Collins invest in Trimble Earthworks for Dozers
Company first in UK to work with SITECH to fit new 3D machine control system to Cat D6N dozer
EARTHWORKS contractors Collins Earthworks have become the first UK business to work with SITECH to fit the new Trimble Earthworks for Dozers 3D machine-control system to their latest Cat D6N machine.
The system allows Collins to fully utilize 3D across both planning and implementation for their customers. Using Earthworks for Dozers gives Collins unprecedented control over their grading, with customers able to see progress updates and confirm work has been completed.
One of the major changes with the system is the movement of both the masts and the GNSS receivers from the blade to the cab, with two receivers making it much easier to perform steep slope work and complex designs with tight tolerances.
In addition, the human machine interface (HMI) is a rugged tablet with customizable interfaces, so each operator can set up the system individually.
To support easy receiver installation, a quick-release function allows the receivers to be removed at the end of the day or even switched between machines, reducing set-up time.
Commenting on the company’s investment in Earthworks for Dozers, Dave Collins, managing director of Collins Earthworks, said: ‘You only have to look around the site to see how different it is when you are using 3D machine control.
‘This makes a big difference in the way we are able to service our customers and how we share the commercial benefits of technology with our customers.’
Collins have a full suite of Trimble equipment and software, which is supported on site and remotely by SITECH. This includes the Trimble Business Centre software package, which, using GPS, allows engineers to share 3D models with operators in the cab, ensuring they are always up to date with changes to specifications or plans.
Adam Proctor, technical director at Collins, added: ‘3D machine control gives us valuable real-time knowledge, allowing us to act much quicker to any changes in design or sequence of works.
‘Making the decision to invest in new earthworks technology is always made easier when SITECH and Trimble are involved. Not only is there the peace of mind that you have good durability, service and support, but there is continual product development behind the scenes.’
