Trimble’s laser systems have been used along with Komatsu’s mini excavator.
Trimble broadens laser portfolio
Trimble claims that its new range of precision laser systems can offer unequalled control to grading and excavating equipment, enhancing productivity in the process.
01 February 2006
Trimble has introduced a portfolio of laser-based machine display and control systems for grading and excavating applications.
The Spectra Precision laser machine systems – as they are known – are highly flexible, extremely rugged and can be used on a wide range of machines, including dozers, backhoes, scrapers, skid-steers and excavators.
“On a dozer, the system can be upgraded for automatic blade control providing even greater productivity gains,” says a Trimble spokesman.
The Spectra Precision Laser grade control systems give visual guidance for the cutting edge of the blade or bucket thereby helping operators get to grade faster with increased accuracy. This family of machine systems includes three new laser receivers and a control box: the Spectra Precision Laser LR30, LR50 and LR60 laser receivers and the Spectra Precision Laser CB25 control box, which contractors can add on for automatic blade control, says the spokesman.
LR30: Suitable for dozers, backhoes, excavators and trenchers, the LR30 features five channels of grade information, directional out-of-beam indicators, and selectable accuracies to meet job tolerances from rough grading to final finishing.
LR50: Suited for use on excavators, dozers, graders, scrapers, and box blades, the LR50 features built-in blade tilt indication to help the operator keep the blade level. “For grade work, the LR50 can be programmed to match an existing grade, increasing production and accuracy. For easy operation on the construction job site, the LR50 features a bright LED display and up to six channels of grade information and directional out-of-beam indicators. By adding the CB control box, the LR50 can be upgraded to grade control on dozers,” says the spokesman.
LR60: Suitable for use on excavators, backhoes and dozers, the LR60 features a patented angle compensation for excavation, which automatically calculates and corrects the grade display for the angle of the dipper arm. The LR60 also has a built-in plumb indication for fast, accurate grade checking. Up to eight channels of grade information, directional out-of-beam indicators, and four selectable accuracies for each on-grade location make the LR60 easy to use. By adding the CB25 control box, the LR60 can be upgraded to grade control on dozers.
“In addition, to achieve higher productivity gains for dozers, the LR50 or LR60 can be combined with the cab-mounted CB25 control box for automatic blade control,” says the spokesman. “Automatic blade control keeps the machines moving and operating at maximum speed to save time, fuel, material and labour on every grading job. The CB25 features proportional valve control to ensure maximum system accuracy and smooth, precise operation. With the flick of one switch, operators can switch from automatic to manual control.”
“The LR30, LR50 and LR60 laser receivers – available through Trimble’s Construction distribution channel – can be used with a number of Spectra Precision Laser grade lasers or laser levels, including the GL700 series, the LL500 and LL400. With the broadest line of lasers in the industry, Spectra Precision Laser gives contractors the ability to select the right laser for their application.
He adds: “The construction business of Trimble is focused on developing technology and solutions for earthmoving, site preparation, and general, interior and underground construction contractors. Trimble’s construction solutions help to get the job done faster, with less machine time and personnel. For each phase of the construction cycle designing, grading, site checking, building and asset tracking, Trimble has a broad portfolio of integrated construction positioning systems designed to improve productivity.”
Trimble is a leading innovator of global positioning system (GPS) technology. In addition to providing advanced GPS components, Trimble augments GPS with other positioning technologies as well as wireless communications and software to create complete customer solutions.
