In our ever-upgrading world, one of the things that you can always count on changing is technology. We can do things today that we couldn't do 10 years ago thanks to our evolving and improving technology, and the next 10 years will lead to more continuous improvements. Technology on the Vermeer surface miner has also changed drastically. What once was a wish list has now become a reality.

These technological advances have allowed the Vermeer surface miner to incorporate features including real-time machine data, GPS technology and a full-function remote control , each helping to maximize operator efficiency and jobsite productivity. Here's a breakdown of the three features.

REAL-TIME MACHINE DATA

SmartTEC performance software helps operators monitor machine functions to maximize production and get access to real-time data. The software has a clean dash display that shows the status of the most critical elements of machine performance and gives you visual cues to increase ground drive or attachment speed to maximize your machine's production.

Along with this software, Vermeer Telematics allows the Vermeer dealer, customers and owners to remotely monitor and record machine information, performance prompts, maintenance codes and machine diagnostics for future analysis.

"The Vermeer Telematics tool gives you access to around-the-clock mobile machine monitoring and reporting in real time," said Mike Selover, a Vermeer mining sales manager.

With this data, you have full control of the tools you need to be as efficient as possible on your jobsite.

GPS TECHNOLOGY

The Vermeer surface miner can also be equipped with AutoSteer, when coupled with GPS control. This GPS technology can be utilized when following a programmed, GPS mine plan, allowing the machine to automatically steer straight sections of the GPS mine plan. This minimizes operator steps and is the most efficient way to use a Vermeer surface miner.

This also helps minimize operator error and steering corrections, provides for a consistent minimal overlap of each pass and maximizes the drum cutting efficiency.

"The operator is required to manually turn the Vermeer surface miner around after each pass and, once back within the GPS programmed straight-cut plan, AutoSteer will cut to the programmed mine plan to the end of the straight section," explained Selover. "Then the operator will be engaged again to turn the machine around. This can maximize your tons per hour and optimize your cost per ton."

FULL-FUNCTION REMOTE CONTROL

Then there's the optional full-function remote control. This allows you to remotely operate the machine in person and control the attachment for select jobsite conditions in surface mining, site prep and road or pipeline construction.

"The remote control can be especially helpful when working near a high wall, water hazard or loading and unloading onto a trailer," said Selover.

Put those three features together and you have a surface miner that's equipped with advanced technology for the mine site. Get real-time machine data, utilize GPS technology to increase your efficiency and take advantage of the full-function remote control when you need it most. This is the future of surface mining, and the realization of several technological advances applied to the mining industry.

Who knows where the next 10 years of technology will take us, but the part we do know is that it'll continue to change and make jobsites productive and efficient.

For more information about the Terrain Leveler® surface excavation machine (SEM) and its features, contact your local dealer today.

Vermeer Corporation reserves the right to make changes in engineering, design and specifications; add improvements; or discontinue manufacturing at any time without notice or obligation. Equipment shown is for illustrative purposes only and may display optional accessories or components specific to their global region. Please contact your local Vermeer dealer for more information on machine specifications.

Vermeer, the Vermeer logo and Terrain Leveler are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries. © 2021 Vermeer Corporation. All Rights Reserved.