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Concrete paving contractors are always looking for ways to enhance productivity, accuracy, and profitability. One rapidly growing solution is the use of 3D machine control technology for slipform curb and gutter machines. If you've been sticking with traditional methods, this might seem like a leap, but it’s likely one worth taking. Let’s break down how these systems work, their real-world benefits, and why hiring Quantum Land Design to build your 3D curb and gutter models can significantly boost your projects' accuracy and efficiency. How Does a 3D Curb and Gutter Machine Work? A 3D curb and gutter model is a digital twin of the curb line(s) shown in the Civil Engineer's plans. The model tells your machine exactly where to place the curb horizontally, the elevation to set it vertically, and where transitions like ramps or driveway cutouts should go. It replaces the old stringline method with a virtual guide, built specifically for your project and your equipment. The model includes: Horizontal alignments for curbs, radii, and islands Vertical elevations that match the curb profile in the plans Variable curb profiles and transitions Instructions for complex features like turnouts and inlet tie-ins There are two common types of guidance systems for slipform curb and gutter pavers. Both types of guidance systems are fully integrated into your machine’s hydraulic system for automated operation. Here’s a brief description of how they each work and what exactly the curb "model" is: GPS/Laser Hybrid Systems These combine GPS and a rotating laser to control the machine. The GPS system controls the horizontal location of the machine and the laser is used as a reference for vertical control. GPS/laser hybrid systems are generally easier to set up and operate, though they may sacrifice a bit of precision compared to LPS systems. Topcon’s mmGPS system is the most common of these types of systems. Robotic Total Station Systems aka Local Positioning Systems (LPS) These systems track a prism mounted on the machine using a robotic total station(s) set up within line of sight. They are ideal in areas where GPS signals are blocked or weak - such as under tree canopy, beneath bridges, or next to tall structures. LPS systems will deliver the tightest horizontal and vertical tolerances. All of the major machine control manufacturers like Trimble, Topcon and Leica sell and service LPS paving equipment. The sensor, whether it's a GPS/laser receiver or a prism, is mounted on the machine. Meanwhile, the reference equipment - rotating laser or robotic total station - is positioned on the jobsite but off the machine. Each system feeds real-time location and elevation data to the onboard computer, which guides the machine along the 3D model (curb line). Think of it like a digital stringline - except more accurate, more versatile, and completely custom to your project. 3D Model:  A detailed digital representation of the project's curb layout, including precise elevations and alignments, is loaded directly into the paver's machine control system. Automatic Guidance:  The curb machine continuously references this 3D model, guiding itself to form precise curbs and gutters without manual alignment, measurement or a stringline for reference. Why Use 3D Models Specifically for Curbs and Gutters? Precision is crucial in curb and gutter construction, where even minor errors can lead to significant drainage problems, uneven surfaces, and costly rework. Consider common applications like: Parking Lot Islands:  Exact curbing ensures effective water drainage and prevents pooling - no more bird baths. Subdivision Curbs:  Uniform, accurate curbs not only enhance the visual appeal but also prevent potential drainage and elevation issues that impact homeowners and infrastructure integrity. Street Rehabilitation:  Upgrading existing curbs in urban areas is simpler and quicker with 3D machine guidance, reducing downtime for local traffic and minimizing disruption. With mature trees lining many suburban roads, LPS systems have an advantage here. Real Advantages of Going “Stringless” Contractors who've transitioned to 3D curb and gutter machines regularly experience several immediate benefits: Improved Productivity:  Eliminating stringlines can drastically reduce setup times and labor hours, letting you complete projects faster. Enhanced Accuracy:  3D machine guidance ensures your curbs meet exact specifications, significantly reducing costly corrections. 3D guided curb machines can precisely follow serpentine curves and tight radii, too. Cost Savings:  While initial investment in machine control systems might feel significant, the reduction in labor, rework, and increased machine utilization quickly offsets this expense. Don’t forget the revenue side either—once stringless paving is integrated into the operation, contractors often find they can bid more work at very competitive pricing. Why Trust Quantum Land Design for Your 3D Models? Creating accurate, effective 3D curb and gutter models requires specialized knowledge and software. Quantum Land Design has extensive experience in creating precise machine control models specifically for curb and gutter applications, designed to integrate seamlessly with your GPS/laser hybrid or robotic total station-equipped machines from manufacturers like Gomaco , Wirtgen , Power Curber and Miller Formless , among others. Here’s what Quantum brings to your project: Specialized Expertise:  Our team understands the unique challenges of curb and gutter work. Our models incorporate critical factors such as precise curb profiles, gutter transitions, and driveway cutouts. Compatibility:  Quantum’s models are fully compatible with leading machine control brands. Whether