CM Labs Integrates Trimble Grade Control in Excavator Simulator

Sept. 29, 2021

CM Labs Simulations has released an integration with the Trimble Earthworks Grade Control Platform for its Excavator Simulator.

“As technology in heavy equipment expands, so does the need to train operators on new capabilities,” said Julien Richer-Lanciault, product manager at CM Labs. “Grade control systems such as Trimble Earthworks are gaining more traction as the industry moves towards automation. Simulation provides training organizations with simplified access to these technologies while ensuring their curriculum meets the needs of a changing market.”

Trimble Earthworks for Excavators software works in parallel with CM Labs’ patented software and runs on a tablet, which the user can connect to the simulator. Using the simulator, visual aids are overlaid onto the existing ground along with cut/fill information, slope data, and other customizable reference points to provide the user with a better understanding of the work that needs to be done.

A variety of configurable views makes it easier to obtain the right perspective for maximum training value, the news release says.

“Simulation provides a unique opportunity to train contractors in a cost-effective way,” said Cameron Clark, earthmoving industry director at Trimble. “Working with CM Labs allows us to leverage their ground-breaking software and hardware platforms so Trimble Earthworks is available on the most advanced construction simulators. When more operators are exposed to grade control at the training stage, they can reduce their training curve and be more productive in the real world.”

Trimble Earthworks is available as an add-on with CM Labs’ Excavator Training Pack and will be expanded to other earthmoving modules. The software is compatible with all of CM Labs’ Vortex Simulators, including the desktop Vortex Edge Plus, the motion-enabled Vortex Edge Max, and the high-immersion Vortex Advantage.

Source: CM Labs