Intelligent Perspectives on Smart Topics
Trimble is producing ‘Dimensions Thought Leadership Spotlight Series’ videos which feature the expertise and ideas of top industry leaders. Each series includes a collection of unique, on-demand episodes that will inspire new ideas and prepare you for future success.
New episodes will be released throughout the year, covering the trends and topics driving change in our fast-paced world.
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Self-Steering Compactors Latest Trimble Move Towards Autonomous Construction Equipment
Trimble’s launch of automated steering for soil compactors is just one more step towards fully autonomous construction equipment.
Trimble announced in mid-January the general availability of its Horizontal Steering Control functionality for the Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform for Soil Compactors.
This is a first for the compactor equipment class, and steering an articulated piece of equipment like a soil compactor is challenging for even a skilled human operator. Other vendors may not follow in the immediate term. Like the compactor grade control capabilities launched in April of last year, the steering control is not meant to eliminate the need for a human operator as much as perform the repetitive functions of multiple passes over a project with greater accuracy than a human operator while giving the operator override control.
🚩A Mechanical Approach
🚩Mature Technology, Modernised and Ruggedised
🚩Installs in About a day so Retrofits Popular
🚩Rapid ROI Potential
🚩Towards Automated Workflows and Autonomy
To find out more about Trimble’s Horizontal Steering Control for Soil Compactors, read the full ForConstructionPros.com article HERE.
Trimble Introduces Industry’s First Horizontal Steering Control for Soil Compactors
The INDUSTRY’S FIRST automatic steering control solution for soil compactors – Trimble Earthworks Horizontal Steering for Soil Compactors.
✔️ Achieve higher quality surfaces and consistent compaction
✔️ Focus on grade, machine productivity and safety rather than worrying about steering.
Trimble Earthwork’s Horizontal Steering Control automatically steers a soil compactor using a 3D model or compaction pass line.
This helps to improve compaction productivity and quality for operators of all skill levels by precisely controlling overlap between passes. Auto steering also helps reduce operator fatigue and can minimize over- and under-compaction, the company says. It uses NavController III steering technology from the Trimble Agriculture Division applied to civil construction applications. The Horizontal Steering Control system is compatible with all soil compactor makes and models.
Read the full ForConstructionPros.com article HERE.
Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform – Horizontal Steering Control
Trimble Earthworks Horizontal Steering Control functionality automatically controls the machine to follow any horizontal alignment from the 3D model. This allows the operator to focus on grade, machine productivity and safety rather than worrying about steering.
In an industry first, Trimble Horizontal Steering Control is NOW AVAILABLE FOR SOIL COMPACTORS
Compatible with all soil compactor makes and models.
Machine control technology round table discussion with world class experts from Trimble, Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon and Topcon
Can machine-guided equipment ease the skills shortage? We found it can
Trimble tested the speed and accuracy of novice, intermediate and expert operators using conventional and machine guided excavators, and found the latter led to big improvements across the board.
The latest quarterly Commercial Construction Index (CCI) report from the US Chamber of Commerce shows construction companies still struggling to find skilled workers.Â
83% respondents reported moderate to high difficulty in finding them, with 87% expressing a moderate to high degree of concern about workers having adequate skill levels. 83% of respondents had asked their skilled crew members to do more work, and 71% reported struggling to meet schedule requirements.
One way to tackle the shortage of skilled labour is to use supporting technology used on the job site. While adoption has been steady over the years, many construction professionals are still hesitant to invest in technology, unsure of the benefit-to-cost value. Overall, the CCI report states, nearly half of the contractors plan to not raise spending on tools and equipment in the next quarter.
Integrated grade control technology
Over the years, positioning-technology innovators and construction equipment manufacturers have integrated grade control technology on excavators, dozers, motor graders, skid-steers, milling machines, pavers and other earthmoving equipment. Trimble wanted to test whether this technology in earthmoving equipment could raise productivity.
So, we carried out a study to compare the performance of operators of varying skills – novice, intermediate, and expert – using a) conventional, b) guidance-only and c) fully machine guided excavators. The results were stark.Â
Methodology
Researchers asked 16 operators to perform the simple but common task of digging a 1m wide x 15m long by 0.5m deep trench to an accuracy of plus/minus 3cm using Komatsu PC228-10 and Hyundai HX220-L excavators.
Before each trial, participants were given the same warm-up period to familiarise themselves with the machine (e.g., practicing with the controls, digging in a test trench, interacting with the Trimble Earthworks interface).
During the first trial, participants used conventional excavation methods-no design or external grade control. At intervals of the operator’s choosing, the moderator checked excavated elevations using an SPS986 receiver, providing indications of the required cut and fill values at certain locations. The trench was considered complete when a participant indicated that they had finished excavating.
In the second trial, participants excavated the same sized trench using the guidance only function of Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform. Participants had access to the trench design and Earthworks interface but did not have any automatic machine control.
During the last trial, participants excavated using Trimble Earthworks’ “Automatics” functionality. The machine control system includes a 2D guidance system that will dig to design elevation automatically. The operator controls the stick, and Trimble Earthworks controls the boom and bucket to stay on grade. This essentially automates the excavator operation.
As with trials 1 and 2, when complete, the moderator took measurements with a Trimble TSC7 Controller and the Trimble SPS986 GNSS Smart Antenna along the length of the trench to verify the accuracy of the excavation according to the design.
Automatics made novices 62% faster
All operators met the tolerance requirements in all three trials. However, on average, novice operators were almost 50% faster with guidance-only than conventional methods and over 62% faster with automatics as compared to conventional methods.
The study indicates that while a novice operator does not have the experience to handle a machine with the same skill as an experienced operator, guidance, and particularly automatics, can significantly improve their ability to get jobs done faster with accuracy.
Intermediates become expert
Intermediate operators were on average around 27% faster with guidance-only than conventional methods and over 38% faster with automatics as compared to conventional methods. Also, of note, intermediate operators who used automatics were comparable to expert users in guidance only (6:41 to 6:03).
Experts got even faster
It’s no surprise that expert operators performed very well in all test scenarios. They were the fastest and most accurate. But even these expert operators, who on average completed the project in 9 minutes and 56 seconds with conventional methods; cut their time almost in half (5:25) using the Automatics function.
The study numbers indicate that guidance – and particularly automatics capabilities – make a very good operator better and enable less skilled operators to perform close to intermediate and expert operators with comparable accuracy. Adding machine guidance to the technology portfolio, adds to a company’s flexibility and agility, opening up the possibility of empowering less skilled workers to step up their machine control game.
Read the full Global Construction Review article HERE.
Potter’s Excavations Ensures Millimetre Accuracy
Sitech’s Kevin Lawler was recently out on a Potter Excavations jobsite outside Balranald where Potter’s is using Trimble grade control together with a Trimble Universal Total Station (UTS) kit, allowing their machines to complete work to millimetre accuracy, quickly and efficiently.
Kev was asked to perform a calibration and 3D position verification of some machines on their job to ensure this continued top-notch accuracy.
Providing the highest possible degree of accuracy for construction site positioning, stakeout, measurement and machine control, you can use Trimble UTS for:
- Tasks where the accuracy requirements are very tight: 3 millimetres (0.01 feet)
- High precision machine control and guidance
- Smaller construction sites, or combined with GNSS on larger sites
- Measuring dangerous or inaccessible locations
- Reflectorless measurement of stockpiles, rock faces, cuttings and structures
- Tunnel measurement.
Trimble and Microsoft Partner to Drive Digital Transformation Across Industries
Trimble and Microsoft have announced a strategic partnership to advance technology adoption and accelerate the digital transformation of the construction, agriculture and transportation industries.
The two companies will work together to develop an industry cloud to enable construction organizations to harness the value of digital construction data across the project lifecycle from design, build and operate.
The construction process is fragmented, which can result in lost productivity, rework and a lack of transparency.
The ability to link technologies, tasks, processes and multiple stakeholders—such as general contractors, subcontractors, designers, engineers and owners—across the construction project workflow can transform and significantly improve productivity, quality, safety, transparency and sustainability.
This partnership expands Trimble and Microsoft’s existing relationship to combine the Microsoft cloud with Trimble’s construction solutions and industry domain knowledge.
The companies will deliver the Trimble Construction Cloud in 2022.
“Trimble and Microsoft will create a powerful partnership to advance technology adoption in the construction industry. Using Microsoft technologies, Trimble will be able to more rapidly develop a construction cloud to connect stakeholders and workflows throughout the industry,” said Bryn Fosburgh, senior VP, Trimble.
“We are building on our combined success to help construction companies use digital data to improve productivity, reduce costs, increase collaboration and create agility.”
“Industry customers are accelerating deployment of cloud-based services and solutions to facilitate better decision making based on data-driven insights, gain efficiencies, reduce costs and engage customers in new ways,” said Casey McGee, VP Global ISV partners, Microsoft.
“We are excited about our enhanced collaboration with Trimble as it will help customers, across industries, evolve their cloud strategies and realize business transformation.”
Read the full release HERE.
D Group 3D Dual GNSS Trimble Earthworks System with Integrated LOADRITE Payload Management Install
“Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine,” a wise man once said. And that’s exactly what SITECH Solutions’ Kevin Lawler did recently when he visited D Group in ACT and fitted their Volvo ECR235 with 3D Dual GNSS Trimble Earthworks System complete with LOADRITE Payload Management.
Straight from the fit out to working on a residential subdivision and to now currently working on a commercial development site in the ACT, the Volvo ECR235 is well and truly working to maximum efficiency thanks to the fit out by Kev.
LOADRITE Payload Management for Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform allows you to maximize your machine control investment with integrated payload management. You can track how much weight is in each bucket and how much weight has been added to a cycle.
Increase the versatility and productivity of your machine – with Trimble LOADRITE Payload Management for Trimble Earthworks you can leverage your existing Trimble Earthworks machine control investment to load more in less time.
ABOUT D GROUP
Founded in 1994, D Group has grown from a local plumbing company into one of Canberra’s leading civil, hydraulics and construction management firms.
D Group has been involved with some of the most notable and prestigious projects throughout ACT, with a track record for providing the full spectrum of civil engineering, sub-structure and external works packages to industrial, commercial and retail schemes.
Trimble: Giving Construction Machinery a Brain
“If you’re not using technology in five years, you’re not going to be able to be competitive,” says Scott Crozier, vice president, Trimble Civil Engineering and Construction, on the subject of technology in the construction industry.
Crozier accepts that in the beginning it was the larger contractors that were the ‘innovators’ and adopted construction technology, but says that the tide is now beginning to turn and increasing amounts of smaller contractors are embracing it.
“We see a big gap at the smaller contractor level, between those that don’t believe in it and those that realise they are not going to be in business if they don’t invest in it.”
Scott says that these firms that have invested in construction technology have seen an increase in efficiency and are now looking for what the next gains are.
“Those that have been using digital construction tools for a period of time, now they’re onto data-driven and analytics to help them help find additional efficiencies. You need those digital tools to be able to get the data. Now they’re running analysis on that data to find out areas where they could improve, help their future estimates and look for efficiencies to be gained in certain tasks and coordination of tasks that they’re working on.”
Read the full KHL Group interview HERE.
Is Machine Control Right for You? 5 Considerations to Help You Evaluate
No contractor is too small for technology. Smaller contractors actually need it more than a larger contractor, because they need to get more done with a smaller team. Most contractors see a return on investment in six to nine months. The most common feedback is “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
Here are 5 considerations if you’re thinking about implementing machine control technology to grow your business.
ONE: What are your Pain Points?
Examining the issues that are currently draining profits or hampering business growth often helps to identify a way for technology to lessen the burden.
TWO: Consider Cost Savings, Not Just the Expense
While you are going to invest more for equipment using 2D or 3D machine control, you can also rake in some savings.
THREE: Machine Control is more Flexible than you Might Expect
Dozers, excavators and graders can all share much of the same technology hardware. This can increase overall usage.
FOUR: Do you have a Technology Champion?
One of the keys to success in technology adoption is having the right person within your company who is going to be a champion for the technology. Plus a training plan.
FIVE: Ask for a Demo
One of the best ways to observe the technology benefits is through a demo. When contractors see the results for themselves on the job, they know it’s going to do great things for them.
Contact us for a demo today. Read the full @conexpoconagg article HERE.
With thanks to @SITECHSouth and Eric “EJ” Herron @dig_it_digital_gps.
Biletics’ Cat 310 Mini Excavatior Unstoppable with Trimble 3D
Already delivering power and performance in a mini size that allows it to work in a wide range of applications, Biletics Excavations’ newly fitted out Cat 310 mini excavator will now be unstoppable.
SITECH Solutions’ Pete Huy recently installed a Trimble 3D Earthworks complete with LOADRITE Payload Management on Biletics’ Cat which has been working on the Albion Park Airport upgrade project for Cleary Bros.