you run Topcon , Trimble , Leica , Wirtgen , or any other specialized system, our models ensure seamless integration. Reliability and Speed:  With Quantum, turnaround times are quick, typically within three business day s. We help you keep your projects moving without delay. Proactive Problem Solving:  Our experienced team proactively identifies potential issues within your designs before they become costly field corrections. We build the curb in the office, well before you mobilize equipment. This proactive approach keeps your projects efficient, on time, and within budget. Transitioning to 3D: Easier Than You Think If you're new to 3D curb and gutter machines or hesitant about the technology, you're not alone. But the shift to digital curb models is simpler than you might imagine. Quantum’s team provides the guidance you need, helping you smoothly integrate 3D curb and gutter models into your operations from day one. Here’s a quick overview of the integration process : Project Plans Submission:  Send Quantum your project PDF plans and CAD files. Model Development:  Quantum’s modeling team constructs your precise curb and gutter model. Delivery & Integration:  Receive your ready-to-use 3D model files, in a format directly compatible with your system. Our models are always clearly structured with standardized layers for a familiar feel and immediate use in the field. Field Implementation:  Load the model into your curb and gutter machine control system and pave with confidence. Take the Next Step Toward Precision Switching to 3D curb and gutter machine control models isn't just a smart upgrade; it’s quickly becoming an industry standard for paving excellence. By leveraging Quantum Land Design’s technical expertise, you’ll ensure your next project is your best project. Ready to transform your paving operations with a 3D model for a commercial site, subdivision, or complex island layout? We’ve built models for every type of curb project—and we can build yours too. Reach out to Quantum Land Design today at 515-505-3510 ex. 702 or email sales@avqld.com to discuss your next curb and gutter project—we're here to help with any of your 3D modeling needs.

At Quantum, our goal is to help you squeeze every ounce of value from your GPS machine control system. To help you do that, we tapped industry friends at Komatsu, Caterpillar, Case Construction, and John Deere, gathering their construction‑technology insights earned on earthmoving projects around the globe. Our experts’ experiences were all similar and boiled down to four key suggestions: 1. Learn the Machine Control Basics 2. Invest in Training 3. Use High Quality 3D Data 4. Appoint an In-House GPS Champion Sounds easy, right? Yet field crews still struggle…otherwise these four tips wouldn’t fix so many jobsite headaches. Let’s unpack each one and see how it can streamline your GPS setup, boost on‑site grading efficiency, and eliminate a few nagging problems. 1. Learn the Machine Control Basics Start with Rock‑Solid GPS Calibration Every manufacturer hammered this point: you must know how to set up and check your GPS system on every site. Start with solid GPS calibration—configure and calibrate the base/rover to project control (our blog series walks you through it). If a custom job needs single‑point control, we have another guide for that. Run Routine Machine Checks to Avoid Downtime Once the base station setup is broadcasting and the rover’s accuracy is confirmed, move on to the machines. Use the rover to verify the blade or bucket reads grade; if it’s off, adjust for cutting‑edge wear or dive into the system’s built‑in machine‑control diagnostics to ensure every sensor is talking. Can’t link to the base? Switch the radio channel or fix a radio antenna damaged by an overhanging branch. These checks sound basic, but skipping them—or the fundamentals behind them—can snowball into costly downtime on the jobsite. 2. Invest in Training Cover Operator Fundamentals First Too often, technology training tops out with the dealer helping you localize that first project and offering a quick, hands‑on demo of basic rover or machine controls. Whether the culprit is budget or time, that’s all many clients ever receive. Such abbreviated operator training breeds frustration and leaves costly GPS machine control technology sitting idle on the jobsite every day. Our counterparts at Deere, Komatsu, Cat, and Case agree: solid machine‑control training is the keystone of successful tech integration for any crew. They regularly work with operators that misunderstand what the monitor is telling them or how to adjust the system to their needs. Functions like tweaking offsets for concrete/rock thickness or confirming where the blade or bucket is tracking grade must be fully understood by every GPS operator. Unlock Advanced Features and Operator Friendly Settings Once those basics click, higher‑level skills like steering to linework, building custom surfaces, or even adjusting linework colors (a big deal for color‑blind operators) come fast and reveal the full potential of your GPS machine control setup. Unlock Automatic Grade Control How to properly use automatic grade control is still misunderstood by many operators. Picture an operator trimming subgrade along a curb: the blade suddenly rides up because the system is reading from the corner of the cutting edge. To avoid that, crews must understand exactly how the cutting edge tracks the ground and know where the system is reading grade. When a blade hops a curb or skips across a v‑ditch, the operator should recognize the cause and tweak settings or technique so the work stays on spec. The latest excavator platforms add their own twists, with multiple ways to set up and run semi‑automatic features. Without solid training, your crew can’t squeeze the full efficiency out of your GPS machine‑control systems. 