Skip to main content

Topcon delivers dozer blade control

Topcon Positioning Group has launched a 3D dozer machine control system, the 3D-MCMAX, for Caterpillar machines. The system is designed to let operators work confidently in rough or fine grade applications, slope conditions, and in restricted sight environments without the visual obstruction of masts or risks to hanging cables. Gone is the need for daily installation and removal of antenna, cables and mast; the operator just climbs on and gets to work. Downtime is minimised, said Jamie Williamson, exe
April 5, 2016 Read time: 2 mins
Topcon's sophisticated blade control package
342 Topcon Positioning Group has launched a 3D dozer machine control system, the 3D-MCMAX, for 178 Caterpillar machines.

The system is designed to let operators work confidently in rough or fine grade applications, slope conditions, and in restricted sight environments without the visual obstruction of masts or risks to hanging cables.

Gone is the need for daily installation and removal of antenna, cables and mast; the operator just climbs on and gets to work. Downtime is minimised, said Jamie Williamson, executive vice president and general manager of the Topcon Precision Automation Group. “It provides high-accuracy elevation, slope, and blade rotation sensing in an integrated configuration resulting in maximum speed, maximum control and maximum grading performance.”

It uses Topcon 3D-MC2 technology with the dual IMU (inertial measurement unit) sensors and algorithms located with the sensitive GNSS technology safely inside the cab instead of out on the harsh environment of the blade. There is no need for a mast.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Grade control technology for compact machines
    January 25, 2022
    Caterpillar now offers Cat Grade technologies as an aftermarket option to owners of Cat next generation mini hydraulic excavators in the 6-10tonne class range. The systems are available through Cat and Sitech dealers and allow owners to equip machines with Cat Grade with Advanced 2D, or Cat Grade with 3D. The field kit’s modular components allow quick installation, while the technology integrates into the Cat excavator electronics infrastructure.
  • Sophisticated asphalt paving control technology
    July 27, 2020
    Advances in asphalt paving control systems are helping contractors deliver higher efficiency
  • New tunnelling machines are coming to market
    May 13, 2015
    Major gains in tunnelling productivity and performance are claimed for a series of new machines now coming to market These new tools will help contractors boost productivity and versatility in an array of applications. The new equipment items are designed for a variety of tasks, including drilling and shotcreting duties. One of the leaders in the underground equipment sector, Atlas Copco, has a new line-up of single and twin boom drill rigs, which suit duties in smaller tunnelling applications. The fi
  • Innovative control system for concrete pavers
    February 14, 2012
    Wirtgen has developed a novel control system for use on its concrete paving equipment. Matthias Fritz is the product engineer at Wirtgen tasked with developing the system. The new AutoControlpackage uses GPS technology to provide guidance for the machine's steering functions. Fritz added, "It has an augmentation centre for vertical control because it requires millimetre accuracy for height." This 3D control system is for use with the firm's SP15 and SP25 slipform pavers and is said to be a user-friendly, co