(Heerbrugg, 22 April 2010) Leica Geosystems releases its next-generation, cutting-edge, 3D guidance system for excavating construction machines, Leica PowerDigger 3D. Leica PowerDigger 3D expands Leica Geosystems’ unique PowerSnap concept, which provides total flexibility and interchangeability of machine control products and of machines such as excavators, dozers, and graders. PowerDigger 3D is the result of many years of experience in developing machine control systems.

Unique PowerSnap concept makes it easy to swap panels

Thanks to PowerSnap, machine guidance systems are no longer restricted to just one machine. PowerSnap allows users to swap panels between laser, slope, and 3D machine control completely seamlessly as the job demands. PowerSnap also provides a cable-free system: data communication via infrared and induction for power supply offer contractors high reliability and system uptime. Leica Geosystems provides machine control solutions for diggers, dozers, and graders that can now use the XC16 control panel with the corresponding 2D or 3D software.

PowerSnap also lets new customers manage their investment path as they move into machine control; offering complete backwards compatibility and affordable upgrade paths from traditional laser/slope control – all the way to 3D. Additionally, the easy removal of panels helps deter theft and vandalism – an ideal solution for rental machine fleets. 

A wide range of features and benefits

Leica PowerDigger 3D software offers direct support for popular 3D design models (CAD) – meaning no interpretation of drawings and no need for stakeout. With full 3D visualization, operators know exactly where the bucket of the excavator is and where it needs to be positioned. The system supports full GNSS (GPS & GLONASS) coverage as standard, which provides maximum coverage and uptime on most job sites. Thanks to its high-performance graphic display, the system is intuitive to use, allowing operators to quickly gain confidence with the system.

The Leica PowerDigger 3D control panel has a rugged housing and is equipped with a 7-inch full-color touch screen that takes the user through the installation, setup, and operating modes at a glance. Simple design models can even be created directly on the jobsite. The system supports a wide range of popular data formats including LandXML, DXF/DWG surface models, Polylines, and all GEO formats etc. The system also features built-in dredging and volume calculations.

2D and 3D “out of the box”

Leica PowerDigger 3D provides a fully functional 2D system at no extra cost. The system can be easily upgraded and is fully scalable from basic 2D to full 3D capability in the same control panel – one option does not exclude the other – and, if the machine loses GNSS coverage, the digger drivers can continue in “2D mode” with full functionality.

A managed investment path

For 3D solutions, Leica Geosystems offers a simple upgrade path: Contractors that are not sure whether they want to make the whole investment today can simply buy a 3D-ready panel and upgrade later to suit to their needs. For those who only need 3D for a short period, Leica Geosystems or a distribution partner can rent Leica GNSS sensors / Leica Total Stations as well as 3D software.