Over the course of Fieldays 2021 we had the opportunity to show off some of the latest innovations in next generation construction technology. It’s been a big year for Synergy so far, and at Fieldays we had plenty of product demos to elevate awareness around these new and exciting solutions in New Zealand.
The positive atmosphere around our live demonstrations was encouraging, and showed that Kiwis are curious to learn more about the latest technology that can maximise efficiency in construction and agriculture. Keep reading to see our wrap up of Fieldays 2021 and watch a few of the highlights – you’ll feel like you were there.
Topcon's X-53x with the LN-150 Robotic Total Station
We had our latest generation X-53x excavator system on display connected to the Yanmar SV100, and focused on demonstrating the capabilities of the new LN-150 self-levelling robotic total station by Topcon.
The beauty of the LN-150 is that it doesn’t rely on satellite tracking or base stations. Instead, it uses optical angles and distancing to measure the prism on top of the cab of the excavator, in combination with IMU sensors within the excavator system, which gives the machine it’s heading and position down to the bucket. This opens up the possibilities in regard to the location of your site, where access to satellites and sky view might be obstructed - working under a building, or a thick bush canopy, for instance.
We were also excited to talk about Topcon's additional pre-release of the slew sensor, which allows you to slew an offset boom excavator more accurately, giving the bucket position left and right. This is something that has been highly anticipated by the market, so we were stoked to be able to share that with everyone who came to have a look!
On that note, we’d like to say a huge thank you to our friends at TransDiesel who supplied us with both the Yanmar excavator, and the Volvo 145 to show off our Steelwrist Tiltrotator. Our interactive displays wouldn’t be possible without their help.
The Steelwrist Tiltrotator
Another show-stopper that we had on display was the Steelwrist Tiltrotator. With this amazing piece of technology, we could show the audience some of the latest possibilities in earthmoving efficiency. The crowd was amazed by the angles that could be achieved, and the smooth operation of the system.
As you can see in this video, the operation is effortless and accurate. The operator is able to manoeuvre the attachment to achieve the exact angle needed for the task at hand.
We also demonstrated a number of attachments, including a sweeper, bucket, grapple and pallet fork, which only scratches the surface of what Steelwrist has available. Using different attachments is also incredibly simple, with the machine doing most of the work for you - as you can see in the video below.
It wasn’t surprising that the Steelwrist display brought in a big audience of eager viewers, considering what it’s capable of, and how mesmerising it can be to watch. It was awesome to hear how excited people were to see this innovative piece of technology, and how it opened their minds up to what was becoming possible in construction. If you’d like to learn more about the Steelwrist Tiltrotator, click here.
The MC-X Machine Control System
We also had the opportunity to display the brand new SharpGradeR skid steer attachment, which we had fitted to the John Deere 333g Compact Track Loader, kindly provided to us by AgrowQuip.
This was connected to Topcon’s MC-X machine control system - the latest release for Dozers, with the Grader system only a few months away.
The Next-Gen MC-X system uses multi-constellation GNSS to offer the latest technology and the best performance using the new GR-i3 GNSS receivers. The system is interchangeable between machines, meaning you could move the control screen as well as the GNSS receivers from your excavator to your dozer, considerably lowering the cost of investment.
Topcon’s MX-C machine control uses a new mastless dozer system with new IMU sensors and the up to date Version 15 of 3DMC machine control software, enabling smooth operation and increasing operator visibility. The modular platform also lets you update the system as new and improved options are available, allowing you to stay on top of the latest updates to the technology.
Connecting with Kiwis
Aside from showing off a range of the latest class-leading equipment to hit New Zealand, Fieldays was an awesome opportunity to connect with the agriculture and construction communities, and build awareness around how increased efficiency, productivity and safety can be achieved using next generation equipment.
We’re proud to be introducing some of these innovative products to Kiwis, and loved seeing the younger generation get just as excited about them as we are. We can’t wait to see how the future of construction evolves in New Zealand and we’re already looking forward to Fieldays 2022. If you want to talk more about how this next-gen tech can bring a whole new level of productivity to your projects, get in touch with our team today.
