© 2011 CMCI.
Machine Grading Systems
2D uses a laser, slope sensor, and/or sonic tracker to control the cutting edge.
* These technologies have been widely used since the 1980's.
o Initially on motorgraders, pavers and AG machines.
o Then on dozers, excavators and milling machines.
* Laser and/or slope applications are typically limited to large planer areas.
o Tennis courts, Athletic fields, Running tracks, Airport runways and taxiways.
* Sonic and/or slope applications typically are for road and parking lot construction.
3D uses GPS technology to control the cutting edge.
* These technologies have been in use since the beginning of the 2000’s.
* GPS reduces stakeout dramatically.
* GPS use is not limited to large planer areas, roads, and parking lot construction.
* GPS machine control can be used to cut the grade of any design shape, including planer areas.
o Basins, swales, berms, cones, steep slopes.
o GPS reduces stakeout on 100% of the jobsite area.
* GPS machine control is a much larger investment than 2D machine control.
Because Machine Control produces a substantial return on inverstment for contractors.
* You have the entire job on a stick.
* Reduced stakeout results in lower engineering costs.
* Control material tolerances to your cost advantage.
* No more waiting for markout - keep on working.
* Cut grade right the first time - no rework.
* Grade checker becomes an inspector which reduces labor costs.
* GPS provides instant calculations of material quantities.
* Calculate quantities on a daily basis - your GPS rover becomes a billing tool.
* Cutting grade in fewer passes results in:
o Increased production.
o Lower machine costs.
o Lower machine hours.
* Increased accuracy and smoothness produce a higher quality job than traditional
methods.
* Step one is to attain a 3D model of your jobsite.
o This can be done yourself if you possess the proper software and personnel.
o This 3D data can also be easily purchased www.mesh-consulting.com
* Step two is have a licensed surveyor layout NEZ control points on your jobsite that
match your 3D data files.
* Start your base station.
o Setting up a permanent, fixed mounting post will eliminate the need to localize
daily.
* Localize your jobsite by shooting Lat, Lon and Elevation GPS points over your NEZ
control points with the GPS rover.
* Your survey rover is now ready to work.
* Copy your localized control point file, 3D surface and linework files onto a CF card, or
USB stick. Then copy them to the hard drive of your GPS machine.
* Start cutting stakeless grade!
* Of course there are details not listed above, such as equipment profiles, proper radio
settings and all the functions of Pocket 3D.
* Your local Topcon dealer will make it simple and easy to use by your chosen
employees.
* Once your job is localized, rovers set up and training complete, you simply turn it on
each day and go!
* Indicate only laser systems start for as little as $2000, including laser level!
* Automatic 2D single fuction (laser only) systems start around $14K.
* Automatic 2D dual function systems (laser/laser,
laser/slope, sonar/slope) start around $19K.
* RTK base/rover kit with collector start at $26K.
* Indicate 3D GPS machines start at $35K.
* Automatic 3D GPS machines start at $55K.
o The price difference from one machine to another is dependent on the type of
Hydraulic System used.
* If you are based out of New Jersey or New York Metro you can buy Machine Control
directly from us. Cleary Machinery offers a turnkey solution, including support and
operator training.
* If you are outside this area please see your local Topcon dealer. Topcon has a dealer
locator by zip code at www.topconpositioning.com
* Please continue to explore our site, and email your machine control questions here
