John Deere Expands SmartGrade Technology Options For 210G LC and 350G LC Crawler Excavators

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Deere’s 210G LC and 350G LC Excavators are now available with the manufacturer’s SmartGrade technology. (Photo courtesy of Deere & Company.)

Earlier this month, John Deere announced that it has expanded the range of SmartGrade technology options for its 210G LC and 350G LC crawler excavators. The factory-installed and -calibrated SmartGrade systems help increase productivity and accuracy on the job, and customers can now choose among four grade management options: SmartGrade, SmartGrade-Ready with 2D, 3D Grade Guidance, and 2D Grade Guidance.

“Contractors need options to pair the right technology with their business needs,” says John Deere Solutions Marketing Manager Justin Steger. “This is where customers really benefit from the flexibility of our grade management path.”

SmartGrade Options

SmartGrade excavators automate boom and bucket functions, making it easier for operators to achieve a smooth, accurate finish grade. Some options use GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) positioning technology for precise horizontal and vertical positioning. The SmartGrade-Ready with 2D option features semiautomated functions to use the precision technology without the need for GNSS or 3D design plans. SmartGrade-Ready machines arrive from the factory prewired for the SmartGrade system, so operators can always upgrade in the future. The 3D or 2D Grade Guidance options provide reference information to the operator in the cab to improve productivity. 2D Grade Guidance shares bucket tooth and cutting-edge elevation information relative to a benchmark with the operator through the in-cab monitor; 3D Grade Guidance provides the horizontal and vertical bucket position using GNSS technology and can make use of a 3D design plan. All guidance and control options are available with an optional laser receiver, delivering an ultra-precise local external elevation reference.

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John Deere now offers a range of grade management solutions at different levels. (Photo courtesy of Deere & Company.)

New Precision Technology

Deere also announced the addition of virtual fencing and over-dig protection on the SmartGrade excavators. The over-dig protect feature limits the bucket’s cutting edge from going below the target design surface, preventing costly over-digging on the job. Virtual fence technology includes features like Virtual Ceiling, Virtual Floor, Virtual Swing, and Virtual Wall, which provide the operator with audible alerts as the machine approaches an adjustable setpoint.

Source: Deere & Company