3. Use High‑Quality 3D Data Spot Hidden Model Errors Before They Cost You Every manufacturer we talked to agreed on one thing: poor‑quality 3D grading models and sloppy linework consistently drag down machine‑control performance. A bad model won’t hit grade and can even freeze the system, forcing a restart. Those “free” downloads almost never meet expectations. 3D machine‑control models leave no room for guesswork—they either align with the engineer’s plans or they don’t. A small cross‑slope error, say 2 % instead of 1.5 %, can slip by during grading, but when the paving crew spots it you’re looking at costly grading rework. Equally painful are “bad spots” in the file: sudden dips or spikes that make the blade dig in or pop up. Most of these headaches trace back to loose quality control or trusting an unvetted “free” 3D download. Build or Buy: Choosing the Right Modeling Workflow Fixing the issue means either partnering with a trusted 3D modeling company (we’re partial to this one) or investing in the people, software, and training to build an in‑house 3D modeling capability. Remember: your finished grade is only as accurate as the digital terrain model you feed the machine. 4. Appoint an In‑House GPS Champion Role, Time Commitment, and Early Challenges The most successful contractors assign a GPS Champion—an employee who dives into the new tech, trains co‑workers, and motivates them through the learning curve. Your GPS Champion is the first call for advice and machine‑control troubleshooting, the person operators and grade checkers trust to keep the jobsite productive with the latest GPS machine‑control technology. Some companies lean on their GPS vendor to play this role. That might get you through the first project or two, but the vendor isn’t around for the day‑to‑day jobsite questions that surface after the initial training. Your in‑house GPS Champion fills that gap, fielding quick jobsite questions and verifying grade accuracy. It’s a big lift at first and can eat up a lot of hours on the early machine‑control projects, but as the crew gets comfortable the demand on the Champion eases, freeing them for other work. Traits to Look For When Picking Your Champion Who should you tap as your GPS Champion? Hint: it’s probably not your best foreman or the company owner—people buried in project‑management duties rarely have time to shepherd the crew through the machine‑control learning curve. Instead, look for an ambitious employee with a curious mind and the patience to coach coworkers who aren’t yet sold on the tech. The right person for the Champion role might surface in an unexpected spot, so keep an open mind as you search for the person/teacher who can drive successful construction‑technology adoption in your company. Make GPS Machine Control the Backbone of Your Grading Operation Boiling decades of Caterpillar, John Deere, Case, and Komatsu wisdom down to four pointers may sound too simple, but every earthmoving contractor hits the same technology growing pains. Lean into these steps—learn the basics, get solid training, work with dependable 3D data, and appoint a GPS Champion—and you’ll dodge many of the stalls and rework that frustrate new users. Once you push past the learning hump, you’ll be able to confidently rely on GPS machine control as the backbone of your grading operation. 1. Learn the Machine Control Basics  2. Invest in Training  3. Use High Quality 3D Data 4. Appoint an In-House GPS Champion Questions or in the market for a top quality machine control model drone data or takeoff??? We would be happy to help --> Email Us or call 515-505-3510 ex: 702

Table of Contents Hand’s On - Free Surface vs. Machine Control Model Why Engineer’s Models Often Fail in the Field When Machine Control is Not the Priority What Happens When the Model Meets the Dirt The Reliable Route to a GPS Grading Surface Model As GPS machine control and GPS grading surfaces become more common on construction sites, many engineering firms are now providing digital files directly to contractors. Along with the standard 2D CAD drawings, it's not unusual to receive a “free” 3D surface model. Using these engineer provided models for GPS grading or automatic machine control can cause serious issues in the field—and it's a frequent reason clients call Quantum Land Design. Common grading model problems we see during construction include: Automatic blade control that chatters, dives, or jumps above grade. Elevations that match at spot points but are wrong between them. GPS machine control screens that freeze up or lag during grading. Transition areas like driveways, swales, or green space that don’t align correctly. Tie-ins to existing grade that don’t match, or poor site drainage. Surface elevations that don’t agree with paving stakes on. These models aren't necessarily “bad”—they just aren’t built for GPS machine control. Engineers design surfaces for visualization and drainage, not for accurate 3D grading in a dozer or excavator. Hand’s On - Free Surface vs. Machine Control Model Below is the grading plan sheet from a commercial site development project. This sheet includes detailed spot elevations, contour lines, and the clearly labeled finish floor (FF) and basement floor (BFF) elevations. These grading plans are essential for layout and construction, but they don’t automatically translate into a GPS machine control model that’s ready to use in the field. Below are two screenshots of the 3D surface models used for this grading project. The top image shows the “free” 3D model provided by the project engineer. The bottom image is the GPS machine control model built by Quantum Land Design. While the engineer’s model gives a general idea of surface drainage, it