Overview
Grading is the second leveling method in PVX.AI, allowing you to perform cut-heavy or fill-heavy earthwork operations. Unlike Smoothing, you can set independent limits on cut depth and fill height. This guide covers how to grade terrain using this method.
Prerequisites
A surface model and a defined PV area must be created.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Open the leveling tool
Navigate to the Leveling menu and select your parcel boundary.
2. Choose the Grading method
Select Grading as the leveling method.
3. Enter slope limits
Enter the north-south and east-west slope limits.
4. Set cut and fill limits
Set the maximum cut depth and maximum fill height independently. For example, you can leave the cut depth unlimited while capping fill height at 1 meter. PVX.AI will then create a cut-heavy plan that minimizes fill volumes.
5. Enable options and start
Activate Keep Original Terrain, Cut Fill Map, and Slope Analyzer. Run the process and PVX.AI will create the optimal grading plan within your specified limits.
Tips & Recommendations
- For cut-heavy grading, set a low fill limit (e.g., 0.5-1 m).
- For fill-heavy grading, keep the cut limit close to zero.
- Compare Grading and Smoothing results to choose the best method for your project.
- Try different slope and depth combinations to optimize earthwork costs.