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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 With ConExpo 2026 just around the corner, it's time to get registered for the show and education sessions. You can use our ConExpo discount code for big savings at registration. Once there, visit Quantum Land Design at Booth N-11127 in the North Hall. Our team will be showcasing how autonomous GPS machine control, earthmoving takeoffs, and drone data can redefine how your jobs get done. You can always visit this blog post for the our latest updates or our CONEXPO exhibitor profile for more information about our booth.

Effective site development and precision grading hinge on accuracy, from initial survey to final grade. When Burchland Manufacturing of Gilman, Iowa, contacted Quantum Land Design, they had a clear objective: develop high-quality 3D machine models to showcase their skid-steer mounted equipment. These models would serve a dual purpose: first, to impressively demonstrate their advanced automated grading equipment, and second, to accurately re-grade their demonstration area post-showcase. Recognizing the value our expertise could bring, we scheduled a site visit the following week. This project was a prime example of leveraging construction technology like the Quantum Flight Pack in conjunction with GPS machine control for superior results. Phase 1: On-Site Data Acquisition – The Foundation of Accuracy with Drone Data and Site Control Arriving at Burchland Manufacturing provided an opportunity to tour their facilities – a firsthand look at where their quality-focused equipment originates. Once Burchland’s Trimble robotic total station was set up and calibrated to the site, our work on establishing robust site control began. Precise site control is non-negotiable for accurate/repeatable GPS machine control and drone surveying. We utilized the robotic total station to: Measure Ground Control Points (GCPs): These are critical for georeferencing all subsequent drone data and ensuring the accuracy of our topographic mapping. Capture Topographic Shots: Key design features and elevations across their main facility's drives and parking areas were meticulously recorded. This allowed Quantum’s data team to validate the data in the office and tie the model into key features like concrete building aprons and walks. With site control established, the Quantum Flight Pack (our contractor spec drone surveying system) was deployed. The drone efficiently collected the comprehensive topographic data necessary to build a robust 3D surface model. This combination of robotic total station precision for control and drone efficiency for broad-area Topographic Mapping is a cornerstone of our approach, delivering Real-Time Data for Earthwork Analysis. Showcasing Innovation: A Close Look at Burchland's Equipment Post-data collection, we examined Burchland's machinery, specifically their solutions designed for seamless machine control integration. Their equipment is compatible with various systems, including Cat Grade, Trimble, Topcon, and Leica Geosystems, showcasing broad industry applicability. AGT Auto Grading Soil Trimmer: This skid steer-mounted attachment is engineered for contractors demanding precision in challenging sub-base materials. Whether it's building pads, parking lots, walking trails or preparing for curb and gutter, the AGT delivers a smooth, accurate grade. Its compatibility with diverse GPS machine control systems (GPS, Robotic Total Station, lasers, sonic tracers) underscores its versatility. Burchland's commitment to quality and service is evident in the AGT’s robust, direct-drive hydraulic motor for the trimmer rotor, which minimizes maintenance by eliminating gearboxes and chain drives. This is a machine built to boost productivity and optimize material yields – a significant value for any earthmoving operation and a key piece of jobsite technology. LGX Laser Grader: This attachment further exemplifies Burchland's dedication to versatile and precise grading. The LGX integrates smoothly with lasers, GPS, total stations, and sonic tracers, enabling operators to maintain exacting grades across varied job sites, from parking areas to athletic fields. A key feature is its innovative design allowing on-the-fly configuration changes directly from the operator's seat, including hydraulic wing rotation that transforms the grader blade into a box blade. This adaptability directly translates to reduced manual labor, particularly in tight corners, and maximized production. Adaptive grading tools are invaluable for modern contractors. For heavy equipment dealers, understanding how construction technology tools like these, paired with accurate models from Quantum Land Design, enhance machinery value is crucial. It's a clear path to demonstrating improved efficiency and profitability to their contractor customers, making it easier for contractors to understand how investing in technology can benefit their bottom line. Phase 2: Expanding the Scope – Transforming a Rock Staging area into a High Tech Demo Site Our work extended to a second site: a rock staging area for a major heavy highway contractor, located near a major highway. The objective remained consistent – gather precise data to develop a machine control model suitable for equipment demonstrations. We employed the same proven methodology for site mapping: Robotic total station for ground control and key topographic