lacks critical construction details such as the building pad, basement elevations, and defined driveway grades. Notice in the top image how the driveway at the lower left is undefined and irregular—this would cause real problems if used in the field - for stakeout or grading. Quantum’s machine control ready model, shown at the bottom, was built from scratch to match the exact design shown in the grading plan. It includes fully defined features such as the building pad with basement, curb lines, stormwater swales, and driveway grades. This surface is smooth, complete, and optimized for flawless operation with GPS machine control systems. For maximum efficiency, we often deliver multiple 3D models per site—covering underground utilities, over-excavation, phasing, and more, tailored to the contractor’s needs Why Engineer’s Models Often Fail in the Field To understand why an engineer’s 3D surface model often fails in GPS machine control applications, it helps to examine how engineers approach site design. Their primary objective is to produce a set of construction plans that clearly communicate the project layout. These paper plans prioritize clean contours, legible labels, and visual clarity—not GPS surface data. Once stamped, these plans are used for bidding, permitting, and eventual construction. In many cases, the plans—and any included 3D surface—were created months or even years before sitework begins. When Machine Control is Not the Priority When designing a grading or earthwork surface, engineers concentrate on controlling stormwater runoff and identifying critical elevations—such as drainage inlets, high/low points, and roads. These features are highlighted with spot elevations and contour lines in the plan set. However, the “in-between” areas—those not directly labeled—are not first priority. As a result, the exported 3D surface often includes flawed or incomplete data. These undefined zones may have erratic slopes or unusable geometry, which GPS machine control systems struggle to interpret or render accurately.   As a project moves through revisions and code review, engineers often modify plan sets by simply updating text annotations, like a spot elevation or a slope callout. Rebuilding the 3D surface to match those changes requires additional time—and often isn’t done. This means the surface may reflect outdated versions of the design, especially if it was initially used for conceptual drainage analysis or earthwork volume estimates. For machine control, using these uncorrected surfaces can lead to costly grading errors in the field. Now that you understand how engineers use 3D surface models during design, it’s easy to see why those models aren’t optimized for GPS machine control. Most civil engineering software includes a basic export function to generate a surface file compatible with GPS systems like Trimble, Topcon, or Leica. However, these files are often created long after the initial design—and rarely reviewed to confirm they match the final construction plans. While these GPS-compatible surfaces are typically provided at no cost, their accuracy and field-readiness are not guaranteed. What Happens When the Model Meets the Dirt? Let’s play this out.  You got a free 3D model, but what happens when you put it into the dirt? Before receiving these files, contractors are typically required to sign a release form that shifts all liability for errors onto them. If the surface model doesn’t match the construction plans, it’s your responsibility—not the engineer’s. Many times, the files arrive in the wrong format and must be converted by another software platform, introducing another opportunity for mistakes. Once finally loaded into your GPS machine control system, you may find that the blade shakes, dives, or loses grade entirely. You might tolerate some coverage gaps during mass grading, but as you approach finish grade, the problems become obvious—and your project timeline tightens. For example, a drainage swale might appear correct at both ends but have a low spot in the middle, or a driveway may fail to transition cleanly into the back of curb. When grading issues appear, the natural reaction is to call the project surveyor or engineer. The surveyor stakes the problem areas—and that’s when you confirm the surface model doesn’t match the real-world elevations. Your GPS rover matches the new stake’s elevations perfectly, but the cut/fill readings to the surface model are off. The problem isn’t your equipment or calibration; it’s the “free” model itself. At this point, the engineer may refuse to correct the file (since it was provided at no cost) or may offer to fix it—but on their timeline and at your cost. Meanwhile, you have a project to complete. To keep production moving, you’ll either need to pay a surveyor to re-stake the site or hire a professional GPS modeling company to rebuild the surface—possibly at a premium, emergency rate. The Reliable Route to a GPS Grading Surface Model There is an easy way to avoid the costly problems caused by a poor GPS surface model: hire a professional 3D modeling company like Quantum Land Design. Just send our team the full plan set and CAD files, and let us know exactly what you need.  Finish grade, 3D utilities, structural excavation - we can handle it all. In three business days or less, you'll have a precise, GPS machine control-ready file that loads clean, runs smooth, and keeps your job moving.  Don’t gamble with free models—get a 3D site model you can trust. Contact Quantum Land Design today and start grading with confidence. You will appreciate our standardized layer and surface naming standards, too. We're happy to quote machine control models and takeoffs from your PDF planset anytime. Just email sales@avqld.com or upload your PDF's anytime.

