Benefits of Construction Technologies and their Impact on Society, a new paper from Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), describes how four major advances are making construction sites safer, more efficient, and less environmentally impactful.

One such technology is machine control, which is revolutionizing the way paving and earthmoving jobs are done. Unprecedented levels of precision and productivity are being attained, leading to safer and more efficient work environments as well as quicker and less wasteful project completion.

Insights from Industry Experts

According to Brad Viernow, OEM director for North America Heavy Construction at Leica Geosystems, a provider of sensors, software, and services for geospatial data intelligence, “machine control is a technology system that calculates the position of machinery.” “Machine control employs measurement data from either satellites (GNSS) or an on-site surveying device called a total station to identify accurate location. The positioning data can then be compared to a project design by machine control.

Equipped with this knowledge, machine control can then direct and support an operator of a piece of machinery. It’s pretty simple: Better information leads to better results.

Viernow stated that “poor data and missed communication account for 52% of all rework globally on average.” The equipment operator can view all of the design information on the display in the cab while they are working thanks to the sharing of current data via cloud connectivity. To take things a bit further, machine automation may also be used. In fact, machine control can relieve the operator of some of the labor while making it even easier to achieve the required accuracy.

Applications such as paving and earthmoving are good fits for machine control. When it comes to factors like compaction density, grade, cross slope, and material placement, equipment operators have to operate under very strict limits. Because of this, machine control is currently used in many typical pieces of equipment, such as motor graders, dozers, excavators, and pavers. But there is far more potential for machine control.

“This type of technology is being used in some capacity in every piece of machinery used in the construction industry,” stated Adam Woods, general manager of innovation and product portfolio strategies at LBX Company, the company that makes Link-Belt excavation equipment. Machine control will be beneficial even for seemingly simple products like compactors, which simply roll back and forth. The amount of compaction that has occurred and whether more compaction is required to reach the required specifications are both determined by machine control. Even machines can now accomplish that on their own thanks to automation. The goal of everything is to increase the efficiency of job sites.

This also applies to smaller equipment and job sites. According to Sean Mairet, group product manager for Grade Control at John Deere, “the utility of something like a compact track loader, paired with the benefits of a technology like grade control, is really a winning combination.

“On average, 52% of all rework globally is caused by poor data and missed communication. Sharing up-to-date data via cloud connectivity allows the equipment operator to see all of the design information on the panel in the cab while they are working. Going one step further, machine automation can also come into play. Machine control can actually take some of the work out of the operator’s hands while achieving the desired accuracy even more easily.”

Leica Geosystems’ Brad Viernow 

The Role of Machine Control in Reducing Rework and Waste

The accuracy that a machine control system aids in achieving is the foundation of everything. Consider grade control as an example. With good reason, 3D grade control is the most sophisticated system and is highly praised. However, even a more basic 2D system yields useful data.

By directing the user as they dig, a 2D grade control system helps to eliminate inaccurate digging. Key parameters like depth and slope are entered by the operator into the software. The machine then uses a sensory system to measure those data points while it digs, giving the operator visual and/or auditory coaching through a display screen in the cab.

Plane and slope are the foundation for this level of machine control, according to Mairet. For projects like sloping terrain away from a house, where a complex site design is not necessary, it is the perfect solution. When the operator instructs the machine to maintain, say, a 2% slope, the blade or bucket is controlled by the 2D grade control system to accomplish that goal. By avoiding over-cutting or over-digging, even a 2D system can contribute to significant time and material savings.

Accuracy is elevated to a new level by contemporary 3D grade management. Actually, some systems can assist operators of equipment in achieving millimeter accuracy. Furthermore, 3D systems are more advanced. To determine a machine’s exact location at all times, 3D systems integrate with position data and a site design. Either satellites (GNSS) or an on-site surveying device known as a total station supply the position data. Everyone has benefits of its own. Regardless, even higher gains in productivity and resource optimization may result from the fine accuracy of 3D grade control.

