®®

AccuGrade® Systems for Track-Type Tractors AccuGrade Laser

AccuGrade GPS Machine Compatibility

Machine Model D3G, D4G, D5GD5N, D6ND6R II, D6R III, D7R IID8T, D9T

AccuGrade®

Grade Control Systemfor Track-TypeTractors

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AccuGrade® Grade Control System for Track-Type TractorsAccuGrade Grade Control Systems simplify grading, improve accuracy, increase productivity,minimize material use and lower operating costs.

Fine grade and doze the plan with greateraccuracy and control using AccuGradetechnology solutions for track-type tractors.System flexibility allows the systems to beeasily interchanged to meet a wide rangeof application and site-specific graderequirements.

• AccuGrade Laser — 2D elevation control• AccuGrade GPS — 3D elevation control

AccuGrade® GPS

The GPS System uses GlobalPositioning System satellites todetermine precise blade positioning.The system features fully automatedblade adjustments for automaticelevation control, and vertical andhorizontal guidance light bars formanual control. pg. 8

AccuGrade® Laser

The Laser System leverages lasertechnology to create an accurate gradeelevation reference over the work area.The system features automated bladeadjustments for elevation controlwith tight tolerances and built-inelevation/grade display indicatorsfor manual control. pg. 6

AccuGrade® Ready Option (ARO)Machine

The ARO machine simplifies systeminstallation and reduces machinedowntime. The AccuGrade systemis designed and integrated into themachine systems and controls tooptimize performance and reliability.pg. 4

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Features and Benefits

AccuGrade delivers a wide range ofcustomer benefits designed to increaseoperator efficiency and productivity,improve accuracy, reduce materialcosts, reduce surveying and labor costs,and lower overall operating costs.pg. 10

AccuGrade for Track-Type Tractors.Caterpillar® is helping customersrevolutionize the way they movematerial with new technology solutionsfor earthmoving machines — solutionsthat provide greater accuracy, higherproductivity, lower operating costs andmore profitability.

The AccuGrade System is designedand integrated into the machine andhydraulic systems to create an automatedblade control system that allows operatorsto grade with increased accuracy.

The system uses machine-mountedsensors to calculate precise blade slopeand elevation information.

The integrated electrohydraulic valvecontrol module uses the informationreceived from the sensors toautomatically adjust the bladeto maintain grade.

Automated blade control allowsoperators to improve efficiency andproductivity by achieving grade fasterand in fewer passes than ever before,reducing the need for traditional surveystakes or grade checkers.

AccuGrade Ready Option (ARO)Machine. The factory ARO machinemakes system installation and setupquick and easy, and optimizesperformance and reliability.

• Hydraulic control systems areintegrated into the machinehydraulics for maximumperformance and dependability.

• AccuGrade controls are integratedinto the machine controls andlevers for reliable operation andprecise control.

• Wiring harnesses and cablesare routed during assembly forimproved wear protection and betterreliability.

• System is designed to withstandvibration for long life in ruggedworking environments.

• Safety interlock feature is built in foradded protection during automatedoperation.

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Integrates the AccuGrade system into the machine systems and controls to optimizeperformance and reliability.

AccuGrade® Ready Option (ARO) Machine

Plug and Play Capability. The systemuses a Controller Area Network (CAN),designed for plug-and-play capability.This allows components to be quicklyand easily added or removed. Commonconnectors provide a flexible system,fully upgradeable from two to threedimensional control, on one or bothsides of the blade. Moving the add-onsystems from one machine to anotheris easy. Simply mount the components,connect, calibrate, and the system isready to operate.

Applications. AccuGrade® is designedfor a wide range of constructionearthwork applications, from bulk earthmoving with high production rates tofinish grading with tight tolerances.Field-proven and versatile, the two-dimensional grade control systems areideal for fine grading of roads requiring

precise crown work, and sites with flatsurfaces, single slopes and dual slopes,such as building pads, parking lots, roadsand highways. The three-dimensionalsystems are ideal for complex 3D designs,such as golf courses and roads withsuper elevations.

