Guide to Machine Control
In this guide you will find the following information:
- Factors to Consider When Choosing Machine Control
- The Benefits of Using Machine Control
- Machine Control Brands
- Accessories
- What is Machine Control?
- Machine Control: To Buy or Hire?
We hope our guide helps you make the right decision!
1. Factors to Consider When Choosing Right Machine Control
Trying to find the right product for you may be difficult. You need to be aware of what your requirements are and go from there. So, which Machine Control product is right for you? Here are some things to consider:
- 2D Vs 3D – Machine control products come as 2D Systems, such as the Leica ICON IGD2, and 3D Systems like the Leica ICON IGD3. Depending on your needs you will need to consider which type would be more beneficial to you.
- Easy Installation – To minimize machine downtime you would typically want a product with quick and easy installation.
- PowerSnap Technology – This technology allows you to use your control panel on several machines in your fleet with a simple and fast exchange!
- Waterproof – When on site you could face a variety of different weather conditions. Having a machine control product that is designed for the harshest conditions is ideal to give you peace of mind and keep you working whatever the weather.
2. The Benefits of Using Machine Control
The benefits of using machine control almost seem endless! As stated before we know that using these products improve efficiency and productivity which in turn improves overall costs and quality of work!
Other benefits include:
- Reduces material wastage
- Reduces fuel, energy & CO2 emission
- Improved Site Safety as people are removed from hazardous work zones
- Reduced reliance on surveyors
- Delivers project within specification on time and on budget
Moreover, it can allow more opportunities for younger operators who are unafraid and familiar with technology – allowing them to be self-directing in their daily work.
Best 2D Machine Control System
Winner: Leica iCON iGD2
The Leica iCON iGD2 system provides automatic control of both slope and elevation.Adding an extra mast and laser sensor allows for independence on the slope direction.
Best 3D Machine Control System
Winner: Leica iCON iGD3
Leica iCON iGD3 grading system will revolutionise the way you move dirt and fine-grade. It not only boosts your productivity, it also offers unmatched flexibility.
3. Machine Control Brands
Leica Machine Control
Leica Geosystems are market leaders in the production of high standard survey equipment. With almost 200 years’ experience in the art of capturing, analysing and displaying spatial information, Leica Geosystems have produced the most complete range of products; whatever your needs.
Some top selling Lecia Laser Machine Control products to consider include:
- The Leica ICON CC80 - The Leica iCON CC80 field controller is a lightweight and rugged 7” tablet PC for all construction workers. It combines ruggedness with a modern user interface, such as multi-touch technology.
- The Leica ICON IGD2 - The Leica iCON iGD2 system provides automatic control of both slope and elevation. Adding an extra mast and laser sensor allows for independency on the slope direction.
- The Leica ICON IGD3 - Leica iCON iGD3 grading system will revolutionise the way you move dirt and fine-grade. It not only boosts your productivity, it also offers unmatched flexibility. The 3D system brings design surfaces inside the cab.
iDig Machine Control
Another well-known market provider is iDig.
They supply and provide mature, feature rich and versatile tools that are easy to use.
Some top selling TopCon Machine Control products to consider include:
Topcon Machine Control
Another well-known market provider is Topcon.
Topcon is a well respected brand for a wide range of surveying and construction equipment. Machine control is no different!
They offer 2D and 3D machine control products.
Some top selling TopCon Machine Control products to consider include:
4. What Machine Control Accessories Will I Need?
- Tripods – Tripods come in handy for a variety of different products! They can be used for lasers, total stations and even machine control products!
5. What is Machine Control?
Machine control is the use of state of the art technology, that is based on GNSS, Total Stations and Lasers, to control machinery.
Safety is vastly improved through accurately positioning earthwork machinery based on 3D design models and GPS systems.
When accurately guiding or controlling the machine, using machine control, you can improve efficiency and productivity. This reduces overall costs and improves quality of work among a range of other excellent benefits that you can read about within this guide!
6. Machine Control: To Buy or Hire?
Machine control technology is state of the art and so can be pricey. However, it is almost guaranteed to save you money in the long run.
Deciding whether to hire or buy this product depends on your budget and how frequently the product would be expected to be used.
If you have the funds and know you will be using machine control often, buying outright is ideal as it will certainly save you money and time.
However, hiring is an option if your budget won’t allow for you to buy outright. This is a better option for smaller businesses and those who may not use it enough to make their money back.
We offer a hire or buy service full of comprehensive of Survey and Safety equipment, including machine control products.
Find out more about buying vs hiring in our guide!
Contact Us
If you have any queries feel free to contact us.
One of our experienced team will be happy to help
Email: info@onepointsurvey.com
Phone: 0800 633 5131