Skip to main content

GPS delivers accurate real time depth control

The novel EZ Dig Pro system offers real-time depth control for excavators and backhoe loaders. This package is said to provide precise grade control for digging a fixed depth or a slope and it boosts safety as there is no need for anyone going into the excavation to check depth. Applications include use in trenching and drainage ditches along roadways, as well as footings and foundation depths and cut-and-cover applications for a fixed depth for utilities.
July 13, 2012 Read time: 2 mins
The EZ Dig system comes with in-cab LCD control box and see-through display panel that allow the operator to watch the ditch, bucket, and display in the same view.
The novel EZ Dig Pro system offers real-time depth control for excavators and backhoe loaders. This package is said to provide precise grade control for digging a fixed depth or a slope and it boosts safety as there is no need for anyone going into the excavation to check depth. Applications include use in trenching and drainage ditches along roadways, as well as footings and foundation depths and cut-and-cover applications for a fixed depth for utilities.

Sensors mounted on the excavator measure the movement and angle of the bucket, boom, and dipper stick to give continuous depth control indication on the in-cab display. The operator does not need to stop digging to place the bucket and dipper stick in the same position to take an accurate reading and the system can help make substantial reductions in over cutting and reinstatement.

The system can be installed and calibrated by any operator in 45 minutes or less using its patent-pending software. No welding is required, as the sensors mount to the excavator with strong magnets, while the unit can be calibrated to several machines as it retains the data when moved between equipment. One of the three sensors includes a laser receiver, to eliminate resetting the elevation reference when the excavator is moved.

The sensors have solar panels to maintain their charge, and the system uses wireless RF communication between the sensors and in-cab displays, eliminating external cables.

Related Content

  • Frost Control gets the picture
    November 20, 2020
    Cameras have been added to the Mini RWIS from Frost Control Systems.
  • Compact machine control package from trimble
    December 10, 2018
    Trimble is introducing the Earthworks GO! package, aimed at use with compact machines. This is a significant development as it will allow users of small machines access to machine control systems, improving productivity and work quality. The firm says that its Earthworks GO! offering allows users to deliver accurate grading with a simple, portable package. This compact machine control solution runs on Android or iOS smartphones. Scott Crozier is general manager of Trimble’s general construction division. H
  • Increased working accuracy for compact graders
    November 29, 2013
    Bobcat is offering improved working precision for grading operations with its compact loaders and grader attachments. The new grading equipment is designed for use by asphalt and concrete contractors for excavating and grading work for new roads. Loader-mounted Bobcat grader attachments can now be combined not only with a new sonic tracer kit. This is the first sonic tracer system aimed at use with compact loaders, providing automatic grade control in applications where lasers may not be suitable.
  • New earthmoving machines
    July 29, 2019
    An array of advanced earthmoving machines are coming to market, offering increased performance, lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions The global market for earthmoving machines has been particularly strong over the last year. Demand for new equipment has been at a high, with sales of crawler excavators proving especially robust. Manufacturers have responded by increasing output, while tempting customers with new models offering major performance gains. Dozers In the market for dozers, Caterp