Innovation is everywhere and the construction industry is not isolated from the developments that are coming out of Silicon Valley. In the same way that Google and Uber are working on autonomous driving and telematics, similar advances are being made in the heavy machinery industry as equipment makers forge strategic partnerships with specialists in the field of technology.
The most important developments in construction equipment technology are in the following fields.
1) REMOTE CONTROLS
Mining is a dangerous business. The power of 5G now makes it possible for machines to be operated remotely, even though the machines are many kilometers below the surface. This takes humans out of danger zones and also o helps to attract a new breed of miners that is able to operate in a safer environment.
2) CONNECTED MACHINES
The Internet of Things is defined by three characteristics: the presence of sensors, connectivity of networks, and the ability to rapidly compute incoming data. These applications are swiftly moving into mobility and heavy machinery. This is changing the way that buildings, power plants, mines, and more are built. The machines are communicating with one another creating a more efficient and safer environment.
3) AUTONOMOUS MACHINES
Self-driving machines are no longer science fiction and will become a reality quicker than passenger-carrying cars construction sites are closed sites with limited pedestrian traffic.
4) TELEMATICS
Telematics is the presence of a highly intelligent computer in a machine that can report on nearly every detail – from speed and acceleration to oil pressure and track tension. Connected machines are sending tons of information that can be used for actionable predictions. For example, knowing that a machine is going to break down means it can be taken offline for preventative maintenance, and a replacement vehicle can be arranged to limit the amount of downtime. OEMs can receive this data and filter it to customers, sending them only actionable alerts.
5) ELECTROMOBILITY
Can large machines that are required to lift and haul tons of materials be operated by machines? Hybrid and new battery technologies are being tested around the world. They are quieter, more efficient, and more sustainable.
6) AUGMENTED REALITY
Augmented reality can be used for consultation and repairs, and parts and services are going online with digital records, for example. Software updates on machines will be pushed/received automatically from the cloud.
We are not far away from a real transformation in the industry. Soon, we’ll see zero emissions, zero unplanned downtime, and zero accidents are the industry standard.
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