR-i3 package has been developed so that it integrates the GNSS receiver and antenna into one unit. According to the firm, this offers high performance even in tough site working conditions. Meanwhile the system has also been designed so that it can also be upgraded as new developments become available.

According to Topcon, its new package is faster and more efficient than previous systems, boosting productivity for the user. A further benefit is that it offers the capability for future upgrades. The firm offers customers the chance to upgrade the simpler Topcon 2D X-52i system to the more sophisticated X-53x package by adding GR-i3 receivers, providing a 3D solution.

Meanwhile 2122 Trimble is upgrading its offering for the bulldozer control market with the release of its Earthworks for Dozers package. This system follows on from the Earthworks for Excavators system that was launched in 2017, with the two systems sharing much of the hardware and software. The new Earthworks Grade Control System for Dozers utilises the now proven inertial motion sensors (IMUs) first seen on the excavator package. However the dozer system has the dual GNSS receivers mounted on top of the cab, removing the need for any masts and cables that would previously have been fitted on the blade. This make the system more able to cope with tough site conditions.

The twin GNSS receivers can be used for steep slope work as well as complex designs that feature tight tolerances. The improved design also reduces time for the contractor, making it easier and quicker to remove and reinstall the receivers. Mounting the receivers on the cab has also boosted safety for the operator, who no longer needs to climb over the blade to access the units.

By fitting the equipment on the top of the cab, the user does have to calibrate the system based on the distance to the blade tip however. Trimble does say that there are distinct benefits though, as the system is more accurate and provides more data than previous generation packages. According to Trimble, the new system takes 100 measurements/second and provides a better understanding of blade position.

The firm says that the package is both rugged and durable, while the IMU units are also waterproof. For use in areas where seawater is present, a special salt-protection package is available to prevent component corrosion.

Using the Android operating system, the Trimble Earthworks grade control package runs on a Trimble TD520 touchscreen display. The firm has installed new graphics and self-discovery features that are said to make the package easier to use. An important feature of the Earthworks package is that it allows data files to be sent to or from the office wirelessly and automatically. This ensures that the operator is always using the latest design. According to Trimble, this improved machine control system will allow even relatively new dozer operators to deliver working to the same level as a skilled operator, while boosting productivity and finish quality.