The Bottom Line: Entry Points to Machine Control - These days, most of the buzz about machine control centers around fully- automated 3D systems. These systems utilize GPS, lasers or specialized total stations for real-time positioning and automated control of the machines’ hydraulics. Although providing the greatest and fastest return on investment; these are not the only machine control systems available nor the only entry point to enter the machine control revolution...

It's All About the Data: Two-way Data; More Power, More Profit  - GPS is a great tool, and integrating it into your company’s operations takes time and care. Last issue, we talked about moving data into the field to successfully use it. Now we will discuss the flow of data back into the office....

Machine Control & the Land Surveyor: "Other" Opportunities - My last article regarding machine control opportunities for the land surveyor has sparked a lot of comments and questions. Most frequently: "Are there other opportunities in machine control for land surveyors in addition to building 3D models and site calibrations?" Great question. I do think we tend to emphasize the 3D model building and site calibrations, because those are the most common opportunities for the land surveyor on a machine control site....

Data Prep: Tips, Tricks & Techniques: How can I build this in the field?  - I would assume that everyone, regardless of what field they work in, has had experiences that helped define how they do what they do. It may have been as simple as a suggestion from a co-worker, or as hard as a lesson learned from a critical mistake. However it comes about, I feel safe in saying that we have all had these moments....

Machine Guidance Sensors: An Overview (Part 2 of 2)  - Angle sensors come in many guises, depending upon technology and machine interface. They are usually mounted on the side of the moving piece and give an angle output relative to the angle of the equipment. From this information it is then easy to derive the relative positions of the equipment. Angle sensors can monitor the boom, arm, bucket, tilting bucket, pitch and roll of the machine; they are the most versatile and widely used sensor option....