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 Caterpillar 2D Grade control with laser catcher and 3D Earthworks on a 315 Next Gen machine.

Brandon Banks's profile image
Brandon Banks posted 01-06-2022 17:19
Hi,

I have just got a new 315 Next Gen machine with full factory 3D with Earthworks?, the dealer was having issues with calibrating the 3D side of it as I have ordered it with a laser catcher for using in 2D Cat Grade Control for finishing platforms with a laser to get better accuracy down to 5-10mm.
They found they had to go into the machine service settings and turn ​the laser catcher off, so that the 3D Earthworks would work properly and they could calibrate it, I find this a little hard to believe that as the laser catcher is an option on the 3D version, that there's not a easier function  to toggle between the 2 systems without having to go into the main ECM.
I wouldn't want a operator having the service password and having to go into the ECM to toggle between the systems and I cant see CAT or Trimble setting it up in this fashion, can any one offer any solutions please??​

I'm only new here so still trying to work out how these communities work, if I'm in the wrong place can you let me know, Thanks Brandon.
Tim McCann's profile image
Tim McCann posted 01-10-2022 18:09
Brandon,

Did you get this resolved?  It does sound odd, but anything is possible.  The laser catcher only works on 2D as an optional input; it is not used with 3D GPS nor 3D UTS.

What "calibration" were they having trouble with? If 2D system was all set, should just be 3D measurements and "vectors". CAN issue?

I thought there was an issue with CATs and laser catchers, but that was bigger machines a year or so ago, in 2D mode.  Never 3D; that I'm aware of.  

If not resolved, ask them to make sure EVERY CAT ecm has the latest firmware.  If there is an issue hopefully they can explain that.

If you have the machine, do some "sanity" checks for grade, extended, mid and close to cab to verify system is holding grade to your satisfaction.

Similar tests can be done in 2D to verify since 3D is built on top of the 2D.

Good luck!