Earthworks for Dozers
Grade Control for Dozers
Running on time vs out of time
Trimble Earthworks for Dozers is an advanced grade control system designed to improve grading accuracy, reduce rework and increase machine productivity. Whether you require 2D grade control for simple applications or full 3D grade control for complex site designs, the Trimble Earthworks platform delivers precise blade control and real-time design guidance directly in the cab.

The Trimble® Earthworks Grade Control Platform offers your dozer operators cab-mounted portability, a user-friendly Android™ UI, and the convenience of a 10-inch touch screen. Simply put, it helps new and veteran operators do things right the first time, and in less time, than ever before.
What Is Trimble Earthworks for Dozers?
Trimble Earthworks for Dozers is a construction technology solution that automates blade positioning and grading accuracy through integrated GNSS technology and intuitive Android-based software. It is part of the broader Trimble Earthworks construction platform used globally to optimise earthworks construction and machine productivity.
This grade control system continuously compares the dozer blade position to the digital design surface and provides real-time cut and fill information in the cab. Operators can follow design alignments automatically, improving situational awareness while increasing precision and efficiency.
As a connected machine control system, Earthworks for Dozers reduces dependency on survey staking and manual grade checks while improving overall site coordination.
Trimble® Earthworks for Dozers Grade Control Platform is designed to help you do more in less time. Reengineered from the ground up, our innovative, next generation grade control platform features intuitive, easy-to-learn software that runs on an Android operating system.
State-of-the-art software and hardware give operators of all skill levels the ability to work faster and more productively than ever before.

Intuitive Software
The Trimble Earthworks grade control app runs on the new 10-inch (25.7 cm) Trimble TD520 touch-screen Android display.
The software was created in collaboration with construction equipment operators around the world, so the interface is optimized for ease-of-use and productivity.

Horizontal Steering Control
Automatically control the machine to follow any horizontal alignment from the 3D model. This allows the operator to focus on grade, machine productivity and safety rather than worrying about steering, for increased situational awareness, better accuracy and improved productivity with decreased overlap and fewer passes.

Cab-mounted Portability
Trimble Earthworks for Dozers mounts dual GNSS receivers on top of the cab to eliminate masts and cables traditionally located on the blade.
The dual GNSS receivers are ideal for steep slope work and complex designs with tight tolerances.
Configuration Options for Dozers

3D Grade Control for Dozers
3D grade control for dozers uses dual GNSS receivers mounted on the cab and digital 3D site models to automate blade control. The system calculates real-time cut and fill values and automatically adjusts the blade to match the design elevation.
This solution is ideal for large infrastructure projects, mining support, site development and road construction where precision and productivity are critical. With automatic blade control and horizontal steering functionality, operators can achieve millimetre-level accuracy with fewer passes.
Bulk Earthworks
- Display design information and live cut/fill indications in the cab
- Monitor avoidance zones with real-time information
- Collect as-built data as the machine cuts to grade Keep tighter control over safety issues
- See precisely where dirt is being moved on site
Grading
- Determine the position of each tip of the blade and compare it to the design elevation to compute cut or fill to grade
- Drive the valves for automatic blade control or view in-cab lightbars based on the cut or fill data
- Control the machine’s automatic blade control settings in real-time
- Adjust the machine’s response to differing material conditions
- Optimize the machine’s performance for a particular grading task
Finished Grading
- Achieve finished grade to millimetre accuracy with fewer passes
- Place finished grade materials more accurately and in a shorter time period
- Keep the material costs to a minimum and realize better profits
2D Grade Control for Dozers
The 2D grade control system uses laser receivers, slope sensors and elevation references to guide blade movement. It is an ideal first investment for contractors new to machine control systems and looking to improve grading consistency.
2D grade control provides accurate elevation and slope guidance, helping operators reach grade quickly while reducing rework and material waste. The system can be easily upgraded to 3D grade control as project complexity increases.
Grading
- Use a single laser and laser receiver to measure the lift and tilt of the blade
- Add another laser receiver or a slope sensor to measure the slope of the blade
- Get elevation and slope guidance to get to grade quickly and accurately
- Easily upgrade to a 3D grade control system
Not sure whether to choose 2D or 3D grade control for dozers? Use the quick comparison below to match the right setup to your project complexity, accuracy requirements and upgrade path.
2D vs 3D Grade Control for Dozers
| Feature | 2D Grade Control | 3D Grade Control |
|---|---|---|
| Guidance | Laser and slope sensors | Dual GNSS receivers and 3D models |
| Best for | Simple grading projects and site preparation | Complex infrastructure, road construction and tight tolerances |
| Upgrade path | Entry-level system that can be upgraded | Full automation with connected workflows |
| Accuracy | High, depending on site control | Millimetre-level precision with fewer passes |
Request a Quotation
Please complete the form below, and a SITECH SA representative will contact you to assist.
Key Benefits of
Earthworks for Dozers
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Achieve finished grade with millimetre accuracy
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Reduce material waste and overcutting
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Increase machine productivity and site efficiency
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Minimise rework and manual grade checks
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Improve operator confidence and safety
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Seamlessly upgrade from 2D to 3D grade control
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Integrate with connected construction site workflows
By improving grading precision and reducing unnecessary machine passes, Trimble Earthworks for Dozers helps contractors improve profitability on every project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is grade control for dozers?
Grade control for dozers is a machine control system that uses GNSS receivers, sensors and digital site models to guide blade movement and achieve accurate grading. It provides real-time cut and fill information in the cab, helping operators reach finished grade faster and with greater precision.
What is the difference between 2D and 3D grade control for dozers?
2D grade control uses lasers and slope sensors to guide blade elevation and tilt. 3D grade control uses dual GNSS receivers and digital 3D models to automate blade positioning across complex designs and infrastructure projects. 3D systems provide higher accuracy and greater automation.
How accurate is Trimble Earthworks for Dozers?
Trimble Earthworks can achieve millimetre-level accuracy when configured with 3D grade control and dual GNSS technology. Accuracy depends on site conditions and system configuration.
Does Trimble Earthworks reduce material waste?
Yes. By providing real-time blade guidance and reducing overcutting, Trimble Earthworks helps contractors minimise material waste, reduce rework and improve overall project profitability.
Is Earthworks compatible with all dozers?
Trimble Earthworks for Dozers is compatible with a wide range of leading dozer brands. SITECH SA can advise on compatibility, installation and configuration.