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  • What services does Quantum Land Design offer?
    Quantum Land Design specializes in creating 3D machine control models and processing drone data for contractors. Key services include: Finish Grade Machine Control Models: From engineered plans 3D Utility and Structural Excavation Models: For 3D excavator machine control. 3D Paving Models: Optimized for full width paving or curb machines Custom Designs: Tailored solutions for unique site needs. Takeoffs and Volume Calculations: Sourced from plans, drone data, or topographic surveys. Bare Earth Models: Created from your drone data.
  • Is Quantum Land Design accepting new clients?
    YES!!! We always are. Just drop any of us an email or quick phone call to get started.
  • What do I need to provide to get a machine control quote?
    Just email sales@avqld.com or any of us the project plans for a quote. We'll reply with a lump sum price. We don't need the CAD to quote, but if it's available, feel free to share.
  • How much does a machine control model cost?
    We are happy to quote a model anytime. Just email us the PDF's. We'll reply with a lump sum quote. If you decide to move ahead with the model, we'll need the CAD file to match. We can't provide blanket pricing because, just as every property's topography is different, civil designs vary to meet the owner's needs. A small site in the middle of a hilly college campus might be more complex to model than a 30-lot subdivision or a mile of county road.
  • How quickly can I get a model, drone data, or takeoff returned?
    Quantum Land Design typically delivers within three business days for most projects.
  • What do I need to provide to have a machine control model built?
    We need the full set of construction plans with CAD files to match. Plans are almost always in PDF format while CAD can be a range of file types. Most common are DWG, DXF, or DGN formats but we can work with almost any format your might receive. Always share with us any data you have that may be helpful. We'd much rather have too much data then not enough! Files too big for email can be uploaded here. Follow up with an email to your contact sharing anything we need to know about the project.
  • How do I get my machine control model revised?
    Revisions are completed quickly, usually in less than three business days. Our revision cost depends on the extent of changes, up to the full model cost for extensive revisions. For every revision, please provide the revised PDF plan set along with matching CAD files. Include a short note about what has changed on project when you send us the new data. It's best to reply to the Quantum Machine Control Pro who sent you the original model with your revision information.
  • What do you need to complete an earthwork takeoff?
    Submit the full set of plans, including design and existing site grades, in PDF format. While CAD is not required, sharing it can enhance accuracy. Send the takeoff request to your contact or email it to sales@avqld.com
  • What do you need to process my drone data?
    Photos and ground control, that's it. Just upload them through our portal and we'll get started.
  • Will you travel to my project to measure site control or load my machine control model?
    Currently, Quantum Land Design does not offer field services. However, we may refer you to a reliable local service for onsite assistance.
  • What information do you need to set up my account with Quantum Land Design?
    Please email kiley@avqld.com the information below to set up your company in our accounting system. We require your information to be on file before we can start your project. Business Name: Mailing Address: Shipping Address (if different): Phone #: Website URL: A/R Contact Name/Email/Phone #: Email to send Invoices - can be multiple: If you need a W9 or a COI sent, let Kiley know and she will get those right over to you.
  • What is included in a 3D model from Quantum?
    Quantum delivers a full suite of 3D modeling solutions. A our models are ALWAYS delivered in a format you can load right into your system no matter the brand. Machine-ready 3D surface models (DSM): Typically set to finish grade. 2D background linework: Included with every model. 3D utility models: Designed for underground excavation projects, including storm and sanitary sewers. 3D paving models: Tailored for slip form pavers, asphalt pavers, and curb machines. 3D structural excavation models: Built to support accurate and efficient excavation tasks. If you have a special request, just ask. More than likely, we can accommodate. For our 3D surface and layer naming standards, see this blog post.
  • Why should I hire Quantum to build my models instead of using a free model from the engineer?
    While engineers may provide a free 3D surface model, these are rarely optimized for machine control. Common issues include missing construction details, imprecise slopes and elevations or rough surfaces. Any of these issue can lead to poor system performance, particularly when running machines in automatic mode. Quantum creates our models from scratch to precisely match the paper plan designs, ensuring seamless integration with automated GPS guidance systems. Unlike the cryptic coded layer names used by engineers and surveyors, Quantum employs standardized layer and surface naming conventions for consistency across all your models. To learn more about why a "free" model is never free you can read this blog post.
