New Version of Trimble VisonLink Software Integrates Construction Site
November 14, 2011
SUNNYVALE, Calif.—Trimble introduced version 2.3 of its Web-based construction application—VisionLink software powered by Trimble. The new version of VisionLink goes beyond traditional telematics applications by integrating asset and fleet management services with new 3D project monitoring functionality and production output tools. The software combines earthmoving, grading, finishing, compaction, and asset and fleet management operations into one easy-to-use application. Using VisionLink, contractors can track earthworks and compaction progress remotely. VisionLink gives them the information in one place to make faster decisions, lower operating costs, reduce project risk and increase productivity.
Connecting Earthmoving and Compaction Machines to the Office
VisionLink software uses the Trimble SNM940 Connected Site Gateway to transmit information between the office and the machine. Precise location and production data from the earthworks machine or compactor are sent from the machine, to VisionLink in the office. Design data and machine configuration files are sent from the office to the machine. Using VisionLink with the SNM940 for two-way data transfer eliminates the time needed to drive information between locations. Design information can be shared between Trimble’s Business Center – HCE data management and preparation software, VisionLink and the machine control system. The sharing ensures the same data is being used by stakeholders on the project in a single workflow and also reduces costly errors and re-work.
The SNM940 can also be used to receive GPS correction information for high-accuracy positioning with Trimble’s GPS-based machine control systems. This reduces the need for additional GPS and radio communications infrastructure on the construction site, increasing operating range and operational flexibility.
See the Big Picture with VisionLink
VisionLink 3D Project Monitoring gives contractors insight into the overall project progress. Through continuous monitoring and recording of machine blade or bucket position, along with other machine control information, VisionLink creates a production model showing progress over time. The comprehensive production model includes position, elevation and time, and is used to report surface elevations, cut and fill maps and earthworks volumes throughout the project. The model ensures that the entire earthmoving operation is tracked and recorded including over-excavation and backfill, overfill/surcharge, and cutback operations, which can easily be overlooked when using traditional methods of progress volume reporting.
During soil and asphalt compaction operations, the compactor’s position is continuously recorded and tracked to create a 3D surface model with accurate compaction pass count mapping, compaction consistency mapping and material lift thicknesses. Continuous monitoring of compaction operations ensures uniformity in surface construction and rapid identification of problematic areas. Final surface quality and the operational life of the constructed surface can be improved, while the need for manual spot inspections is minimized. VisionLink combined with the Trimble CCS900 Compaction Control System can reduce the time and cost of survey work through the collection and wireless transfer of as-compacted surface data.
VisionLink 3D Project Monitoring is used to monitor the productivity of earthworks machines such as dozers, graders, scrapers, excavators and compactors equipped with Trimble machine control technology. When combined with VisionLink’s asset and fleet management capabilities, it provides senior executives, fleet managers, operations managers, project managers, site supervisors, field crews and other project stakeholders with key information that allows them to make decisions quickly and improve operational effectiveness. With this wealth of information, contractors can save time, reduce costs and better maintain project schedules.
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