“We are really excited about the Volvo Active Control functionality, especially on this size of excavator”
The benefits of the system are unquestionable. Such is the speed and precision offered, that grading times are almost halved compared to conventional grading. Furthermore, it ensures that there is no need to go over the work again because the system gets it right the first time, which negates the need for a Banksman to carry out depth and grade checks as the job progresses. An entirely Volvo designed system, Volvo Active Control is powered by the company’s Dig Assist application and uses ‘drive-by-wire’ technology to control the excavator’s electro- hydraulic system, with no servo-hydraulic pilot lines coming into the cab. With Volvo Active Control in charge to automatically adjust boom and bucket movements, the operator can achieve the perfect job using only their left hand to control grade speed. “We are really excited about the Volvo Active Control functionality, especially on this size of excavator,” comments Ashcourt’s Plant Manager, Adam Donkin. “Opting for this, together with the 2D Dig Assist, 2D Infield Design and a Topcon 3D software package is our way of futureproofing new civil engineering opportunities as they arise.” After spending some time using Active Control on a housebuilding project, Ashcourt Machine Operator, Andrew “Smudge” Smith concludes: “It is a good system. You do still need an experienced operator at the controls, but it’s helpful to have
38 THE VOICE MAGAZINE No38 2020
something to check my work against. It does also save me a lot of time, while also freeing up the Site Engineer.” Agreeing with Andrew’s conclusion, Site Engineer, Jamie Rivard adds: “It’s a very user-friendly system. Adding 3D models to the Topcon application is an easy and straightforward process, and it can also store multiple settings at once, which is very helpful. After having some time to work with it, I’ve found that the system does save me a lot of time and allows the machine operator to get on, as they no longer have to wait for me to peg out an area or check over their work. You do still need an experienced machine operator to keep an eye the work being carried out, but I think Active Control is great.” A depth limit feature stops the bucket digging below a pre-set limit, thereby avoiding collision with known underground utilities. Meanwhile, by setting a pre-set safe elevation, a height limit helps prevent the bucket, boom or stick colliding with power cables or overhead obstructions. Furthermore, a swing fence limiter prevents the swing from exceeding pre-set limits, thus avoiding contact with side obstacles, which can be invaluable when working within confined spaces. Finally, the slewing function can be programmed to work in a defined parameter, for instance, from a stockpile to a waiting truck. ■
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