Who is A.I.D.E?
A.I.D.E. is a computer and topographic services company that has been working for more than 25 years with civil engineering and public works companies, both regionally and nationally. Based in Saint Esteve, France since its creation in 1994, A.I.D.E. is specialized and recognized in the supply of electronic precision measurement sensors for applications related to positioning. In 2016, French company BRIDGIN, proposed a collaboration opportunity with A.I.D.E. owner and manager, Gerald Couturier, on the development and implementation of an excavator system, the IDIG-2D.
Application overview
The Guidaide application, a 3D shovel guidance system, allows construction drivers to work in sites that may not be optimal for excavators, such as horizontal platforms, single or double slopes, trenches, basins, and linear projects. Using a bar-graph light indicator to signal the excavator shovel’s movements, the system also uses Trimble’s high-precision GNSS technology to display highly accurate readings of the shovel’s position.
Solutions overview
With past experience working with Trimble and having a need for high-precision GNSS, Couturier selected Trimble solutions for the excavator system. Couturier felt that Trimble Integrated Technologies products were best suited for their GNSS solution because of their cost, and first class support.
The following solutions were integrated into the excavator shovel guidance system:
Trimble BX982 and BD982
Trimble AG25 antennas: For RTX frequency support
Solar-powered wireless sensor, with the possibility
System benefits
Easy transfer from one machine to another, with quick installation and calibration.
Project machine format (MNT, DXF) compatible with projects prepared on other topo calculation software
Simple and intuitive menus/visuals
Remote troubleshooting, remote control and project transferIncreased productivity
Permanent control
Economics of materials and fuels
Increases job site safety (less staff in machine work area)