Inside the JCB Factory 3D Control the Future of Digging

To find out more Peter Haddock took a walk around the heavy excavator facility in Uttoxeter with Assembly Manager Tom Whitaker.  

Tom: "What we're doing here is taking a piece of steel and transforming it into a finished product, complete with the latest 3D or 2D control systems.

"This isn't an aftermarket bolt-on solution, it's integrated right from the start with our product design team working hand in hand with Leica Geosystems engineers."

In the facility, the journey starts with raw steel being shaped, welded, and assembled into a robust revolver frame. From there, brackets for sensors are integrated into other key components like the boom and stick as the metal moves through the paint shop, ensuring the iconic JCB yellow is flawless and durable. 

Tom: "Quality is really important throughout the process as the machines undergo 16 quality checks before they leave the factory. "Every stage, from engineering to paint to assembly, ensures the structure and technology are uncompromised."

"A key part of this is how we have integrated the machine control wiring into our harnesses during assembly.

"This enables us to eliminate pinch points or potential failures as every part is designed to work together, reducing the need for later modifications and ensuring reliability."

Moving onto the all important cab, which is manufactured just down the road.

Tom added:  "By working with our cab design colleagues with the factory fit, there's no awkward cutting into panels or running wires. It's all been optimised to protect the operator's environment, whilst keeping everything easy to use."

JCB also collaborates closely with its dealer network, that is supported with training from Leica Geosystem for the final customer handover: Tom concluded: "We provide machines ready for 2D or 3D configuration, leaving the final calibration to our dealer network.That ensures customers get exactly what they need, tailored to their attachments and job site requirements."

Peter added: "When we got to the end of the line, the machine that was being tested was actually being exported to a customer in Germany who was already eager to take advantage of the new factory fit solution. 

"Thanks to Tom and the team for allowing us to get an exclusive look behind the scenes. I love making these sorts of videos that, in this case, showcase UK manufacturing at its best."