The construction industry has traditionally been slow to adapt to change and technological advances. However, in the last several years some key factors have contributed to a rise in technological advancement in the new and used heavy equipment field. These factors include a growing labor shortage, younger workers entering the industry, the need to be more productive, the increased usage of mobile devices and other new technologies in our personal lives and realization that they can be used for work as well, and the growth of technology companies. Due to these factors, six key technologies have begun to emerge to help lead the construction industry forward.
First, virtual reality (VR) is starting to be utilized for training on new and used heavy equipment as well as new and used construction tools and other construction industry related implements. In real life, training on construction machine operation can be expensive, difficult, and even dangerous. As an example, someone learning how to weld is typically taught on the ground despite often having to complete the welding work high up on a skyscraper beam in real life. Virtual reality training allows the training to be done anywhere, imitating real life situations and cutting down the expenses of transporting the workers as well as machine usage and possible damage.
Second, augmented reality (AR) takes information and data from a central location out in to the field where it can be used properly. Those utilizing such technology typically wear a virtual reality headset of some kind which allows them to view and interact with the jobsite by overlaying holograms and 3D images over the real life situation. This allows them to visualize how a project is supposed to progress and see future developments while viewing the current progress in order to identify any potential problems before they arise.
Third, although not common quite yet, robotic technology is gaining momentum in order to automate some construction processes and improve production and efficiency. Robotic technology is beneficial to construction applications such as welding, demolition, masonry, and hanging drywall. It can also be especially useful for data collection purposes.
Fourth, often older used heavy equipment for sale and used construction tools for sale can be inefficient as they depend on machine operators to perform even the most basic functions. However, automation technology is being integrated into newer machines which allows them to perform some of the work themselves. In the mining industry, haul trucks are able to answer calls to shovel, move, and dump, and other construction equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, and backhoes are undergoing similar technological developments to allow work to be completed more efficiently.
Fifth, machine learning allows computers to collect and analyze data to increase productivity and cut down on costs, while also creating more safety for construction workers. The machine learning process continues to improve and the accuracy and efficiency is continually getting better. Through this process, computers are able to analyze collected data and develop algorithms to improve work processes without being specially programmed for a specific task.
Sixth, artificial intelligence (AI) integrates heavy equipment industry knowledge into machine learning to allow the computer to basically think like a construction superintendent and make suggestions and improvements to increase production, efficiency, and safety. This is still a developing technology, however, as data has to be continuously gathered in order to train and develop the AI models and allow them to evolve over time.
In conclusion, the new and used heavy equipment and construction industry is often thought of as old-fashioned and antiquated. Today, however, there are new technologies being integrated into the industry to allow growth and lead the industry into the future. To improve production and efficiency and cut down on costs, advanced technologies are being developed and utilized. These technological developments include, but are not limited to, virtual reality, augmented reality, robotics, automation, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. As technology continues to develop, one can expect that the construction industry will adapt and grow accordingly.