For example, industry estimates indicate that the application of grade control in construction projects results in a 10–20% reduction in material use. This indicates that the quantity of concrete and asphalt that is saved annually on public road construction projects is sufficient to pave a two-lane highway running from Chicago to Phoenix. That directly affects everyday people’s finances as well as those of construction companies. Taxpayers saved roughly $3.6 billion in material costs on public road construction projects in 2022 alone thanks to improvements in accuracy and waste reduction.

Project scheduling can benefit from grade control as well. In construction projects, time is money. Woods has seen some construction companies increase productivity by 30–50% when using machine control equipment.

Woods said, “Consider a project like an irrigation canal.” “If the canal is 1,000 feet long and slopes 0.3%, then there won’t be much variation in the slope from one location to another. The slope can be continuously checked by machine control to ensure accuracy. Because the operator doesn’t have to constantly stop and check the grade, productivity can really increase there. Using this technology, some contractors are even finishing projects ahead of schedule—something that used to be practically unheard of.

Viernow continued, “We’ve discovered that 35% of working time on a jobsite is spent on non-value-adding activities.” Furthermore, rework can result in an average 10% increase in schedule. Throughout the construction process, machine control greatly contributes to the reduction of waste. On a jobsite, waste can be significantly decreased by just moving the correct dirt the first time.

Enhancing Site Safety with Machine Control

On a construction site, machine control technologies such as grade control can also aid in lowering safety-related incidents.

Surveyors, civil engineers, and other workers on a jobsite must constantly check grade without the use of technology like this, according to Woods. They approach and maneuver around the machine on a regular basis. Frequently, they are operating in a trench. You can lessen the need for these people to enter these potentially dangerous situations by using grade control technology.

Additionally, job sites are being improved by machine control features tailored to safety. The first thing that springs to mind is a camera system. Cameras provide equipment operators with improved peripheral vision around a machine, frequently alerting them to objects and people approaching the machine in danger.

Even though such a system of operator guidance is crucial, machine control is capable of much more. When a possible collision is detected, technology can actually stop a machine. Furthermore, Viernow said that geofencing—another essential construction technology—can be used to create 3D avoidance zones.

Viernow explained, “Let’s say someone is using an excavator in a place where there is a powerline directly overhead them.” One of the main goals of machine control is to make things safer and less stressful for the operator, and “through location-based geofencing, the operator could set up an automatic stop so the excavator arm couldn’t extend beyond a certain point.”

Addressing Skilled Labor Shortage with Machine Control

Machine control not only increases productivity and safety in equipment but also facilitates easier operation. Machine control can assist operators in becoming proficient faster and experiencing fatigue much less frequently by increasing accuracy and taking over specific functions.

“Getting on a piece of construction equipment and starting to do what these operators are asked to do isn’t easy,” Mairet remarked. Grade control technology, for example, can make operators more comfortable and productive much more quickly. Technology that reduces workloads will be beneficial even to experienced operators of machinery. Operators who experience this are happier and more productive.

“You can take an experienced operator and make them stand out with machine guidance,” Woods continued. Within a day or so of operating the equipment, a novice operator could learn how to cut grade with machine control. Without this kind of technology, it might take months or even years to complete the required training.

Up until that point, one way to address the growing scarcity of skilled labor in the construction sector is through machine control. Instead of relying solely on intuition and years of skill development, machine control enables equipment operators to rely on real-time data and semi-autonomous operation.

Mairet remarked on the impact of machine control technologies in modernizing construction workflows. He acknowledged that skilled operators and surveyors have always been capable of maintaining grade, but emphasized that machine control enhances this process, making it safer and more efficient. Mairet views machine control as a contemporary approach to shaping the world.

Conclusion

As we see, machine control is pivotal in modernizing construction sites, elevating efficiency, safety, and precision. While Satel USA does not provide full machine control systems, our expertise in reliable communication technology positions us as an essential partner in the machine control ecosystem. We provide robust and reliable radios that ensure seamless communication, a critical component in the effective operation of machine control systems.

For more information and to understand how our technology can support your machine control needs, visit Satel USA’s Machine Control Page. 

