Construction equipment in the digital age

In recent years, the construction industry in the Middle East has been undergoing a significant transformation driven by digitalisation.

As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, construction equipment manufacturers and contractors in the region are increasingly embracing digital tools and innovations to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

From the integration of advanced telematics and IoT solutions to the utilisation of AI and machine learning, digitalisation is reshaping the way construction projects are planned, executed, and managed.

IoT and data analysis

Hitachi Construction Machinery (HCM) has been one of the pioneers in this field. The company created a global network of HCM equipment, all linked by 2G/3G (GSM) SIMs embedded in machine-to-machine modules within the machines and linked to a number of sensors.

HCM obtains data from its equipment through two primary sources. The first source involves a system that collects information on components, equipment usage, and the entire operating environment. This data is transmitted to HCM’s Global e-Service, where it is aggregated.

The second source gathers alarm information from the equipment, such as component overheating, a significant drop in oil pressure, or other emergencies. This information is swiftly relayed to the local operator and the HCM distributor enabling service crews to be notified and take action to prevent severe damage.

Transmitting data

It is essential for machines to communicate effectively with each other. Caterpillar’s digital analytics director Daniel Reaume explained in a blog, “Most new Cat machines and engines, and much of our older fleet, have the potential to collect and transmit data. Our company currently has the world’s largest connected fleet with more than 1.2mn connected assets in the field. For quite some time, our machines have been sold as “connectivity enabled.” And even older equipment can often be retrofitted for connectivity.”

He added that the data might tell Cat that when the operator applies the brakes, the pressure does not recover as quickly as expected. In that case, they would recommend an inspection to see if there is a leak in the system. If that turns out to be the case, a customer can get the repair taken care of before it becomes a more significant problem.

Read the full article on Technical Review Middle East’s latest issue