AccuGrade System Technologies.

• AccuGrade Laser — single or dual2D elevation control

• AccuGrade GPS — dual 3Delevation control

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Flat Plane

Single Slope

Dual Slope

Operation. AccuGrade Laser is anelevation and slope control systemdesigned for precise grade controlusing a laser transmitter and receiver.

A laser transmitter is set up on thework site and creates a constant gradereference over the work area. A digitallaser receiver is mounted on the machineand captures the laser signal as themachine moves across the work site.

The system captures information andcalculates the blade adjustments necessaryto achieve grade. The system makesautomatic elevation adjustments typicallyperformed by the operator and providesautomatic blade control to one or bothsides of the blade. The operator simplysteers the machine. The system alsocalculates cut/fill requirements formanual blade control.

Single Laser System. The single lasersystem provides automated bladeadjustments to the center of the bladefor automatic slope and elevation control.

Dual Laser System. When two laserreceivers are used, the system providesautomatic elevation and slope controlto both sides of the blade.

Laser Transmitter. A laser transmitteris mounted on a tripod so the laserbeam can rotate unobstructed above themachine. The laser transmits a plane oflight above the work area, which allowsseveral machines to work effectively inany direction using one laser transmitter.

Laser Receiver. A digital laser receiveris mounted on an electric mast abovethe cutting edge and is used to detectthe laser beam. The receiver picks upthe position relative to finish grade andmeasures height deviation from theon-grade location to the laser beamstrike. The receiver sends blade positioninformation back to the system tocalculate necessary adjustments.

A built-in grade display provides visualfeedback to the operator. The gradedisplay shows where the blade is relativeto grade. Amber arrows indicate “abovegrade” and “below grade;” greenindicates “on grade.”

A full 360 degrees of laser detectionrange allows the receiver to pick up thelaser signal from any direction on thework site while the machine is working.

Electric Mast. An electronicallyadjustable, telescopic mast is usedfor mounting the laser receiver abovethe blade’s cutting edge. The mast ispowered by an electric motor, whichallows the operator to raise and lowerthe mast from inside the cab to preciselyposition the receiver above the cab forunobstructed laser reception.

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A laser transmitter creates a grade elevation reference plane over the work area to maintainprecise grade control.

AccuGrade® Laser

In-Cab 2D Display. The in-cabdisplay/control box with easy-to-readgrade indicators and elevation displaydelivers all system information to thecab for easy viewing by the operator.Simple controls offer easy setup,operation and access to system menus,allowing the operator to focus onproductivity. Grade indicators providevertical guidance to the operator andindicate which direction to move theblade to achieve grade. The monitornumerically displays cut/fill requirementsfor manual control.

Controls. System controls are integratedinto the machine controls and levers foreasy access and control. Push buttonoperation allows the operator to easilyswitch from manual mode to automaticmode.

Automatic/Manual Mode Button.Allows the operator to toggle betweenautomatic and manual mode.

• In automatic mode, the systemautomatically controls bladeelevation adjustments.

• In manual mode, the operatormanually controls the blade whileusing cut/fill information on thein-cab display and grade indicatorsto guide blade movements.

Remote Offset Switch. Allows theoperator to set elevation offsets at apreset distance from the design plan tooptimize cutting depth in various soilconditions or accommodate sub basefill requirements.

Applications.

• Flat Planes

• Single Slopes

• Dual Slopes

• Building Pads

• Parking Lots

• Sports Fields

• Indoor Applications

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Flat Plane

Single Slope

Dual Slope

Operation. AccuGrade GPS usesadvanced Global Positioning System(GPS) technology to deliver preciseblade positioning information to the cab.Using machine-mounted components,an off-board GPS base station andReal-Time Kinematic (RTK) positioning,GPS provides the information necessaryfor the system to accurately determineblade positioning with centimeter-levelaccuracy.

