As automation continues to transform the construction industry, manufacturers are developing new technologies that help contractors improve efficiency, accuracy and productivity on the job site.
Responding to increased demand for stringless paving solutions, Easi-Pour and Topcon Positioning Systems have integrated their technologies to deliver a more automated concrete paving solution for curb, gutter, sidewalk and barrier work.
The integration combines Easi-Pour's iSlip Control System with Topcon's 3D machine control technology to create a fully automated, stringless paving system designed to reduce material waste, accelerate project timelines and improve surface smoothness and consistency, according to Easi-Pour and Topcon. Contractors using the system report measurable gains in production efficiency while maintaining high-quality paving standards.
"The Topcon system works with the advanced iSlip Control Systems," said Curtis Bales, sales manager of Easi-Pour. "It is designed to better automate machine control and increase machine capabilities to enable accurate, stringless concrete paving for curbs, gutter, sidewalks and barriers."
Topcon's 3D machine control technologies, including Local Positioning Systems (LPS) and exclusive Millimeter GPS system for curbers, eliminate the need for traditional stringline by guiding Easi-Pour curbers with millimeter-level accuracy. The technology allows contractors to load digital project models directly into the machine control system, reducing setup time while improving paving precision.
According to Daniel Peters, senior manager of Concrete Paving Products of Topcon Positioning Group, the relationship between the companies has played a critical role in the success of the integration.
"The cooperation, integrity and trust between Easi-Pour and Topcon has been paramount," Peters said. "The system is successful because of the collaboration between the manufacturer, Topcon, and the dealer network supporting the contractor in the field."
Peters added that dealer support is a key component of successful implementation.
"Easi-Pour, Topcon and the dealer work directly with the paving contractor to ensure the machine is ready, all systems are functioning properly, and crews have the confidence and training necessary to perform at a high level," Peters said.
RDO Equipment Co. serves as a major authorized dealer for Topcon Positioning Systems, providing sales, service and support for machine control, laser and surveying technologies used throughout the construction industry.
The integrated Topcon system is currently available on the Easi-Pour 880 TRP curb machine and the Easi-Pour 1000, a heavy-duty four-track slipform concrete paver designed for high-production curb, gutter, sidewalk and barrier applications.
"This is all about quality and time savings compared to traditional methods," Bales said. "Contractors using the integrated system can expect a technology game-changer for concrete paving operations."
By eliminating labor-intensive survey staking and reducing reliance on stringline, contractors can expect faster project startup, increased production rates and improved overall jobsite efficiency, according to Easi-Pour and Topcon.
As adoption of automated paving technology continues to expand, the collaboration between Easi-Pour, Topcon and supporting dealers is helping contractors transition to more efficient and precise paving operations while meeting increasing demands for productivity and quality across the industry.