points. Quantum Flight Pack drone surveying flight for comprehensive site mapping and drone topography services. Phase 3: Office-Based Data Processing & Model Creation – Earthwork Takeoff and 3D Construction Models Back at the Quantum Land Design office, the collected field data was transformed into actionable intelligence. We processed the drone imagery and GCPs, generating: Topographic 3D Surface: A highly detailed 3D representation of each site, crucial for accurate earthwork modeling the serving as the basis for our 3D design. High-Resolution Orthophotos: Georeferenced aerial images providing valuable visual context for construction land analysis. This rich dataset, augmented by the robotic total station's ground shots, enabled us to construct exceptionally detailed and accurate 3D existing surface models within our CAD software. This fusion of drone data analysis and traditional survey methods creates a true digital twin of the site – the essential starting point for effective 3D design solutions for an earthwork takeoff and/or machine control. Phase 4: Delivering Value – Custom Machine Control Models and GPS Grading Solutions Burchland Manufacturing Facility: Using the drone-derived 3D surface, we engineered a GPS grading model for Burchland's drives and parking areas. This was not merely a replication of the existing surface; it was an enhancement using civil earthwork modeling. We identified and corrected low spots to ensure positive site drainage after every demo. Recognizing the diverse equipment landscape our clients operate in, we delivered the final 3D Construction Models in both Trimble Earthworks and Topcon formats. This ensures Burchland can seamlessly demonstrate their machinery using either major machine control system, highlighting the machine control solutions and seamless integration capabilities that Quantum Land Design provides. Contractor's Rock Staging Area: For this site, the objective was to create a dynamic demonstration surface. Our machine control model incorporated: A walking path A building pad A small V-ditch This realistic design mimics the type of grading Burchland's clients encounter on a daily basis. Guided by the model, Burchland can comprehensively showcase the capabilities of their AGT and LGX attachments when guided by sophisticated automated machine guidance systems. Contractors can witness firsthand how this combination achieves complex grades with unparalleled precision. Critically, we also provided a re-grade file, enabling the site to be efficiently returned to its original condition after demonstrations. This showcases the power of 3D excavation planning and grading optimization. The Quantum Land Design Advantage: Empowering Modern Construction with Jobsite Technology This Burchland Manufacturing project serves as a clear illustration of how modern construction techniques and intelligent 3D modeling elevate construction processes. We offer some of the best drone data services for construction and affordable machine control modeling - all with a three business day turnaround time. For Contractors: Leveraging drone data and precise GPS Machine Control models directly translates to enhanced productivity, especially with advanced Compact Track Loader (CTL) mounted equipment like Burchland’s. High-quality 3D earthmoving models for construction sites are the key to high-performance machine control, leading to reduced rework, material savings, and ultimately, an improved bottom line. Our GPS machine control models and drone mapping systems are designed for this. Consider our volume calculation services for earthworks and drone data processing for site evaluation. For Heavy Equipment Dealers: Partnering with a specialized service like Quantum Land Design significantly enhances the value proposition of the machinery you sell. When state-of-the-art equipment is paired with equally advanced site survey data and machine control models, its full potential is realized, leading to more successful customers, repeat sales and a stronger competitive edge in the market. Our collaboration with Burchland Manufacturing successfully highlighted their top-tier equipment and demonstrated the power of integrated construction technology to solve real-world challenges and drive operational efficiency. At Quantum Land Design, we remain committed to providing experienced and reliable grading technology solutions, bridging the gap between digital design and on-the-ground execution. Whether you need a 3D machine control model for your site, are interested in an affordable drone system, or just need an experienced drone data proccing service, contact Quantum Land Design today to discuss how our precision machine control and earthwork optimization services can elevate your next project. Don't forget, we maintain a lighting fast three business day turnaround time for machine control models, drone data and takeoffs. Meet the Quantum Land Design Team at Conexpo 2026 With Conexpo 2026 just around the corner, it's time to get registered for the show and education sessions. You can use our ConExpo discount code for big savings at registration. Once there, visit Quantum Land Design at Booth N-11127 in the North Hall. Our team will be showcasing how autonomous GPS machine control, earthwork takeoffs, and drone data can redefine how your jobs get done. You can always visit this blog post for the our latest updates or our CONEXPO exhibitor profile for more information about our booth.

