Over the last few years, a considerable amount of publicity has revolved around self-driving cars. Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs) have grabbed the attention of both technology companies and auto enthusiasts – advances in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and computer capabilities are increasing competition, resulting in an exciting era of innovation for the construction industry.
During this time of transformation, industry professionals are teaming up to deliver the latest operations and technologies – but first, firms need to know what they need to change before getting involved in the process.
Here, I explain how autonomous vehicle technology is advancing in the construction industry and why we should embrace it.
Opportunities
Advanced technologies and robotics have the power to dramatically transform the construction industry and its building sites. As we evolve toward full driverless automation (human supervision will still be required, initially at least), CAV’s will provide:
Safety
Driverless vehicles protect human operators and keeps them out of harm’s way – taking workers out of high-risk environments, it is expected that there will be a reduction of traffic accidents and fatalities on worksites. Volvo Autonomous Solutions has developed the TARA solution for quarries and mines, that use the award winning TA15 battery electric – and cabless – 15 ton hauler. With no operators to fall victims to accidents, safety is set to increase on what can be dangerous worksites.
Productivity
Driverless vehicles will propel us to productivity and increased profitability. Growing machine superiority highlights human restrictions in information retention, therefore shifting the power-dynamic between individuals and computer-mediated technologies.
Efficiency
Automated equipment relies on telematics, which refers to interned-connected sensors that allows you to store, send and receive information onto phones or computers – or in this case, to monitor vehicles. As a result, remote diagnostics will lessen labour and fuel use, saving both time and money. Some of the leading construction equipment OEMs that offer CE telematics solutions include Caterpillar and Komatsu.