Topcon delivers dozer blade control

342 Topcon Positioning Group has launched a 3D dozer machine control system, the 3D-MCMAX, for 178 Caterpillar machines.

The system is designed to let operators work confidently in rough or fine grade applications, slope conditions, and in restricted sight environments without the visual obstruction of masts or risks to hanging cables.

Gone is the need for daily installation and removal of antenna, cables and mast; the operator just climbs on and gets to work. Downtime is minimised, said Jamie Williamson, executive vice president and general manager of the Topcon Precision Automation Group. “It provides high-accuracy elevation, slope, and blade rotation sensing in an integrated configuration resulting in maximum speed, maximum control and maximum grading performance.”

It uses Topcon 3D-MC2 technology with the dual IMU (inertial measurement unit) sensors and algorithms located with the sensitive GNSS technology safely inside the cab instead of out on the harsh environment of the blade. There is no need for a mast.