Quantum Land Design names every layer and surface in a machine control model by a fixed convention: plain-English names on 2D lines, a "-3D" prefix on every 3D line, short abbreviations for surfaces (FG, RG, SG, SAN, STM, WTR), and the revision date appended whenever something changes. An operator or foreman should read a layer name and know exactly what it is without opening the plans. We have built this system through over 20,000 models delivered to contractors. We've learned to keep it simple: A field crew reads "-3D-Storm" and knows it is the 3D storm line, not a 2D reference line. A revised surface labeled "FG-3-8-25" can never be confused with the version it replaced. The date is in the name. Layer colors tell you exactly what line you are grading to at a glance. Lines (linework, polylines) 2D Lines Labeled in plain English. Layers added as needed per project. All lines are 2D unless noted. 3D Lines Always carry the “-3D" prefix Examples: "-3D-Storm" or "-3D-Centerline" Projects with 2D and 3D lines will always have both line types. 3D utility model surfaces will always have a matching 3D line. Revisions Line changes during revisions will be appended with the date of the revision. Example : "-3D-Storm-3-8-25" Surfaces (TTM, TN3, XML, TIN) Standard Surface Abbreviations FG = Finish Grade RG = Rough Grade SG = Subgrade SAN = Sanitary Sewer STM = Storm Sewer WTR = Water Line Additional 3D surfaces (structural features, underground detention systems, and the like) will be named as appropriate for your project. 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" When you are ready for a new model built to our consistent standards Common Question About Layers and Surfaces What does the "-3D" prefix mean on a machine control layer? It marks a 3D line. 3D lines contain elevation data along with their horizontal location. Every 3D line in a Quantum model starts with "-3D" (for example "-3D-Centerline"), so crews can identify 3D linework with vertical data from 2D reference linework at a glance. What do FG, RG, and SG stand for in a GPS grading model? FG is Finish Grade, RG is Rough Grade, SG is Subgrade. Subgrade models are rarely necessary but they can be required for some projects. These are the standard surface abbreviations Quantum uses across every machine control model. How are model revisions labeled? The revision date is appended to the name. A finish grade surface revised on March 8, 2025 becomes "FG-3-8-25". A storm line revised the same day becomes "-3D-Storm-3-8-25". The version is readable in the name itself. What elevation are 3D utility surfaces set to? Plan elevation, typically flowline. Always check the plans or ask your contact at Quantum to confirm before you build. Quantum Land Design has built over 20,000 machine control models for earthmoving contractors across the US and Canada. Models, takeoffs and drone data are delivered within 3 business days and are compatible with Trimble, Topcon, Leica, Carlson, and many other systems.

Some milestones make you stop and appreciate how far you’ve come. This is one of them. Quantum Land Design just crossed 20,000 completed GPS machine control models, a number that still feels a little unreal when we think back to where this all started. We've grown from a one man band into a full-scale 12 person (and growing) production team serving earthmoving contractors, heavy equipment dealers, and civil engineers all over North America. This milestone didn’t happen overnight. It took a dedicated team willing to grind through tight deadlines, complex sites, and steady earthmoving technology evolution to deliver models that actually work in the dirt --> EVERY TIME. It also took a loyal base of repeat customers who keep coming back. They don't keep coming back because we’re perfect, but we listen, adapt, and keep pushing to make their work efficient and more precise. To everyone who’s trusted us with your sites, data, and timelines, THANK YOU. You’ve helped us grow, improve, and build one of the most experienced and capable machine control modeling teams in the industry. And the momentum isn’t slowing down. At our current pace, 30,000 models isn’t far away, and we’re already refining our process to deliver even better data, the first time, every time; all within our legendary three‑business‑day turnaround. From all of us at Quantum Land Design, thanks for being part of the ride. If you're a contractor looking for a reliable, trustworthy and experienced team to handle your GPS machine control modeling, reach out to us. Our models are built for real‑world results with fast turnarounds, field‑ready accuracy, and data you can trust to move dirt the right way the first time. Here’s to the next 10,000.

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 days. 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.

