Semi-Automated Construction Field Controller for Defect Elimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
The construction industry faces challenges with manual processes that lead to errors, increased costs, and inefficiencies in construction management, including human error, communication issues, and the inability to effectively mitigate nonconformities and defects during the construction process.
Innovation Solution
A semi-automated construction superintendent field control device that integrates computing and sensor technology to provide real-time monitoring and control capabilities, allowing for precise data collection, processing, and documentation of construction site information, enabling operators to track and update project status efficiently and accurately, while reducing cognitive workload and eliminating defects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual processes are used for construction management, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and error rates increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple manual processes (quality control, subcontract management, project details tracking, task management, communications, schedule updates, progress tracking, material management, equipment monitoring) into a single integrated field controller device. This consolidation improves productivity by centralizing data collection and management while reducing the complexity of managing multiple separate tools and systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The field controller is designed as a universal device that performs multiple construction management functions simultaneously - monitoring quality, tracking progress, managing tasks, communicating with subcontractors, and documenting site conditions. This multi-functionality increases productivity without requiring multiple specialized devices, effectively resolving the contradiction between system capability and complexity.
2Reliability
If real-time monitoring is implemented, then reliability of construction control improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The field controller implements real-time feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring construction site conditions and immediately reporting status updates, quality issues, and progress data to central systems. This feedback loop enhances control reliability by enabling timely detection and correction of problems, while the automated nature of the feedback reduces the complexity of manual monitoring procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs automated data collection and reporting capabilities that operate without continuous human intervention. Sensors and onboard systems automatically monitor conditions, log data, and transmit information, improving reliability through consistent automated monitoring while reducing the operational complexity compared to manual real-time reporting methods.
3Measurement precision
If automated data collection is used, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual data collection methods with automated sensors and electronic data processing systems within the field controller. This substitution improves measurement precision by eliminating human error in data recording while the integrated nature of the automated systems manages complexity through consolidation rather than multiplication of components.
Data Source
AI summary
A construction superintendent field control device is disclosed that eliminates defects by preventing them during the construction process. The construction superintendent field control device comprises a rugged, indoor, and outdoor computing component that connects to a chassis component controlled by an operator or that is used as a portable, handheld tool. The device requires an operator to locate and move the device within the operating field. The device perceives and interacts with construction documentation and the environment by hardware, sensors and software while knowing its position. The device uses image processing for measuring and comparing real to digital information.