Trimble, Vermeer combine solutions for solar farm construction automation

Trimble Groundworks machine control fitted to a Vermeer pile driver. The solution is said to help automate solar farm construction. Image: Trimble

The system enables the pile driver to move automatically to planned pile locations and optimise the steps needed to drive piles to the correct depth with minimal operator input.

The companies said the technology allows one operator to complete work that would typically require two or three people, while also reducing operator fatigue and cutting navigation time.

“With the boom in energy requirements around the world, many energy companies are looking to solar to help them meet both economic and emissions goals,” said Ed Savage, lead product manager at Vermeer.

“Leveraging Trimble machine control technology with Vermeer pile driving technology has the capability to change the way solar farms are built.”

Project managers can also access real-time data through Trimble WorksManager, a cloud-based platform that provides reporting on production and quality. The system enables remote monitoring of project progress and troubleshooting, helping maintain consistent piling rates.

“The combination of machine control and remote-control pile drivers represents the next step on the road to autonomy and has the potential to vastly improve worker safety, productivity, speed and accuracy on solar projects,” said Elwyn McLachlan, vice president of civil solutions at Trimble.

Trimble Groundworks is now available for Vermeer PD10R and PD25R pile drivers worldwide through the SITECH distribution channel.