ELEVATE YOUR OPERATIONS

You've decided it's time to investigate putting a 3D machine control system on your excavator. As you begin to research though, the prospect of sorting through all the companies and products quickly becomes daunting, as does the price so it might be best to first take a step back and explore the reasons why you want to venture into 3D machine control. You may be bidding a project where your 2D system has too many limitations. It could be that you've been impressed with what other contractors have been able to do with their machine control systems. Or you've decided to make the leap from manual grade checking to 3D because a job requires it. Everyone starts at a different place but now that you're ready to take the next step let’s explore how the Hemisphere GradeMetrix excavator solution can help.

"THIS CONTINUOUS AWARENESS OF YOUR MACHINE’S LOCATION ENHANCES EFFICIENCY AND ACCURACY..."

What GradeMetrix 3D offers

You may be familiar with how 2D operates using a combination of sensors, laser receiver, and laser to allow you to grade check from the cab. GradeMetrix 3D excavator technology elevates 2D capabilities to a new level. It provides constant real time positioning of your machine relative to the work site regardless of machine movement. Whether you've shifted 5 or 50 feet from your previous excavation point, a GradeMetrix 3D system instantly recalibrates offering precise guidance for your next cut. This continuous awareness of your machine’s location enhances efficiency and accuracy throughout the job.

The corner stone of this solution is Hemisphere’s best in class GNSS RTK engine that provide precise machine and machine tool/attachment location. Combined with GradeMetrix 3D application software and sensors to process data providing real time centimeter level accuracy. This ensures that your excavation precisely matches the design you either create using the GradeMetrix infield design option in your cab or the digital terrain model uploaded to your machine. All of this offers tremendous benefits. It has been said that 3D machine control is the biggest productivity boost to construction equipment since the advent of hydraulics. That's a strong statement!

LET’S EXPLORE THE THREE C'S OR MACHINE CONTROL

COST

The first thing to realize is that there is a wide range of solution cost and features across many 3D system vendors. In some cases, the cost differential is so substantial you could outfit 2 machines for the price of one. That kind of savings can dramatically enhance your go to market capabilities. But upfront costs are one thing.

What you will save avoiding costly job site errors like over or undercutting a job is another.

Consider this scenario: After excavating 1650-foot-long slope you discover that you've overcut by 54 square feet along the entire slope. This error has led to an extra 25 hours of excavator operation. At an average rental rate of $125 per hour for a mid-size excavator this error has set you back an extra $3125.00. It gets worse this figure doesn't include the extra fuel, wear and tear on the machine, per hour labor cost of the operator, the truck that the machine is loading, nor the per hour cost of the truck driver. Also, it doesn't factor in the opportunity cost of the excavator being unavailable for other tasks. In the end you've incurred a substantial avoidable expense.

A Hemisphere GradeMetrix 3D system helps you avoid this situation by giving you precise grade guidance as you work and the ability to avoid costly operator mistakes.

COMPLEXITY

3D systems come with a range of components and features that require knowledge to install, operate, and troubleshoot effectively. The presence of numerous cables, antennas, sensors, and a GNSS receiver can add complexity to the setup process. GradeMetrix 3D solutions are designed with minimal cables and do not require any specialized tools like total stations to install and calibrate the system. GradeMetrix also integrates the GNSS hardware and the RTK radio hardware into a single device. Then there's a software component. How difficult is the software to use? How many file formats does the system support?

Can it work with all brands of equipment? GradeMetrix 3D excavator solves al these issues with it’s intuitive easy to use application interface. GradeMetrix supports all common file formats and GradeMetrix systems can be installed on any brand of equipment.

Finally, it's common for operators to feel apprehensive about learning new 3D machine control technology. The training provided by GradeMetrix certified dealers removes these concerns Based on our experience with hundreds of contractors it typically only takes a few hours using the GradeMetrix application to move your operators from being rookies to competent users.

COMPATIBILITY

If you have existing legacy hardware such as base stations, it's important to ask whether your new 3D system will be compatible with your current equipment. GradeMetrix solutions are compatible with most existing RTK base stations on the market today. The solution is also compatible with RTK networks around the globe. This compatibility allows users to leverage their previous investments in other equipment and services to accelerate their pace to higher productivity.

Final thought

Quite simply implementing a GradeMetrix 3D machine control system elevates your operations. Equipping your operators with new capabilities will boost their confidence in enabling them to significantly enhance their precision and productivity. Your operation will achieve accurate cuts on the initial attempt, and you'll be able to precisely measure material quantities, minimized surveying expenses, and improve overall safety. This technological upgrade empowers is both you and your work forced to perform more efficiently and effectively.

To learn more about the GradeMetrix 3d Excavator solution and all the machine control solutions offered by Hemisphere please visit www.GradeMetrix.com