LOADRITE Payload Management for Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform allows you to maximize your machine control investment with integrated payload management. You can track how much weight is in each bucket and how much weight has been added to a cycle.
Increase the versatility and productivity of your machine – with Trimble LOADRITE Payload Management for Trimble Earthworks you can leverage your existing Trimble Earthworks machine control investment to load more in less time.
ABOUT BILETICS EXCAVATIONS
Biletics Excavations is an expert demolition and excavation business, providing professional and reliable service around the Illawarra area. Biletics is experienced in all aspects of excavation, including general excavation, trenching, driveways, hydraulic rock breaking and general site cleanup.
“Best System Set Up I’ve Ever Seen” Trimble 3D Earthworks for Northpipe Constructions
“It’s the best system set up that I’ve seen,” comes the verdict from SITECH Solutions’ Matt Leonard after upgrading a 2D Cat D5K2 to a full 3D Trimble Earthworks system for Northpipe Constructions.
As he watches the machine moving in full automatics at high speed whilst rotating the blade back and forth and maintaining grade perfectly, Matt says it’s straight up the most impressive machine that he’s even laid eyes on.
“The speed at which the Trimble GS520 sensors can receive the data and calculate it all compared to the older systems is unbelievable,” says Matt.
When asked what his thoughts were on the new system, Northpipe’s operator keeps it short, sweet and to the point- “It’s bloody unreal,” he says.
The Cat has been set to work on a new housing estate development project in Valla Beach, Nambucca Heads and Northpipe Constructions is stoked with the results the machine is achieving.
It’s their first Trimble system and we’re pretty confident it won’t be the last.
ABOUT NORTHPIPE CONSTRUCTIONS
Northpipe Constructions has over 15 years of extensive experience in performing bulk earthworks, constructing roads in all surfacing types, excavation, drainage & culverts, kerb & gutter, bridgework associated abutments, pavement stabilisation, traffic management and road signage/furniture.
Northpipe has completed a huge number of projects for small and large residential sites and industrial projects for government departments, major developments and private clients.
Trimble InsightsHQ – Remote, Integrated Reporting
Trimble’s acquisition of Loadrite opened the company up to possibilities in the aggregates industry, including technological integration.
Trimble also gained ownership of Loadrite’s scale technology, including the company’s loader scales, excavator scales and belt scales.
The scales can determine the exact weight of materials in or on the equipment, as well as track the operational activity of the equipment.
To coordinate with these scales, Trimble began to integrate its current technological capabilities with the aggregate scales. The company came up with Insight HQ, a browser-based platform where operators can view the data from their equipment.
The company integrated the scales with Insight HQ so the scales can send information to the Insight database.
“We’re bringing an improved version of the existing technology,” said Johan Smet, GM of the quarry division for Trimble Loadrite. “Insight HQ is a consolidated platform taking a lot of our reporting capabilities from different systems to one platform.”
Insight HQ uses the Cloud to consolidate the equipment info from each scale. Thus, operators at different locations can access information & determine the progress at a site.
“We’re showing improved reporting capabilities,” said Smet. “We’re bringing improved versions of the existing scales from Loadrite and a whole other set of existing Trimble technologies.”
Read the full pitandquarry.com article here.
Behind the Scenes: Trimble Earthworks install for JBJ Civil
Behind the scenes with Jye Gregory, going the extra mile, working well into the night to get JBJ Civil’s 140M3 up and running with a Trimble Earthworks installation.
Fundex Equipment to Offer Trimble Groundworks Machine Control System for Piling Rig Guidance
Trimble and Fundex Equipment have announced the availability of the Trimble® Groundworks Machine Control System for piling machine guidance as an option on Fundex Equipment foundation machines.
Trimble Groundworks helps construction companies accelerate piling operations with stakeless workflows, 3D guidance and safer sites using Fundex Piling Machines.
Trimble Groundworks is a 3D machine control system for piling rigs that improves efficiency and reduces downtime with stakeless navigation, monitoring productivity and quality, and managing design data from office to field. Trimble Groundworks helps optimize productivity, reduce driving time per pile for piling rigs and enables operations to work day or night and under almost any weather conditions. Part of the Trimble Connected Site® portfolio, Trimble Groundworks is a connected solution between office and field workflows.
“Trimble Groundworks increases the value of our equipment for our customers,” said Anton Hectors, manager E-systems, Fundex Equipment. “Thanks to integration of the machine control system with our Fundex Equipment foundation machines, operators can drive piles more efficiently and with higher quality.”
“Both Trimble and Fundex have a long history of providing innovative solutions for piling operations,” said Kevin Garcia, general manager of Trimble’s Civil Construction Solutions Division. “Trimble Groundworks technology on Fundex Equipment Foundation machines will enable our customers to maximize piling productivity and safety to new levels, with a reliable and accurate workflow.”
3D Guidance
Trimble Groundworks provides accurate piling depth, direction and drill hole calculation, enabling operators to drill exactly to the required depth. The Auto-Stop feature eliminates over/under drilling and reduces machine wear and tear.
Safer Piling Workflows
When Groundworks is used with Trimble Business Center software, administrators can set avoidance zones in the design file. This can alert the operator of areas to reduce blind spots. In addition, Groundworks reduces the need for surveyors and support staff to be near the machine, making worksites safer.
Layout and Record As-Built Data
Groundworks allows for operators to create an in-field stakeless piling design and export layout and as-built reports. These reports meet the International Rock Excavation Data Exchange Standard (IREDES) for workflows for machine and software interoperability.
About Fundex Equipment
Fundex Equipment B.V. designs, produces and supplies multifunctional foundation machines all over the world. More than 60 years of experience in the field of various foundation techniques is the basis for the development of all their products. Fundex Equipment offers a wide range of foundation machines for various foundation techniques in the civil market with auxiliary equipment such as rotary heads, casing clamps, ring vibrators and hydraulic power packs.
Fundex Equipment to Offer Trimble Groundworks Machine Control System for Piling Rig GuidanceRead the full announcement on prnewswire.com
Trimble’s vision of a far more efficient future
Trimble is offering a future with more efficient, optimised construction operations for faster project delivery.
The global pandemic has had a huge impact all around the globe, with the threat to human health affecting all industries and all activities. However, the latest technology is offering solutions and helping firms to adopt systems that are already available.
This is certainly becoming apparent in the construction sector, where contractors and technology suppliers are meeting the many challenges posed by the pandemic.
Construction activity was halted initially by the pandemic in many areas but then was able to commence again by following new practices, with technology playing a key role.
Pete Large is in charge of civil construction field solutions at Trimble and he believes that the pandemic has certainly affected the adoption of technology in construction.
He commented, “In the civil engineering sector we’re definitely seeing some trends there.”
Machine control systems are offering benefits for social distancing measures on construction sites
Fast data transfer between machines and site office can be achieved using technology, with contractors increasing their use of such systems due to the pandemic
New tools allow firms to monitor operations and carry out remote surveying to enable social distancing on the modern construction site
Plus much more. Read the full World Highways article HERE.
“All these things we’ve been forced to do because of the pandemic will stick.”
Introducing the Trimble GuidEx Machine Guidance System
Trimble has introduced theTrimble GuidEx Machine Guidance System, an advanced machine navigation solution intended to quickly and efficiently guide machines along route corridors or to specific target areas, while providing local awareness using customer-provided mapping or engineering data to create exclusion and inclusion zones.
Trimble GuidEx uses an integrated GNSS and inertial navigation system (INS) to compute a virtual reference point and precise heading, pitch and roll.
Users can install the Trimble GuidEx system on anything from utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) to heavy equipment, on- or off-road.
Trimble GuidEx provides streamlined design-stakeout navigation that eliminates the need for advance survey stakeout operations. This enables machine operators to navigate to an exact point without stakes or surveyors, such as for core-sampling operations.
Corridor navigation allows users to efficiently complete a range of tasks including clearing paths for access routes and plowing snow. With comprehensive local machine data-logging, contractors can capture a range of data including position, time and speed.
“Trimble GuidEx was built to meet the needs of natural resource exploration activities, but can be used for many other applications,” said Scott Crozier, vice president of Trimble Civil Construction. “This system improves productivity and awareness with easy, efficient, task-specific navigation.”
SOLAR PROJECT: Trimble Machine guidance accurately installs 110,000 ground screws with a 50% program acceleration
Contractor TerraSmart combines its innovative solar panel foundation methods with Trimble machine guidance drill systems to accurately install 110,000 ground screws with a 50% program acceleration.
Project Highlights:
– Greater than 50% acceleration in completing each solar panel block, compared to traditional stake and survey methods
– Met hole and ground screw tolerances of +/- 2 centimetres
– Placed approximately 110,000 ground screws with minimal staking
– Saved upwards of $250,000 and significant time in survey costs – eliminated the need for a team of full-time surveyors
Solar panels require a strong, durable foundation; contractors have often used piles for solar panel foundations. However, when the soil is extremely rocky, dense and full of caliche, driving piles into the ground becomes a significant challenge.
Following discussions with SITECH, the TerraSmart team made the decision to equip five drill rigs with the full 3D Trimble DPS900 Drilling System.
After just four months of using the ground screw method and the Trimble DPS900 systems on its rigs, the TerraSmart team accurately drilled more than 62,000 holes and completed the rock drilling portion of blocks five and six – nearly a 50% acceleration in completing each block compared to using traditional methods. The team has also improved the accuracy of the rock drills over time, fine tuning the entire system to work with ground conditions, allowing them to maintain holes within ½ in (12.7 millimetre) tolerance.
James Meyer, Survey Lead for TerraSmart explained that another piece of Trimble technology has provided them with the ability to satisfy another one of the general contractor’s specifications. On this particular project, the owner requires the panels to follow the topography of the land; essentially mirroring the undulation and elevation changes of the terrain.
Using Trimble DPS900 and SPS930 Universal Total Stations, TerraSmart developed an algorithm to meet project specifications. TerraSmart implemented this unique process with the help of Trimble and Atlas Copco.
With Trimble SPS930 Universal Robotic Total Station and the algorithm that takes into account the known ground elevations, the team set the mounting legs to match the elevation change of the ground, translating into the solar panels mounted on top of legs flowing with the grade of the land. Using this system, TerraSmart ground crews were able to adhere to the height, placement, and 1% angle break between leg tolerances required by the general contractor.
ABOUT TERRASMART
TerraSmart leads North America in solar ground mount racking design, engineering, and manufacturing. The company has more than 30 years of experience in structural engineering and steel fabrication. Headquartered in Estero, Florida, TerraSmart delivers the most technologically advanced solar ground mount racking solutions in the industry.
Trimble Announces Earthworks Upgrade for Soil Compactors
Wider Range of Machine Types Now Available on the Trimble Earthworks Platform
The Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform version 2.4 offers support for soil compactors.
Trimble Earthworks for soil compactors is a GNSS-based, 3D compaction control solution designed to make soil compaction more accurate, faster and easier. Operators will experience the same intuitive, easy-to-use Trimble Earthworks software interface currently available for excavators, dozers and motor graders for improved productivity.
Compaction Control.
Trimble Earthworks for soil compactors enables contractors to accurately control the compaction process, while reducing unnecessary passes that can result in over compaction. The platform makes the overall compaction process more efficient, with a higher level of accuracy and less rework. With soil compaction part of the extensible Trimble Earthworks platform, contractors can take advantage of shorter training times, less downtime and increased remote operator support in the field as well as benefiting from ongoing platform developments.
“Trimble Earthworks for soil compactors is easy to learn and more accessible for many different types of users because it leverages the intuitive Trimble machine-control interface and applies it to soil compactors,” said Scott Crozier, vice president of Trimble Civil Construction. “Adding this new machine type to the Trimble Earthworks platform gives contractors the ability to more easily manage their mixed fleets, train operators and manage jobsite data.”
Improvements in material/surface lifts and layer management allow for more accurate data and easier data management. Office-to-field connectivity enables efficient communication and data transferring across the project. In the field and office, contractors can easily interpret the valuable productivity data collected from the machine, such as work previously completed versus work completed that day.
Read the full GPSWorld.com article.
Trimble introduces simplified Siteworks software
Trimble Siteworks SE Software is intended for users who do not require a full feature set.
The newly launched Trimble Siteworks SE Starter Edition is billed as an entry-level, easy-to-use construction surveying software “at an affordable price point”.
Using a construction GNSS receiver, a supervisor, foreman, grade checker or site engineer can easily check a grade, slope or alignment and navigate the project more accurately and in less time than with traditional survey methods.
Budget-conscious contractors can realize a quick return on investment by giving more personnel on the jobsite access to survey technology, enabling more productive and efficient field crews.
