Machine control systems have advanced construction processes, simplifying tasks such as grading and excavation. With advanced machine control systems, you can complete jobs faster, keep your workers out of high-risk zones and enhance precision. Taking advantage of the latest technology is the best way to gain a competitive edge and boost profits in the modern construction industry.
Machine Control vs. Traditional Methods
Operators traditionally relied on manual measurements, visual estimations and physical markers to guide equipment. Machine control systems use advanced technology for a safer, faster and more efficient process. They enhance operations with technologies such as:
- Digital design files: Advanced AutoCAD software creates digital design files and converts them into real-time instructions for equipment operators, helping them match a design’s exact specifications. Design models serve as virtual landscapes for your equipment and operators to follow.
- 2D and 3D design models: You can choose between 2D and 3D design models. 2D design models can help you optimize operation on simple, flat pads. 3D design models let you create digital models of more complex terrain and planned work.
- Positioning data: Global positioning data (GPS) and the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) use high-precision navigation signals from satellites to calculate positioning. GPS and GNSS determine your equipment’s exact location and positioning so it can move and carry out tasks accurately. A machine can also use a local positioning system for millimeter-level positioning data.
- Sensors and control interfaces: Advanced sensors and control interfaces help your equipment and attachments operate with precision.
How Does This Technology Improve Jobsite Safety?
Machine control technology improves safety by replacing workers in potentially hazardous environments. Rather than trekking through rough terrain to measure parameters and set stakes, your team can let the technology do the grunt work. This significantly reduces exposure, enhancing your team’s work environment.
You can also depend on machine control technology to provide real-time data for more informed decisions. With advanced insights, you can identify unsafe conditions early, set avoidance zones and adjust plans to avoid them. This is essential for reducing risks such as struck-by accidents and trench cave-in incidents.
Additional Benefits of Machine Control Systems
While enhanced safety is the highlight of machine control systems, they also offer these advantages for your team and business:
Accuracy
A machine control system tightens accuracy for pinpoint results. 3D models and GNSS systems help you dig to the precise depth and excavate the exact parameters you need to match a project’s blueprints. With machine control systems, every cut or fill meets the intended design.
Efficiency
Machine control systems automate positions, elevations, movements and adjustments so you can get the job done faster. This eliminates the need to complete multiple passes, helping you get the perfect slope and finish in half the time.
Cost-Savings
Improving accuracy and efficiency can also result in significant cost savings. Completing jobs in fewer passes decreases fuel consumption and gives your team more time for additional tasks or projects. The faster you complete each job, the more revenue you can earn.
Improved Project Management
Machine control systems provide valuable operational data and insights, transforming how you manage projects. For example, you can track equipment activities in real time, allowing you to allocate and adjust resources as needed.
You can also review performance metrics and data trends after project completion to identify areas of improvement. Implementing machine control systems is an excellent way to ensure projects stay on schedule and within budget, so your team can deliver more profitable results.
Lower Environmental Impact
Environmental sustainability is essential in construction operations. Machine control systems help optimize resources. Completing tasks in minimal passes means using fewer materials and less fuel, reducing waste. Using software to carefully plan projects also promotes more responsible land use.
Is Machine Control Worth the Investment?
Machine control is worth the investment if you learn how to use it and implement it effectively. After installation and training, you can make a significant return on investment. Reducing project completion times, manual labor, material waste and fuel consumption are effective ways to lower overhead costs and boost profit margins.
Do Machine Control Systems Work in All Types of Equipment?
Machine control systems integrate into several types of construction equipment, such as:
- Excavators
- Motor graders
- Bulldozers
- Scrapers
- Wheel loaders
- Skid steers
- Compact track loaders
- Compact skid steer loaders
- Pavers
- Cold planers
- Trenchers
Machine control systems typically work with any machine that follows a grading model or surface design. They are ineffective in equipment that serves nongrading applications, such as concrete mixer trucks, articulated dump trucks, cranes and telehandlers.
How to Choose the Best Machine Control System
Choosing the right technology is important for results and efficiency. Consider these factors when assessing machine control systems:
- Accuracy needs: Determine whether you need 2D or 3D machine control. 2D systems are perfect for rough earthmoving tasks, but you’ll need a 3D system for more precise projects such as fine grading.
- Equipment types: Ensure the machine control systems you choose are compatible with your equipment.
- Support and training: Purchase from a company that offers excellent customer support and training. The right support can help you prepare your team for expert operation and make the most of your machine control systems.
- Open file formats: A system with an open file format uses standard, publicly defined file formats that integrate with various hardware and software. Choosing machine control systems with this file format lets you work with equipment and technology outside of a single vendor’s technology.
- Ability to scale: As your business grows, you need machine control systems that grow with it. Modular systems and wireless sensors are easier to transfer between pieces of equipment, helping you move systems into new machines when you upgrade.
Boost Efficiency With Machine Control Systems You Can Depend on
Machine control systems transform how your team prepares worksites and delivers results. With advanced technology, you can protect workers, streamline operations and watch your revenue grow.
SITECH® Horizon offers Trimble Machine Control systems to help you reduce manual labor and save money for greater profit margins. These advanced systems integrate with various equipment brands, making it easy to add them to your fleet and scale with your company’s growth.
We also provide excellent support and operator training to help your team achieve superior results. Contact us to learn more about our machine control systems.