Abstract:
A laser or similar electromagnetic radiation with a lens system for converting the beam into a flat reference plane fanning outwardly from its source includes a vertical reference and control circuits drivingly connected to the lens system whereby the beam path can be maintained in the flat reference plane and at a preselected angle relative to true vertical as its supporting vehicle varies in attitude. The radiation source and lens system are mounted upon an earthmoving vehicle having an earthworking blade or similar tool which includes spaced apart optical sensors secured thereon which are connected to control circuits adjusting such blade or tool. These control circuits continuously adjust such blade or tool to a predetermined relationship relative to the flat reference plane of radiation, notwithstanding deflections or distortion in the machine frame. By mounting the radiation source and lens system along with its controls so that they are vertically adjustable on the vehicle, the height of the reference plane of radiation can be adjusted relative to an external reference thereby providing automatic control for a blade or tool in both slope and grade.