Revolutionizing Construction: How Heavy Equipment Technology is Changing the Industry

Keeping up with the latest construction technology helps you optimize operations. From onboard diagnostics to AI-powered insights, the industry is rapidly changing. When you implement new equipment technology in your advancements, you can enhance safety and efficiency.

Key Advancements in Construction Equipment Technology

Modern technological advancements are moving the construction industry forward. The following technological developments significantly enhance various types of construction equipment.

Additive Manufacturing

Manufacturers can use additive manufacturing to create custom construction equipment components. Additive manufacturing is also known as 3D printing. It enables companies to build custom machines with complex requirements. If you have specific operational needs or parts replacements, you may be able to order custom parts built with additive manufacturing.

Telematics

Construction telematics provides useful data about your equipment. This technology uses the following features to help you make informed decisions:

• Sensors
• Global positioning system (GPS) tracking 
• Onboard diagnostics

You can use telematics technology to automate data collection and analysis for the following insights:

• Real-time equipment location
• Maintenance needs and schedules
• Project schedules
• Operation habits
• Fuel consumption
• Engine hours

Integrated Communication

Integrated communication enables you to use telematics data to your advantage. Customized apps and software make it easy to share information and keep teams on the same page. Combining telematics with integrated apps helps you do the following:

• Set maintenance reminders
• Notify appropriate team members when equipment repairs are necessary
• Track operator performance and schedule training when needed
• Receive immediate notification if equipment leaves its designated project site
• Let employees know when equipment is under-used and when to move it to other jobsites

Automation

Autonomous or robotic equipment reduces the need for operator interference. Autonomous equipment uses technology such as:

• Radar.
• GPS.
• Light detection and ranging (LiDAR).
• Software and sensor data.
• Remote control capabilities.

These features help robotic equipment navigate and avoid obstacles without drivers or operators. You can use driverless equipment to perform hauling, digging and grading tasks.

Sustainable Construction

Construction equipment is more sustainable than ever. Manufacturers build equipment with the following features to help protect the planet:

• Recyclable metals help reduce waste and conserve natural resources.
• Hybrid engines use gas and electric power to decrease fuel consumption.
• Regenerative braking lets equipment capture energy during braking for later use.
• Low-rolling resistance tires help reduce friction for lower fuel consumption.
• Auto stop and start features turn engines off when not in use to prevent engine idling for lower emissions and decreased fuel usage.
• Electric equipment runs on battery power, eliminating fuel emissions. 

How Heavy Equipment Technological Advancements Affect the Construction Industry

Heavy equipment technology enhances the construction industry with the following advantages.

Enhanced Performance 

Technology like telematics and automation can help you improve operator and equipment performance. Telematics technology reports driver behaviors so you can identify areas of improvement. For example, you can identify when an employee lets the engine idle too long or exceeds load limits. 

You might also find that some employees use rapid motions while operating bucket and boom attachments, which can increase wear. Telematics technology makes it easy to pinpoint specific behaviors so you can address them quickly.

Automation can help equipment and equipment operators perform jobs with more accuracy. Autonomous equipment's sensors, GPS and LiDAR technology support precise movements. You can use advanced construction technology to complete tasks properly and prevent delays.

Increased Productivity and Efficiency

Use construction equipment technology to:

• Adjust equipment schedules: Telematics can let you know when equipment sits unused. You can then use this information to move the equipment to different jobsites where employees can put it to better use. You can use this information to shorten or lengthen rental periods. This helps prevent downtime and keep projects on schedule.
• Complete tasks faster: Your team can complete tasks faster with autonomous equipment. Robotic equipment can automate repetitive tasks, giving workers more time to focus on supervision or other responsibilities.
• Communicate efficiently: Web and cloud-based systems boost efficiency across your projects and jobsites. Combining telematics with digital communication methods can help you reduce time-consuming phone calls. This helps speed up workflows so you can keep projects on schedule.
• Reduce costs: Sustainable equipment helps reduce fuel costs. This can significantly improve cost savings, helping you boost profits.

Enhanced Safety and Security

Construction technology also enhances safety and security. Telematics technology alerts you to unsafe operation habits so you can address employees. When you react to trends in unsafe practices, you can prevent potential accidents and injuries. 

Telematics software helps your company maintain worker safety and avoid major repair needs. Focusing on safety and proper operation can help your team comply with important industry regulations. 

A telematics system's GPS feature tracks equipment location, preventing potential theft. This is especially helpful if you need to recover lost or stolen equipment.

Improved Maintenance

You can use onboard diagnostics to improve maintenance practices. Sensors alert you when equipment is due for routine maintenance or let you know of precise repair needs. When you track equipment health with telematics, you can fix potential issues before they cause further damage, increasing equipment uptime so you can complete projects on schedule. 

How Technology Will Continue Advancing in the Construction Industry

The following technological advancements and improvements continue advancing the construction industry.

Remote Operation

Remote operation lets operators control equipment from afar using wireless control systems. This technology offers several advantages, such as:

• The ability for operators to continue work while they're off-site.
• Safer access in hard-to-reach or hazardous areas.
• Enhanced work area visibility thanks to cameras and sensors on equipment.
• Enhanced project monitoring.
• Better communication between workers in different locations.

More Electric and Hybrid Equipment Options

Battery technology advancements are making electric and hybrid equipment options more available. Newer batteries offer these advantages:

• Longer run times
• Faster charging times
• Improved durability
• Ability to support more powerful equipment and heavier workloads

Enhanced AI-Driven Insights 

Enhanced AI-driven insights make predictive analytics more accurate. AI technology continuously improves, allowing telematics systems to deliver equipment information faster. 

As this technology advances, you can expect the following benefits:

• Real-time operational guidance
• Insights on signs of wear and tear
• Automated maintenance scheduling
• Enhanced hazard detection
• Automatic machine parameter adjustments based on operating conditions

Take Advantage of the Latest Construction Technology With Equipment From Empire Rental

The construction industry is rapidly improving thanks to various technological advancements. Using the latest equipment models and solutions can significantly improve your operations. 

Empire Rental offers industry-leading equipment, including electric models and telematics technology. We provide excellent customer service to deliver flawless rental processes. With quick response times and extensive experience, we are always here when you need us. 

Browse our selection of high-quality equipment or request a quote to learn more.