WHAT IS A MACHINE CONTROL MODEL?
A Machine Control Model (MCM) is the surface, line work and alignments that are loaded into GPS devices for staking and/or dirt work. It is sometimes referred to as a model, file, TIN, line work, surface, DTM, faces or data. Simply put, it is the information that goes into the GPS equipment to allow it to quickly and accurately build a site per the construction plans.
WHO NEEDS A MCM?
Anyone using GPS-equipped construction equipment and/or GPS for field staking (such as with a rover) will need a Machine Control Model. Depending on your use in the field, you may only need the surface work, the line work, points, or alignments.
IS A MCM A TAKE-OFF?
The purpose of a Machine Control Model is to allow GPS equipment to quickly and accurately build a site per the construction plans – the model is built to the highest standard of accuracy and every part of the model is ready for construction. A dirt quantity takeoff is intended to provide dirt numbers (cut and fill) for a site based on the construction plans. The surface built for the takeoff is typically fast and loose and is therefore not suitable for GPS machine control and/or staking applications.
DO YOU PROVIDE DIRT QUALITY TAKE-OFFS?
We can either provide a dirt quantity take-off for bidding purposes, or we can provide a dirt quantity takeoff after we have built a Machine Control Model for your project. These can be as simple as providing the cut and fill numbers, or as complex as including topsoil and all material depths. We provide colored cut/fill maps with values with our takeoffs.
DO YOU BUILD MCM FOR ALL MAJOR MACHINE CONTROL SYSTEMS?
We work with all major brands of GPS machine control such as Trimble, Topcon, Leica, and Carlson. We provide files that are compatible and appropriate for each system.
WHAT IS YOUR COMPANY’S EXPERIENCE?
We have more hands-on experience building Machine Control Models than anyone else in the industry. Company President, Chad Cooper, has built over 2000 distinct models in the past 18 years. Our staff of full-time model builders and professional engineers ensure you get the best Machine Control Model in the industry. All of our models are engineer-checked to ensure that no errors ever get into the field.
WHAT IS YOUR STANDARD COST BREAKDOWN?
Model cost is based on both size and complexity. Click here for more information.
WHAT FILES DO YOU ACCEPT?
Major GPS File Types include TOPCON, TRIMBLE, and LEICA.
HOW WILL THE FILES BE DELIVERED?
The Ranger standard is to deliver files via Email, however, we will set up a Dropbox folder upon request.
WHAT IS THE TYPICAL TURNAROUND TIME?
Turnaround time varies depending on the size and complexity of the project. With a large staff of Model Builders, we are able to meet your needs in the field. Please include your ideal turnaround time with the submittal of your new project.