Construction IoT Tech To Watch In 2018

We can’t deny the fact that technology keeps on evolving in a sense that it’s not limited to our computers, specifically the Internet, but it’s also affecting our day-to-day lives as well. The expansive network of devices is probably one of the best evidence to support that– everything is connected to the Internet, and the primary goal is to create a more efficient world.

This is what the Internet of Things promises– to be able to connect almost every device to the Internet. That means each device would be integrated with hardware, sensors, and software, which would be networked together through the Internet as they communicate with one another, or it can also be machine-to-machine. Increased productivity will come as construction crews integrate the Internet of Things into existing construction equipment like traffic cones and other items to collect and interpret construction sites through innovative ways.

How does this affect the field service industries? The answer is pretty simple. With the help of IoT technology, you’ll be able to put sensors in most of your equipment, and this would allow you to accumulate huge amounts of data in a short period.

This data can have some uses, and one of which is to deliver significant advantages to the user– this can range from prevention, diagnostics, communication, and much more. The IoT technology would change how businesses operate positively.

To give you a better understanding of how the Internet of Things affects the field service industries, we’re going to discuss some of the most important things you should be aware of.

How IoT Is Being Utilized by Equipment Manufacturers

Operational information flows have become a norm. However, the recent advancements in telematics also mean that automation and coordination of control should be as accurate as possible. To ensure that, most companies are starting to review the IoT technology and see how they can benefit from it.

A great example of this would be the brand, Caterpillar. This name has been using telematics as a way to interpret how the machines work– if these devices are functioning efficiently or have been idling too much. This evaluation could help the business think of directions on how to minimize fuel consumption.

Aside from vehicle analytics, CAT is also developing the rollover-protection design and analysis, statistical tolerance analysis, and structural optimization. Due to the increased data brought by telematics information, the durability of machines has also been improved, while the weight has been decreased, making it more lightweight for use.

New designs to save on fuel costs, as well as ways on how the customers would benefit from the product have also been introduced.

The Impact of IoT in the Construction Equipment

There have been a few signs showing the early adoption of complete interconnectedness, and we can expect that a few years from now, the effect of IoT on the construction equipment industry is something to look forward to. With the implementation of this new technology to continually process data, we can expect that the industry would be able to improve workplace safety and efficiency.

For that reason, here are just some of the ways on how IoT would promote innovations in the field of construction equipment services:

1. Wearables

Wearables are slowly becoming more and more popular not only for business owners but for the consumers as well. No doubt about that as IoT technology comes in various shapes and forms– you can find them in eyewear, smartwatches, and even inactivity bands.

These equipment allow construction managers to remain alert of different positions, work time, and the like. That said, it’s expected that a few years from now, we can look forward to a more sophisticated wearable equipment.

2. Equipment Monitoring and Repair

In a construction equipment company, service and repair work have a significant role. With the help of M2M sensors, one can quickly determine the repairs needed before the problems get worse and out of control.

3. Safety

Being able to track employee on site data would allow you to determine the safety protocols that must be implemented. This would give you the idea what your strong and weak points are, letting you to handle the task professionally.

4. Equipment Inspection

With self-diagnostics/reporting sensors you don’t have to worry about late or forgotten inspections as everything would be done promptly.

5. Inventory Management

One of the main reasons why construction companies lose their customers is because there are instances where a job site would have insufficient tools. With IoT technology, your inventory would always be connected to sensors that would alert you whenever your stocks go down.

Final Words

As more and more devices become connected with IoT, we can expect that the efficiency and safety in a construction site would also improve. Indeed, the Internet of Things is capable of making things better for everyone.

Author Bio:

Chris is a Digital Media Strategy Consultant in Orlando, FL who provides small business owners with valuable content as a trusted freelance copywriter, PPC manager, and SEO strategist. Chris is also passionate about startup marketing, environmental issues, and emerging technologies.