The Futtura iDig 2D Grade Control System is revolutionizing excavation by providing a more efficient, accurate, and cost-effective way to complete projects quickly and safely with fewer mistakes due to human error.
With its advanced laser technology and versatile software capabilities, this system offers numerous benefits for those working in excavation including increased efficiency, improved accuracy, cost savings, safety improvements, and versatility for various types of projects.
This is an in-depth installation guide for iDig 2D Excavator Grade Control System
iDig Pre-installation Checklist
Before you begin to install the iDig, make sure you’ve got everything you need to successfully complete the installation along with checking your equipment and your working area.
Prestart Checklist #1 Items to have on hand to assist with installation
Tape measure Make sure the unit of measurement selected for the system matches your equipment on hand
Magnetic plumb bob or magnetic hooks
String line
Clean rags
Brake cleaning fluid
Tripod preferably an elevating variety
Window cleaner
Rotating laser and hand-held receiver
Make sure your sensors are charged
Grade rod
Cable ties, conduit, and sticky cable mounts for a clean cab
Prestart Checklist #2 Machine Checks
Have you got a SAFE and SUITABLE location for the installation?
This calibration process requires a bit of space to operate the machine in. You’ll be rotating the cab 360 360°and fully extending the booms and bucket. Find an area where you can do this safely.
This area will need to provide a stable and level footing for you and the machine. It is crucial that the machine is level left to right to aid in calibration of the boom and dipper. An excavator tipping forward/backward at an angle is acceptable.
Machine checks before you start:
Is the excavator in good working order:
Pins and bushings are well greased? A sloppy machine equals a potentially sloppy calibration and an inaccurate system.
No Hydraulic problems? Does the boom stay raised and doesn’t drop when left in a high position? If so, you’ll not be able to calibrate the Boom and Dipper Sensors correctly and the system will not be accurate.
Complete cabling setup
Check the power outlet
Can the machine supply 12V and/or 24V?
Is the power supply stable and not drop or turn off?
If power is not available, check for a blown fuse or corrosion in the receptacle.
Does the cigarette lighter plug fit securely into the accessory plug?
Hardware Installation
Step 1 Installation of LED Display and Control Box
Machine needs to be powered OFF
Before plugging in the cables, find suitable locations to mount the LED Cradle and ControlBox Cradle.
The LED Display should be put on the front window so that is in your field of vision of the working area outside.
If there is no window, you’ll need to use the optional C Clamp to mount on the bar.
The Control Box is usually mounted onto the right hand side window and at a distance that is comfortably reached by hand.
Allow clearance for the front window to be opened or slid up into the roof.
Use window cleaner to clean both the glass and the suction cup mounts to achieve good adhesion.
Attach cables to the LED and Control Box Cradles. Secure the cables with conduit, cable ties, etc.
DO NOT PLUG IN POWER until AFTER the 2D Sensor is installed.
Control Box SetupOptional C Clamp
Step 2 Installation of 2D Sensor
Locating a suitable spot to install the 2D Sensor is worthwhile taking some time to get right. You are looking for a place that:
Is accessible the Sensor is able to be reached and removed from its mounting plate with the removal key without interference.
Sensor will be level and facing forward.
Arrows on the top of the sensor need be installed facing toward the front of the cab.
The Sensor ideally needs to be placed in a spot that is level to the floor of the cab.
Installing the 2D Sensor on a tilt is acceptable if a level location is unable to be found.
A maximum angle of 3030°on both axis is OK.
Is free from vibration
Avoid plastic molding that is removable as this can vibrate when the machine is running.
Has adequate space for cable and plug
The communication cable is not under tension. Use an extra XD418 cable if more length is required.
The cable and plug into the sensor sticks out approximately 1” from the edge of the sensor. 2 3” clearance is desirable to avoid complications with the cable bending to sharply.
Will not be subject to knocks or damage
Avoid areas where tools are commonly stored.
On some machines, under the floormats to the side of the operators feet is the only location. Take care to make a safe place where the Sensor and cable will not be affected.
Quinn Equipment, Inc. was founded in 1967 by Charles and Marjorie Quinn to represent manufacturers in the distribution of construction related products.
