Connected Construction

Topcon Positioning is introducing the latest version of its MAGNET 5 software. This new version includes upgrades to the MAGNET Field, Office and Enterprise applications designed for advanced performance, third-party integration, and construction planning and oversight capability. The package offers new flexible display options and additional customisable data labels. Additionally, operators can view GNSS status when the controller is connected to a total station in Hybrid mode, and show offsets as a visua

A highly advanced prototype system Trimble is working on is based on the Earthworks package and is intended to reduce the risk of contractors hitting buried utilities when carrying out digging operations. Scott Crozier is general manager of Trimble’s general construction division. He said that this mixed reality solution is an emerging technology that will be available in the near future. The package is integrated into the machine display and provides a visual reference for the operator where buried utiliti

Trimble and HCSS are partnering to couple estimating and bidding workflows to field operations. The firms say this collaboration will include product integrations to Trimble's construction software portfolio, helping boost productivity and quality for construction. The companies plan to develop solutions to improve current workflow and real-time visibility for customers by connecting bidding and estimating processes to developments onsite. Trimble and HCSS are currently exploring how best to bring HCSS's

The Trimble Earthworks system now allows excavator operators using tiltrotators to use automatic machine control, which can help to boost productivity. When tiltrotators are used with Trimble Earthworks for Excavators, the bucket position and orientation are visible regardless of bucket rotation. The operator can see the height and the rotation relative to the design, so the attachment can be more efficient. With this latest development, Trimble Earthworks can automate the tilt functions of a tiltrotator.

Trimble’s Site Vision package has been offered on limited release to a number of firms in EEP (early engagement program) format, to help develop the system. Scott Crozier is general manager of Trimble’s general construction division. He explained that Trimble is working with a number of selected customers at the leading edge of construction technology, so as to help refine the system for release in due course. These firms are encouraged to use the Site Vision package in parallel with existing systems. De

Trimble is working on innovative technologies that could revolutionise the construction and aggregates production sectors. Perhaps the most eye-catching of all of these is for the autonomous compactor and dozer system Trimble is in the process of developing. Scott Crozier is general manager of Trimble’s general construction division. He said that while this autonomous machine technology is not yet ready for the market, “It may not be as far away as expected.”