Discover how we enhance communication reliability in construction technology, contributing to the overall success of your projects.

In the dynamic landscape of off-highway machinery connectivity, challenges are omnipresent, but so are groundbreaking solutions. Enter the SATEL MCCU-20 LTE / UHF, one of SATEL’s latest innovation and a testament to reliability and innovative technology, designed to meet the complex demands of mission-critical operations in various fields, from smart farming to emergency response. With this cutting-edge technology, long distance challenges are made short, complex tasks more manageable, and challenges are transformed into successes. Let’s dive into it!

What is SATEL MCCU-20?

The SATEL MCCU-20 LTE / UHF is a unique dual-technology RTK transceiver for receiving the GNSS RTK correction data to a moving vehicle with UHF radio based RTK or NTRIP over LTE. The RTK correction data is forwarded over RS-232 serial communication to machine control system. It’s a unique blend of technology that supports dual-technology operation – allowing data reception through both UHF radio-based RTK and NTRIP over LTE networks. This versatility makes it an ideal solution for a wide range of applications requiring precise location data and reliable communication in mobile settings.

Robust Solution for Off-Highway Challenges:

The SATEL MCCU-20 LTE / UHF is expertly engineered to provide reliable, efficient, and cost-effective connectivity for off-highway machinery. Deployed across various sectors such as construction, mining, surveying, and forestry, this device ensures seamless and effective operations even in the most challenging conditions.

The machine and vehicle manufacturers and machine control system providers can integrate SATEL MCCU-20 LTE / UHF to their offering without knowing what kind of technology is available in the operating area. The vehicle can be operated under varying connectivity environments.

Mission-Critical Connectivity Applications:

• RTK Correction Signaling: Delivers centimeter-level positioning accuracy, crucial for precision tasks in smart farming, surveying, and more.
• Collision Avoidance Signaling (CAS): Bolsters safety and prevents accidents in active, dynamic work environments.
• Machine to Machine Commands (V2V and V2X): Enables smooth communication between various machines and vehicles, essential for synchronized and efficient operations.
• Secure Firmware Updates: Maintains system integrity and security with safeguarded, dependable updates.
• Central Control Signal: Facilitates streamlined operations through centralized management, enhancing overall efficiency.
• Safety Signaling: Upholds stringent safety standards, vital in all mission-critical activities.
• Mission-Critical Telematics: Offers essential data for effective operation in high-stakes scenarios.

Customer-Oriented, Solution-Focused Approach:

The SATEL MCCU-20 LTE / UHF is not just a product; it’s a tailor-made solution for the unique challenges encountered in off-highway applications. Its dual-technology operation, sophisticated cybersecurity features, and durable design ensure uninterrupted, secure, and comprehensive connectivity.

SATEL MCCU-20 LTE / UHF Use Cases

Use Case 1

This scenario shows the flexibility of MCCU-20 LTE / UHF where the off-highway machine can use RTK in a job site and can switch to UHF when cellular connection becomes unreliable or unavailable.

Use Case 2

This situation shows an example of an agricultural off-highway machine where the tractor is utilizing the LTE functionality of MCCU-20.

Use Case 3

This example depicts a scenario showcasing a tractor operating off-highway and employing the MCCU-20’s UHF capabilities.

Looking Ahead:

• MCCU-15 is coming soon! This new device is similar to the one that came before it, but it has a specific purpose in mind: it’s exclusively an LTE-only device. Designed for seamless integration into various operational frameworks, MCCU-15 promises to revolutionize connectivity with its dedicated LTE technology, ensuring faster and more reliable communication channels. This device is tailored for scenarios where LTE coverage provides optimal performance, making it a perfect fit for modern, connected applications.
• SATEL NARS-BT & SATEL MOBILE: Together with the SATEL Mobile application, the sturdy Bluetooth-RS232 SATEL NARS-BT device matches wireless configuration requirements for Machine Control applications. Below is a sample use case featuring MCCU-20.

Conclusion:

Embrace the future of confident and innovative connectivity with the SATEL MCCU-20 LTE / UHF. For a deeper dive into its technical features and to understand how it can revolutionize your mission-critical operations, visit our detailed product page here: SATEL MCCU-20 LTE / UHF.