AGTEK volume reports pack a lot of valuable information onto a single page, and if you haven't spent time with one before, it can be easy to misinterpret a value or pull the wrong number out and run with it. This post walks through a real report, the Hess Office project, so you know exactly what each section is telling you and how to use it in a bid. The Hess project may be simple, but the volume report for any project will hold the same information, just more of it. The first thing to remember is that all areas are in square feet (SF) and all volumes are in cubic yards (CY) Understand the Surfaces the Report is Comparing Before you look at a single number, you need to understand what surfaces AGTEK is comparing. Everything in the Volume Report section measures the difference between two things: Stripped Surface = Existing grade minus the stripping depth Subgrade Surface = Finish grade minus all sectional depths (pavement sections, building pad base, etc.) Cut means you're removing material to reach subgrade. Fill means you're adding material to build up to subgrade. These numbers do not represent your finish grade. They represent subgrade, which sits below all your sections like pavement or topsoil. Keep that straight and the rest of the report makes sense. The Hess Office Volume Report Here is the volume report as the contractor received it and a copy with annotations explaining each section and number. Feel free to download either for reference. Reading the Volume Report Section On the Hess Office report, the Volume Report breaks into two regions plus a total row. Building Pad covers just the building footprint: 14,991 sf total area, zero cut, 14,991 sf of fill, and a fill volume of 1,036 cubic yards. The Export/Import column shows -1,036. Negative means import. Positive means export. On this project the whole pad is going up from the stripped surface, so you're bringing material in. Grading covers everything outside the pad: parking, drives, slopes, everything else. Here you have 20,568 sf of cut and 27,568 sf of fill, with volumes of 1,085 CY cut and 1,248 CY fill. Export/Import is -163, meaning after using your cut to satisfy some of your fill, you still need to import 163 yards outside the building pad. Regions Total combines both: 1,085 CY cut, 2,284 CY fill, -1,199 CY Export/Import. That -1,199 is the number of import yards for the entire project. Negative is always import. If it were positive, you'd be hauling off surplus cut. One column worth paying attention to: Change per 0.1 ft. The Hess Office total is 253 CY per 0.1 foot. That tells you how much the import number shifts if the site grade moves up or down a tenth of a foot. Useful for value engineering, and a good conversation starter if grading costs are above budget. A note on compaction ratios (Comp/Ratio). Both columns show 1.00, meaning no shrink/swell adjustment is built in. Real material expands when you dig it and shrinks when you compact it. How much depends on your soil type and varies widely, sometimes even within a single project. Be sure to factor it in before you finalize the bid. We'll always use 1.0 but are happy to enter a shrink or swell %, just let us know your numbers when you request a takeoff. Stripping Quantities Below the Volume Report you'll find Stripping Qtys. On Hess Office, Site Strip covers 68,306 sf at a 0.500-foot depth for a total of 1,265 CY. The math: 68,313 sf slope area x 0.500 ft / 27 = 1,265 CY. You'll notice AGTEK shows both plane area and slope area. Volumes are always calculated from slope area because it accounts for the actual terrain rather than a flat footprint. Slope area will always be slightly larger than plane area. The Hess Office site is nearly flat, so the difference is minimal: 68,306 vs. 68,313. That 1,265 CY is topsoil coming off the whole site before any grading starts. It's a separate line item from your cut/fill. Price it separately as stripping volume IS NOT included in the volume report above. Sectional Quantities This is where most of the confusion happens. Sectional Qtys shows the material removed from finish grade on the plans to build the subgrade surface. Each pavement type, the building pad base, sidewalks, and topsoil respread areas all get their own line with their own area and depth. The sectional depths we use can be found on the plans. They'll include any material that must be removed to get to subgrade including rock and pavement. If depths are not noted on the plans we will use a typical depth and note that when we send the takeoff. If needed, we can adjust sectional depths after the takeoff is completed, just ask. Hess Office Sectional Quantities and Areas: Building Pad: 14,991 sf at 1.000 ft = 555 CY removed from finish floor to get to subgrade. That's the concrete slab and granular base. Concrete Pavement: 711 sf at 0.670 ft = 18 CY. HD Pavement (heavy duty): Two separate areas totaling 20,771 sf at 0.940 ft = 724 CY combined. LD Pavement (light duty): Four areas totaling 9,952 sf at 0.770 ft = 284 CY combined. Respread: Seven green space areas totaling 19,503 sf at 0.500 ft = 364 CY. That's topsoil redistributed back onto landscaped areas. It doesn't leave the site. Walk (sidewalks): 2,378 sf at 0.670 ft = 59 CY. The Sectional Total at the bottom is 2,004 CY. You'll rarely use that number directly. It combines pavement base, pavement, building slab, topsoil respread, and sidewalks into one figure, which isn't useful for pricing. Pull the individual line items and price them by material type. Remember the