New technological advancements in construction equipment can be unsettling if you don’t know what they are, how they work, and what benefits they offer to individual workers and the industry as a whole. You might worry about things like job security and how to adapt to a changing environment.
The good news is that with the right training, these technologies offer unique opportunities for skill development and career growth. We’ve put together a guide outlining how technology in the construction industry has changed over time, how today’s technology improves processes and outcomes, and realistic challenges to address moving forward.
Innovation and Changes in Heavy Equipment Technology
Using equipment maintenance software has become essential to maintain a competitive edge in the construction industry. Today’s technology streamlines heavy equipment maintenance, providing instant insights into equipment condition and more with the tap of a button.
Embracing a high-tech maintenance program is now a standard practice to ensure optimal machine performance while minimizing downtime and unnecessary costs. This technological advancement empowers operators to leverage their equipment to enable faster and more efficient task completion.
Plus, by maximizing equipment uptime through reliable maintenance practices, contractors can tackle more projects and stay ahead of the competition.
The Evolution of Construction Equipment
Construction equipment has undergone significant changes through the years. While historically limited to manual operation, the introduction of autonomous technology is reshaping the construction landscape.
Notable changes began with steam-powered caterpillar tractors in the 19th century, followed by hydraulics and GPS in the late 20th century. The goal of these changes was to enhance power, efficiency, and navigation capabilities.
Since its debut in 1995, GPS has become a crucial technology for various pieces of heavy equipment. Since its creation, it has evolved to enable precise operations across industries.
Modern improvements involve the integration of digital technology and software to facilitate faster, more efficient, and more profitable construction processes. Heavy equipment can now handle tasks autonomously, requiring minimal human interaction. This development enhances productivity and minimizes downtime.
Technology in Construction Today
| Technology in Construction Today | Description/Benefits |
|---|---|
Remote-Controlled Equipment | This approach increases worker safety by reducing risks associated with injuries and fatalities. |
Drones | Equipped with cameras, drones collect and analyze construction site data, offering a safer alternative to traditional on-site monitoring. |
Predictive Analytics | By harnessing historical data and employing AI algorithms, this technology enhances operational efficiency, slashes maintenance costs, and prevents downtime. |
Electric Powered Equipment | Increased energy efficiency and sustainability, capable of handling substantial loads. |
3D Printing | Enables construction workers to fabricate prototypes, models, and even full-scale building components. |
VR | This innovative approach enhances skilled trade training programs by providing realistic scenarios to enhance learning processes and outcomes. |
Automation | Automation in construction accelerates processes, cuts project timelines, and boosts efficiency while mitigating worker risks. |
Remote-Controlled Equipment
More construction companies are using drones and other remote-controlled equipment to access areas considered risky for heavy equipment use. This approach increases worker safety by reducing risks associated with injuries and fatalities.
Drones
Drones provide invaluable services such as worksite surveys, project monitoring, and hazard identification. Equipped with cameras, drones collect and analyze construction site data, offering a safer alternative to traditional on-site monitoring. Additionally, the cameras help workers inspect hazardous and inaccessible areas without risking their safety. Drones are also used to transport small equipment and tools, which is particularly beneficial for multi-story projects and expansive sites.
Predictive Analytics
Predictive analytics have revolutionized construction equipment management. By harnessing historical data and employing AI algorithms, this technology enhances operational efficiency, slashes maintenance costs, and prevents downtime.
This enables the system to forecast potential outcomes, such as equipment breakdowns or maintenance needs, and issue alerts accordingly. It can even flag other issues like prolonged idle time, helping operators to minimize wear and tear over time.
Electric Powered Equipment
The construction industry is embracing battery-powered machinery for enhanced energy efficiency and sustainability. These machines offer various advantages to operators and owners, such as the ability to handle substantial loads when lifting and hauling materials.
3D Printing
Automated 3D printing—also known as additive manufacturing—enables construction workers to fabricate prototypes, models, and even full-scale building components. It utilizes techniques to produce physical objects from data obtained through 3D scanners or special software.
VR
Virtual reality (VR) technology is a blend of hardware and software that immerses users in simulated environments, revolutionizing training and safety in construction. VR is a safer training tool for construction workers because it allows them to engage in immersive experiences that replicate hazardous situations without facing physical risks. This innovative approach enhances skilled trade training programs by providing realistic scenarios to enhance learning processes and outcomes.
Automation in construction accelerates processes, cuts project timelines, and boosts efficiency while mitigating worker risks. By automating hazardous tasks like demolition, companies minimize accidents and worker fatigue, thereby reducing mistakes.
Technological Advancements in Excavators
How Heavy Equipment Technology Makes Life Easier for Operators
Heavy equipment technology not only enhances safety but also improves operator skills, making life easier for heavy equipment operators. By incorporating advanced features, it reduces the risk of workplace accidents, including falls, electrocution, and being struck by objects. With fewer risks involved in daily operations, injuries and fatalities occur less frequently.
Significant changes have been made to the operator’s cab in particular to ensure comfort and reliability from start to finish. Many cabs are now sealed from the outside and equipped with air conditioning, creating a comfortable workspace regardless of external conditions. This sealed environment also prevents dust, dirt, and high humidity from entering the cab, protecting computer technology capabilities and minimizing potential operational issues.
What Are the Challenges Involved in Deploying These New Technologies?
Like with every innovation, these emerging technologies come with certain challenges that must be addressed for proper implementation and optimal outcomes. While not an exhaustive list, here are some challenges associated with technological advancements in the construction industry:
- Fear of the unknown
- Knowledge gaps
- Managing change
- Misaligned Incentives
- Project disruptions
The Need for Automation in Construction
Automation in the construction industry involves integrating safer and more efficient methods, processes, and systems to achieve greater machine autonomy in various activities.
In recent years, autonomous equipment has become increasingly available to construction companies. Some are incorporating automated and driverless technology into new machinery while others are updating existing machines to be more autonomous.
The adoption of automated equipment offers several advantages.
- It enhances safety by removing workers from high-risk tasks and reducing the likelihood of job site accidents caused by human error.
- It streamlines projects, increases productivity, improves project management, and accelerates timelines. These benefits contribute to higher employee satisfaction, lower costs, and an improved client experience.
- Interfaced technology enables the early detection and analysis of equipment issues, which can help prevent costly repairs and replacements.
Train for Your Future Working With Advanced Construction Equipment
No matter the type of heavy equipment you want to operate, you need the proper training to gain essential knowledge and skills for career success.
As the leading heavy equipment school in Georgia, Oklahoma, California, and Washington, Heavy Equipment Colleges of America (HEC) provides the classroom training and hands-on experience you need to stay updated on the latest technologies. Enroll in one of our certified heavy equipment training programs to get started.