Need to bring new hires up to speed on a Next Gen Cat excavator—without burning diesel or tying up production? Download the Cat Monitor Simulator  on any modern iPhone, Android phone, iPad, Android tablet, Mac (M-series) or even Apple Vision headset . The free app mirrors the exact in-cab monitor, so operators can explore every screen, tweak hydraulic and power modes, and run full Cat Grade 2D/3D machine control workflows—no machine required . Key benefits contractors care about On-demand, zero-risk training  – practice payload, service, and Grade Assist menus from the lunch trailer or the couch. Faster start-up on site  – operators who’ve already drilled the monitor hit grade sooner and make fewer costly mistakes. Always current  – April 2025 update adds the latest Excavator APU monitor software, keeping your crew in sync with field machines. Android Apps on Google Play Get started in 60 seconds Search “Cat Monitor Simulator”  in the App Store  or Google Play . Install as directed and give necessary permissions. Hand a device to each operator for self-guided reps or group tailgate sessions. Ready to shorten the learning curve and protect your margins? Grab the app today and put your operators in the digital seat before they ever fire up the iron. Google Play Link Apple App Store Link

In the world of construction technology, precision is everything. GPS machine control models have revolutionized earthmoving, making projects faster, more efficient, and more accurate. However, one common point of confusion among contractors and grading professionals is whether to use subgrade machine control models or finish grade models. While subgrade models may seem like a logical choice for certain applications, in most cases, they introduce more challenges than benefits.   At Quantum Land Design, we’ve built well over 10,000 GPS models and have found that subgrade models often cause more headaches than solutions. In this article, we’ll break down why subgrade models tend to create issues, explain when they might be necessary, and demonstrate why finish grade models are the superior option for most projects.   The Challenges of Subgrade Models   A subgrade machine control model represents the base layer before rock, pavement or topsoil have been placed. While this approach might seem beneficial for early-stage grading work, it introduces several significant issues:   1. Mismatch Between Model and Plan Sheets One of the biggest problems with subgrade models is that the grades in the model are not what is stated on the official plan sheets. Since grading plans are typically designed for finish grade, trying to adjust them for subgrade can lead to grade offsets and transitions that can be difficult to compare to plan.  This can cause confusion among project managers, surveyors, and operators. This plan to model misalignment increases the risk of costly mistakes and rework.   2. Increased Potential for Errors and Higher Cost Because subgrade models are derived from finish grade plans, there is an added layer of complexity in building the model and checking it's accuracy.  Due to every spot grade and contour requiring a vertical offset, a subgrade model requires more time to build and check against the plan.  When it comes revision time, which it almost always does, contractors always need the new model back as quickly as possible.  Patching in a revision to a subgrade model that does not match plan grades takes more time, slowing our turnaround and you getting back to earthmoving.     3. Difficult Transitions Between Varying Subgrades Construction sites all have varying subgrade depths, such as different depths for pavement, sidewalks, or topsoil. Modeling these transitions accurately and smoothly adds a step to the modeling process, increasing modeling time.  In addition to this, some projects offer alternate subbase materials that each require a different subgrade depth.  The subbase material may not be known when the model is built.  The extra effort spent adjusting subgrade models does not provide enough value to justify the additional expense and complexity.   When Subgrade Models Might Be Necessary While subgrade models generally introduce more challenges than benefits, there are a few specific situations where they may be required:   1. Projects with Special Subgrade Design Requirements If a project calls for a specific and clearly designed subgrade design a separate surface model may be necessary.  These types of designs are usually for unique subgrade drainage systems. They are explicitly designed and called out in the plans just as finish grade is.  The permeable paving project in the plan sheets below is a great example of a project that had unique subgrade drainage. Note the elevations and typical sections are clearly called out in the plans.   2. Liner Projects with Subgrade Profiles   Some projects, such as railroad lines and some roads, require distinct subgrade profiles that differ from the final grading plan. In these cases, subgrade models may be necessary or even preferred over finish grade.    The road cross section below shows a subgrade profile that cannot be graded by directly offsetting the finish grade model down. The contractor requested a subgrade model to the bottom of the base layers then a finish grade model to use for final grade checks and staking. 3. Over-Excavation and Demo Road and Demolition jobs may require unusually deep or wide excavations to remove unsuitable material.  When the over-ex does not align with the finish grade model a subgrade model might be advantageous.  City street removal and replacement projects can be a good example of this.     If your project falls into one of these categories, Quantum Land Design can build a subgrade model tailored to your needs. However, for the vast majority of grading projects, a finish grade model is the more effective choice.   Why Finish Grade Models Are the Best Option   1. Directly Aligns with Engineer’s Plans Finish grade models are designed to match plan grades and design intent, eliminating the need for additional calculations and reducing the risk of misinterpretation. This plan-to-model alignment ensures that what operators see in their GPS machine control system directly corresponds to the engineer’s specifications.   