sectional depth CY totals are the complete volume removed from finish grade to build the subgrade surface. To find the volume for rock base under any paving area you'll need to take the slope area * the rock base depth. The AGTEK volume report does not provide tonnage. You'll need to do the CY to tonnage conversion on your own. Putting the Numbers to Work For the Hess Office, here are they key numbers you'll need to build your bid: Import to reach subgrade: 1,199 CY Topsoil strip: 1,265 CY Building pad area: 14,991 SF HD pavement slope area: 20,784 SF LD pavement slope area: 9,965 SF Concrete pavement section slope area: 732 SF Sidewalk section slope area: 2,380 SF Topsoil respread: 364 CY The report gives you the quantities and slope areas you need to figure an accurate bid. Frequently Asked Questions What is an AGTEK volume report? An AGTEK volume report is an earthwork quantity summary generated by AGTEK takeoff software. It calculates cut and fill volumes between two surfaces — typically the stripped existing grade and the subgrade then breaks those quantities down by region, stripping, and sectional areas. Estimators use it to bid earthmoving work on commercial and civil construction projects. What is the difference between cut and fill in an earthwork takeoff? Cut is material removed from the site to reach subgrade elevation. Fill is material added to build up to subgrade. On a given project you'll have areas of each, and the difference between your total cut and total fill determines whether you'll be exporting surplus material or importing what you're short. AGTEK reports both the area in square feet and the volume in cubic yards for each. What does the export/import number mean in an AGTEK report? Export/Import is the net difference between cut and fill volumes at subgrade. A negative number means you need to import material; your fill exceeds what you're cutting on site. A positive number means you have surplus cut to haul off or stock onsite. On the Hess Office project, the Regions Total shows -1,199 CY, meaning 1,199 cubic yards of fill needs to come in from off site. What are sectional quantities in an earthwork takeoff? Sectional quantities represent material removed from finish grade to build the subgrade surface. This covers pavement and rock base sections, building pad concrete and granular base, topsoil respread on green areas, and sidewalk sections. Each section type has its own area and depth, and AGTEK calculates the volume of the full sectional area using: slope area x depth / 27. These quantities and areas are NOT included in the main cut/fill volumes and are typically priced at different unit costs in the bid. Requesting a Takeoff from Quantum Send the full set of plans to takeoffs@quantumlanddesign.com or call us directly at 515-505-3510 ext. 710 to discuss. PDF's of the plans is all we need quote and complete your takeoff. You can learn more about Quantum's takeoff services and download project examples at our Takeoffs/Volumes page. Quantum Land Design has built over 20,000 machine control models for earthmoving contractors across the US and Canada. Models, takeoffs and drone data are delivered within 3 business days and are compatible with Trimble, Topcon, Leica, Carlson, and many other systems.

If you grew up around construction or raised kids in it, you probably know the book. Sherri Duskey Rinker's Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site has been a bedtime staple for contractor families for years. Caterpillar decided to bring it to life for Cat Trial 13, and they needed precise 3D machine control models to do it. That's where our team came in. What Caterpillar Built for Cat Trial 13 For the trial, Cat put five real machines to work on a nighttime construction site. A TL642 Telehandler stood in for Crane Truck. A D6 Track Type Tractor played Bulldozer. A 745 Articulated Truck was Dump Truck. A 349 Hydraulic Excavator took on Excavator. And a Cat on-highway truck engine powered the Cement Mixer. Three Cat dealer service trucks rounded out the cast, representing the crews that keep machines running while everyone else sleeps. Getting those machines to perform together on camera, in a way that matched how the characters move in the book, required precise control. Every blade and bucket had to be dialed in. Ryan's Role: Building the 3D Models for Cat Grade Ryan Murguia, QLD's president, built the 3D surface models for the Cat Grade equipment used in the trial. Cat Grade is Caterpillar's machine control system built on Trimble hardware. It gives operators in-cab grade guidance tied directly to a 3D model of the design. For Cat Trial 13, the models had to match the physical proportions of each machine precisely so the on-screen result looked right. That's a different challenge than a standard site model. On a normal job you're building to engineered plans and the machine hits grade. Here the model had to be scaled to the actual machine dimensions and synced to the animation requirements of the trial. Ryan worked through the scaling issues that come with that kind of build and got it done. What Goes Into a Cat Grade Machine Control Model If you run Caterpillar equipment with Cat Grade, you know the basics. A 3D surface model loaded to the system tells the machine where it sits on the design and how far off grade it is. On a dozer or motor grader with automatic blade control, the system moves the blade to hit grade without the operator making every correction by hand. What most contractors don't think much about is