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A machine control system integrated with your fleet is a lot like carrying around a hammer; when properly used, it can accomplish a number of tasks, some obvious, some less so. What is machine control? In short, the technology refers to the use of machine-based sensors and geospatial technology such as lasers and satellites to inform the machine operator or automatically control the machine functions to improve productivity. CASE Construction Equipment, a leading global manufacturer of construction machines, is eager to point out that its machine control systems, available on new machines from the factory and as an aftermarket add-on, have obvious productivity benefits for both large-scale site prep and road-building projects, as well as smaller-scale jobs and activities.
The Case For Machine Control
According to CASE, precision construction solutions help operators and fleet owners increase productivity and more accurately estimate job costs, letting you be more competitive in your field. These technologies can also reduce unnecessary wear and tear on the machines to extend their useful life spans, enhance the resale values of those machines, reduce fuel consumption, and lower maintenance costs.
In addition to offering its extensive line of machine control technologies, CASE is also starting to manufacture equipment that is effectively machine control-ready. The key aspects of the CASE Universal Machine Control option, that the company recently announced it would offer on its M Series dozers, includes a universally compatible wiring and mounting provision that enables contractors and operators to install aftermarket machine control systems from the likes of Topcon, Trimble, and CASE precision partner Leica Geosystems. Other aspects of the program include universally compatible wiring harnesses, mounts and brackets for blade-based guidance systems, and jumpers.
CASE’s Machine Control
There are two primary types of machine control systems: guidance and indicate-only systems, and automatic systems. The first type works largely by providing the machine operator with detailed information and guidance to help them better operate the machine to accomplish the task at hand. For instance, on a CASE road roller, machine control software and sensors can detect the current mat temperature and levels of compaction to determine the optimal number of passes required to finish the road. The operator then acts based on the recommendations that appear on the in-cab touchscreen. Automatic systems, on the other hand, let the software and sensors take control of the functions of the machine to achieve the desired outcome. These systems don’t only take control, they can also prevent the operator from over compacting, digging below the desired grade, or otherwise attempting to make the machine work outside of its recommended parameters.
Another Dimension
When it comes to investing in machine control systems, contractors and fleet owners have a few options. A one-dimensional (or 1D) system can manage the grade and slope of a single plane, making them an affordable way to perform basic excavation, digging foundations, some utility work, rough grading, and forestry projects. 1D systems rely primarily on indicate-only functions, but can offer automatic control for simple slope and grading functions based on manually-input parameters. CASE SiteControl CoPilot is a good example of a 1D system that consists of an inertial measurement unit (IMU), wiring harness, and in-cab display that lets the operator set and stick to a desired slope/grade reference.
The next step up in functionality comes with the 2D systems, which are capable of managing two different dimensions—plane and slope—simultaneously with the aid of lasers and reference points set for the worksite. These systems tend to be either indicate-only or automatic, and they are best suited to residential and general construction, drainage work, complex commercial excavation, and other mid- to large-sized residential and commercial developments.
The form of machine control with the most flexibility, and the steepest entry costs, are the 3D-based systems. These can automatically, or via operator guidance, enable a machine to cut a slope or finish a grade depending on the exact position of the machine, using Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) or Global Positioning System (GPS) data, laser guided on-machine sensors, or stationary sensor stations setup around the worksite. This equipment is capable of generating a highly accurate 3-dimensional site plan for guided or automatic machine control. 3D systems are best suited to medium to large infrastructure and development projects, industrial sites and large highway projects.
The Right System At The Right Time
Customers who are hesitant about which system would best serve their needs can rest easy. CASE designed its tiered machine control offerings to be highly scalable, with add-ons that enable you to retain the equipment from your 1D system when you make the leap to a 2D system; your 2D equipment is also designed to be compatible with CASE’s 3D systems. For many users, upgrading piecemeal is the optimal way to go. If you have yet to see the advantages of machine control first hand, you will be astonished at how much more productive your machines and operators can become with a modest initial investment.
If you’re in the market for CASE construction, cranes, or forestry equipment, with optional machine control systems, you will find a vast selection of new and used models available for sale at MachineryTrader.com, CraneTrader.com, and ForestryTrader.com.
Source: CASE Construction Equipment
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