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They probably mean a laser-based "grade control system" - such as the Trimble GCS900, CAT Accugrade and similar.

The idea is, instead of having the heavy equipment operator move some dirt then someone following with survey equipment and telling him he removed too much or too little, the survey equipment is mounted right on the blade/bucket and automatically gets the height right on the first pass.



In this video an excavator operator explains the use of a very simple laser grading system: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sklWQQGnC4o

And of course there are much more sophisticated systems available including automated control of the blade. Pretty much standard equipment on any construction project today.




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