Leica PowerDigger 3D is an excavator guidance system that includes a choice of single or dual GNSS (GPS + GLONASS) PowerBox and PowerAntenna sensors, each capable of precisely locating the exact 3D position of the excavator bucket relative to the design surface.

In real time, Leica PowerDigger 3D receives the machine position via GNSS, calculates the excavator bucket’s exact 3D position on the site and compares the bucket position with the 3D design model, displaying differences (cut/fill/slope) to the operator on a screen.

Rich Calvird, product marketing manager, said, “GNSS-driven positioning can virtually eliminate downtime for stakeout and grade checking which translates to significant time and cost savings. It also makes working with vertical curves, cross-slope transitions, and changes in width fast and easy. Even fine-grading is possible with real-time 3D information about the bucket position, including bucket tilt and rotation.”

The Leica PowerDigger 3D always displays the machine’s position relative to the 3D design surface, in any site conditions. It can operate in single and dual GPS/GNSS configuration. The Dual GNSS configurations provide maximum speed and flexibility for projects with frequent moves, while single GNSS configurations provide a cost-effective entry into 3D excavating.

“Leica PowerDigger 3D allows the operator to design complex surfaces with several slopes and store on-the-fly data directly in the machine,” Calvird said. “It is also the perfect tool for underwater excavations, and can also record the final excavated surface, for as-dug reports — now you know when the project is finished.”

Leica PowerDigger 3D supports all common 3D design model formats. Design files can be sent to the excavator via a GSM or local wireless LAN with Internet access.