2. Simplifies Communication and Reduces the Opportunity for Mistakes Because the finish grade model matches the official design, it eliminates confusion between contractors, surveyors, and project managers. Everyone works from the same reference point, leading to fewer misunderstandings and errors.  Model accuracy checks can be performed quickly against the plan sheets   3. Faster Turnaround Time In earthmoving, time is money.  By eliminating the need for additional adjustments, finish grade models can be completed more efficiently, helping keep your project on schedule. At Quantum Land Design, we  provide a three-business-day turnaround for most machine control models.   4. More Cost-Effective Since finish grade models require fewer adjustments and reduce the likelihood of costly errors, they are a more cost-effective option in the long run. Contractors can keep model costs down, avoid unexpected rework and keep their grading operations running smoothly.   Making the Right Choice for Your Project If you’re considering a subgrade model for your next project, we encourage you to think twice. In most cases, a finish grade model will provide a more accurate, efficient, and cost-effective solution. However, if your project has unique subgrade requirements, Quantum Land Design is happy to work with you to develop a custom solution.   Our goal is to help contractors and grading professionals maximize efficiency and minimize risk with the best possible GPS machine control models. If you have questions or need a model for an upcoming project, reach out to us today. Our team is ready to provide expert guidance and fast, high-quality modeling services to keep your project moving forward.   Get in Touch Need a GPS machine control model for your next project? Contact Quantum Land Design today to discuss your needs and get a quote. Our team is committed to providing fast, accurate, and cost-effective solutions tailored to your project requirements.

Topcon has released a new data collection tool, the CR-H1. The CR-H1 is a compact, one-handed 3D reality capture tool designed for construction, surveying, and earthwork professionals. It pairs an iPhone with built-in LiDAR and the Topcon HiPer CR GNSS receiver on a custom handle, creating detailed, georeferenced 3D point clouds as you walk. Thanks to a partnership with Pix4D, the CR-H1 processes data into colorized models ideal for construction verification, stockpile measurement, and pre-con jobsite walkthroughs. It's not a one-size-fits-all tool but it might close some gaps in your data collection processes. Why Quantum Clients Should be Interested The CR-H1 makes jobsite capture faster and easier. Quantum Land Design can turn your field scans into refined 3D models, volume calculations, and more. It’s perfect for: Quick earthwork checks Pre-construction scans Drone data supplementation See It at CONEXPO 2026 Catch the CR-H1 at Topcon’s booth in the West Hall at CONEXPO 2026. And when you're ready to turn that scan into a useful model, Quantum can help with the data. While you’re there, visit Quantum Land Design at Booth N-11127  in the North Hall. Our team will be showcasing how autonomous GPS machine control  and drone data  can redefine how your jobs get done. You can always visit our CONEXPO exhibitor profile  for more information about our booth. We'll release our Conexpo discount code when it is available. Here's a link to Topcon's press release for the CR-H1 .

Road and site construction is about to change dramatically. Autonomous construction equipment, AI powered earthmoving, 3D printing, and next generation drones will soon be common on jobsites, making them safer, faster, and more precise. A recent CONEXPO-CON/AGG article explores how these innovations will shape the industry. Here’s what’s coming: Autonomous Earthmoving & Construction AI AI-powered earthmoving equipment— including bulldozers, excavators, and pavers—will revolutionize the way roads and commercial projects are built. These machines will work around the clock, handling tasks like grading, digging, and paving with pinpoint accuracy. Construction AI - tuned for earthmoving - will allow them to adapt in real-time, optimizing performance based on terrain, material conditions, and safety concerns. The result? Fewer mistakes, lower costs, and safer sites. 3D Printing in Construction 3D printing will redefine road and bridge construction. Instead of relying on time-consuming formwork and scaffolding, 3D printing will create bridges, overpasses, and infrastructure layer by layer, reducing waste and labor costs. This new construction technique will minimize material waste and incorporate recycled materials into new builds. Drones for Surveying & Monitoring Surveying and site monitoring will become almost instantaneous. Equipped with high-resolution cameras, LiDAR sensors and AI powered algorithms, drones will quickly map out construction sites and track progress against the plan. The data collected will identify potential issues well before they cause costly delays. They will also improve safety by inspecting hazardous areas without putting workers at risk. Where Construction is Headed The combination of AI powered earthmoving, autonomous construction, 3D printing, and drones will set new standards for efficiency and precision. If you want to see this tech in action, CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026  will be the place to be. While you’re there, visit Quantum Land Design at Booth N-11127 in the North Hall. Our team will be showcasing how autonomous GPS machine control and drone data can redefine how your jobs get done. You can always visit our CONEXPO exhibitor profile for more information about our booth. CONEXPO 2026 Registration Discount Code It's not available yet, but stay tuned -- our exclusive CONEXPO 2026 registration discount code will be posted to our blog as soon as it is available!

