Construction technologies continue to evolve

Construction equipment has moved far beyond the realm of the simple crane. The fact is that equipment is advancing across the construction industry. Many manufacturers are focused on making machines smarter, faster and more energy-efficient. They use proprietary technologies to enhance operations and get jobs done faster and better.

It’s important to look at how construction machinery has evolved through more than just how the cab of construction machines has changed over the years. Advanced controls are increasingly being included in the controls of the machine, both to simplify operations and to add new abilities.

Today, technology is at the forefront of construction machine advances. The integration of new technologies in construction equipment drives productivity and uptime, both in job site operations and in back-office functions. There are essentially four main areas where construction equipment is evolving at a rapid clip:

1. Telematics
2. Payload weighing
3. UAVs (drones)
4. Grade control

Telematics systems have become very popular in the trucking sector, but they are also valuable for those in the construction industry as well. Telematics systems can provide machine diagnostics and alerts to prevent excessive downtime, equipment loss, breakdowns or misuse.

Payload weighing gives construction companies the ability to monitor material moved on the worksite. Advanced payload scales and embedded payload scale systems measure total bucket loads, truckloads, cycle times, production tonnage, load counts hours, fuel burned and on and on. Quite frankly, just about anything can be tracked and counted through onboard weighing systems.

Industrial drones are also changing the way construction gets done. Unmanned aerial vehicles can be seen hovering over just about every modern job site. The non-military drone market is expected to grow by 15.6% between 2020 and 2029. And commercial drone use is set to overtake the market by 2024, and the construction sector is leading that change.

Finally, we look at integrated grade control systems. Technology providers have partnered with manufacturers to deliver advanced 3D grade control without the need for external masts or cables. 3D model rendering allows companies to reduce the risks of theft or damage to their equipment. The precision and speed at which job sites can be modeled help companies increase profits, efficiency and productivity.

Here at the AGC of Washington, we are at the forefront of construction technology. Our partners, contractors, and member engineers use advanced technologies day-in and day-out. Are you a Washington-area contractor looking to join an organization that makes a difference? Become a member today!