Top 100: No More Stakes or Grade Checkers

Designed into the machine at the factory, Caterpillar's AccuGrade Laser Grade Control System automatically adjusts blade lift and tilt. A 360-degree transmitter beam, also accessible to other machines on the site, creates a grade reference over the entire work area. By adjusting the height of receivers from the operator seat, users can build pads of varying elevations without leaving the cab. The system also includes safety features: AccuGrade will disengage if the machine is in park, in neutral for 60 seconds, or if the health of the system is at risk. Estimated list price: $19,000 to $27,000 range between a fully automatic single-mast, elevation-only system and a dual-mast, elevation-and-tilt system.