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Digital Jobsite Technologies

Digital Jobsite Technologies

Based on the "Digital Jobsite: A Strategic Analysis" report we will be publishing shortly, here is a comprehensive list of all the digital technologies identified, organized by their primary function.

1. Core Platforms & Infrastructure

This is the foundational "bedrock" that enables all other technologies.

  • Common Data Environments (CDEs): Central cloud-based repositories for all project data (e.g., Autodesk Construction Cloud, Procore).
  • Cloud Platforms / Cloud Computing: Provides the scalable storage and processing power for data.
  • 5G Connectivity: High-speed, low-latency wireless for massive data transfer (e.g., streamed video, IoT).
  • Edge Computing: On-site data processing to filter and send only critical information to the cloud.
  • Mobile Platforms: Smartphones and ruggedized tablets that act as the primary field interface.

2. Project Management & Design Software

These are the tools for planning, visualizing, and managing project information.

  • Building Information Modeling (BIM): Intelligent 3D models for design, (5D for cost/schedule).
  • Real-time Project Management Software: Platforms for managing tasks, workflows, and insights (e.g., Procore, Fieldwire, Trimble ProjectSight).
  • Collaboration & Markup Software: Tools for digital plan review and collaboration (e.g., Bluebeam).
  • Issue Tracking Software: Platforms for logging and managing RFIs and punch lists (e.g., Revizto).
  • Mobile BIM Viewers: Apps that allow field access to 3D models and 2D plans.
  • Large-Format Interactive Displays (e.g., Volanti): More than just plan review; these are large, high-resolution screens in the site office. They function as a "command hub" for viewing live IoT dashboards, drone/security video streams, and collaborative BIM sessions. (Future-facing: becoming AI-embedded and "content-aware").
  • Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP): Cloud-based solutions for managing core business resources.

3. Reality Capture & Site Monitoring

Technologies that capture the "as-built" reality of the jobsite.

  • Drones (UAVs): Used for site surveys, progress monitoring, and safety inspections.
  • Photogrammetry: Software that stitches thousands of drone photos into 3D models and maps.
  • LiDAR: Laser-scanning (from drones or ground units) to create precise 3D point clouds.
  • Terrestrial 3D Laser Scanners: Ground-based units for high-precision interior/exterior scanning.
  • 360° Cameras: Used for "virtual site walkthroughs" and progress documentation (e.g., OpenSpace).
  • AI-Powered Security & Safety Cameras: Systems that actively analyze video for threats, PPE compliance, or unsafe behaviors.

4. Asset, Fleet & Material Management (IoT)

The "Internet of Things" (IoT) for tracking physical assets.

  • Heavy Equipment Telematics: GPS and sensor systems (OEM or 3rd-party) on large equipment to track location, fuel, idle time, and engine health.
  • IoT Concrete Sensors: Wireless, embedded thermometers that transmit real-time temperature and strength-gain data (via the Maturity Method).
  • Site-wide Environmental Sensors: Deployed monitors for dust (PM2.5/PM10), noise, air quality (VOCs, CO), vibration, and weather.
  • Small Tool Trackers:
    • Barcode / QR Code: Simple scan-based inventory.
    • RFID (Passive & Active): Radio-frequency tags for tool crib automation.
    • Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE): "Crowd-sourced" location tags (e.g., Milwaukee ONE-KEY, DEWALT Tool Connect).

5. Worker & Safety Augmentation (Wearables)

Technologies worn by personnel to enhance safety and productivity.

  • Smart Helmets: Hard hats with integrated fall/impact sensors, GPS, and AR displays.
  • Connected Safety Vests: Vests with GPS for location tracking, geofencing ("no-go" zone alerts), and proximity alerts (worker-to-equipment).
  • Biometric Sensors: Wearables that monitor heart rate and body temperature to detect fatigue or heat stress.
  • Heat Stress Monitoring Patches: Specialized sensors that track sweat loss and skin temperature.
  • Augmented Reality (AR) Smart Glasses: Headsets that overlay digital information (like 3D models or instructions) onto the worker's view.
  • Exoskeletons: Wearable mechanical suits (passive and active) that reduce physical strain and risk of injury from heavy lifting or overhead work.

6. Robotics & Automation

Machines that move beyond monitoring to perform physical tasks.

  • Autonomous Ground Robots (Q-UGVs): Four-legged "dog" robots (e.g., Boston Dynamics Spot) for autonomous site patrol and inspection.
  • Autonomous Guidance Systems: Retrofit kits to add autonomous capabilities to standard heavy equipment (e.g., Built Robotics).
  • Semi-Autonomous Masonry Robots (SAM100): A "cobot" that works alongside a mason to lay bricks.
  • Autonomous Site Layout Robots: Wheeled robots that print 2D plans directly onto the floor slab (e.g., HP SitePrint).
  • Humanoid Robots: Advanced robots (e.g., HRP-5P) being developed to perform complex manual tasks like installing drywall.
  • 3D Printing: Additive manufacturing for components or structures.

7. Advanced AI & Future Trends

Emerging technologies that analyze and act on data.

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): The overarching field of systems that can analyze data, identify patterns, and make predictions.
  • Generative AI (GenAI): AI that can create new content, such in:
    • Generative Design: Exploring thousands of optimized design options.
    • AI-Powered Risk Platforms: Predicting schedule bottlenecks or safety hazards.
  • Digital Twins: The ultimate convergence—a "living" LEC (living, evolving, connected) digital replica of the physical asset, fused with real-time data from all the IoT sensors and reality capture tools.

Why is Volanti listing this? 

  • Volanti displays are so much more than plan review, they are also an excellent digital jobsite visual hub: Today’s plan table. Tomorrow’s digital jobsite hub. 


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