AccuGrade GPS computes thepositioning information on the machine,compares the position of the bladerelative to the design plan and deliversthat information to the operator via anin-cab display. Information, such asblade elevation, necessary cut/fill to

achieve grade, visual indication of theblade’s position on the design surfaceand a graphical view of the design planwith machine location.

AccuGrade GPS puts all the informationthe operator needs to complete the jobin the cab, resulting in a greater level ofcontrol. Vertical and horizontal guidancetools visually guide the operator to thedesired grade.

Automated features allow the hydraulicsystem to automatically control bladeadjustments to move the blade to grade.The operator simply uses the light barsto guide the machine for consistent,accurate grades and slopes, resultingin higher productivity with less fatigue.

Dual GPS System. The dual GPS systemprovides 3D grade control across thefull width of the blade. The dual GPSreceiver configuration allows thesystem to automatically control bladeadjustments for automatic control ofelevation and slope.

GPS Receivers. GPS receivers aremounted on top of masts above thecutting edge. GPS satellite signalsreceived by the GPS receiver helpdefine the horizontal and verticalposition of the blade. This allowsthe system to precisely measure themachine’s blade location in real-timewith centimeter-level accuracy.

Mast. A rugged steel mast is used formounting the GPS receiver above theblade’s cutting edge for optimum GPSsatellite reception.

Radio. The communications radio ismounted on the cab of the machine toensure maximum signal reception.The radio receives real-time CompactMeasurement Record (CMR) datafrom the GPS base station radio forcalculating high accuracy GPS positions.Radio broadcast frequencies work in allweather conditions and can penetrateclouds, rain and snow. This allowsAccuGrade GPS to accurately controlblade operation in fog, in dust andat night.

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Global Positioning System satellites provide precise location information for elevationcontrol with centimeter-level accuracy.

AccuGrade® GPS

In-Cab 3D Display. The in-cab graphicaldisplay/control box with keypad allowsthe operator to interface with the systemusing push buttons and a color monitor.As the machine operates, the operatorcan view information in real-time, suchas machine location, blade position andelevation relative to the design plan.The system uses 3D design files that arestored on a compact flash data card andinserted into a slot below the keypad.

Light Bars. Three light bars are mountedin the machine cab and provide verticaland horizontal guidance to the operator.

• Two vertical guidance light barsvisually indicate where the bladetips are relative to grade.

• The horizontal guidance light barindicates blade location relative tothe selected horizontal alignment.

Controls. System controls are integratedinto the machine controls and levers foreasy access and control. Push buttonoperation allows the operator to easilyswitch from manual mode to automaticmode.

GPS Satellites. Positioning informationfrom GPS satellites is received by theGPS base station and the machine-mounted GPS receivers. The satellitesconstantly transmit their positions,identities and times of signal broadcasts.

GPS Base Station. The GPS base stationis located within radio range of thework site. It consists of a GPS receiver,GPS antenna and radio. The horizontalposition (latitude and longitude) and thevertical position (height) of the basestation are fixed to known referencepoints. The base station receivesinformation from the GPS satellites.This information, along with the basestation’s known position, is sent to themachine via the communications radioand is used by the machine’s GPSreceivers to calculate centimeter-levelaccuracy positioning.

3D Design Software. Flat and slopingplanar surface design files can be createdon-board the machine. More complexdesigns require 3D design software.

Office Software. The office softwaremanages and converts engineeringsurvey data for use in machine format.It is the interface between the machinesystem, site managers and designengineers. Design data is exported fromthe office software onto a data card foruse by the AccuGrade system.

AccuGrade® Office is the recommendedsoftware for managing and convertingdesign files.

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Increases Productivity and Efficiency.

• Increases productivity by up to 50%

• Reduces guesswork and costlyrework by moving dirt right thefirst time

• Reduces survey costs up to 90%

• Improves material utilization

• Reduces operating costs

• Extends the work day

Worksite Safety.

• Reduces the need for groundpersonnel (survey stakers andcheckers) on the worksite, in thevicinity of working equipment.

Assists with Labor Shortage.

