Leica and Caterpillar announce ‘strategic cooperation’

Leica Geosystems and Caterpillar now offer simplified installation of the Leica MC1 3D machine control technology into the Caterpillar Next Gen 2D excavators

Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon, announced at ConExpo a new option for Caterpillar Next Gen Hydraulic (NGH) excavator users to leverage Leica Geosystems’ 3D machine control solution with Cat Assist features.

Described as a ‘strategic cooperation’ Leica Geosystems and Caterpillar now offer simplified installation of the Leica MC1 3D machine control technology into the Caterpillar Next Gen 2D excavators.

The company says that the enhanced interoperability will provide customers with simpler installation of the Leica MC1 3D machine control solution as an aftermarket system on existing Caterpillar’s standard NGH.

Customers can inquire about minimum compatibility requirements for 3D machine control solutions for Caterpillar Next Gen 2D excavators at their local Cat dealer. The sale and support of the Leica MC1 3D machine control system will be handled by authorised Leica Geosystems distributors.

The Leica MC1 machine control system is designed to assist the operator to precisely achieve the planned design. Design information and real-time cut/fill indications are displayed in the cab on the Leica MCP80 control panel, allowing operators to efficiently excavate to the reference design.

Lecia says that the solution ensures higher accuracy and operator satisfaction while increasing productivity and sustainability.

“Leica Geosystems’ leading GNSS positioning and software technology coupled with Caterpillar´s world-class and powerful excavators provide a ready-to-use solution to construction professionals aiming to increase productivity on the jobsite,” says Rainer Bippen, OEM Director at Leica Geosystems.