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4.4 | Setting Zero

What is Zeroing?

Zeroing aligns the machine to the design surface so that Level COMMAND knowscan whereguide the implement to the correct designelevation.

elevation is.

A valid zero is required before Automatic Control can accuratelyoperate guideaccurately. the implement to the intended height.

If the machine is not correctly zeroed, Level COMMAND may display incorrect cut and fill values will be incorrect and Automatic Control may guide the implement to the wrong elevation.

A valid zero should be established whenever:

  • Beginning a new project.

  • Returning to a project after an extended period of time.

  • Changing or relocating the GNSS base station.

  • After performingPerforming major project alignment or terrain alignment changes.

Different project types may require different zeroing methods. The most common workflows are described below.

Benchmark Markers

Level COMMAND separates markers into two categories:

    Benchmark Markers – Used for project alignment and zeroing.

    General Markers – Used for recording locations and points of interest within a project.

    Only Benchmark Markers can be selected when performing a benchmark zero. This helps prevent accidental alignment to an incorrect marker.

    Benchmark Markers may be:

      Imported as part of a design file.

      Created manually using the Create Benchmark option when creating a Marker.

      Generated automatically when creating Plane Origins.

      Because Plane Origins are stored as Benchmark Markers, they can be used later when re-zeroing a Plane Project.

      Zeroing a Plane Project

      Plane Projects are normally zeroed during creation of the Plane itself.

      When the Plane Origin is created using Use GPS, the Plane surface is aligned to the current implement position and elevation. If the Primary and Secondary Slopes are also defined using GPS positions, the Plane will automatically be aligned to those locations as well.

      In most situations no further zeroing is required.

      However, if the project is reopened later, GNSS corrections have changed,later or a different base station is being used, the Plane may need to be re-aligned.

      To re-zero a Plane Project:

      1. Position the implement at the Plane Origin.

      2. Place the implement on the ground surface.

      3. Press More → Zero to Benchmark.

      4. Select the Plane Origin marker.

      5. Press Zero.

      LevelThe COMMANDPlane Origin will recordbe adjusted to match the current implement position and average approximately 30 seconds of GNSS data before updating the Plane position.elevation.

      By default, only elevation is adjusted. Latitude and Longitude can also be adjusted if required by disabling the Elevation Only option.

      Zeroing a Design with a Benchmark

      Many imported designs contain one or more surveyed benchmark locations.

      A benchmark is a known reference point that can be used to accurately align the machine with the design.

      To zero using a benchmark:

      1. Move the machine to the benchmark location.

      2. Place the implement on the benchmark surface.

      3. Press More → Zero to Benchmark.

      4. Select the desired benchmarkBenchmark marker.Marker.

      5. Press Zero.

      Level COMMAND will record and average approximately 30 seconds of GNSS data before applying the alignment.

      Once complete, verify that cut and fill values appear reasonable before beginning work.

      Zeroing a Design without a Benchmark

      If a design does not contain a benchmark, one should be created before beginning work.

      Choose a location that:

      • Is easy to locate again later.

      • Will remain undisturbed throughout the project.

      • Represents a stable reference point.

      To create a benchmark:Benchmark Marker:

      1. Press Marker from the Apply View.

      2. Enter a name such as Benchmark, Bench, BM or MB.

      3. Enable Create Benchmark.

      4. Press Create.

      Once the benchmarkBenchmark Marker has been created, perform the standard benchmark zeroing procedure described above.

      Zeroing to an Existing Surface (Advanced)

      In some situations it may be desirable to align a design to an existing surface rather than a surveyed benchmark.

      This method is commonly used when:

      • A benchmark is unavailable.

      • A known area of finished surface already exists.

      • Minor alignment adjustments are required.

      Choose an area that:

      • Has not been disturbed.

      • Is known to be on grade.

      • Can be located again later if required.

      To align the design:

      1. Position the implement on the chosen location.

      2. Press More → Zero to Benchmark.

      3. Press Offsets.

      4. Press Set Z to Current.

      The design will be shifted vertically so that the current location becomes the new zero reference.

      Creating a marker at this location is recommended so that it can be revisited later for verification.

      Ready to Continue

      Before engaging Automatic Control, verify that:

      ✓ A project is loaded.

      ✓ GNSS receivers have achieved RTK fix.

      ✓ COMMAND Status shows Ready to Engage.

      ✓ A valid zero has been established.

      Continue to 4.5 | Engaging Automatic Control.

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