Transforming Construction Sites with IoT

The term ‘digital construction site’ describes the use of digital technologies to optimise and automate construction processes. The aim is to increase efficiency and transparency, improve communication and reduce costs. In this context, there is often talk of ‘Construction Site 4.0’, which is based on the principles of the fourth industrial revolution. Construction site 4.0 connects physical and digital systems so that all stakeholders – from site managers and trades people to suppliers – have access to up-to-date information at all times and can exchange it in real time.

A digital construction site integrates a variety of technologies such as sensors, drones, 3D printers, digital construction plans and IoT platforms. These enable better monitoring of construction progress, efficient resource management and optimisation of the entire supply chain. For example, machines and tools can be networked with each other to optimise their use, minimise downtime and plan maintenance work in advance. Robots are also increasingly finding their place on digital construction sites. They perform precise and repeatable tasks, such as laying bricks or pouring concrete, which increases efficiency and reduces the workload on human workers.

The Internet of Things is needed so that relevant data from a building or construction site can be collected and fed into a model. Every object, whether a tool, machine, material or component, can be equipped with sensors. The data collected is then transmitted via mobile communications or other networking technologies and processed on an IoT platform. On a digital construction site, this might look like this:

• Geofencing for construction machinery: Geofencing makes it possible to set virtual boundaries on a geographical map. As soon as a machine crosses this boundary, a notification is automatically triggered. This is particularly helpful in preventing theft and ensuring that the machines are only used in the areas intended for them. In addition, movement profiles can be created to help optimise deployment planning.
• Locating tools: Losing tools is a common problem on construction sites. However, with IoT sensors, tools can be located at any time. Their exact position can be displayed on a map in real time, which makes searching for them much easier and increases efficiency. In addition, usage times can be recorded and analysed to better plan deployment and detect wear and tear in good time.
• Condition monitoring of components: Sensors attached to components such as precast concrete elements can continuously monitor their condition. Information on temperature, humidity or stress is recorded and transmitted in real time. This allows potential problems to be identified and rectified at an early stage before costly rework is required. This not only increases safety on the construction site, but also contributes to quality assurance.
• Level measurement of materials: Material management can also be significantly improved by IoT. Sensors in material containers measure the current fill level and automatically transmit this data to the warehouse management system. This allows reorders to be triggered in good time and bottlenecks to be avoided. This saves time and money and ensures that the construction process runs smoothly. What else IoT trackers can monitor is described in detail on our Smart Asset Management page.

Every beginning is difficult, and there is still a long way to go before construction sites are fully digitised or comprehensive BIM applications are in place. For small and medium-sized businesses in particular, it therefore makes sense to proceed in stages. This includes, for example, the use of networked devices on the construction site or an IoT platform that enables monitoring and planning from the office.  

Companies should therefore have the courage to invest in digitalisation and set the course for the future. After all, those who take the first steps today will be able to reap the benefits of a fully digital construction site tomorrow.

The digitalisation of the construction industry is not a short-term trend, but a necessity in order to remain competitive in the long term. IoT and BIM are the key technologies that enable this change. This will ensure that the construction industry remains successful even in times of skilled labour shortages, rising material costs and high energy prices.