Link-Belt 2D grade control technology improves productivity and accuracy of 210 X4 hydraulic excavator
LBX Company is offering two factory-installed grade control technology options for North American 210 X4 customers. The Link-Belt 2D Machine Guidance (MG) system provides an operator with visual and audible indication when they are above, below or at their desired target grade. The Link-Belt 2D Machine Control (MC) system provides the operator with not only visual and audible indication when they are above, below or at their target grade, but can also control the boom and bucket while the operator controls the speed of the stick to maintain a consistently smooth flat or sloping surface. The 2D MG and 2D MC options enable operators to increase their productivity by up to 50 percent by providing them with the information they need and the functionality they've never had before.
2D Machine Guidance (MG)
"The 2D Machine Guidance (MG) system can help improve excavator operations on projects such as trenching for underground utilities and pipelines, digging footers and basements, site prep, building roads and mass excavation," said Adam Woods, LBX Product Manager. "Simply input the target depth, cross slope, and or mainfall slope required from the job and the system will provide visual and audible indication to help the operator maintain a desired grade thus eliminating under or over excavating."
The 2D MG technology leverages the existing machine monitor. The 2D MG system also utilizes external inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensors to provide highly accurate guidance at a lower cost compared to "in-cylinder sensors."
The 2D MG monitor indicates the position of the attachment relative to the target grade at all times providing the operator the information he needs without relying on a grade checker. The operator can pick from two monitor modes.
"Measurement mode enables the operator to use the excavator attachment as a precise measuring tool," Woods continued. "Guidance mode displays depth, attachment angle, height & depth limitation alarm. Keep in mind that 2DMG is a guidance system only; the operator is in full control of the machine. Studies have shown that operators are up to 30 percent more productive with 2D MG technology compared to a standard 210 X4."
2D Machine Control (MC)
The Link-Belt 2D Machine Control (MC) system enables operators to dramatically improve their productivity and accuracy while reducing their mental fatigue by automating the movement of the boom and bucket to keep the bucket cutting edge on the desired target grade. It is ideal for applications like trenching for underground utilities or pipelines or anything that requires the last pass to perfectly match the desired target grade whether it's a flat or sloping surface. The 2D MC system adds a 10-inch Android touchscreen display with an intuitive user interface and a machine control joystick in the cab to engage the semi-automatic boom and bucket control.
"The operator controls the speed of the stick while the boom and bucket automatically adjust to maintain the target grade," Woods said. "The semi-automatic function is intended for the last pass at the desired target grade, not for bulking out or mass excavation. The operator is in full control and can override the semi-automatic function at all times."
"Compared to a 2D MG system," he continued, "operators are up to 40 percent more productive with 2D MC excavator automatics."
Benefits of both systems
"Both systems offer great benefits," Woods said. "There will be less rework and lower costs associated with the job because materials are moved right the first time. You'll finish in fewer passes, utilizing less fuel along the way."
"You'll also reduce time associated with grade checking by eliminating the need for a grade checker in the trench in many cases. By keeping workers off the ground and out of trenches, jobsite safety is enhanced."
Link-Belt 2D Machine Guidance and 2D Machine Control software, systems and components are designed and built to conform to the manufacturer's specifications and are warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of 12 months from date of sale.
