Digitalization is a key driver of efficiency and quality in earthmoving. Liebherr has consistently integrated digital technologies into the development and operation of its machines. The Generation 8 crawler dozers are a prime example of this approach: equipped with operator assistance systems, they support precise grading work while simultaneously reducing the operator workload.
The integrated assistance systems, Free Grade, Definition Grade and 3D Grade, are fully embedded in the machine architecture and follow a clearly structured, scalable concept. Depending on project requirements, customers can select the appropriate level of support, from standard blade stabilization to creating precise 2D surfaces up to the creation of full 3D surfaces, with GNSS-based machine control.
Free Grade: active blade stabilization as standard
Free Grade is included as standard in all Generation 8 crawler dozers. The system provides active blade stabilization in longitudinal and lateral directions, assisting the operator in achieving a consistently high surface quality.
By automatically compensating for unevenness and stabilizing blade movements, Free Grade supports fine grading on flat terrain as well as on slopes and embankments. The reduction of manual correction movements increases efficiency and ensures uniform grading results over long distances. At the same time, the operator benefits from intuitive visualization of blade and machine position via the integrated display.
Definition Grade: precise 2D grading without additional infrastructure
With Definition Grade, Liebherr expands the functionality of Free Grade by adding automatic blade control for two-dimensional grading tasks. Target slopes and reference surfaces can be defined directly via the machine display. The integrated sensor system automatically maintains the specified blade position in both directions.
As Definition Grade operates without external components such as laser transmitters or GNSS base stations, it is a cost-effective solution for every application where an absolute reference starting point is available without restrictions in quality. The system contributes to higher productivity, reduces surveying effort and consistently precise grading results.
3D Grade: GNSS-based machine control for complex terrain models
For demanding projects involving complex geometries, Liebherr offers the 3D Grade system for Generation 8 crawler dozers. The ex-factory integration of external GNSS-based machine control systems enables automatic blade control according to digital terrain models.
The system continuously compares the current blade position with the stored project data and automatically adjusts the blade to the target profile. This ensures precise implementation of three-dimensional surfaces in large-scale infrastructure projects, commercial site development, and road construction. The factory-prepared integration guarantees optimal coordination between hardware and software and supports seamless digital workflows from planning to execution.
Digitalization along the entire value chain
The operator assistance systems are part of Liebherr’s comprehensive digital concept. During development, modern simulation and virtual prototyping methods are used to optimize performance, efficiency, visibility, noise emissions, and vibration behavior at an early stage.
Digital solutions also support customers in procurement and service. Complementary digital service solutions provide access to machine data, maintenance planning, and technical support. With the Generation 8 crawler dozers, Liebherr demonstrates how digital technologies and practical application expertise can be combined into a coordinated overall system. The result is increased efficiency, maximum precision, and sustainable value creation for customers worldwide.