  • What is GPS "site control," and why is it important?
    GPS site control, also known as localization or site calibration, aligns your entire system and 3D surface model with real-world coordinates. Proper site control is critical for GPS machine control systems to function accurately. Poor site control can lead to costly and avoidable project issues. Explore our detailed blog series that explains the four principles of site control here.
  • How do I perform a topographic survey of my project?
    Topographic surveys can be conducted using several methods: GPS rover: The most common tool, readily available to contractors with machine control systems. Drones: An efficient option for larger sites, providing comprehensive data collection. Quantum’s experts can assist in building 3D surfaces, running volume calculations or custom designs from nearly any data source. For optimal results, we can even combine drone and GPS data. Check out our resources to help you get started with our tutorial video. You can learn how to topo and over-excavation for a change order through this tutorial.
  • What if I'm new to machine control?
    Quantum has helped hundreds of contractors adopt machine control technology. While we cannot provide on-site assistance, we offer a wealth of resources, including articles and videos, to guide you through the learning process. Visit our Education page for more information.
  • What is the best way to take topo shots?
    When using a GPS rover to take topo shots: Ensure the rover is straight and level for every shot. Stabilize the rover pole with a bipod for critical points. Use simple and clear point descriptions for labeling shots. This practice ensures accurate points easy interpretation of point data when you or your office team reviews it later.
  • What file formats should I use when exporting topo data?
    Export your data in either proprietary formats specific to your GPS system or universal file types like CSV or TXT. Be sure to include the following fields when exporting: Point # Northing Easting Elevation Description Quantum can work with nearly any format your system generates.
  • How Does GPS Machine Control Work?
    GPS machine control integrates advanced technology components to guide heavy equipment with unparalleled precision. While there are differences between brands like Topcon, Trimble and Leica they all operate on the same basic principles. Here is a short explanation of how the system works: GPS Satellites: Satellites orbiting the Earth transmit signals to the GPS receiver on your base station, machine and/or rover. These signals determine the exact location on the equipment in real time. The satellites are operated by several countries including the USA, EU, Russia and China, among others. GPS Base Station or RTK Network: A base station set up on-site transmits correction signals to your machine or rover, ensuring centimeter-level accuracy. Alternatively, an RTK network connects to a network of correction stations, eliminating the need for an on-site base station. A stable base location is extremely important for the repeatable GPS accuracy. On-Machine Sensors and Antennas: GPS antennas mounted on your machine or attached to your rover communicate with satellites and the base station to provide real-time positional data. Tilt sensors and gyroscopes (common in machine systems) monitor the angle and movement of the blade, bucket, or attachments. In rover systems, these ensure stability and accuracy when collecting data. 3D Machine Control Model: A specialized 3D site model, created from the project plans and CAD file, is uploaded to the machine or rover's control system. This model serves as a 3D digital "map" for equipment to follow the precise design specifications communicated through your model. Your site control calibration is what locates your machine control model in the correct location in the real world. Guidance System: For machines: The guidance system interprets GPS data, aligns it with the 3D design model, and provides either visual guidance or fully automated controls. For rovers: The system processes GPS data to verify grading, compare your current location to the model and ensure accurate data collection. Operators can monitor real-time data on an in-cab or handheld screen, which displays the equipment’s position, grade, and alignment with the design Operator or Automated Adjustments: Manual Systems: Operators or surveyors use on-screen guidance to manually adjust the blade, bucket position, or rover position to match the design or desired offset from it Automatic Systems: For machines, the control system automatically manipulates the hydraulic controls, keeping the equipment aligned with the 3D model without manual intervention. Operators must monitor and can always over-ride automated earthmoving systems. Real-Time Feedback: The system continuously updates the machine’s or rover’s position and provides instant feedback to ensure alignment with the design or data accuracy. By combining GPS signals, 3D design models, and automated adjustments, GPS machine control enables precise earthmoving while reducing reliance on traditional stakes or manual grade checks.
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