Low-Cost, Scalable Construction Surveying
“The Trimble Siteworks SE Starter Edition is an important addition to our site positioning portfolio,” said Scott Crozier, vice president of Trimble Civil Construction, “With a lower cost-of-entry, the software is scalable and makes it easy for contractors to upgrade to more advanced Trimble Siteworks Positioning Systems as soon as their needs change.”
Read the full Construction Global article.
THINK BIG. START NOW: Trimble Siteworks SE Starter Edition
Trimble Siteworks SE Starter Edition is tailored to users who do not require a full construction-surveyor feature set but offers them access to the same 3D constructible models, GNSS positioning and real-time digital data used by survey crews and machine operators.
Faster decision and improved communications between the field and office are the immediate results.
An upgrade to the standard version is possible anytime.
Read the Trimble News Release about Siteworks SE Starter edition HERE.
Ask us to show you how you can make your team more effective with Siteworks SE starter edition.
Trimble’s Spot the Robot Dog for Site Documentation
The Trimble-branded version of Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot includes a GNSS antenna and a laser scanner, as well as integration into Trimble’s Field Link and Earthworks software applications.
The Trimble-branded Spot will be able to work outdoors on large civil projects. “On the civil side where they are moving dirt around, that’s the primary users of GNSS,” says says Martin Holmgren, Trimble general manager for building field solutions.
Spot will be integrated into Trimble Earthworks, where can be used to track progress on earthmoving jobs.
The Spot robot, with its ability to traverse cluttered jobsites as well as climb and descend stairs, can capture laser scans and location data in a more consistent way than a human surveyor. And since Spot is able to work without direct supervision, it allows for regular scans of jobsites during off-hours. “With Spot, we’ll be able to collect more data, better data, up-to-date data,” explains Holmgren. “That way when the team arrives, the dog can have been out in the morning or the night before, and we have the data already collected for the day’s work.”
Read the full Engineering News-Record Article here.
Not something you see everyday! Only 10 in Australia
Digital Grade Dirt chooses Trimble GCS 900 2D laser for its Laser-Grader
SITECH Solution’s Christo Ferreira recently had the pleasure of installing a Trimble GCS 900 2D laser system onto one of only ten such Laser-Graders in Australia.
Based in East Jindabyne, Digital Grade Dirt’s Laser-Grader is unique around the world. The 1.5t machine is the only miniature grader in manufacture, with the next size being 7t.
A cost effective machine suited for work on driveways and small areas, its design makes it perfect for unique applications – working basement levels, navigating through pillars, gaining tunnel access & getting in underground.
With the GCS 900 grade control installed, Digital Grade Dirt has recently been able to submit a proposal for the Snowy 2.0 project, which is the next chapter in the Snowy Scheme’s history. The project involves linking two existing dams, Tantangara and Talbingo, through 27km of tunnels and building a new underground power station.
The Laser-Grader specialises in precision grading and achieving a fine, flawless material finish, unequalled when coupled with Trimble grade control.
The Trimble GCS900 2D Grade Control System for motor graders is an excellent first investment for contractors new to construction technology looking to improve the efficiency and productivity of their machines.
Connected construction according to Trimble
The connected construction site is gaining in popularity, even if the word “connected” has turned into somewhat of a buzzword.
People, machines, workflows – they have all become connected. In construction this means that we now have direct links between the office and field, between models and machines, software and hardware, platforms and services.
While the efficiency benefits of this connectivity might be more obvious on the higher level of project management, what does it bring to workers executing tasks on a project? Connectivity can help speed up project delivery, raise quality, achieve cost efficiencies, make work safer, and reduce environmental impact of construction projects.
Read the full theconstructionindex.co.uk article to learn more about the constructible process, constructible models and the related:
👉🏻productivity gains
👉🏻greater quality assurance
👉🏻increased safety
👉🏻greater transparency
👉🏻 greater sustainability
that you can achieve by working with Trimble Connected Construction.
Contact us to learn more about Trimble Connected Construction https://bit.ly/3t2Ye36
New Trimble Survey Controller for Land and Construction Surveying
Offering all the benefits of the TS3 controller, The TSC5 is brought up-to-date with an Android operating system, a 5-inch screen and backlit keyboard.
Trimble introduced the Trimble TSC5 Controller for Trimble S series total stations, which is a new rugged, light-weight and compact field solution for land and civil construction surveyors. The Trimble TSC5 features a 5-inch sunlight readable screen with a 13MP rear-facing camera, keypad and all-day battery for field data collection. Its ergonomic design is lightweight (934 grams), easy to grip and made for rugged environments.
The TSC5 is resistant to shock, dust and water while a brightly lit, anti-glare screen and backlit alphanumeric keypad enable fast and efficient operation. The controller’s battery provides all-day power on a single charge and with an optional external battery, the power for extended use is nearly doubled.
The controller supports compatible Trimble GNSS receivers, such as the Trimble R12i and Trimble R12 for high-accuracy positioning requirements. It features a Qualcomm 2.2 GHz processor, 4 GB memory and 64 GB storage, worldwide WWAN with hot spot capability (AT&T and Verizon certified).
Software integration
Featuring an Android 10 operating system, the TSC5 is fully integrated with Trimble’s land and construction surveying instruments and software packages, including Trimble Access 2021 Field Software and Trimble Siteworks Software. Version 2021.00 of the Trimble Access software was released in February 2021, offering new hardware support (such as the newly released Trimble SX12 scanning total station and the TSC5) and multiple product enhancements. In addition, the TS5 controller can be used with Trimble Forensics Capture, Trimble’s data collector software that simplifies scene evidence gathering and enables a seamless transition to Trimble Forensics Reveal desktop software for in-depth analysis.
Add-on functionality
Functionality can be added to the TSC5 with an optional user-replaceable Trimble EMPOWER module, such as a long-range radio or sub-meter GNSS receiver: the EMPOWER Module system includes the ability to add the EM100 (GNSS), EM11X family (RFID/Barcode) and EM120 (Long Range Radio) modules. The Trimble EMPOWER Module system gives users the possibility to customize their mobile computing solution to their own workflow with added scalability.
Read the full spar3D.com article
Trimble and VayaVision Establish Alliance to Make Intelligent Automation Even Smarter
Trimble and VayaVision, a LeddarTech Company, have announced an alliance that will bring advanced perception technology to the agriculture, construction and mining markets.
The integration of VayaVision’s raw data sensor fusion and perception software platform with Trimble’s existing industry-leading machine control technology can enable intelligent automation in complex work environments.
The alliance is focused on advancing data fusion for multi-sensor systems such as LiDAR, cameras and GNSS. These sensors are used to produce reliable environmental mapping, which is critical for autonomous solutions. The result is expected to enable improvements in the performance of autonomous machines operating in challenging work environments or when supporting safety-critical applications.
“Trimble has been connecting the physical and digital worlds with our best-in-class automation technologies for more than 20 years—whether it is in agriculture, construction or mining,” said Finlay Wood, business area director for Trimble’s Autonomous Solutions Division. “We see the demand for operator assistance, autonomous machines and workflow optimization accelerating dramatically and alliances such as this are a critical part of how we will bring added value to our customers in all levels of autonomy.”
Read the full press release HERE.
SITECH Solutions, Supporting You: Trimble GPS base station and Rover set up
Happy Women in Construction Week!
This week, March 4 through 10, the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) is celebrating their annual Women in Construction (WIC) Week.
The construction industry is facing a massive labour shortage. The labour and skill needed to relieve that shortage, however, are readily available. Despite making up a fraction of the current construction workforce, women are poised to move toward the forefront of the industry with a slow, but steady influx of female engineers, architects, project leaders, tradeswomen, contractors, and more.
That’s where NAWIC and events like WIC Week come in.
Stereotypes abound, young women — and perhaps even the general populous — don’t associate the construction industry and women in the way that they should.
WIC Week gives NAWIC members the chance to promote opportunities in construction for women within their communities, thus also generating a conversation around diversity in the trades.
Read the full article on BuiltWorlds.
How Tech Enhances Machine Safety On Site
Augmented reality (AR) platforms such as Trimble Earthworks combine a digital space with the physical worksite. When used with an on-cab camera, operators can see virtual design elements—such as avoidance zones—superimposed over the real site.
“This allows operators to visualize the design in relation to the site,” says Cameron Clark, earthmoving industry director at Trimble. “If they are in the cab of the excavator and they look around or rotate the machine, they can see what they have to build and how it relates to the ground as it stands today.”
With AR, operators are also able to determine the location of underground utilities with respect to their bucket. This provides more spatial knowledge, and shows an operator what the job requires before breaking ground.
“Instead of looking at a digital screen where you’re not sure where things are, you can superimpose these areas through the eyes of the operator using AR,” Clark says. “You can draw those areas through the camera and see exactly where they are on the ground.
“If there’s a conflict in the design, or maybe something is just completely wrong…you have a way to visualize what the final product is. You can bring a lot more confidence.”
Trimble Earthworks also brings greater awareness around the bucket of the excavator.
“If an operator is working in a trench, a lot of the time you’ll see people in the trench laying pipes, and you’ll see excavator operators standing and looking down into the trench,” Clark says. “This is very dangerous because they’ll stand up, look over, sit back down, get up again, and a lot of the time they don’t actually disengage the hydraulics.”
If an operator accidentally bumps a lever in the cab, the boom can swing and potentially hit someone.
“With the camera on the machine you can actually see at a better angle into the trench without having to stand up and look over,” he says. “It provides another angle to see all around, and give greater awareness.”
Read the full Construction Equipment magazine article here
Trimble announces version 5.40 of Trimble Business Center office software to maximise productivity
Trimble announces version 5.40 of Trimble Business Center office software to maximize productivity by streamlining point cloud workflows.
The software will automate and integrate additional data types which will enable increase in accessibility and scalability for survey, mapping, and businesses in engineering.
Tim Lemmon, Marketing Director, Trimble Geospatial Software said, “With the addition of Monitoring and Tunneling modules and the new feature extraction capabilities, customers now have access to powerful new tools that enable them to start and stay in one software.
The new software has automated 3D point cloud extraction which efficiently extract information are critical to maximize productivity.
It also has civil infrastructure and tunneling applications and provides additional data types. It also has new subscription plans to enable businesses to more effectively manage and control their operating expenses.
Lemmon added, “The new subscription plans make Trimble Business Center even more accessible for survey and construction professionals, allowing them to better manage and scale their capabilities as their business grows.”
Article from GeospatialWorld.net.
Ultimate Trim: PUMPED about Trimble v2.0 Earthworks
Matt Browne from Ultimate Trim is PUMPED about the new Trimble Earthworks v2.0 machine control system we fitted to his 140M2 Cat grader.
Ryan Van Arkells and the boys completed the install for Matt and he can’t wait to put it to work.
“The boys have done a fantastic job and I’d like to say thanks,” says Matt.
First project the newly kitted up Cat will be working on is roadworks for the Rail to Western Sydney Airport.
Trimble’s Earthworks Grade Control Platform version 2.0 introduces new features for all machine types, including the Trimble Earthworks Assistant App which provides an easier way to access critical Earthworks learning material and documentation, allowing for a shorter learning curve and less downtime for operators. These improvements are designed to enable faster ROI while increasing productivity and decreasing training time for operators.
ABOUT ULTIMATE TRIM
Ultimate Trim services both NSW and QLD, specialising in final trim including:
Road/railway pavements
Subgrade/all gravels
Detailed finishing works.
Automatically Set Screed Slope and Depth with Trimble’s New Roadworks 3D Paving Control
Contractors ready to ditch the stringline or upgrade from 2D paving have a new option as Trimble launches its Roadworks 3D Paving Control Platform for Asphalt Pavers.
With 3D paving, the operator can pave to the project’s design specifications.
After being fed the design, the system automatically controls the paver’s screed. It can take out high and low areas on the first layer as the screed follows the design for slope and thickness. The system automatically lays the right amount of asphalt for improved accuracy and increased productivity.
By avoiding excess asphalt placement, the system increases road smoothness.
This can also lead to potential bonus pay on projects that offer such incentives. It also means not having to spend time setting out and taking up stringline.
Read the full article in Equipment World.
Introducing Trimble Roadworks 3D Paving Control Platform for Asphalt Pavers
A clear vision with Trimble SiteVision
Engineering and surveying consulting firm Smith Roberts Baldischwiler (SRB) has implemented a new approach to working with landowners affected by energy development.
Instead of 2D paper drawings, SRB uses Trimble SiteVision to provide accurate, on-site visualizations of proposed easements or structures.
Running on an Android-based smartphone, SiteVision uses Trimble Catalyst technology and precise GNSS to determine its position accurate to 1 to 2 centimeters. SiteVision then overlays a 3D model of proposed improvements onto a realtime image of the site.
The handheld system is simple to use and provides an accurate visual depiction for the landman and landowner.
“The ability to visualize the alignments and rights-of-way on the ground is almost priceless. It streamlines the process and you can speed through a project very quickly,” says Taylor Denniston, SRB Director of Survey and Mapping.
