A Smarter, Semi- Automatic Excavator

Komatsu’s new PC210LCi- 11 hydraulic excavator with Intelligent Machine Control builds on the success of the PC210LCi first-generation model, enhancing overall efficiency, according to Komatsu America Corp.

A notable addition is greater machine-control joystick functionality compared to the PC210LCi-10. Frequently used machine-control functions are now located on the operator’s control lever. The result is greater operator convenience, Komatsu said.

Intelligent Machine Control

Komatsu’s Intelligent Machine Control provides up to a 63% improvement in excavating efficiency over a standard PC210LC-11 excavator and traditional staking/grade-checking methods, the manufacturer said. Consequently, public works departments can lower costs associated with grading dozers and grade checkers as well as costs arising from over-excavating.

“This excavator is productive and precise enough to be a fixture on jobsites from basement and foundation pads to utility work,” said Sebastian Witkowski, product marketing manager for Komatsu America. “In addition to the industry-leading efficiency all machine owners look for, the added convenience of the machine- control joystick functionality should make operators happy too.”

Minimizes Over-Excavation

The factory-installed Intelligent Machine Control system delivers semi-automatic operation of work equipment. The integrated system comes standard with stroke sensing hydraulic cylinders, global navigation satellite system components, and an inertial measurement unit sensor. The Intelligent Machine Control uses 3D design data loaded in the control box to precisely check its position against the target. If the bucket hits the target surface, it’s semi-automatically limited to minimize over-excavation, according to the manufacturer. If the operator turns off auto mode, the excavator can be operated with highly accurate and responsive machine guidance.

While engaging the auto grade assist function, the operator moves the arm and the boom adjusts the bucket height automatically and traces the target surface to minimize digging too deep. As a result, the operator can perform rough digging without worrying about the design surface, and perform fine digging by operating the arm lever only. The operator can further expand the working range by holding the lever to move the boom downward, Komatsu explained. During boom or bucket operation, the work equipment automatically comes to a halt when the bucket edge reaches the design surface.

The PC210LCi-11 excavator controls the bucket by automatically selecting the point on the bucket closest to the target surface. If the machine isn’t facing a sloped surface at a right angle, the excavator will still follow the target surface and minimize digging below it.

The machine’s Komatsu SAA6D107E-3 165-hp diesel engine is Tier 4 Final certified.