what goes into the surface model before it ever gets to the machine. The model has to be built specifically for your equipment brand and control system. For Cat Grade, which runs on Trimble hardware, our team builds the surface files in the correct format so they load cleanly and work the way you expect in the field. We have built models for Cat Grade on dozers, motor graders, and excavators across hundreds of projects. A poorly built model shows up fast. You will see it in surface gaps, inconsistent blade response, or grade that just does not look right when you walk it. Getting the surface tight before it goes to the machine is the whole job. Watch the Video Need 3D Models Built for Your Cat Grade Equipment? Our team builds machine control models for Caterpillar equipment running Cat Grade on Trimble hardware. Standard turnaround is 3 business days. All we need to get started is your PDF plans. If you want to know more about what a complete model package looks like for your equipment, check out our machine control models page or head over to our Trimble machine control page for specifics on Cat Grade compatible files. Questions? Call us at 515-505-3510 or email sales@avqld.com. Quantum Land Design has built over 20,000 machine control models for earthmoving contractors across the US and Canada. Models, takeoffs and drone data are delivered within 3 business days and are compatible with Trimble, Topcon, Leica, Carlson, and many other systems.

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 over 20,000 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 Machine Control 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 GPS 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 or earthwork takeoff 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. Quantum Land Design has built over 20,000 machine control models for earthmoving contractors across the US and Canada. Models, takeoffs and drone data are delivered within 3 business days and are compatible with Trimble, Topcon, Leica, Carlson, and many other systems.

If you picked up a Quantum Flight Pack or you're running a DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise on your jobsite, this is where to start. These videos walk through everything from the first power-on to a clean topo flight with RTK. Watch them in order the first time through. After that, bookmark this page and come back when you need a refresher on a specific step. Topics Covered Topographic Survey Flight Planning Getting the flight plan right before you launch is what separates a clean data set from a re-fly. This video covers altitude settings, front and side overlap, and how to account for terrain variation so your photos come back with the coverage you need. Most topo flights on a construction site are straightforward once you know how to set them up. Camera Settings for Topographic Flights The Mavic 3E's camera settings out of the box aren't dialed in for construction topo work. This video shows you exactly what to adjust so your imagery is sharp, properly exposed, and usable for photogrammetry. A bad photo is a bad data point. This one is required viewing before your first flight. RTK NTRIP Network Connection Set Up RTK via NTRIP is how you get better accuracy without hauling a base station to every jobsite. This video walks through connecting the Mavic 3E to an NTRIP network so your photo geotags are locked as precise as possible. If you're not on a network that covers your area, you can set up an NTRIP from your own base station. Camera Adjustments for Photography Topo mapping mode isn't what you want when you're trying to grab a quick jobsite photo to send the owner or document existing conditions. This video shows you how to switch the camera over to photography mode and dial in the settings so your shots come back sharp and usable. Calibrate the IMU, Gimbal and Compass Calibration A drone that isn't properly calibrated will give you flight instability and even errors that show up in your data after the fact. It may not even take off. This video covers all three --> IMU, gimbal, and compass, and when each one actually needs to be done. Firmware and DJI FlySafe Database Updates Outdated firmware can lock you out of airspace you're legally allowed to fly, and it can introduce bugs that didn't exist on the previous version. This video covers how to update both the drone firmware and the FlySafe database so you're not standing on a jobsite with a drone that won't arm. Quantum Flight Pack Overview New to the Flight Pack? This is a quick tailgate talk walkthrough of what's in the kit and what each piece is for. Takes about five minutes and answers most of the questions we get on the first call after someone gets the package. Watch it before you dig into the rest of the videos. Stay Updated Bookmark this page and subscribe to our YouTube channel for new videos as we add them. We cover drone workflows, GPS machine control, and data processing tips built for contractors, not surveyors. Questions? Free Consultation Available If you're trying to figure out whether the Quantum Flight Pack is the right fit for your operation, or you've got a specific workflow question, reach out. Email us or call 515-505-3510 ext. 702. We've processed drone data from hundreds of construction sites and can usually point you in the right direction pretty fast. Related Resources Quantum Flight Pack — full product and service details Drone Data Processing Services — send us your flight data and we'll handle the rest Ground Control