Kobelco to Integrate Trimble's Next Generation Machine Control for its Excavators

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Mar 08, 2017, 05:31 ET

LAS VEGAS, March 8, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Trimble (NASDAQ:TRMB) and Kobelco announced today that Kobelco will integrate Trimble's next generation 3D machine control platform, Trimble^® Earthworks for Excavators, with its Kobelco SK210LC-9 excavators. Trimble Earthworks has the industry's first integrated 3D aftermarket excavator automatics capability, combined with intuitive, easy-to-learn software running on the Android operating system so operators of all skill levels can work faster and more productively.

The announcement was made at ConExpo 2017, one of the world's largest international exhibitions for the construction industry.

"We are excited that Kobelco customers will be able to benefit from Trimble automatics on their Kobelco SK210-9 excavators," said Troy Rigby, OEM manager for Trimble Civil Engineering and Construction, Asia Pacific. "The integration of Trimble Earthworks enables customers to more easily access and implement construction technology for improved competitiveness, efficiency and productivity."

"Kobelco is pleased that our customers will soon have the ability to boost their excavator performance on the jobsite using Trimble automatics machine control technology," said Shoji Yamamoto, group marketing manager of Kobelco Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.

Intuitive Software

The Trimble Earthworks grade control application is built on the Android operating system, and runs on the new 10-inch Trimble TD520 touch-screen display. The Earthworks application was developed based on feedback from construction equipment operators around the world, resulting in an interface optimized for productivity. Colorful graphics, natural interactions and gestures, and self-discovery features make the software intuitive and easy to learn. Each operator can personalize the interface to match their workflow and a variety of configurable views make it easier to see the right perspective for maximum productivity.

In addition, Earthworks allows data files to be transferred to or from the office wirelessly and automatically so that the operator is always using the latest design. Using the Android operating system, users can download other applications that provide the operator with additional useful tools inside the cab. To make the system even more flexible, contractors can opt to use the Trimble TD520 display or a third-party Android device.

Excavator Automatics

With Trimble Earthworks, contractors can now take advantage of the first integrated 3D aftermarket grade control automatics with Kobelco SK210LC-9 excavators, allowing operators to create smooth, flat or sloped surfaces more easily. When the excavator is placed in Autos mode, the operator controls the stick, and Trimble Earthworks controls the boom and bucket to stay on grade, reduce overcut and increase production. By automating excavator operation, Trimble Earthworks allows operators to achieve grade consistently, with high accuracy and in less time.

Availability

Trimble Earthworks for Kobelco SK210LC-9 excavators is expected to be available in the second quarter of 2017 from the SITECH^® dealer channel.

About Kobelco

Kobelco has over 87 years of history developing pioneering technology. In 1930, the company produced the first construction machine in Japan, the 50K electric mining shovel. Since then Kobelco has created products and technology like no other in the industry. Kobelco is dedicated to providing customers with excavators that hold true value through market leading design and technology for unbeaten low-fuel consumption and the iNDr System for optimum noise reduction – 'BUILT LIKE NO OTHER.' Kobelco's commitment to customers is to continue to provide high-quality products and excellent service supported through its Dealer Network of excavator specialists. Kobelco's focus for the customer is to provide more fuel efficient, powerful, comfortable and safe excavators as well as identify emerging trends in the market to ensure a high level of customer satisfaction.

For more information, visit: http://www.kobelco.co.jp/english/construction_machinery.

About Trimble's Civil Engineering and Construction Division

Trimble is a leading innovator of hardware and software solutions for civil engineering and construction. Trimble's advanced technologies transform work across the project lifecycle for owners, engineers and contractors. Solutions include planning and design software, precision machine control, site positioning, mobile technologies and real-time connectivity. As part of Trimble's Connected Site^® strategy, these solutions empower civil engineers and construction professionals to construct with confidence, delivering significant improvements in productivity at every phase of a project—from concept and design to construction and maintenance.

For more information, visit: construction.trimble.com.

About Trimble

Trimble is transforming the way the world works by delivering products and services that connect the physical and digital worlds. Core technologies in positioning, modeling, connectivity and data analytics enable customers to improve productivity, quality, safety and sustainability. From purpose built products to enterprise lifecycle solutions, Trimble software, hardware and services are transforming a broad range of industries such as agriculture, construction, geospatial and transportation and logistics. For more information about Trimble (NASDAQ:TRMB), visit: www.trimble.com.

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SOURCE Trimble