FAQ’s

Can DigPilot be used on any excavator?

It certainly can. The equipment sensors can be installed onto any machine and the long range wireless technology means that there are no restrictions on the machinesize. The sensors can be configured to work with any number of equipment articulations and tilting bucket options so the system permutations are almost limitless.

What are the main attributes of the DigPilot system?

– Simple to use graphical touchscreen interface
– Powerful computer allowing for easy upgrades through 1D,2D,3D applications
– Accurate portable sensors
– Long range rugged wireless technology
– Multiple machine and bucket utilisation
– Quick User installation and calibration
– Low maintenance

For how long do the sensors retain their charge ?

The sensors retain their charge for a minimum of 2 weeks continuous use ! This is achieved by using the latest available battery technology. The DigPilot computer monitors the sensor charge status and will give the user plenty of notice (at least 2 days) if the battery charge becomes low. The sensors are simply recharged using the provided charging unit which allows up to 4 sensors to be charged at any one time.

Do the sensors work under water ?

The sensors are not designed for continuous use underwater. They will withstand the rigours of everyday use and temporary immersion should it occur, but will not be suitable for applications such as dredging. DigPilot does offer a rudimentary dredging mode which is achieved by disabling the bucket sensor and setting the bucket to the angle at which it will be whilst dredging giving a useable accuracy for basic dredging operations. The sensors are fully waterproof allowing them to survive everything nature can throw at them.

Why do you say one system can provide machine control for 20 excavators ?

DigPilot has the capability of storing the calibration parameters and dimensional data of 20 machines. If you have fleet of up to 20 machines, each installed with a DigPilot sensor fixing kit then the single system will service the entire fleet ! Just move the system to the machine you want to use and select the machine type from the DigPilot menu and start digging. Careful system design has focused on providing an easily portable system, the sensors are easily fixed to the equipment mounting brackets and the display is fitted inside the cab using the high strength vacuum suction cup – no special tools are required when moving the system from machine to machine.

Can I really install and calibrate a system all by myself ?

You sure can. DigPilot is packaged with everything you need to install the product including the drill bits, taps and bolts for fixing the sensor brackets. The only thing you need to provide is a drill and 1 hour of your time. After installation the next step is to follow a simple calibration procedure which is clearly demonstrated via the Touchscreen display. The system has built in intelligence such that should a wrong dimension or calibration parameter be entered the system identifies this and alerts you, explains what the error is and invites you to correct it. Levels, plumb bob and a tape measure are provided with the DigPilot kit to assist in a right first time calibration. If this isn’t enough then follow the DigPilot Installation video for a real time demonstration of a product installation.

Will you install it for me?

Yes for a small fee OnGrade will be happy to install the system for you, if you have a large fleet we will happily provide training for you staff as well.

Why should I choose DigPilot ?

DIgPilot has been professionally designed from the viewpoint of the end user and is the only system available that offers an upgrade path from the entry level 1D system to 2D and finally 3D systems. Its portability via the innovative wireless technology and multi machine application means that you can maximise your investment and upgrade the system as and when you feel ready to take on the more advanced challenges that machine guidance has to offer. It is simple to install, calibrate and use and is maintenance free and can be safely stored in the rugged case when not in use protecting it from accidental damage, vandalism and theft.

What is the real accuracy of the system ?

It is always interesting to see what accuracy manufacturer’s claim. It is fairly simple to understand and is dependent upon the machine equipment length. The DigPilot sensor is accurate to 0.1 degree, but this doesn’t mean anything as we are digging and want a depth and radius. To calculate this we need to follow simple trigonometry and take the Sin of the angle accuracy and multiply it by the equipment length – this calculation applies to the competition as well – go on, give it a go and annoy them ! As a general rule the table below can be used to provide sensor comparisons :

These are best case conditions and errors in machine dimensions will affect the overall system accuracy. However this is as best as it can get regardless of what anyone claims, as a famous Scotsman once said “You canna break the laws of physics”.

How easy is it to repair a fault ?

Faulty components are identified by the computer. Simply call for a replacement and wait for the post. On receipt, simply fit the sensor into the spring loaded bracket and start digging again (Yes it really is that simple).

What do you mean by DigPilot providing a true upgrade path ?

DigPilot has been conceived with all levels of user in mind from those requiring entry level 1D, more advanced 2D and finally the hi tech 3D system. DigPilot can meet the upgrade needs by adding the sensors and implementing a software upgrade – there is no need make any major hardware changes that are required when upgrading competitive systems especially those that take the 2D to 3D jump. The upgraded systems continue the theme of simplicity of operation that is unique to DigPilot. The sensor requirements for the systems are :

– 1D : Boom, Arm, Bucket
– 2D : Boom, Arm, Bucket, Dual axis (pitch and roll) with magnetic compass for slew sensing
– 3D : As 2D with the addition of GPS / GNSS option

Note : Each of these applications can have an optional artic sensor and tilting bucket sensor if required.

This is a new product, how reliable is it ?

DigPilot was launched at Bauma 2007 and since then hundreds have been installed in the field and the system has benefitted from a program of continuous improvement and development. It has been well proven in the field and has become a major contender in the machine guidance arena and has brought much innovation to a well established market.