Trimble Earthworks for Excavators Grade Control Platform. Finalist for Technological Innovation Of The Year in the Australian Earthmoving Awards.
We’re proud to share that Trimble Earthworks for Excavators Grade Control has been announced as a finalist for Tech Innovation of the Year by Australian Earthmoving Magazine.
The Trimble Earthworks for Excavators Grade Control Platform is designed to help you do more in less time.
Reengineered from the ground up, the innovative, next generation grade control platform features intuitive, easy-to-learn software that runs on an Android operating system. And state-of-the-art software and hardware give operators of all skill levels the ability to work faster and more productively than ever before.
Trimble Earthworks is the first integrated 3D aftermarket grade control with automatics for Excavators and tilt-rotator attachments. Excavators can work semi-automatically, allowing operators to create smooth, flat or sloped surfaces more easily.
Trimble Earthworks can be installed by SITECH Solutions in either 2D or 3D options.
Trimble Earthworks for Excavators Grade Control Platform. Finalist for Technological Innovation Of The Year in the Australian Earthmoving Awards.Read the Australian Earthmoving Magazine article HERE.
2D Trimble GCS900 Grade Control System: excellent first investment for contractors new to construction technology
5 new rover kits – Christmas comes early for WEM!
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Get your free eBook: Drones for Construction
Our friends from Propellor are giving away a Free eBook: Drones for Construction. The Beginner’s Guide.
Trimble Stratus drone technology is powered by Propellor’s Aeropoints. Trimble Stratus helps civil contractors use drones to map, measure and share accurate information about their worksite and assets. With Stratus you can make quicker decisions, avoid mistakes, and grow profits by always having the right information on hand.
With Trimble Stratus you can:
👉🏻 Confidently plan and estimate
👉🏻Calculate site volumes
👉🏻Conduct site checks
Go to Propellor’s website to grab your copy of their free ebook and to learn more Trimble Stratus drone technology contact us today.
Trimble and Boston Dynamics Announce Strategic Alliance to Extend the Use of Autonomous Robots in Construction
The jointly-developed solution will combine the Spot robot’s autonomous mobility with Trimble’s data collection sensors and field control software to enable automation of repetitive tasks such as site scans, surveying and progress monitoring, while taking advantage of the robot’s unique capabilities to navigate dynamic and potentially unsafe environments.
Spot is an agile mobile robot that navigates terrain with unprecedented mobility, allowing you to automate routine inspection tasks and data capture safely, accurately, and frequently.
The results?
Safer, more efficient and more predictable operations.
The Trimble and Boston Dynamics relationship gives Trimble exclusivity to sell and support the Spot robot with integrated scanning, total station and GNSS technologies for the construction market.
“Robots will play a crucial role in automated construction workflows and can augment the human workforce by handling dirty, dull and dangerous tasks,” said Martin Holmgren, general manager, Building Field Solutions at Trimble.
“We’re excited about this alliance and the potential to bring unprecedented improvements in safety, quality and productivity to our construction customers.”
🔗 Read the article in Cision PR Newswire: https://prn.to/35ksqwp
Canberra Contractors presents Trimble SiteVision Part 3
Canberra Contractors Presents Trimble Site Vision. Canberra Contractors have been involved with Trimble SiteVision since day one, being part of Trimble’s beta testing for its development.
This video demonstrates how Trimble SiteVision, pioneering augmented reality solution, makes it possible for you to walk from the construction site into the virtual completed site on-site on one of their Australian Capital Territory (ACT) subdivisions.
You can physically see the scale of all of the hydraulic services that have to be installed on the job and where they sit beneath the ground in relation to the job. Trimble SiteVision enables you to see where everything sits in real time and space; and allows you to check for any clashing services.
With Trimble SiteVision –
📍Take a walk through your job site and visualize:
– Conceptual designs, from buildings to roads, as they might appear in real life
– What lies beneath the ground or resides inside walls, such as water pipes and electrical services
📍Provide real world context to designs:⠀
– Communicate complicated plans and drawings
– Precisely identify where concealed assets are
– Minimize costly errors and safety related incidents
– Simply upload your data, visualize and manipulate it in the field, report back to the office—all through the Trimble Cloud.
ABOUT CANBERRA CONTRACTORS:
Established in 1983, Canberra Contractors has grown from a small local company to a well-established Civil Contractor in the Capital Region.
Canberra Contractors undertakes a full range of construction activities from intricate small-scale projects to large government infrastructure works.
The strengths of the business are founded on highly experienced staff and extensive capability to resource projects.
Canberra Contractors is a forerunner in the development and implementation of new construction methods and innovations.
Known as an industry leader in geospatial technology, with a wide-ranging fleet of machines outfitted with the latest technology, Canberra Contractors is a results driven organisation as evidenced by past and present performance.
Trimble’s drone-based tech for construction
Trimble is offering progress tracking software that combines with drone flights to aid the mapping, measurement and management of construction sites.
The data analytics and visualisation platform, Stratus –powered by worksite analytics software from Propeller – is designed specifically for earthmoving applications.
Using the technology in conjunction with Trimble’s Connected Site solutions, Sitech says contractors need only place and activate ground control points, then undertake drone flights to collect valuable site data, using Stratus to upload and view the data, which can be shared across teams working remotely.
Jan Wouter Kruyt, director of European Operations at Propeller, said, “While other software tries to accommodate a broad category of users, Trimble Stratus is 100% focused on earthmoving and construction environments.”
Kruyt added, “The new package delivers several benefits for construction companies, including capabilities to compare designs and minimise rework by generating highly accurate survey data.
“Most importantly, having frequent up-to-date survey data on hand means that companies can complete projects ahead of schedule and under budget, something that’s becoming more important as companies try to get back on track following lockdown.”
Read the full Construction Europe article HERE.
Continuous improvement policy moves the Baker Group into Trimble machine control
Scott Smith and Brendon Vella were recently onsite in Penrith where they installed Trimble GCS900 with full autos onto a Cat 140M grader, along with Trimble GCS900 machine control onto a Cat D6T dozer for the Baker Group.
Celebrating over 40 years in business, the Baker Group consistently pursues a policy of continuous improvement, aiming for increasingly higher standards in the industry and workplace safety for workers, customers and staff.
Keeping true to this policy, Bakers has moved into Trimble machine control with these installations and SITECH Solutions is very proud to have been a part of the transition.
Trimble machine control provides the ultimate tool for enhancing productivity and performance in any mixed fleet of earthmoving equipment.
With it, operators gain a set of intuitive, interactive controls that improve accuracy and speed for both veteran and newer users alike.
Teams using Trimble Earthworks can exceed productivity expectations across jobs of all types.
The newly fitted machines will be working on the construction of the Nepean Business Park, which is officially underway with site rehabilitation work kicking off.
The rehabilitation works which are taking place on a 47ha former quarry site adjacent to the Sydney International Regatta Centre and the North Penrith employment area is expected to take 18 months to two years to complete before building construction work starts.
The project is expected to cost $613 million and will generate $2 billion in economic activity during construction. Once operational, the Park will generate $295 million in wages and contribute $500 million annually to the Penrith economy.
The business park is set to create more than 18,000 direct and indirect jobs.
How GPS Rovers Improve Construction Project Management
For Construction Pros speaks to Casey Cyrus, business area manager for site positioning systems at Trimble, world-class developer of GPS positioning technologies to discuss how the ability of technology to accurately measure projects with unprecedented speed is offering contractors new ways to monitor progress and maintain quality control.
A rover is a small GPS receiver with data-collecting, and usually transmitting, capability. Their ability to quickly and inexpensively measure and report work in progress offers contractors unprecedented insights into their production.
*Trimble SPS986 with TSC7Trimble’s SPS986 GNSS Smart Antenna can function as either a rover or base station. Rovers are common where machines are using GPS-assisted grade control, but their speed and accuracy in measuring site features makes them valuable even without grade automation on site.
*Trimble SPS986 with T10Rovers can be deployed in various ways, including mounted on vehicles to cover more area faster. Trimble’s T10 tablet collects and views site data using the Windows 10 Enterprise operating system, with fast processing and a 10-in. screen for viewing maps and designs, preparing and sharing progress reports.
The data captured and shared is real-time, and it’s accurate – helping construction companies improve productivity, quality and cost control.
Read the full ForConstructionPros.com article HERE.
Three Keys to Technology Adoption in the Construction Industry
Construction contractors who are hesitant to implement new technologies into their business will fall behind. Want to lead the pack? Start here.
This For Construction Pros article discusses Three Keys to Technology Adoption in the Construction Industry, saying that construction contractors who are hesitant to implement new technologies into their business will fall behind.
The article talks about ways that construction industry organisations can prepare for and can avoid being overwhelmed by the magnitude of new and emerging technologies.
Access the full For Construction Pros article via our website HERE.
Platinum Plant & Haulage Out in Front with Trimble Earthworks.
Australian Earthmoving caught up with Thomas McManaway, Director of Platinum Plant & Haulage, to talk about life, business and his latest addition to Platinum’s growing fleet…a new Kobelco SK350LC-10, which Thomas affectionately refers to as the ‘big girl’ of the fleet.
*The ‘big girl’ of the Platinum fleet – brand new Kobelco SK350LC-10 fitted with Trimble EarthworksThe name Platinum Plant & Haulage reflects the company vision to provide outstanding customer service using state of the art equipment.
“We strive to make sure that we stay at that Platinum status,” Thomas explains. “We stay with quality over quantity; we’re not the biggest earthmoving company out there, but people definitely know who we are – because of the quality of the gear, the operators and, of course, the service.”
*Thomas McManaway, Director of Platinum Plant & HaulageOffering such a broad set of machines (and “just about everything you can think of” in terms of attachments) has meant that Platinum has been involved in a similarly wide range of jobs. “We’ve been a part of almost every type of project we could possibly be on,” says Thomas. “Everything from highway upgrades to housing estates, through to… just everything, really.”
Now with 13 operators on the books, all of Platinum’s machines run Trimble Earthworks, which Thomas rates very highly. “It’s so good physically seeing that image in front of you – because it’s on the iPad now. Seeing that 3D design is so much easier and ensures precision excavation.”
Thomas likes the Trimble system for its ease of use and the many benefits it provides him and his clients. “Basically, the surveyor creates the design of what he wants and gives it to us on a USB flash drive. Then we plug it in and the 3D image is projected right in front of you. That gives you a really good idea of what the map has to look like,” he explains. This, Thomas says, not only makes the whole process quicker but also more precise. “When you’re in a 30-tonner and cutting down to 10mm of tolerances, that’s kind of a big thing!”
Access the full story here or read it in the latest edition of Australian Earthmoving Magazine.
SITECH Management of COVID-19 and Business Continuity Plan
At SITECH Solutions, the health and wellbeing of our people, clients and the community is our highest priority.
We are continuing to closely monitor and manage the evolving Novel Coronavirus (Covid-19) situation.
We are taking every precaution to protect employees and business partners while maintaining our high standards of customer service.
We have specific measures in place to minimise and manage any potential of exposure of our people to Covid-19 whilst undertaking to continue operations and support your business in an uninterrupted manner.
With regards to continuity of supply, SITECH have conducted a full analysis of our current parts inventory. At present we do not anticipate any significant impact on our ability to service your parts requirements specifically related to Covid-19.
READ OUR FULL STATEMENT HERE
Chock-Full of Cool New Features – Trimble Earthworks v2.0 and Earthworks GO!
John Boss and Cameron Clark from Trimble discuss the Earthworks 2.0 machine control platform and its sister product for compact machines Earthworks Go! in this Compact Equipment video.
The Trimble Earthworks 2.0 suite of machine control technologies and modules works on everything from compact track loaders all the way up to big tractor dozers.
It’s chock-full of cool new features, with everything from augmented reality on excavators, horizontal steering on dozers and mastless glade configuration.
Earthworks GO! is specifically designed for compact machine grading attachments, and is taking compact equipment into new applications, reaching new efficiencies never seen before.
SITECH can the system up and running in for you, on any machine, in no time.
Read the full article and watch the video on Compact Equipment.
Letter from The Hon. Dominic Perrottet MP, Treasurer, to the Construction and Engineering Sectors of NSW
A letter from The Hon. Dominic Perrottet MP, the Treasurer of NSW to the construction and engineering sectors of NSW highlights the importance of keeping the sectors working to deliver vital infrastructure programs, the major stimulus package to protect the community, as well as his confidence in the sectors being able to manage the Hazards and Risks of COVID-19.
READ THE FULL LETTER HERE:
NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet letter to the construction and engineeri.._[1]
NSW Kick-Starts Economy With $7.5bn Project List
The NSW government has unveiled the first tranche of “shovel-ready” projects it says will kick start the state’s lethargic construction pipeline in the wake of Covid-19.