Points: Full 5-Part Series — the GCP fundamentals every drone operator on a construction site needs to know Education Hub — all QLD training resources in one place Frequently Asked Questions Does the DJI Mavic 3E need RTK for construction surveying? RTK gives you the most accurate photo geotags, which reduces your dependence on ground control points. That said, you still want a few GCPs on every flight to guarantee your drone data lines up with your machine control model and the engineer's plans. Even a PPK or RTK drone can drift from the correct coordinate system without ground truth to check against. Can I use the DJI Mavic 3E with my GPS machine control system? Yes. The Mavic 3E is what comes in the Quantum Flight Pack specifically because it integrates cleanly into a GPS machine control workflow. The drone collects the topo data, your machine control rover collects the ground control points then we process it into a surface, and that surface works directly in your software or we can run the calculations for you. What overlap settings should I use for a construction topo flight? A good starting point for most construction sites is 80% front overlap and 80% side overlap. Tighter overlap adds flight time but gives you more photo redundancy in areas with trees, equipment, or steep grade changes. The flight planning video above covers the specifics. Once you've built some experience you may be able to lower the flight overlap depending on the project requirements. How often does the Mavic 3E need to be calibrated? IMU calibration is typically needed after a firmware update or if you get a persistent error message not before every flight. Compass calibration is needed when you change locations significantly or get a compass error. The calibration video above covers when each one is actually necessary so you're not wasting time on site. What file formats does the Mavic 3E output for drone data processing? The Mavic 3E outputs JPG images with embedded geotag data. If you're flying with RTK or PPK, the geotag accuracy is much tighter. When you send your flight data to our team, we handle the photogrammetry processing and deliver a finished surface file compatible with your machine control system.

Collect Topo Check Shots Another important consideration when laying out your ground control is topo check shots. Check shots are just that - topo points we use to quality check the final 3D surface built from your drone flight. What's the difference between the two? Ground Control points locate your drone data in the correct place, check points are independent and what we use to verify accuracy. If we don't have check shots we will only know if your data is correct right on your GCP's, which it always is - because we told it to be. We suggest taking check shots more-or-less in between GCP's and in any critical areas. Try to mark them with about a 6" spot of paint, you don't need to number them. If you don't have any paint on hand, shoot them on a spot that will be recognizable from your drone flight, like the end of paint line on pavement, sawcut junction or a sidewalk corner. If places like that are not an option, just collect them where you can. Any check shot is better than no check shot. The general guidelines regarding where it's ok to place ground control applies to check points, too. The drone has to be able to see them from overhead and they need to be on spot with bare earth, a hard surface or mowed grass. If you are using your drone data for design and need to tie-in to an existing hard surface or drainage feature be sure to take check shots at each tie-in and flowline. We like to see about as many check shots as you have GCP's plus any critical areas and tie-ins. Of course, more is better to a point, but don’t get hung up on the exact number or feel like you need to capture 100 of them. In your field controller, when taking topo shots, just use a simple point descriptions. If they are an important spot like a tie-in or flowline, label them clearly. Otherwise, labeling them "check" is sufficient. Good point descriptions will make your field work much easier to understand in the office. They might even save a trip back to the field to collect more data. When it's time to export the points you can use the proprietary file type your GPS brand generates or a universal file type like CSV or TXT. However you export the data, be sure to select the Point #, Northing, Easting, Elevation and Description fields. One common mistake we see when contractors take check shots is they let the point of their rover sink into the dirt. This will give you a check shot a 0.1' or two lower than the actual surface. This will make the final 3D surface derived from your drone data appear to be high, when it is actually right on. If you have one, put a blunt topo shoe on the bottom of your rover pole. Here is the sewer plant we looked at in principle 2. Suggested topo check shot locations are shown with a yellow target labeled "CK". They are roughly between control with one on the berm between the lagoons. This road project has a few check shots on either side of the right-of-way and at two key intersections. Remember, check shots don't don't take a lot of planning. Just capture then as you travel between control points. Collecting them should add very little time to your field work, but give you a big piece of mind when it comes to proving your drone data is accurate. Next: Principle 5 - Measure GCP's with the same GPS system you are using for machine control Previous: Principle 3 - Set a few GCP's inside the site

