Abstract: An integrated sensing device with a suite of sensors assists construction machine operators in finding the correct level to dig a ditch/trench. The sensing device includes a gravity sensor to determine angles, a laser distance meter (LDM), and a laser receiver for detecting a known jobsite elevation. The sensing device is mounted to the dipper stick of an excavator; the gravity sensor detects the angle of the stick, and the laser receiver detects a laser plane of light that represents a known jobsite elevation. The LDM is aimed at another member of the machine that moves in a predetermined path as the bucket is rotated, and the distance between the LDM and the target member is used to calculate the vertical elevation of the working tool edge. A display graphically shows the operator the proper dig depth and the present position of the working tool edge.

Abstract: An integrated sensing device with a suite of sensors assists construction machine operators in finding the correct level to dig a ditch/trench. The sensing device includes a gravity sensor to determine angles, a laser distance meter (LDM), and a laser receiver for detecting a known jobsite elevation. The sensing device is mounted to the dipper stick of an excavator; the gravity sensor detects the angle of the stick, and the laser receiver detects a laser plane of light that represents a known jobsite elevation. The LDM is aimed at another member of the machine that moves in a predetermined path as the bucket is rotated, and the distance between the LDM and the target member is used to calculate the vertical elevation of the working tool edge. A display graphically shows the operator the proper dig depth and the present position of the working tool edge.

Abstract: An integrated sensing device with a suite of sensors assists construction machine operators in finding the correct level to dig a ditch/trench. The sensing device includes a gravity sensor to determine angles, a laser distance meter (LDM), and a laser receiver for detecting a known jobsite elevation. The sensing device is mounted to the dipper stick of an excavator; the gravity sensor detects the angle of the stick, and the laser receiver detects a laser plane of light that represents a known jobsite elevation. The LDM is aimed at another member of the machine that moves in a predetermined path as the bucket is rotated, and the distance between the LDM and the target member is used to calculate the vertical elevation of the working tool edge. A display graphically shows the operator the proper dig depth and the present position of the working tool edge.

Abstract: An integrated sensing device with a suite of sensors assists construction machine operators in finding the correct level to dig a ditch/trench. The sensing device includes a gravity sensor to determine angles, a laser distance meter (LDM), and a laser receiver for detecting a known jobsite elevation. The sensing device is mounted to the dipper stick of an excavator; the gravity sensor detects the angle of the stick, and the laser receiver detects a laser plane of light that represents a known jobsite elevation. The LDM is aimed at another member of the machine that moves in a predetermined path as the bucket is rotated, to and the distance between the LDM and the target member is used to calculate the vertical elevation of the working tool edge. A display graphically shows the operator the proper dig depth and the present position of the working tool edge.