The 24 projects include Malcolm Turnbull’s pet project Snowy Hydro 2.0—a $4.6 billion injection—along with 4,441 new homes and the $1.5 billion redevelopment of the Mt Druitt CBD.
Read the full The Urban Developer article and see a list of the fast-tracked projects HERE.
Rental Ready at Kangy Angy
SITECH Solutions’ Brendon Vella was recently on site with Civil Movement, small to medium civil project specialist servicing the Central Coast, Newcastle and surrounding area.
Civil Movement were completing works for John Holland on a new rail maintenance facility in Kangy Angy using this Bobcat Track Loader with box blade attachment, fitted with a Trimble GCS900 system and automatic controlled blade.
They hired a Universal Total Station (UTS), a MT900 target and CB460 screen, which allows them to trim with millimetre accuracy.
Regardless of whether you hire or buy, construction technology can be a big investment and a major cost component of any project.
SITECH Solutions provide finance solutions with hire to buy option – a good option to look at to assist with freeing up business cash flow or for those businesses wanting to try before they invest.
We offer:
🏁Latest Trimble technologies
🏁Competitive rates
🏁Superior service
🏁Ongoing support
🏁Flexible terms
🏁Trimble certified training
🏁Installation
For a free consultation and quote, call us on +61 2 6788 2155.
Trimble SiteVision Key to Landing Contracts for Swedish Land Excavation and Construction Company
Trimble recently published a story about Swedish construction company FMT AB’’s experience with SiteVision. One of the things that stood out was the extent to which SiteVision is integrated with the client communication process.
Fredrik Bergstrom, CEO and owner of FMT AB, explains how using augmented reality technology to show clients the deliverable has become integrated into the project.
Fredrik’s forward-thinking implementation of augmented reality for small businesses has led to FMT AB landing contracts that would typically have been awarded to much larger organizations.
Fredrik says that more customers are choosing his company for projects, not because of the price, but because Trimble SiteVision gives them the ability to use 3D modeling to show in the real world exactly what they can deliver for a certain amount of money.
Partnering with Coates Hire to provide Intelligent Compaction
Keeping Your Finger on the Pulse with Trimble SitePulse
Under the Impression That Repeatable Processes Aren’t for Construction? Think Again
With increasingly complex projects and tighter schedules, standardizing processes is a foundational step toward working faster, smarter and with less risk.
The construction industry has made incredible strides in digital transformation. And while technology has been a key driver of this shift, transformation will not be achieved simply by implementing new technologies, but by improving workflows with repeatable business processes.
As the industry moves down the path to digital transformation, repeatable processes are a key element of a constructible process that optimizes the entire design, build and operate life cycle.
Jon Fingland, General Manager, Collaboration Solutions, Trimble Buildings’ General Contractor/Construction explains in this Construction Executive article: https://bit.ly/2VmZBLS
NOW AVAILABLE Trimble Smart Haul for accurate load/haul payload and productivity measurement
Load/haul operations represent real opportunities to improve material moved per shift, lower cost per ton moved and accelerate mass haul operations.
With Trimble Smart Haul, you can track productivity and progress of load/haul operations to ensure you are on target to achieve your goals.
Smart Haul combines payload data from the excavator scale with haul fleet monitoring and cloud reporting to identify opportunities to move material with greater speed and efficiency.
The system is almost completely automated with only minimal interaction from the excavator operator. Payload is automatically assigned to each truck, and GPS tracking monitor truck movements, so operators can focus on other tasks and you can trust data accuracy.
Benefits
Accurate visibility of haul operations
Optimized payload on every truck
Lower and more consistent cycle times
Unscheduled downtime and project delays reduced
Cycles matched to primary crusher demand
Lower idle times
Lower cost per tonne moved
Improved overall production
Improve haul safety with driver alerts and reporting
plus much, more – watch the video for the full details and contact us today to learn more.
Mid-Western Regional Council to Compact Waste Using Less Space with Trimble CCS 900
SITECH Solutions’ Ryan Van Arkkels and Peter Hoy were recently onsite at Mid-Western Regional Council’s waste management facility to fit a Trimble CCS900 cab mounted compaction control system with VisionLink to their TANA E320 landfill compactor.
Mid-Western Regional Council will use the system to track the compaction of the landfill portion of their waste management facility .
The Trimble CCS 900 compaction control system is a landfill solution that enables you to compact more waste using less space.
You can get to target compaction faster, with greater accuracy and less fuel cost; without the added time and expense of stakes and survey crews. It can help you lower operating costs, increase productivity and lengthen the life of the landfill.
Trimble CCS900 delivers real-time guidance, elevation, cut and fill mapping, and compaction information to the cab of the machine, giving operators the information they need to maximize compaction and spreading efficiency, resulting in optimum densities and airspace utilization on the landfill site.
VisionLink reporting takes this data and allows it to be reported on back in the office where it can be used for upcoming planning and quality assurance reporting.
Compact more waste using less space with Trimble machine control systems for dozers, four-drum compactors and motor graders.
Contact us to find out more https://bit.ly/2RA5HGw
Trimble Earthworks for Excavators – Augmented Reality Camera
Trimble Earthworks for Excavators – featuring Augmented Reality Camera. What’s not to love??! 😍
🚩Your real worksite…
🚩Live on display…
🚩Your design topology…
🚩Overlaid on your worksite…
🚩Site conditions clearly in view…
🚩Ultimate guidance…
🚩Just TOO easy…‼️
Contact us today to find out more.
Unleashing the power of survey control with Trimble TSC7
Trimble TSC7 Controller, which is a field solution for land and civil construction surveyors, is in a league of its own. It has a specialized software that makes it easier for mobile workers to collect and compute data.
Designed on customer feedback, TSC7 has some really powerful enhancements. It supports an interactive, user-friendly tablet experience with a physical keyboard and a seven-inch touchscreen. It also has two cameras — front and rear — that provide the option of video conferencing, capturing HD videos and adding an important context.
The Trimble TSC7 is redefining surveying
“Today’s surveyors are managers of geospatial intelligence,” says Ron Bisio, Vice-President, Trimble Geospatial. “Data has more depth and complexity than ever before, and surveyors’ reputation depends on transforming that data into valuable, reliable information for their clients. The TSC7 and Access 2018 form the new backbone of our field solutions ecosystem and give our users a leading edge to be data experts,” Bisio adds.
For civil engineering and construction, along with TSC7, Trimble also has two new rover systems: Trimble Siteworks Positioning System for construction surveyors and the Trimble Siteworks Positioning System for supervisors.
“Siteworks gives customers the ability to work with larger, more complex 3D datasets more effectively in the field,” says Scott Crozier, General Manager, Trimble’s Civil Engineering and Construction Division. “Powerful hardware, intuitive software and the latest advances in site positioning technology from Trimble prepare contractors for the future of 3D construction,” Crozier explains.
Read the full article here https://bit.ly/3ak3B4O in geospatialworld.net
Trimble UTS provides a solution on challenging sites
SITECH Solutions Jye Gregory and Matt Leonard were recently out on WPL Civil’s jobsite – a housing estate development in Macksville, south of Coffs Harbour.
WPL Civil’s Hitachi Zaxis 225US zero tail swing needed to run Trimble 3D Earthworks Grade Control for Excavators with 1.11.0 firmware to allow the use of Trimble UTS.
The Trimble UTS system was required instead of GPS on the excavator on this particular site as they are operating under trees and with very minimal phone service. In such challenging conditions the Trimble UTS Is more accurate whilst GPS struggles with multipath.
“The customer wanted the machine running on UTS due to trees they’re working under,” explains Matt. “It’s fairly easy to set up, however the system must be at 1.10 or 1.11.
Once that’s done the option to switch to single UTS right or left becomes available.”
Providing the highest possible degree of accuracy for construction site positioning, stakeout, measurement and machine control, you can use Trimble UTS for:
⠀⠀
· Smaller construction sites or combined with GNSS on larger sites
· Tasks where the accuracy requirements are very tight: 3 millimeters (0.01 feet)
· Measuring dangerous or inaccessible locations
· High precision machine control and guidance
· Reflectorless measurement of stockpiles, rock faces, cuttings and structures
· Layout of structures, foundations, caissons and piles
· Tunnel measurement
· As-built records and grade checks on laid material
Contact us today for more info https://bit.ly/3aheOn1
About WPL Civil
WPL Civil Pty Ltd is a privately-owned family company based on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales. A civil contracting company who specialise in the construction of small to large community infrastructure projects, WPL Civil expertise includes road construction, subdivision construction,, bulk earthworks, drainage installation, concrete pavement, kerb and gutter, landscaping, clearing and grubbing, water/ sewerage reticulation and plant hire.
D&M Excavating Completes Site Work with One Machine Instead of Two Using Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform
Site contractor uses Trimble Earthworks for Montgomery County Fairgrounds site work, reducing dozer use significantly, cutting operating costs and getting to grade faster
Overview
Customer Profile: Located outside of Dayton, Ohio, D&M Excavating delivers excavation and site development work for commercial and residential customers. Site work includes mass excavation, site grading and finish grading. From road construction projects to multi-family and plat developments, D&M Excavating is committed to site development excellence and premium customer service.
Business Challenge
D&M Excavating was looking to improve its excavation and grading productivity and machine utilization to reduce costs and complete jobs more quickly.
Solution
Trimble GCS900 Grade Control System and Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform
Benefits:
Cut dozer use significantly– Reduced reliance on dozer on fairgrounds project, significantly reducing fuel costs, cutting machine wear and tear and freeing up the dozer for other tasks and projects
Significant productivity gains during mass excavation and fine grading– With a 3D view of the project and grade progress inside the cab, operator doesn’t have to rely on stakes or grade checker to dig to correct depths
Demonstrates competitive advantage– Reaching grade more quickly and with less rework keeps projects moving forward and on schedule, which is appealing to general contractors and owners
Potential for big savings for pipe work– D&M purchased Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform for its new excavator for pipe work for greater grading productivity at a lower cost
🚩🚩Coronavirus Budget Stimulus
The Government is backing businesses to invest to help the economy withstand & recover from the economic impact of Coronavirus. The 2 business investment measures in this package are to assist Australian businesses and economic growth in the short-term, & encourage a stronger economic recovery following the Coronavirus outbreak.
These measures will support over 3.5 million businesses (over 99 per cent of businesses) with aggregated annual turnover of less than $500 million employing more than 9.7 million employees.
📍INCREASING THE INSTANT ASSET WRITE-OFF
-Summary
The Government is increasing the instant asset write-off (IAWO) threshold from $30,000 to $150,000 & expanding access to include all businesses with aggregated annual turnover of less than $500 million (up from $50 million) until 30 June 2020.
-The IAWO threshold
The higher IAWO threshold provides cash flow benefits for businesses that will be able to immediately deduct purchases of eligible assets each costing less than $150,000. The threshold applies on a per asset basis, so eligible businesses can immediately write-off multiple assets.
The IAWO is due to revert to $1,000 for small businesses (turnover less than $10 million) from 1 July 2020.
-Eligibility
The annual turnover threshold for businesses is increasing from $50 million to $500 million.
📍BACKING BUSINESS INVESTMENT (BBI)
-Summary
A time limited 15 month investment incentive to support business investment & economic growth, by accelerating depreciation deductions.
-Key features:
benefit — deduction of 50% of the cost of an eligible asset on installation, with existing depreciation rules applying to the balance of the asset’s cost;
eligible businesses —aggregated turnover below $500 million; &
eligible assets — new assets that can be depreciated under Division 40 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (i.e. plant, equipment & specified intangible assets, such as patents) acquired after announcement & first used or installed by 30 June 2021.
-Eligibility
Businesses with aggregated turnover below $500 million, purchasing certain new depreciable assets.
FOR MORE INFO VISIT: treasury.gov.au/coronavirus
Trimble Takes Construction Machine Control to the Next Level
Groundbreaking New Features and Industry-Firsts in Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform Version 2.0
Trimble announced today Trimble® Earthworks Grade Control Platform version 2.0 with groundbreaking new features for all machine types, along with the release of the Trimble Earthworks Assistant App for in-cab learning material. These improvements are designed to enable faster ROI, increase productivity and decrease training time for operators.
A first in the construction industry, Horizontal Steering Control for dozers automatically controls the machine to follow any horizontal alignment such as a back of a curb, breakline, roadway centerline or bottom of slope, without operator assistance.
Another first, Augmented Reality for excavators enables users to easily understand 3D models, cut/fill information, slope data and other bench points and reference points on the in-cab display in context, without the need to interpret complex 2D plans or stakes.
A new mastless motor grader configuration gives operators an improved range of blade motion, allowing for machine control in applications where it was previously not possible.
Integrated Trimble LOADRITE® Payload Management displays grade control and accurate payload data on one screen, increasing mass haul productivity and efficiency by preventing underloading, and improving safety by avoiding overloading. Contractors can maximize their investment in Trimble Earthworks by leveraging the versatility of these added options.