Surround the Site Surrounding the site with ground control is a simple, but often overlooked, step. Usually four to six GCP's will do it. They don't have to be exactly at the outer boundaries of the site, just close. If you drew a line between the outlying GCP's it should box in the site, or be close to it. The points that surround the site will do most of the heavy lifting in aligning your drone data with the engineer's site plan and your machine control model. If you are flying a long, narrow project like a roadway or levee place two points on each end of the flight plan and at least two or three spaced evenly between them. Add additional points as necessary to bend around a curve. On the right, the red bullseye's marked "GCP" show you suggested locations ground control locations for an odd shaped factory site. If we drew a line connecting the six GCP's out near the red boundary it would fully contain the site. Don't worry about the GCP's in the middle or the points marked "CK" just yet. We will talk about them in principle three and principle five. Here is a sewer plant project flown with the Quantum Flight Pack. It took just four GCP's to box in the site. On the left is a short, straight road project. There are two GCP's tying down each end of the project. These are very important to make sure the drone data does not twist or deviate from the correct orientation. Again, these four end points are the most important GCP's. If your flight requires multiple flight plans you will need to box in every flight with ground control, then overlap the flight plans over ground control in the sections that run together. This way, it will be easy to merge all of the flights into one continuous data set. Below is a section of road with two bends. Around the outside of the curve we placed extra control to box in the survey area. Again, play connect-the-dots between the outer GCP's and you will see that it encircles the project. This road is typical of how you would layout ground control for any levee, trail or roadway. It's the same concept for any linear project. Next: Principle 3 - Set a few GCP's inside the site Previous: Principle 1 - Location Matters

Set a Few GCP's Inside the Site Once the site is boxed in with control it's time to place a couple more GCP's to dial in accuracy. These will help fine tune the photogrammetry process, too. Not something you need to worry about, unless you process your own data, but important nonetheless. To start, place a GCP on roughly the highest and lowest spots on your project. Don't worry about placing them on EXACTLY the highest and lowest points, just do what you can to get fairly close. Your highest and/or lowest points might be one of the boundary points from principle two, and that's ok. While your boundary points do much of their work by scaling in your drone data horizontally, these high/low points make sure you are scaled in to the full range of vertical elevations on your project. If your highest and lowest points are on the outer boundary, place a GCP close to the middle of the project. You should have a minimum of five GCP's for any flight. Why five? This blog post in our GPS Site Control series explains why, geometrically, five is the minimum necessary. Ideally, we like to see six to eight, or more for a larger site. For most construction sites (20 acres or less), six to eight control points will cover it. On a larger site place more control points evenly between the others. It's good to see a GCP every 500' to 800', more or less. You can stretch it out further on really big sites but keep in mind that your accuracy could start to drift between GCP's. In areas were elevations are critical place a GCP or two in or near those areas. That will guarantee the best accuracy possible for your flight where it counts the most. One more thing to keep in mind. It's good to have a little extra ground control in case you have a bad topo shot or one gets disturbed before you fly. Take a few extra minutes to make sure you have at least the minimum GCP's required in place and consider adding a couple more for "extra credit" On an active construction site you rarely get a second chance to collect the topo data you need. A couple "insurance" GCP's are well worth the time. Take a look at the sewer plant below. There are three GCP's inside the site boundary. One at the high point near the buildings in the north center of the site. Another is in a drainage basin to the south of it, the low point. There is a third on the middle of berm between the two lagoons. Any areas between bodies of water should have a GCP. The photogrammetry process does not work on water covered areas and we need to give it a little help with a GCP in that situation. The high point on the pre-construction flight for this golf course project was along the cart path, roughly in the middle of the project area. The low point was on the southwest corner, where one of the boundary GPC's was able to do double duty as the low point. The road section on the left has three control points between the ends of the project. It's best to alternate sides of the road and place a painted target in the middle of the road, if safely possible. Every 500' or so is enough in most situations, just make sure to hit the highs and lows and add more as you go around a curve. Consider placing extra GCP's in critical areas like near intersections or access roads. Next: Principle 4 - Collect Topo Check Shots Previous: Principle 2 - Surround the Site