• Reduces labor requirementsand costs

• Customers can get the job donemore quickly and efficiently

• Reduces need for staking and gradecheckers

• Empowers operator, and improvesoperator confidence by deliveringgrading information to the cab

Improves Employee Satisfaction andRetention.

• In-cab display brings elevationcontrol to the cab

• Empowers operator with real-timeresults

• Real-time feedback on progressincreases job satisfaction, eliminatesguesswork and reduces operator stress

• Improves operator skills and takesperformance to the next level

• Investing in the latest technologyleads to a sense of value and trust bythe operator

Increases Equipment Versatility.

• Plug-and-play connections allowfast, easy conversion from GPSto laser grade control system

• Provides consistency and accuracy,turning your production machineinto a fine grading machine

Integrated into Cat® Machines.

• Proven, optimized on-boardelectronics and hydraulics systems

• Components designed into machineto maximize reliability

• Integration into cab and controllevers increases ease of use

• Safety interlock (park brake, systemhealth, idle time) increases safety

• Cat® Dealer Network providesunmatched service and support

Customer Support. For more than25 years, Caterpillar® has beenproviding electronic and electricalcomponents and systems for theearthmoving industry — real-worldtechnology solutions that enhancethe value of Cat products, makingcustomers more productive andprofitable. Your Cat dealer is readyto assist you with matching machineand grade control systems to theapplication and obtaining responsible,knowledgeable support.

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Features and BenefitsAccuGrade® is easy to use and delivers a wide range of customer benefits.

Traditional Grading

Grading with AccuGrade Laser

11AccuGrade Grade Control System for Track-Type Tractors specifications

Laser Receiver

Detection angle 360ºDetection range 267 mm 10.5 inDetection accuracy 1.5 mm 0.06 inTransmitter speed 270 to 1,320 rpmGrade display LED grade indicatorsOperating temperature –29° C to 60° C

–20° F to 140° FStorage temperature –40° C to 80° C

–40° F to 176° FSealing IP68 sealed to

34.48 kPa (5 psi)Emissions and susceptibility CE compliant, ISO 13766Electrical input 9 to 32V DCNetwork connector 6-pinHeight 305 mm 12 inWidth 152 mm 6 inDepth 60 mm 2.4 inWeight 1.6 kg 3.5 lb

Electric Mast

Position repeatability ±1 mm ±0.04 inTypical speed 30 mm/sec 1.2 in/secOperation 12 and 24 VOperating temperature –29° C to 60° C

–20° F to 140° FStorage temperature –40° C to 80° C

–40° F to 176°FHumidity 100 %Sealing IP54 sealedEmissions and susceptibility CE compliant, exceeds

ISO 13766Electrical input 9 to 32V DCNetwork connector 10-pinInput connector 6-pinHeight retracted 1640 mm 5 ft 5 inHeight extended 2900 mm 9 ft 7 inBase diameter 240 mm 9.4 inWeight 25 kg 55 lb

AccuGrade® Systems

for Track-Type Tractors AccuGrade LaserAccuGrade GPS

Machine Compatibility

Machine Model D3G, D4G, D5GD5N, D6ND6R II, D6R III, D7R IID8T, D9T

In-Cab 2D Display/Control Box

Display screen 128 X 64 pixel, LEDOn-grade indicator GreenAbove/below grade indicator AmberOperating temperature –29° C to 60° C

–20° F to 140° FStorage temperature –40° C to 80° C

–40° F to 176° FHumidity 100 %Sealing IP54 sealedEmissions and susceptibility CE compliant, ISO 13766Electrical input 9 to 32V DCInput connector 6-pinNetwork connector 6-pinRemote connector switch 6-socketData connector 9-socketLength 295 mm 7.7 inWidth 130 mm 5.1 inDepth 102 mm 4 inWeight 1.4 kg 3 lb

12 AccuGrade Grade Control System for Track-Type Tractors specifications

Light Bars

Input connector 4-pinOperating temperature –40° C to 85° C

–40° F to 185° FStorage temperature –40° C to 100° C

–40° F to 212° FSealing IP56 protectedHeight 174 mm 7 inWidth 53 mm 2 inDepth 31 mm 1.2 inWeight 0.22 kg 0.5 lb