Get in Touch:

Curious about how the SATEL MCCU-20 LTE / UHF can be integrated into your specific mission-critical machine control operations?

Our team of experts is ready to assist you in harnessing the full potential of this innovative solution. 

Contact us today to explore the possibilities and elevate your operational efficiency.

Reach out to us via our Contact Form and let’s discuss how we can help!

Machine Control Construction sites are becoming smarter and more efficient, thanks to new technology from companies like Caterpillar and Trimble. These advancements are making it easier to work safely and solve the problem of finding skilled machine operators.

Step into the future with Satel USA as we spotlight four transformative trends in construction machine control. Our deep dive reveals not just what these trends are, but how they offer practical solutions, inspire confidence in your projects, and cater directly to your needs. Get ready to be energized by the professional insights and innovative approaches that are shaping a smarter, more efficient construction industry.

Remote Operations: Controlling Machines from a Distance

Caterpillar has developed a system called Cat Command that lets people control big machines like excavators and loaders without having to be inside them. This can be done from as far away as four football fields. This was shown off at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023, proving that it’s not just an idea—it’s really happening.

Safety is a big deal with this new tech. As mentioned in For Construction Pros, these technologies are supported and enabled by safety features like radar and camera systems in Cat Detect, ensuring that remote operation does not increase risk. Cat Command is sold in a package that includes:

• Line-of-sight remote control and can also be used in non-line-of-sight remote settings
• Dealer-installed field kits to make a machine Command-ready
• Multiple cameras for non-line-of-site operation and stream on-site video feeds
• A microphone, cameras, indicator lights, a wireless receiver and antenna for mounting on top of the cab
• Advanced features including Grade Assist, Swing Assist and E-Fence

The market for operating construction equipment remotely is so promising that new companies are entering the space to claim their share. Teleo, a startup from Palo Alto established in 2019, is a prime example. It secured $12 million in Series B funding in June 2022, building on an earlier seed round in March 2020. The firm, which employs 20 people primarily in engineering roles, is led by co-founder and CEO Vinay Shet. During the CONEXPO event, Teleo revealed its collaboration with notable new clients such as the John Aarts Group, Teichert, and Tomahawk Construction. Significantly, the company also expanded its network by partnering with dealers across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, setting the stage for its growth in the near future.

Teleo’s remote operation systems are designed with safety as a core feature, ensuring operators have clear visibility at the rear. Shet highlights the use of cameras beneath the bucket to provide clear views of the work zone for those operating wheel loaders and skid steers.

While certain remote control technologies are intended for operators to use within their line of sight, systems like Cat Command and Teleo’s offerings need a reliable internet connection. This connection must be fast enough to allow operators to control equipment in real-time without delays.

Making Machine Operation Easier

Another big step forward is making machines easier to use. SRI International is working on tech that lets operators use simple hand signals or a joystick to control machines. This could make it much simpler for someone who’s never operated a machine before to jump in and start working.

SRI International’s Senior Robotics Engineer, Reuben Brewer, envisions a system where operating an excavator doesn’t require being physically present in it. Operators have the flexibility to control the machinery from the construction site or remotely from another location, such as an office. This is particularly useful when the excavator isn’t being used, allowing the operator to engage in productive work from afar.

Although this concept might seem similar to what Cat Command and Teleo offer, SRI’s research goes beyond just remote control. Brewer emphasizes that their system is unique because it includes the ability to detect humans in the vicinity, allowing the excavator to stop or slow down to prevent accidents. They also immerse the operator in a virtual reality setting for a more effective remote operation experience.

Brewer points out the importance of virtual reality in providing a full sensory experience, which is critical for precision. Initially, without virtual reality, operators missed their target half the time because they lacked depth perception. With virtual reality headsets, they achieved a perfect success rate.

The system’s comprehensive sensory feedback, including 360-degree camera views, is vital for safety, especially in urban settings where the machine automatically shuts down if someone approaches. This safety feature is adaptable, allowing for the creation of no-go zones to prevent the excavator from moving if there’s an obstacle behind it.