Many contractors regularly use single point site control as a quick and convenient way to leverage their GPS machine control systems for projects that do not require formal engineering. Typically small building sites, agricultural designs, stockpile calculations, or as an ad hoc laser solution. However, single point site control has limitations that can lead to accuracy and repeatability issues if not implemented properly. If you're not entirely clear about how site control affects your grading accuracy, read our detailed blog post on The Four Principles of Site Control  to ensure you're making informed decisions on your projects. Common Pitfalls of GPS Single Point Control Here's an avoidable scenario that Quantum Land Design has encountered when a contractor is new to single point control: Initial Topographic Survey: The contractor sets up GPS with single point control and performs an initial site topo. Watch our YouTube video to learn how to perform a topographic survey . Model Creation: They send the data to Quantum, where we produce a precise 3D grading model for their design.  It might be a building site, drainage improvement or fishing pod.  So far, so good Return for Grading: Returning days, weeks, or months later, the contractor re-initializes their GPS system using the original single control point, only to find that the site model no longer matches the existing conditions—it’s rotated or tilted in an odd orientation. The problem isn't the design or initial survey; it's that a single control point isn't stable enough to reliably align your 3D model repeatedly. Unlike engineered sites with multiple control points, a single point allows your site to shift or rotate around that point, compromising accuracy significantly.   Re-read our site control principle 3 blog post for a refresher on why you need multiple control points. Reliable Single Point Control: Step-by-Step Guide If your project isn't engineered, but you'd still like to use GPS for accurate grading, follow this reliable eight-step method to establish robust single point control: Establish a Permanent Base Station: Set up your base station in a permanent and stable location. If you use a fixed height tripod, mark the location so you can find it to set up in the future. Set up single point control as you normally would.  Many contractors use 10,000, 5,000, 100 for N,E,Z coordinates - avoid negative numbers.  Verify your GPS system initializes and works as expected. Identify Reusable Control Points: Find at least four, but preferably five, locations on the outside boundary of the site you can take topo shots and return in the future to find them ( see this blog post to help determine where to place control). These areas might be a sidewalk corner, storm sewer drain, property pin, etc... You may need to drive a pin or hub in the ground if there are not any permanent features on the site boundary. It is best to mark these places with a lathe or at least paint them; you will return to them in step 6 and in the future. They must be in a location you can return to as the project progresses and are not disturbed. You will use these locations to set up new control points. Record Coordinates Carefully: Use your GPS rover to take a topo shot at those locations and save them in your controller. Write down, take a picture of or export to a text file the point #, northing, easting and elevation of those points.  FYI - it is best record the shot over a 30 second or longer observation period. We would also suggest you use three decimal places for each point, to reduce rounding errors. *** Tip: Check with your GPS vendor—some systems allow you to directly record these shots as control points, simplifying the process significantly.*** Start a New Project File: Create a completely new project file in your GPS controller. Do not reuse the single point file from the initial survey. Enter Your Control Points: Enter or import the northing, easting and elevation from the topo shots you took in step 3 as control points in your new project.   Measure Control Points: Measure in the control on the points you topoed in step 3, just as if it were an engineered project. You will see higher residual errors than on control points placed by an engineering firm. If something is way off make sure you have good GPS and radio signal at the new control locations. The slightly higher residuals are acceptable in this case as the project is now "controlled" and won't tip or rotate over time. It just won't be quite as precise as a project where a surveyor placed control with survey processes and instruments.   Perform Check Shots on Hard Surfaces: Take a few topo shots on hard surfaces and save them to your controller. When you set up in the future, in addition to checking into your control points, you can use them to verify that your system is set up right and matches your earlier work. Verify Every Visit: EVERY time you return to the site, set up your base and start the project with the control file you made in steps 4, 5 and 6. Stake out to your control points and the topo checks from step 7 to verify everything is working correctly. This graphic should help you understand how how to layout your control points. Why Avoid Single Point Control for Engineered Sites? The above method should never  be used on engineered sites. We always suggest that you hire the Project Engineer's surveyor to set up site control for engineered projects. Here's why: Your machine control model must align to the Project Engineer's data.  Detailed explanation in this blog post.    Engineered projects require that your work align to the previous and following contractor's work. Misalignment to the Project Engineer's coordinate system will lead to costly rework and delays. The Project Engineer's surveyor has authoritative knowledge and can ensure accuracy. Real-World Example: The Cost of Mistakes One contractor client of ours learned the "Single Point" lesson the hard way on a pond project in North Dakota: This contractor set up single point control without any additional checks. He returned a couple months later with a pond design file, started his job up on the old single point control and started grading.  When he was close to done with the dam, it became obvious that something was not right. The entire design was tilted nearly 3 feet from one side of the project to the other. The design file was not the issue, single point control was. It took a redesign and significant re-work to fix the problem. Had he taken the time to set up his control properly, he would never have had to suffer through the expense and wasted time caused by the tilted site. Ready to topo your projects and have Quantum help with the design? Email us or call 515-505-3510 ex:702. Our team is here to help ensure your grading projects run smoothly and accurately every time.