Trimble Earthworks is also now available for compact grading attachments with dual GNSS, single GNSS and total station guidance options.
The announcement was made at ConExpo 2020, North America’s largest trade show for construction machinery, building material machines, mining machines, construction vehicles and construction equipment.
Horizontal Steering Control for Dozers
Horizontal Steering Control allows the operator to focus on the grade and machine productivity rather than worrying about steering, reducing operator fatigue and errors. It enables the machine to follow the horizontal guidance from the 3D model, providing operators increased awareness of their surroundings, better accuracy and improved productivity with decreased overlap and fewer passes.
“Trimble is on the forefront of innovation and cutting-edge technology along the path to automation,” said Scott Crozier, vice president, Trimble’s Civil Engineering and Construction. ‘Using proven steering technology from Trimble Agriculture, we are continuing to advance construction machine control yet again.”
Mastless Motor Grader
Trimble Earthworks for motor graders mastless configuration mounts one GNSS receiver on the cab and one on the gooseneck of the machine to eliminate masts and cables traditionally located on the blade. Mastless GNSS receivers are ideal for the blade’s maximum range of motion, which is needed for steep slope work and complex designs with tight tolerances. The new configuration enables contractors to decrease risk of damage to the machine, keep valuable receivers safer as well as reduce the time needed to remove and reinstall them each day.
Augmented Reality for Excavators
Augmented Reality was first released in the Trimble SiteVision™ system and is now available on excavators with Trimble Earthworks. Using a camera mounted on the outside of the machine, operators can view 3D models in a real-world environment at a true-life scale, in the context of existing surroundings. On the Trimble Earthworks display, the model is overlaid onto the existing ground giving the operator a better understanding of the work that needs to be done. Visibility of the bucket gives operators better situational awareness to be able to keep surrounding people and objects safe.
“With the intersection of physical and digital worlds, Trimble is empowering contractors to accelerate their business,” said Cameron Clark, business area manager, Trimble’s Civil Engineering and Construction. “Augmented Reality simplifies complex concepts by allowing users to see a blend of digital content and real-world environments.”
Earthworks Assistant App
Trimble now has an easier way to access critical Earthworks learning material and documentation, allowing for a shorter learning curve and less downtime for operators. This stand-alone app consolidates and simplifies access to training guides and videos inside and outside of the cab. The Earthworks Assistant App makes it easy to learn and troubleshoot using an Android cell phone, even from remote sites.
Availability
Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform version 2.0, including integrated LOADRITE Payload Management, mastless motor grader for select Cat® motor graders and Augmented Reality for excavators is expected to be available in the second quarter of 2020 through the worldwide SITECH® distribution channel. Horizontal Steering Control for dozers is expected to be available in the second half of 2020 through the worldwide SITECH distribution channel. Mastless motor grader, Augmented Reality for excavators and Horizontal Steering Control for dozers will require additional hardware and software purchases. The Trimble Earthworks Assistant App is available for download at no charge from the Google Play Store.
For more information, contact us today.
Access the Trimble Press Release here.
*A new mastless motor grader configuration gives operators an improved range of blade motion.
Onsite Training for M.J. Excavations – All Part of the Service
SITECH Solutions – PEOPLE & TECHNOLOGY YOU CAN RELY ON. SITECH Solutions Support Brendon Vella was recently out on Fulton Hogan’s Albion Park Bypass jobsite conducting some training for subcontractor Mark O’Henoja of M.J. Excavations & Demolitions.
M.J. Excavations & Demolitions purchased a Trimble Universal Total Station (UTS) kit to allow its grader to be able to complete finishing of roads to millimetre accuracy, quickly and efficiently.
Brendon trained Mark firstly on how to set up his total station on the job site with his controller, and then on connecting the total station to the grader.
“With the UTS ready and set up onsite, we then ran though how to start up the machine control system and grade using UTS,” Brendon explains.
Trimble UTS lead the industry in accuracy, range and reliability for fine grading, paving, stockpile scanning and site measurements.
Providing the highest possible degree of accuracy for construction site positioning, stakeout, measurement and machine control, you can use UTS for:
• Smaller construction sites or combined with GNSS on larger sites
• Tasks where the accuracy requirements are very tight: 3 millimeters (0.01 feet)
• Measuring dangerous or inaccessible locations
• High precision machine control and guidance
• Reflectorless measurement of stockpiles, rock faces, cuttings and structures
• Layout of structures, foundations, caissons and piles
• Tunnel measurement
• As-built records and grade checks on laid material
ABOUT M.J. EXCAVATIONS & DEMOLITION
M.J Excavations & Demolition handle all aspects of earthmoving and demolition work including earthworks, driveways, site clean ups, rubbish removals, under road boring, horizontal directional drilling, house paths, pit installations and trenching work.
First CAT 150 in NSW with Single Mast Trimble Earthworks, running GNSS and UTS
Angelo Cerullo, Canberra Contractors, Demonstrates Trimble SiteVision
Angelo Cerullo, director of Canberra Contractors is so excited about his involvement with the new Trimble SiteVision, that he wanted to share this video of the pioneering augmented reality solution in action.
Here he is on site on one of their Australian Capital Territory (ACT) subdivisions, demonstrating how Trimble SiteVision augmented reality makes it possible for you to walk from the construction site into the virtual completed site.
With Trimble SiteVision you can –
📍Take a walk through your job site and visualize:
– Conceptual designs, from buildings to roads, as they might appear in real life
– What lies beneath the ground or resides inside walls, such as water pipes and electrical services
📍Provide real world context to your designs:⠀
– Communicate complicated plans and drawings
– Precisely identify where concealed assets are
– Minimize costly errors and safety related incidents
– Simply upload your data, visualize and manipulate it in the field, and report back to the office—all through the Trimble Cloud.
ABOUT CANBERRA CONTRACTORS:
Established in 1983, Canberra Contractors has grown from a small local company to a well-established Civil Contractor in the Capital Region.
Canberra Contractors undertakes a full range of construction activities from intricate small-scale projects to large government infrastructure works.
The strengths of the business are founded on highly experienced staff and extensive capability to resource projects.
Canberra Contractors is a forerunner in the development and implementation of new construction methods and innovations.
Known as an industry leader in geospatial technology, with a wide-ranging fleet of machines outfitted with the latest technology, Canberra Contractors is a results driven organisation as evidenced by past and present performance.
Official Welcome to the Team to Jacob and Pete
Trimble Earthworks, Siteworks and GNSS Smart Antennas make it onto Construction Equipment’s Top 100 New Products List!
Construction Equipment’s Top 100 New Products is the longest-running awards program of its kind in the industry. Each year, the editors of Construction Equipment evaluate products introduced over previous months and choose the most innovative using four criteria: A Top Product is an advancement in technology, a new product line, offers significant improvements to existing products, or increases competition in its field.
See the full list of Construction Equipment’s Top 100 New Products HERE.
Read more about Earthworks and Siteworks HERE and GNSS Smart Antennas HERE.
SITECH Solutions – People and technology you can rely on.
SITECH Solutions’ Jeff Bowd recently provided two weeks full-time technical support to one of our valued customers Fulton-Hogan, working night shift as part of their team on the re-shaping and re-asphalting of Woodbridge Road, Manangle.
Jeff provided this onsite project-based technical support following the install of Trimble PCS 900 paving control on one of Fulton Hogan’s pavers.
From Trimble machine control systems to site positioning systems and construction office software – with SITECH you will find the right support, knowledge and experience to increase your productivity and profitability through the use of powerful and connected technology.
Automatically pave to a design with Trimble PCS900.
Trimble paving control enables automatic screed control for level and grade, paving to a design that has been loaded in by the operator.
This video shows one of Fulton Hogan’s pavers running automatically in this manner.
The Trimble PCS900 system leverages the Trimble SPS930 Universal Total Station, MT900 Machine Target and on-board software to compare the actual screed position and slope with the 3D digital design. It automatically guides the screed to lay exactly the right material thickness and slope.
Trimble Paving Control Systems can help you:
Lay the finished surface with accuracy to 0.01 feet (3 millimeters)
Minimize use of expensive material
Pave within a tighter tolerance and get closer to the minimal asphalt thickness specification
Reduce labor costs by controlling the screed with one operator
Eliminate operator mistakes with the easy-to-use display interface
Lay complex designs such as transitions, super-elevated curves and frequently changing cross slopes
Achieve accuracy and smoothness specifications, which can mean a bigger bonus
Contact us to find out more about Trimble Paving Control
Five Trends Driving Digital Transformation in 2020
Another First for SITECH. First Dual Mast Trimble Earthworks Grader System in NSW
Check out this drone footage of the very first dual mast Earthworks grader system in NSW installed by us for Craig McKeon Earthmoving. Based in Hillston, a township in western New South Wales on the banks of the Lachlan River, this Caterpillar 160M will be used mainly for road reconstruction for local councils across the region. You can also make more progress and fewer waves with Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform for motor graders. The Trimble Earthworks for graders helps operators of all levels leave a quality surface in their tracks. Now you can leave a finished grade the first time, every time. This latest release in the Earthworks family is more than future forward. It’s fast forward. The next generation system has blade-mounted receivers, familiar Android™ UI, and friendly 10-inch touch screen that cuts the learning curve, improves operator capabilities and gives you a first-pass finish that’s second to none. To find out more about Trimble Earthworks for graders contact us.
Successfully Evolving Beyond the Scale
Onboard loader scales continue to optimise payloads and empower operators. They add value with features that improve site safety, decision making, productivity and customer service. This article in @pitandquarry talks about how solutions such as Trimble Loadrite are allowing quarry and mining ops crews to work safer and smarter. Access the full article HERE.
Trimble CEC Technical Experience and Training Days
Trimble Civil Engineering and Construction Division have held a series of Invitation Only Technical Experience and Training Days over the past two weeks. A big thanks goes to Trimble for the great job organising these hugely successful days; and also to the OEMS, customers and to the SITECH Solutions team members who attended. The days followed one of two formats – the first being exclusively for Civil Construction Contractors and the second format was designed exclusively for Machine Equipment Sales Professionals on Civil Construction Technology. The training took place in the Hunter Valley at the HPOTS Training Centre and consisted of a day of classroom and hands-on demonstrations.
This video below shows a first time operator is able to grade within a 10mm tolerance with Trimble Earthworks at the training day.
Just announced: Trimble, Hilti and Boston Dynamics to explore the use of autonomous robots in construction.
Hilti and Boston Dynamics announced today a collaboration to explore the integration of Trimble’s and Hilti’s construction management software solutions, GNSS technology and reality capture devices with Boston Dynamics’ Spot Robot platform. Autonomous robots can play a significant role in construction, specifically in production and quality control workflows by enabling automation of routine and tedious tasks, reducing workload and improving safety. “Utilizing robots for routine tasks in hazardous environments to improve safety, efficiency, and data capture consistency is part of our digital transformation vision” said Aviad Almagor, senior director for Mixed Reality and Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) at Trimble. “We are excited for this latest collaboration and looking forward to the potential integration of our hardware and software solutions with the Boston Dynamics’ Spot Robot to enhance field-oriented workflows, reduce amount of rework and facilitate on-site tasks.” “Trimble’s and Hilti’s domain knowledge, market leadership and technologies are a great fit for our robotic platform,” said Michael Perry, vice president of Business Development at Boston Dynamics. “Deploying an integrated solution in the real-world environment doing dirty and dangerous work, before, during and after the construction stage is a common vision for the three companies, which can help drive the transformation of the construction industry.” Read the full press release here and watch the video to meet Atlas, just one member of the Boston Dynamics family of robots.
You can be the Ultimate Prize Winner with Trimble SiteVision!
Which of these men are worth of the title ‘Trimble SiteVision Champion’??! Welcome to the Trimble SiteVision 100, made possible by the incredible outdoor augmented reality system Trimble SiteVision. Now you can bring spatial data to life to easily visualize complex information with unrivalled accuracy, right from your mobile device. With Trimble SiteVision, you too can be the ultimate prizewinner.
Rental Ready 🏁
SITECH Solutions has Trimble Universal Total Station systems ready for hire, just like the one we photographed here in the midst of set up. All Dunn Excavations hired the system from SITECH which we set up onsite on their Cat 140M grader for a warehouse construction project in Penrith. Trimble UTS systems lead the industry in accuracy, range and reliability for fine grading, paving, stockpile scanning and site measurements. From initial site measurements to finished grading, Trimble UTS let you take control of your site measurement, stakeout, and machine control requirements and eliminate the daily need for contract surveyors.
In addition to Trimble UTS systems, SITECH Solutions has a complete range of Trimble products for hire to complete any job.
