Wirtgen GmbH has unveiled the "3D Level Pro" automatic leveling system for its W 200i and W 210i large cold milling machines. In rehabilitation projects, particularly on bridge decks, milling depth must be controlled to the millimeter to remove damaged asphalt without damaging the underlying concrete structure or waterproofing membrane. Traditional leveling relies on mechanical "skis" or "sonic skids" that slide on the rough surface, which can introduce errors.
The 3D Level Pro system utilizes four independent "Ultrasonic Sensors" mounted on the milling drum housing. These sensors measure the distance to the road surface without physical contact. The core engineering breakthrough is the "Digital Terrain Model (DTM) Matching." The system imports the project's 3D design file via a USB interface. The machine's onboard computer compares the real-time sensor data with the DTM.
If the system detects a discrepancy (e.g., a pothole that needs to be filled rather than milled), it automatically adjusts the "Leg Cylinders" to compensate, ensuring the milling drum follows the exact contour of the design profile, not the existing road irregularities. Crucially, the system features a "Material Hardness Filter." The ultrasonic signal is processed to filter out "splatter" (loose stones thrown up by the drum). This prevents the machine from reacting to false signals, ensuring a smooth, uniform milling texture. This automation reduces surveying and string-line setup time by 50% and eliminates the risk of over-milling expensive bridge components.
