Process & Technology
Process & Technology
Process & Technology
Our Process & Technology for Accurate Sitework in Kansas City
A project only runs smoothly when the ground is built right. At ICON, every job starts with clean data and a constructible 3D model. With our full Topcon workflow—data → model → automated grading → verification—we build your site to exact elevations and keep your costs predictable from day one.
Why Our Process Matters for Cost, Schedule & Accuracy
We don't guess when we grade. Our technology lets us see your site on screen before we ever move dirt, so bids are based on real quantities—not rough estimates.
Our Process: Step by Step
1. Data Collection & 3D Modeling
2. Machine Control & Automated Earthmoving
3. Verification, As-Built Mapping & Quality Control
Before any dirt moves, we capture accurate topography and convert engineer’s plans into a build-ready model.
What We Do:
Shoot elevations, boundaries, and control points using survey-grade GPS.
Collect layout data with a robotic total station where GPS struggles.
Merge field data and plan sheets to create a clean 3D surface model for grading.
Technology We Use:
Topcon FC-6400 Data Collector for field measurements and layout
Topcon Base & Rover (GNSS) for survey-grade real-time position
Topcon LN-160 Robotic Total Station for precision layout in tight or obstructed areas
Topcon Office Modeling Software to build the 3D model and machine files
Why It Matters:
This becomes the “source of truth” the entire project follows—cut/fill quantities, drainage paths, building pads, and roadway grades all start here.
1. Data Collection & 3D Modeling
2. Machine Control & Automated Earthmoving
3. Verification, As-Built Mapping & Quality Control
Before any dirt moves, we capture accurate topography and convert engineer’s plans into a build-ready model.
What We Do:
Shoot elevations, boundaries, and control points using survey-grade GPS.
Collect layout data with a robotic total station where GPS struggles.
Merge field data and plan sheets to create a clean 3D surface model for grading.
Technology We Use:
Topcon FC-6400 Data Collector for field measurements and layout
Topcon Base & Rover (GNSS) for survey-grade real-time position
Topcon LN-160 Robotic Total Station for precision layout in tight or obstructed areas
Topcon Office Modeling Software to build the 3D model and machine files
Why It Matters:
This becomes the “source of truth” the entire project follows—cut/fill quantities, drainage paths, building pads, and roadway grades all start here.
1. Data Collection & 3D Modeling
2. Machine Control & Automated Earthmoving
3. Verification, As-Built Mapping & Quality Control
Before any dirt moves, we capture accurate topography and convert engineer’s plans into a build-ready model.
What We Do:
Shoot elevations, boundaries, and control points using survey-grade GPS.
Collect layout data with a robotic total station where GPS struggles.
Merge field data and plan sheets to create a clean 3D surface model for grading.
Technology We Use:
Topcon FC-6400 Data Collector for field measurements and layout
Topcon Base & Rover (GNSS) for survey-grade real-time position
Topcon LN-160 Robotic Total Station for precision layout in tight or obstructed areas
Topcon Office Modeling Software to build the 3D model and machine files
Why It Matters:
This becomes the “source of truth” the entire project follows—cut/fill quantities, drainage paths, building pads, and roadway grades all start here.
How Our Technology Protects Your Budget
We may not always be the lowest bid—but our clients appreciate that our numbers don't balloon halfway through the job.
Where this process shines
Where this process shines
Where this process shines
Projects We Support With GPS-Accurate Grading
Any site that depends on accurate elevations, drainage, or subgrade performance benefits from this workflow.
Service Area — Kansas City Metro & Surrounding Cities
Based in Grain Valley, ICON serves the entire Kansas City metro, including: Blue Springs, Lee’s Summit, Independence, Liberty, Raytown, Oak Grove, Belton, Raymore, Pleasant Hill, and nearby rural communities. Out-of-area bids considered for the right projects.
Need work outside the metro?
Just ask — we travel for the right projects.
FAQ: ICON’s Process & Technology
How accurate is GPS-guided grading?
Our GNSS and robotic total station systems provide survey-grade accuracy. This lets us build pads, roads, and drainage features within tight tolerances.
What does the 3D model include?
The model includes subgrade elevations, finished surfaces, slopes, crowns, ditches, and any design features needed for construction. It’s the digital map our machines follow.
Do you still use stakes on GPS jobs?
Stakes are minimized. We still use control points and benchmarks, but most grading is driven by the model and machine control.
How does machine control impact cost?
Accurate grading reduces wasted material, rework, and time spent chasing grade. This keeps overall project costs more predictable.
What do as-built reports show?
As-builts compare the finished surface to design elevations. Owners, engineers, and paving contractors use them to confirm tolerance and drainage performance.
How accurate is GPS-guided grading?
Our GNSS and robotic total station systems provide survey-grade accuracy. This lets us build pads, roads, and drainage features within tight tolerances.
What does the 3D model include?
The model includes subgrade elevations, finished surfaces, slopes, crowns, ditches, and any design features needed for construction. It’s the digital map our machines follow.
Do you still use stakes on GPS jobs?
Stakes are minimized. We still use control points and benchmarks, but most grading is driven by the model and machine control.
How does machine control impact cost?
Accurate grading reduces wasted material, rework, and time spent chasing grade. This keeps overall project costs more predictable.
What do as-built reports show?
As-builts compare the finished surface to design elevations. Owners, engineers, and paving contractors use them to confirm tolerance and drainage performance.
How accurate is GPS-guided grading?
Our GNSS and robotic total station systems provide survey-grade accuracy. This lets us build pads, roads, and drainage features within tight tolerances.
What does the 3D model include?
The model includes subgrade elevations, finished surfaces, slopes, crowns, ditches, and any design features needed for construction. It’s the digital map our machines follow.
Do you still use stakes on GPS jobs?
Stakes are minimized. We still use control points and benchmarks, but most grading is driven by the model and machine control.
How does machine control impact cost?
Accurate grading reduces wasted material, rework, and time spent chasing grade. This keeps overall project costs more predictable.
What do as-built reports show?
As-builts compare the finished surface to design elevations. Owners, engineers, and paving contractors use them to confirm tolerance and drainage performance.