🏁Flexible terms
We can: 🏁Provide you with the latest Trimble technologies 🏁Install and uninstall your equipment 🏁Provide Trimble Certified training 🏁All our equipment is serviced by our qualified technicians and all equipment runs the latest software, giving you the reliability you need on the job site. Regardless of whether you hire it or buy it, construction technology can be a big investment and a major cost component of any project. When it comes to construction technology, there are many factors to consider and many questions to ask in order to finding the best approach for your business. But don’t feel overwhelmed, we are here to help. For a free consultation and quote, contact us on +61 2 6788 2155 today.
Catastrophic Bushfires Surge Through NSW and QLD
In the face of what is set to become the most dangerous week of bushfires in the nation’s history, our thoughts are with those affected by the devastation and the fire and emergency services that have been working relentlessly around the clock. Despite the southerly change that roared through Sydney last night, Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said the state was far from out of the woods with hot, dry and windy conditions predicted for Friday and over the weekend. “We’ve really got a long way to go,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said. “You can guarantee we’re not going to be able to get around all of these fires before the next wave of bad weather. “Unfortunately there’s no meaningful reprieve. There’s no rainfall in this change and we’re going to continue to have warm dry conditions dominating in the days and weeks ahead. You can help by donating to the Red Cross as they continue to provide relief for those affected by disasters, emergencies, conflicts or crises. 
SO EASY to Use! SITECH Solutions Talks Earthworks GO!
SITECH Solutions Sales Manager Grant Hibburd talks Earthworks GO! to Earthmoving Equipment Magazine at the Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo earlier this year. Trimble Earthworks GO! 🚩Trimble’s next generation grade control system for local contractors. Built from the ground up, Earthworks GO! delivers exactly what you need and installs in minutes. Mount the GO! Box. Plug it in. Power it up. It’s that simple. Ultra portable and intuitive Earthworks GO! Provides high accuracy performance in all common grading applications such as pads, parking lots, sports fields, landscaping and more. It also works across your entire fleet of attachments for compact track and skid steer loaders. Earthworks GO! was built for contractors like you, providing the quality end results you’d expect from Trimble anywhere you work. This is just one of the ways Trimble is transforming the way the world works. Contact us today to LEARN MORE:- https://bit.ly/2I1842f
Trimble Machine Control Solves Every Day Challenges, and in 3D!
When no design is available… This video is a great example of how operators are using Trimble machine control to solve every day challenges, and in 3D! Cooper Civil has Trimble machine control running on their 323 Next Generation Caterpillar Excavator. With next generation infield designs they have the ability to build 3D designs on the fly. Using his bucket, the operator in the video maps the outline of the sump, then drops in a x-section to create batters and the floor. Less than a minute to create, hours saved!! To find out how Trimble machine control can work for your business contact us today https://bit.ly/2I1842f
ABOUT COOPER CIVIL From its inception in 2015 Cooper Civil has sustained steady growth in the civil construction industry, now having contracts across major projects in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. With a modern fleet of GPS equipped CAT excavators, positive safety culture and a flexible approach to work methods and client requirements, Cooper Civil has transformed into the highly reputable plant hire company it is today. Cooper Civil shows a keen interest in new industry technology and has worked closely with plant manufacturers in the refinement of integrated GPS systems. The business strives to stand out amongst its peers as an industry leading provider of precision earthworks solutions. With a desire to continuously improve work methodologies, Cooper Civil believes that advancements in equipment technology will help to accomplish this whilst resulting in a much safer and sustainable working environment for all.Improve Marine Construction Productivity with Trimble Marine Construction Software
3D visualization systems like Trimble Marine Construction Software are improving marine construction productivity. As the global economy continues to improve and populations advance in the coastal areas around the world, the demand for commercial dredging services and effective marine construction capabilities are increasing at a steady pace. To help improve accuracy and efficiency, marine contractors are using marine construction visualization systems, which can also aid the speed of dredging, piling placement and surveying workflows. 
These new tools allow operators to ‘see’ the design and the dredge tool in real-time, relative to the waterway bed, all from an on-board display inside the cab. These systems provide precise measurement, positioning capabilities and 3D visualization to improve marine construction productivity, efficiency and safety. Applications for today’s marine construction visualization software include projects such as dredging, monopole/caisson placements, building breakwaters, piling for wharfs/piers, rock dumping, and excavating, as well as hydrographic applications such as surveys, or tracking dredge progress. Read the full article from International Dredging https://bit.ly/31Gc9hk
Trimble Releases New Marine Construction Software
We are excited to announce that Trimble has released its new Trimble Marine Construction Software for Positioning that provides contractors with the ability to perform their own pre-/post-construction hydrographic surveys. Read more about it in International Dredging Review here 👉http://bit.ly/IDR_Positioning 
Lift Accuracy of Over 99% with Trimble Loadrite Payload Management
SITECH Solutions recently installed a Trimble Loadrite Payload management system on one of Jeffsan Excavations Kobelco SK350 excavators. Here’s a photo of the machine working on the initial earthworks phase of construction of a nursing home in Penhurst. 
Jeffsan Excavations is an earthworks and heavy haulage business, specialising in small to large projects such as demolition, bulk earthworks, detail earthworks, car parks, road works and remediation works. They invested in the Trimble Loadrite Payload management system and reporting software in order to increase profitability, maximize productivity, operational efficiency and improve control of inventory. In a routine visit to Jeffsan last week, SITECH Solutions Brendon Vella calibrated the new Loadrite system and captured a couple of photos, including the one below that nicely illustrates it at work. 
Brendon explains; “This may look like a standard shot, but the significance of this photo is that the bucket is loaded with exactly 3 tonne. I lifted the weighted bucket 3 times to add a total of 9 tonne. The Loadrite system calculated the lifts at 8.980kgs, just 20kg under the known weight, giving the system a lift accuracy of over 99%!!” Lift accuracy of over 99%!!! Trimble LOADRITE Payload Management for Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform allows you to maximize your machine control investment with integrated payload management. You can now easily track how much weight is in each bucket and how much weight has been added to a cycle. Features and Benefits: ▶︎ Increase Efficiency and Decrease Cost ▶︎ Track bucket-by-bucket payload and monitor mass haul progress from the same powerful Trimble Earthworks display ▶︎ Intuitive, easy-to-use software design gives operators of all skill levels the ability to be more productive ▶︎ Manage subcontractors, track and monitor loading of trucks and tons moved ▶︎ Weigh in motion with dynamic weighing ▶︎ Maximize tonnes per litre and minimize fuel usage of excavators and trucks ▶︎ Versatility on the jobsite ▶︎ Using Trimble Earthworks advanced sensor technology, contractors can now view accurate, bucket-by-bucket payload information without installing a separate weighing system. The Trimble® LOADRITE™ range includes of front end loader scales, excavator scales, conveyor belt scales, reach stacker scales, payload reporting, tractor scales, forklift scales, refuse truck scales and tire monitoring systems. To learn more about how Trimble Loadrite Payload Management can work for your business, contact us today.
SITECH Solutions Named World’s Top 15 Construction Technology Youtube Channels To Follow
We’re proud to announce that SITECH Solutions has been named one of the world’s Top 15 Construction Technology Youtube Channels To Follow by Feedspot. See the full list here:> https://bit.ly/35JCApQ SITECH Solutions is your local Trimble dealer and is fast becoming recognised globally as a leading source of industry knowledge and expertise in the field of construction technology. So if you’re not already following – start following us today! ▶︎Find our YouTube channel – search for SITECH Solutions ▶︎ Subscribe to our monthly newsletter the latest in Trimble Technology through customer stories, product releases, software updates, industry insights, support information, offers and more ▶︎▶︎▶︎https://bit.ly/2GeJCWs Follow us on: ▶︎Facebook: @SITECHsolutionsnsw ▶︎Instagram: @sitechsolutions ▶︎Twitter: @SITECHNSW ▶︎YouTube: SITECH Solutions ▶︎Linkedin: @SITECH Solutions
Trimble WorksManager is here!
Now you can spend more time managing and less time driving from jobsite to jobsite. Trimble WorksManager is the data hub connecting civil contractors to the critical information they need to get the job done right the first time. It connects everyone on the construction project from the site manager through to operator, on any device, from wherever they are, bringing civil contractors the critical information they need in an instant. With the audit trail feature, the site manager knows exactly who did what, when, and where; every step of the way. And if something isn’t right, it can be taken care of then and there, without leaving your desk. WorksManager by Trimble simplifies the management process, so that the job is finished on time and on budget. Adopting WorksManager is easy – contact us for more information or read more here – https://bit.ly/324GtTQ
Ledacon chooses Trimble GCS 900 with 3D automatics
It’s a big thumbs up from Kevin Lawler, SITECH Solutions’ Operation Coordinator – ACT & Southern NSW, as he sits in the cab of this 850J John Deere Dozer and admires his handiwork. 
Kevin was recently onsite in Farmborough Heights, Woollongong with SITECH’S ACT Install / Support Technician Duncan Ogilvie,to install a Trimble GCS 900 with 3D automatics for Ledacon Civil Construction Contractors. Ledacon is a medium sized civil construction company located in the Illawarra area that carries out a wide range of work, including concrete construction, asphalt pavement construction, stormwater drainage, excavation and retaining walls. The newly kitted up dozer can seen here working for Ledacon on initial earthworks for a subdivision. The GCS900 Grade Control System is a cutting-edge earthmoving grade control system that puts design surfaces, grades and alignments inside the cab. The system uses GPS, GPS and laser, or construction total station technology to accurately position the blade or bucket in real time, significantly reducing material overages and dramatically improving the contractor’s productivity and profitability The introduction of Trimble GCS900 Grade Control System 3D Automatic Control has been one of the most revolutionary changes in the way earthworks are performed. Trimble GCS900 is extremely flexible and can be used on excavators, dozers, motor graders, compactors, scrapers, trimmers, and milling machines. You may purchase the GSC900 outright or as an upgrade from a GCS600 Grade Control System. And with its CAN-based design, the GCS900 can be easily moved from machine to machine, as needed. Speak to our team to find out more about how Trimble GCS 900 can work for your business.
Trimble Earthworks GO! One of the TOP 50 New Products of the Year!
Trimble Earthworks GO! has been named as one of 2019 Contractors’ Top 50 New Products: in a list of 50 Profit-enhancing Opportunities for Construction Fleets.
Read the full article in For Construction Pros HERE and more about Trimble EarthworksGO!
Take the Guesswork out of Earthworks with Trimble Construction Technology
Great capture of SITECH Solutions’ Jacob Bornholdt as he wires in a tilt bucket sensor at Casula Caterpillar on a Cat 336 Next-Gen Excavator for Daracon. 
Hydraulically operated, tilt buckets add to a machine’s contour grading capability by being able to angle 45 degrees from vertical to the right and left sides. This adds greater versatility on jobs requiring slope cutting or precision in final grading and can also reduce the need for a finish pass by a motor grader or track type tractor. Designed to work on tasks including conventional excavation in low impact environments such as top soils, loams and clay, tilt buckets are ideal for irrigation or ditch construction and cleaning tasks, and civil construction or landscaping tasks.
Tilt buckets can also add flexibility on confined space job sites and work seamlessly with Trimble Grade Control Technology such as the Trimble Earthworks system. Trimble Earthworks provides visual positioning guidance for the operator in the cab on screen, adding greater efficiency, speed and accuracy to digging and grading tasks.
The operator can see the machine pitch and roll, set a target cross slope and see the actual bucket angle with an optional tilt sensor fitted. Take the guesswork out of earthworks with construction technology from Trimble.
Work smarter, faster and more profitably with highly productive, integrated and innovative solutions for the complete job site to keep you on track. Contact us today to learn more https://bit.ly/2I1842f
Trimble SiteVision for Civil Construction
Trimble SiteVision is a high accuracy augmented reality system designed to bring your data to life. It enables users to easily understand designs, existing underground services and how future landscapes will look over time, without the need to interpret drawings or maps. With SiteVision, you can now view this data in true life scale, in the context of existing surroundings.
Information is presented in augmented reality view and can be reviewed from any angle or position on-site
Easily share complex designs between office and field via Trimble Connect
Trimble SiteVision Benefits:
See what you can’t see: the existing underground infrastructure
See the future: what the new construction looks like against the existing environment
Empower users: interpret spatial data easily
Improve understanding: collaborate on designs ons-te and in context.
The Trimble SiteVision high accuracy hand-held augmented reality system takes data visualisation outdoors, providing an innovative way to visually explore and understand complex information. For more info, check out the video below and contact Rhys Geerligs on e: [email protected] or t: 02 6788 2155.
Trimble’s New High-Accuracy Handheld Augmented Reality System Takes Data Visualization Outdoors
SITECH Solutions Presents Worldwide First – the only Caterpillar 825H Compactor with Auto Blade Control and VisionLink Reporting
You are looking at a worldwide first. SITECH Solutions presents the only Caterpillar 825H Compactor in the world with automated blade control and VisionLink Reporting! 
