Equipment World Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/440012
height automatically when the operator moves the arm, allowing him to trace the target surface and minimize digging too deep. • Auto stop control, which stops the machine during boom or bucket operation when the bucket edge reaches the target surface, also limiting over-excavating. • Minimum distance control, which controls the bucket by automatically selecting the point on the bucket closest to the target surface regardless of machine position. Even if the machine is inclined while working, the facing angle compass ensures the machine is facing perpendicular to the target surface. Touch controls The 7-inch standard display in most excavators wouldn't convey all the information operators needed with the Intel- ligent Machine System, so Komatsu opted for a 12.1-inch- high screen that uses a touch screen interface instead of a multi-step menu. (Note: the machine still uses the excava- tor's function display monitor for regular functions.) The angle and magnification of the 3D display can be changed, allowing operators to select the optimum view for their jobs. Users can switch between a "rough" overall view and a magnified "fine" grading view that highlights the bucket position. The display can be moved out of the way when not in use. Located in the upper right hand corner of the screen, the arrow of the facing angle com- pass shows the orientation of the bucket edge relative to the target surface. "This compass allows us to square the machine to the slope, basically giving the bucket an accurate cutting edge perpendicular to the slope," Anetsberger says. "While this seems easy, it can be quite difficult, especially when you consider the machine is sitting on an uneven surface." In a narrow column on the left side of the screen, a conventional colored light bar shows the bucket edge position relative to the target surface; when the buttons are green, you're close to grade. Operators can also opt to use a sound function, which audibly warns them when the bucket reaches programmed distances from the target surface. If you opt for manual controls, the Auto mode can be turned off by pushing the upper right corner switch, putting the display in indicate-only mode. If owners opt to use Topcon's Sitelink 3D Enterprise system, machine and office can be connected in several ways: • Project files can be directly downloaded from a contractor's office to the machine. • Progress information and as-built data can be sent back to the office. • Machine and office can send messages to each other. • Machine functions can be remotely troubleshooted. ROI in 18 months While not disclosing the exact number, Robson says there's a "significant premium" for the Intelligent Machine Control system, but says Komatsu expects users to get an ROI in 18 months. As with the dozer, where the initial D6li-23 model opened the way for several intelligent dozers, the excavator intelligent controls are scaleable, and will most likely ap- pear in larger excavators in the next 12 to 18 months. January 2015 | EquipmentWorld.com 24 Komatsu's claim of up to a 63-percent reduction in con- struction time will make many contractors pause. While the company readily admits Intelligent Machine Control isn't for all applications, it contends its near elimination of over-excavation makes sense on high production or preci- sion jobs. Whether, as Komatsu says, it truly opens the door to autonomous machines on construction jobsites will be intriguing to watch. – Marcia Gruver Doyle | MGruver@randallreilly.com Why we like this product innovations | continued The 12.1-inch touch screen display can be positioned out of the way when not in use.