Communications Radio

Operating range Up to 10 km (6.2 miles)Technology Spread spectrumData rate High speedInput Connector 8-pinOperating temperature –55° C to 70° C

–67° F to 158° FStorage temperature –40° C to 70° C

–40° F to 158° FHumidity 100 %Height 216 mm 8.5 inWidth 86 mm 3.4 inLength 260 mm 10.3 inWeight 0.9 kg 2 lb

Angle Sensor

Electrical input 9 to 32V DCOperating temperature –40° C to 85° C

–40° F to 185° FStorage temperature –40° C to 100° C

–40° F to 212° FNetwork connector 10-pinHeight 95 mm 3.7 inWidth 95 mm 3.7 inDepth 70 mm 2.8 inWeight 0.8 kg 1.8 lb

In-Cab 3D Display/Control Box

Display screen 140 mm (5.5 in) QVGA,320 X 240 pixel LCD

Electrical input 9 to 32V DCNetwork connector 9-pinMemory drive Compact flashOperating temperature –30° C to 62° C

–22° F to 143° FStorage temperature –30° C to 62° C

–22° F to 143° FHumidity 95 %Width 180 mm 7.1 inHeight 228 mm 9 inWeight 2.72 kg 6 lbDepth 89 mm 3.5 in

GPS Receiver

Horizontal accuracy 20 mm 0.78 inVertical accuracy 30 mm 1.2 inOperating range Up to 10 km (6.2 miles)Network connector 16-pinElectrical input 9 to 32V DCOperating temperature –40° C to 70° C

–40° F to 160° FStorage temperature –50° C to 85° C

–67° F to 185° FHeight 147 mm 5.8 inWidth 232 mm 9.1 inDepth 251 mm 9.9 inWeight 3.8 kg 8.3 lb

13AccuGrade Grade Control System for Track-Type Tractors specifications

AccuGrade® Systems

Dual Laser System

ARO Machine

Angle Sensor

Single Laser System

AccuGrade Ready Option (ARO) Machine

Laser Receiver Electric MastsLaser Receivers 2D Display/Control Box Electric Mast 2D Display/Control Box

Dual GPS System

GPS Receivers MastsCommunicationsRadio

3D Display/Control Box

14 AccuGrade Grade Control System for Track-Type Tractors specifications

AccuGrade® System KitsStandard equipment may vary. Consult your Caterpillar dealer for details.

3D Kits:AccuGrade GPS Kit

Communications RadioDual GPS

3D Display KitIn-Cab 3D Display, Carrying CaseBracketWiring Harness

GPS Receiver (2), Carrying CaseRigid Mast (2)Light Bars (3)Coiled Cable (3)Angle Sensor

AccuGrade® Ready Option (ARO) MachineWeldmentsWiring HarnessHydraulic ValvesPlumbingElectronic Control ModuleRemote Switches

2D Kits:AccuGrade Laser Kits

Single Laser2D Display Kit

In-Cab 2D DisplayBracketWiring Harness

Laser Receiver, Carrying CaseElectric MastShock Mounting BracketCoiled Cable

Dual Laser2D Display Kit

In-Cab 2D DisplayBracketWiring Harness

Laser Receiver (2), Carrying CaseElectric Mast (2)Shock Mounting Bracket (2)Coiled Cable (2)

AccuGrade Grade Control System for Track-Type Tractors specifications 15

Notes

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For more complete information on Cat products, dealer services, and industry solutions, visit us on the web at www.cat.com

© 2006 CaterpillarAll Rights Reserved

Printed in U.S.A.

Materials and specifications are subject to change without notice.Featured machines in photos may include additional equipment.

See your Caterpillar dealer for available options.

CAT, CATERPILLAR, AccuGrade, their respective logos and “Caterpillar Yellow,”as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks

of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.AEHQ5703 (4-06)

AccuGrade Grade Control System for Track-Type Tractors