This is a great example of SITECH Solutions creating one-off customised solutions in order to meet the unique needs of our customers. The customised GCS 900 system was designed by SITECH specifically for this Cat to perfect automatic blade control. Automating the blade allows the machine to place material accurately to grade, reducing the need for a grader to be working in tandem with the compactor as is usually the case. Therefore, our tailor-made solution means that one machine can be eliminated from the process making it a very profitable and worthwhile investment. Watch the machine in action below.
The first system controls the automation of the blade for material placement
The second roof mounted GPS system provides real time height and pass count mapping of the compaction wheels to ensure that the operator provides correct coverage and compacted height of material on the fill. This data is then transmitted wirelessly to VisionLink 3D for QA reporting on compaction coverage and conformance to fill heights and thicknesses.
SITECH Solutions are able to create complete and customised solutions incorporating machine hardware, survey positioning and office software and reporting systems. Speak to our team who are expert in advising unique ways we are able to meet your specific requirements.
Making the Grade: How Technology is Improving Construction of Durable Roads
Trimble Contractor Series – Dane Cotton at DC Excavation Talks Earthworks GO!
TOTALcapture Increases Productivity & Safety for Mount Thorley Mine
SITECH Solutions Sydney Installer John Doveton headed to Singleton recently to fit a TOTALcapture System onto this Volvo articulated dump truck (ADT) for Les Russel Earthmoving.
The ADT complete with TOTALcapture system is all set for work on the Mount Thorley mine, an integrated operation of two open cut pits located adjacent to each other, 15 kilometres south-west of Singleton in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales. TOTALcapture is a productivity tracking system that ensures increased safety onsite for load and haul operators. The TOTALcapture system is designed as a decision support system that passes key equipment production and location data captured by the onboard devices back to the cloud-based server. The near real-time data helps managers effectively monitor and control the utilisation of their assets from any location via the internet. The system removes a number of human error elements compared to manual systems, and consolidates the onboard system monitoring systems into a single solution. Operator interaction is kept to a minimum through the connection to available digital inputs or supported OEM interfaces. To find out more about TOTALcapture and how it can work for your operations, contact us today.
Performance Proof is in for Trimble Grade Control Technology
Results of our recent machine control productivity study show that autos improve performance by an average of almost 52% over conventional methods. Check out the metrics in the recent article featured in Construction Executive with an excerpt from the article below: –
~~~~~~~~~ Machine control—specifically grade control technology—and emerging autonomous operations are fast becoming integral to the construction industry, particularly in site work. A recent weeklong productivity study compared the performance of 16 excavator operators of varying skill levels The results of the study demonstrate that the path toward autonomous machine control is set. The average of all operators – novice to expert – showed an almost 43% improvement with guidance-only grade control across the board and almost 52% improvement with automatics over conventional methods. The study numbers indicated that guidance make a very good operator better and enable less skilled operators to perform close to intermediate and expert operators with comparable accuracy. Nothing replaces time in the seat. As one of the expert operators noted, “Automatics could make a huge difference in production and accuracy, reducing costs and eliminating grade checking while putting less wear on the equipment.” The study also indicates that machine control and autonomous solutions can help owners and operators build a qualified, quality workforce—an ability that could give any company a leg up in today’s workforce-challenged environment. In today’s market, a contractor of any size can gain almost immediate value in productivity and addressing the labor challenges, while setting themselves up to take advantage of future autonomous capabilities. Read the full article in Construction Mag HERE.
Specialist Tunnel Excavation for the WestConnex Project with Trimble GCS900
The first underground stage of the nation’s biggest road infrastructure project, WestConnex, is now open. Brendon Vella, SITECH Solutions Sydney Support captured some photos of this surface miner working on one of the access tunnels whilst onsite during construction.
The surface miner is fitted out with Trimble GCS900 to ensure absolute precision and accuracy at variable depths and slope. Trimble GCS900 is a cutting edge earthmoving grade control system that puts design surfaces, grades and alignments inside the cab. The system uses GPS and a radio correction signal to accurately position the milling drum in real time, significantly reducing material overages and dramatically improving productivity and profitability. Variations of the system allow for use of Laser or Total Station technology, to allow use in tunnels or other, restricted situations where GPS is unavailable or undesirable. The entire WestConnex project is due to be finished in 2023. Known as the M4 East, the newly opened section consists of twin tunnels which are three lanes wide in each direction and will link to the widened M4 and connect Homebush to Haberfield in the inner-west. The $16.8 billion WestConnex project is the centrepiece of the Berejiklian Government’s $90 billion infrastructure program. The 5.5 kilometre-long tunnels are expected to take around 10,000 trucks off Parramatta Road. Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the newly opened section would shave 20 minutes off a peak hour journey from Parramatta to the CBD. Eventually, WestConnex will link the M4 Motorway to the M5 Motorway, CBD and airport via 33km of tunnels and motorways. When the project is complete, the NSW Government says motorists will be able to bypass 52 sets of traffic lights between Beverly Hills and Parramatta.
PHOTO: The M4 tunnels will allow motorists to bypass 42 sets of traffic lights.
Pave the Way to Better Profits with Trimble’s PSC900 Paving Control Systems
Here is Fulton Hogan’s paver in operation, laying asphalt on the night shift at the import-export (IMEX) terminal at the Moorebank Logistics Park. Recently kitted out with Trimble’s PSC900 system SITECH Solutions’ Nick Pryke (Sales) was onsite when he captured these shots. 
Trimble’s PSC900 Paving Control for Asphalt Pavers helps you to pave the way to better profits. With Trimble’s PSC900 Paving Control on your machine you’ll speed u your paving production while paying a smoother surface and reducing material costs. TRIMBLE PAVING CONTROL CAN HELP YOU:
Lay the finished surface with accuracy to 0.01 feet (3 millimetres)
Minimise use of expensive material
Pave within a tighter tolerance and get closer to the minimal asphalt thickness specification
Reduce labour costs by controlling the screed with one operator
Eliminate operator mistakes with the easy-to-use display interface
Lay complex designs such as transitions, super-elevated curves and frequently changing cross slopes
Achieve accuracy and smoothness specifications which can mean a bigger bonus.
Contact us to find out more. -ABOUT MOOREBANK LOGISTICS PARK- Moorebank Logistics Park is a nationally significant infrastructure development that will transform the way containerised freight moves through Port Botany and deliver a faster, simpler and more cost-effective service for business and consumers. Moorebank Logistics Park is being developed on a precinct comprising of land owned by the Commonwealth of Australia and adjacent land owned by Qube Holdings. The development will comprise:
an import-export (IMEX) terminal with a capacity to handle up to 1.05 million TEU (twenty foot equivalent units) a year of international containerised freight;
an interstate terminal with a capacity to handle up to 500,000 TEU of interstate and regional freight per year;
up to 850,000 sqm of high specification warehousing where containers can be unpacked before delivery of their contents to its final destinations;
auxiliary services including retail and service offerings;
a rail connection to the Southern Sydney Freight Line (SSFL), which will provide direct access to the facility; and
substantial biodiversity offset areas protected from development, including vegetation on the east bank of the Georges River.
Staff Announcements
James Mackay, Sales – ACT and Southern NSW We are pleased to announce that James Mackay has accepted the role of Sales Rep for Canberra and Southern NSW. 
James has been in the role of Service Technician for about 5 years, both in Sydney and Canberra. During this time he has developed a strong, trusted relationship with all of the customers in Southern NSW and his strong work ethic and dedication to his role have contributed to the ongoing success of SITECH Solutions. We are sure that James will be able to continue and grow upon this success. Kevin Lawler, Operations Co-ordinator – ACT & Southern NSW Congratulations to Kevin Lawler as he has just been appointed the new role of ‘Operations Coordinator – ACT & Southern NSW. He will be working closely with SITECH Solutions Operations Manager, Ryan Nash and Operations Supervisor, Chris James with regards to the day-to-day installs and organisational support for the southern region. 
Another major part of this role will be supporting SITECH Solutions Rental/ Workshop Co-ordinator Remmi Madhu with the Hire Fleet Organisation/ Stock Accountability as well as Customer Relations. We all look forward to working more closely with Kevin in the growth and support of the SITECH team as a whole.
Huge Wrap for Trimble Earthworks 3D GPS
Trimble Civil Engineering and Construction Earthworks Grade Control Platform Version 1.9
Earthworks semi-automatic boom and bucket control now works with tilt automatics on engcon, Rototilt and Steelwrist attachments
Combined depth and tilt autos allow excavator operator to easily control complex attachments to stay on grade
Controls excavator boom and bucket as well as tilt angle of the attachment, while the operator controls the excavator stick and rotation of the tiltrotator
Earthworks for Motor Graders version 1.9 now supports universal total stations for millimeter-accurate fine grading with fewer passes
The Trends of Technologies Changing the Industry
The construction industry as a whole is starting to see the advantages that drones can provide. Companies are flying drones to create maps, monitor 
progress, improve safety, capture video and measure aggregates. They’re improving efficiencies and saving money and time, making drones an increasingly valuable tool for a variety of projects. 
This recent article featured in Inside Unmanned Systems discusses the many challenges faced in the extremely dynamic environments of today’s construction sites and how drone technology such as Trimble Stratus represents an answer to these problems. 
If you’re flying a drone on a site and have information from machine control equipment, it all gets blended together in a ‘fusion of data’ for maximum data output. That maximizes efficiency and, in turn, profitability. Trimble Stratus software helps civil contractors use drones to map, measure and share accurate information about their worksites and assets. With Stratus, you can make quicker decisions, avoid mistakes, and grow profits by always having the right information on hand. 
The Future is NOW: AWJ Civil Virtual Reality Experience Day
SITECH Solutions was recently invited to assist in a Virtual Reality Experience day at AWJ Civil Pty Ltd, at which five ASCC year 10 students were able to experience first-hand the very latest in construction technology. AWJ is a company at the forefront of Civil Engineering in Sydney, Australia, specialising in civil contracting services with expertise in project management, civil and environmental engineering, geotechnical engineering and complex infrastructure. With a strong community focus, the company is very committed to promotion of the civil construction industry and driving Western Sydney Civil works into a new era of growth and prosperity. In a commendable initiative, AWJ has partnered with All Saints Catholic College (ASCC) Liverpool to offer students a vocational programme designed to broaden career options, skills and experience within the civil construction industry. The programme incorporates site visits, work experience as well as traineeships, apprenticeship, and mentoring opportunities and the Virtual Reality Experience day was organised by AWJ as part of this. Rhys Geerligs and Craig Wenck went along to lend a hand, taking with them the SITECH Solutions’ Trimble Earthworks Simulator as well as a couple of pairs of Augmented Reality (AR) Goggles, a unique way to introduce a real-life experience of machine control technology to the uninitiated. 
Upon donning the AR goggles the students became immersed in a virtual quarry where five machines – two excavators, two dozers and a loader – become visible. Just by focusing the eyes for a couple of seconds, the wearer is able to virtually operate the machine of their choice from inside the cab as if they were the operator. 
The students were then strapped into the driver’s seat of SITECH’s Trimble Earthworks Simulator, from which they operated machinery and experienced Trimble Earthworks machine control technology virtually, using two joysticks and a large screen. 
They were also able to experience some of the latest in surveying technology utilised by AWJ Civil such as Trimble Stratus drone technology which is used to help civil contractors to map, measure and share accurate information about their worksites and assets. 
The students loved being able to experience this leading edge technology first hand, giving them a true to life glimpse into the world of the construction industry as it is today and the exciting direction in which it is headed. The strong focus on technology, being an area of such interest and relevance to the younger generation, was an excellent way to promote the construction industry and to encourage their future involvement.
Footage from the drone: the ASCC students, AWJ Civil staff with SITECH Solutions Rhys Geerligs and Craig WenckSITECH Solutions is so proud to have been part of what was such a great day for the invited students and a wonderful experience for both the AWJ Civil and our staff.
Range Road Upgrade Underway with Trimble GCS900
The Range Road Upgrade is nicely underway thanks to Divalls Earthmoving and this M-series Cat, pictured here and fitted out with the Trimble GCS 900 grader system.
Divall Earthmoving’s M-series Cat, fitted with the Trimble GCS 900 Grader SystemThe Range Road is being upgraded following its approval for funding under the NSW Government’s Fixing Country Roads program.
Member for Goulburn Pru Goward told the Goulburn Post that once completed, the upgraded road would improve freight accessibility and deliver better road safety outcomes allowing for the easier passing of vehicles.
“The Fixing Country Roads program ensures our roads are able to carry the food, produce and raw materials that support the local community,” Ms Goward said.
The work entails:
widening and sealing the road along with bridge works.
improved all-weather access for larger heavy vehicles
safety upgrades will also be undertaken.