Operators can control the excavator using a joystick or simple hand gestures, which mimic the actions they want the machine to perform. This intuitive control method quickly brings new operators up to speed and helps alleviate the labor shortage. Brewer explains that they’ve developed a more natural control pattern that mimics the actual movements, making it easier for operators to perform tasks like scooping and digging, which is especially helpful for those who haven’t operated machinery in a while.

OEM or Aftermarket Machine Control

Fleet owners have a decision to make when it comes to the type of machine control technology they use, whether it’s for remote operation, precision grading with GNSS, or tech that allows machines to interact with their environment. They can either go with systems provided by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or choose from solutions offered by third-party vendors after purchase.

According to the 2023 State of the Industry Construction Technology Report, the trend is leaning towards automation technologies that are either built into the equipment by the OEM or added later by third-party companies like Trimble, Leica, Unicontrol, and Teleo. The majority of the industry professionals surveyed are leaning towards OEM-provided controls, with 27% already using them, 5% allocating funds for them, and 11% planning to adopt them in the future. In contrast, 15% are using third-party machine controls, with an equal 5% budgeting for them and a slightly lower 12% considering them for future use.

Contractors might prefer OEM solutions to minimize the risk of damaging sensitive equipment during installation. The ease of purchasing and the potential for a higher resale value of machines equipped with OEM technology are also persuasive factors. Caterpillar, for instance, is progressively including machine control features like grade control as standard on certain models, such as hydraulic excavators. Case is also providing a universal machine control option compatible with major tech providers, including Topcon, Trimble, and Leica Geosystems.

Even though built-in machine control options are currently more widely used, the growing presence of third-party providers like Unicontrol, Sodex, Teleo, and others suggests that the market for retrofitting machine control may expand. As more OEMs begin to standardize machine control features, the industry may continue to favor OEM solutions, or the trend could stabilize. The industry is keeping an eye on this development to see whether the convenience of OEM-integrated machine control outweighs the benefits of third-party options.

Machine Control Data: The Secret to Smarter Construction

None of this would work without data. Another trend shaping the construction machine control landscape is the growth of technology that prepares data for machine control systems and gathers information for progress tracking and final construction reports. 

Trimble Earthworks stands out as a leading solution for these tasks, offering the capability for users to send files straight to machines on-site either wirelessly through Trimble WorksManager software or via a USB drive with the File Flipper app.

There are also other tools available for managing machine control data. InSite Software’s InSite Elevation Pro, for example, underwent a major overhaul in 2020 to enhance its user-friendliness and performance. The platform continues to evolve, with the recent introduction of RockAlert in April 2023. This feature provides machine control systems with valuable data on the presence of rocks, water, and other underground layers.

Additionally, Quantum Land Design introduced the Quantum Flight Pack in April 2023. This tool allows contractors to set ground control points with a GPS rover, automate drone flights to survey the area, and then process the collected drone data to perform volume measurements for project planning.

Conclusion:

As we navigate the evolving terrain of construction technology, it’s evident that the industry is not just building structures—it’s building a smarter future. The four smart trends in machine control we’ve discussed are not just reshaping the landscape; they’re providing tangible solutions to real-world challenges such as the skilled labor shortage and on-site safety concerns.

At the heart of this technological revolution, companies like Caterpillar are driving innovation, ensuring that construction sites are not only more efficient but also more interconnected. And while Satel USA may not produce complete machine control systems, our expertise in robust communication technology positions us as a cornerstone in this dynamic ecosystem.

Our Satel radios are the silent heroes behind the scenes, providing the reliable communication that is critical for advanced machine control systems to function seamlessly across vast distances and challenging environments.
Discover how our Satel radios can amplify the effectiveness and reliability of your machine control operations. Visit our Machine Control Page today!

The global machine control system market is on the rise, projected to grow from $5.1 billion in 2023 to $7.3 billion by 2028, marking a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4%, according to a recent MarketsandMarkets report. This surge is fueled by the construction industry’s focus on safety and efficiency. Two notable segments fueling this growth are the GNSS technology and the use of excavators. 