Over the years, Quantum Land Design has refined a standard layer and surface naming convention tailored for GPS machine control models. This standard is designed to enhance clarity, reduce errors, and promote seamless communication between project management teams and field crews. Our approach employs plain language and intuitive abbreviations that are easy to understand and implement in the real-world. Field-Friendly Naming : Quantum's naming system prioritizes simplicity and functionality, ensuring that operators and project managers can quickly identify and utilize each layer. Error Reduction : Standardized names minimize miscommunication, ensuring projects run efficiently and on schedule. Visual Clarity : Defined layer colors offer immediate visual feedback, allowing teams to interpret models quickly and accurately on site. Lines (linework, polylines) 2D Lines Labeled in plain English. Layers added as necessary per project. All lines are 2D unless noted. 3D Lines Always have “-3D" prefix Examples: "-3D-Storm" or "-3D-Centerline" Projects with 2D and 3D lines will always have both line types. Projects with 3D utility model surfaces will always have a corresponding 3D line. Revisions Lines changes during revisions will be appended with the date of the revision. Example : "-3D-Storm-3-8-25" Surfaces (TTM, TN3, XML) Standard Abbreviations FG = Finish Grade RG = Rough Grade SG = Sub Grade SAN = Sanitary Sewer STM = Storm Sewer WTR = Water Line Additional 3D surfaces for structural features, underground detention systems, etc.… will be named as appropriate. 3D utility surfaces are set to plan elevations, typically flowline. Always refer to plans to verify. Revisions Surfaces changed during revisions will be appended with the date of the revision. Example: "FG-3-8-25" or "STM-12-14-25"

We are excited to announce that Taylor Eisenmann has joined the Quantum Land Design team! With a background in Construction Management and Drafting, Taylor brings valuable expertise and fresh energy to our growing family. Taylor will play a key role in machine control design and UAV flights, supporting our mission to provide cutting-edge solutions in construction technology. As Taylor prepares to earn his UAV pilot’s license, we look forward to seeing his contributions in action. Join us in wishing Taylor the best of luck on this exciting journey. Welcome aboard, Taylor!

Technology is revolutionizing the heavy civil construction industry, and Quantum Land Design is at the forefront of this transformation. From aerial data imagery captured by advanced UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) to precise 3D machine control systems for GPS-positioned earthmoving equipment, the possibilities are endless. At Quantum Land Design, along with our sister company AeroView Services, we offer a comprehensive suite of services designed to equip your company with cutting-edge tools. Whether you need UAV aerial data acquisition, 3D GPS machine models, or construction technology consulting, we’re here to be your competitive advantage. Discover how these integrated solutions can optimize your project timelines, enhance precision, and reduce costs. The future of heavy civil construction is here—let us help you lead the way.

Quantum Land Design was honored to present at this year’s Versaland Farmscale Permaculture Workshop, hosted by Grant Schultz. This annual gathering draws participants from around the globe to share and explore innovative permaculture techniques and principles. Our presentation focused on leveraging technology to enhance permaculture design  and sustainability. Key topics covered included: UAV Surveys : Utilizing drones to efficiently gather topographic data. Contour Map Creation : Developing maps for water management and sustainable land use. Keyline Cultivation : Implementing strategies for soil conservation and water optimization. 4D Point Clouds and Orthophotos : Advanced modeling for precise land planning. UAV Infrared Technology : Monitoring vegetation health and identifying land-use opportunities. Pond Design with CAD : Creating efficient water storage solutions for permaculture systems. Permaculture Design : Integrating ecological principles for holistic land stewardship. The workshop provided an incredible opportunity to engage with a passionate community of permaculture enthusiasts from all over the world. A heartfelt thank you to Grant Schultz and all participants for making this event a success! Here’s a glimpse of the event through some photos: