Optimized Performance for Asphalt Pavers

Pave using a fixed reference or leverage 3D control for variable thickness and greater precision.

Tailor Your Paving System to Fit Your Project and Budget

Topcon asphalt paver systems offer flexible configuration options to match your project’s needs. Choose from entry-level setups that follow a string line or curb, or opt for advanced 3D solutions that track your paver in real time and lay variable-thickness mats—delivering superior smoothness and precision.

Variable Thickness Paving: Eliminate Surface Imperfections

In a perfect scenario, paving occurs over a flawless base—but real-world conditions often include waves, drop-offs, and potholes. Setting a fixed screed depth in these cases can cause imperfections to reappear on the finished surface.

Variable thickness paving dynamically adjusts the screed height to average out high and low points, resulting in a smoother, longer-lasting roadway. This method enhances ride quality and helps meet DOT smoothness requirements with greater consistency.

Automated 3D Paving for Precision and Efficiency

Topcon’s 3D paving systems utilize Millimeter GPS or robotic total stations to accurately track the paver’s position and elevation in real time. This minimizes the need for string lines or manual references, streamlining setup and accelerating the paving process.

With consistent millimeter-level accuracy throughout the day, 3D paving not only improves surface quality but also reduces the workload for downstream compaction crews.

Precision 2D Paving with Fixed Reference

Topcon’s 2D paving systems use sonic trackers to follow established references such as string lines, curbs, or existing surfaces. This approach is ideal for mill-and-fill (or mill-and-overlay) projects, where asphalt is laid over relatively consistent base layers.

Reliable and cost-effective, 2D paving offers dependable results for straightforward resurfacing jobs.

Thermal Mapper: Prevent Asphalt Failures in Real Time

The Thermal Mapper continuously monitors asphalt temperatures during paving to detect thermal segregation before it leads to quality issues. This real-time data helps guide compaction efforts and provides reliable documentation of paving quality—both for internal assurance and for project stakeholders.

Sample configuration

Topcon asphalt paving systems are built for flexibility—allowing you to combine components and sensors to suit your specific project requirements. Below is just one example of a typical setup; explore additional configurations to find the best fit for your workflow.

GNSS receivers & mmGPS

Display

Sonic and other sensors

Thermal Mapper

Robot

Virtual Ski: Streamline Surface Design and Save Time

Virtual Ski is ideal for federal and rural roads, where fewer fixed reference points make traditional design methods inefficient. Instead of relying on analog ski systems, simply scan and begin milling or paving—Virtual Ski handles the surface design on the fly.

Integrated with Topcon’s 3D-MC milling and paving software, it replaces tools like Multiplex-Ski, Big Ski, or Sonic Ski. You can offset the Virtual Ski anywhere from 4 to 100 meters from your alignment, even on tight curves. The result: reduced setup time, faster paving or milling, and significant savings by eliminating traditional design steps.

Build a Solid Foundation with SmoothRide for RD-MC

A smooth road begins with precise planning. SmoothRide starts by capturing high-speed scans of the existing surface, generating millions of data points to create an accurate as-built model. This data supports detailed estimates and guides the design for variable-depth milling or variable-thickness paving.

Milling depth or paving height is calculated by comparing the as-built and design models. Horizontal positioning is handled via GNSS—eliminating the need for optical components and reducing setup time. In areas with limited GNSS coverage, a total station can be used to ensure accuracy.

Major brands supported:
Voegele
Dynapac
Ammann
Bomag
Volvo
CAT
Sany
Sumitomo
Apollo