Dive into our comprehensive breakdown where we unravel the key elements driving this market growth. Discover how GNSS technology and excavators are revolutionizing the construction landscape, and what this means for the future of machine control systems.

Market Growth Drivers:

Enhanced Safety Measures: At the core of the market’s expansion is the demand for increased safety. Machine control systems minimize the risk of accidents by giving operators real-time feedback on the proximity of workers and potential hazards, crucial for heavy construction environments.

Technological Advancements: The integration of high-tech components like GNSS receivers and sensors provides unprecedented precision in machine operation, essential for tasks that demand exact positioning.

Market Restraints:

Costly Initial Investments: Despite their benefits, the incorporation of sophisticated machine control systems is hindered by the hefty initial costs. The R&D expenses, coupled with the need for specialized software and hardware components, add to the financial burden, potentially slowing market penetration.

Market Opportunities:

3D Modeling Wave: The construction sector’s burgeoning interest in 3D modeling and scanning technologies presents vast opportunities. These technologies enable precise project planning and monitoring, facilitating a smoother workflow from conception to execution.

Market Challenges:

Maintaining Data Integrity: The reliance on GNSS technology for machine control systems introduces the challenge of ensuring data accuracy. Environmental factors such as atmospheric conditions or urban structures can disrupt signal quality, leading to inaccuracies that can impact operational efficiency.

GNSS Technology: A Cornerstone for Growth

• High CAGR Expected: GNSS technology stands out as the segment expected to grow at the highest CAGR within the machine control system market. Its precision positioning capabilities are vital for industries where precise location data is paramount.
• Versatility Across Industries: The utility of GNSS in construction, agriculture, and mining for tasks such as grading and excavation makes it indispensable. This global coverage ensures that machine control systems can be effective in any geographical setting.
• Accuracy Challenges: Despite its advantages, GNSS-based machine control systems must contend with accuracy issues due to potential environmental signal interferences. This includes atmospheric conditions and obstructions in urban or densely foliaged areas.

Excavators: Cementing the Largest Market Share

• Widespread Industry Use: Excavators are projected to claim the largest share of the market due to their extensive use across various industries, including construction and mining.
• Enhanced Precision and Efficiency: Machine control systems augment the capabilities of excavators by offering real-time positioning and automated guidance. This not only boosts precision but also operational efficiency, leading to better resource management and reduced error margins.
• Market Share Factors: The versatility and application breadth of excavators have made them a staple in the machine control system market, and this trend is expected to continue through the forecast period.

Regional Insights: Asia Pacific’s Promising Outlook

• Fastest Growing Market: The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to experience the highest growth rate. Economic growth, urbanization, and substantial investments in infrastructure development in countries like China and India is driving this trend and are propelling the demand for machine control systems.

Key Market Players:

Leading Innovators: The market is competitive, with players like Topcon, Trimble Inc., and Hexagon leading the charge. Their strategies include new product developments, collaborations, and partnerships to solidify their market position and drive innovation forward.

Conclusion

The machine control system market is poised for substantial growth, shaped by technological advancements and a strong emphasis on safety and efficiency.  GNSS and excavators stand as pivotal elements in this growth story. However, the industry must navigate the challenges of high initial costs and the need for reliable data to fully realize its potential​.

As the machine control system market continues to evolve, the role of reliable communication becomes increasingly critical. At Satel USA, we specialize in providing robust Satel radios that are integral to the infrastructure of effective machine control systems. Known globally for their long range, superior transceivers, and unparalleled reliability, our radios ensure that your machine control solutions remain effective over vast distances and through challenging terrains. 

While we may not offer full machine control systems, our expertise in reliable communication technology makes us a vital partner in the machine control ecosystem. 

We invite you to explore how our Satel radios can enhance the efficiency and dependability of your operations. Visit our Machine Control page for a closer look at how we’re driving the future of machine control communication, ensuring your projects are built on solid ground.