Real-Time Data Collection and Visualization Technology in Construction

Data on construction resources (personnel, equipment, materials) is vast and the effort to collect and analyze it automatically is a priority in the construction industry. Once remote sensing and intelligent data processing technology are applied to supplement manual data recording, however, very few data visualization tools in construction exist that allow visualizing dynamic resource data in a field realistic virtual reality environment and are at the same time able to perform this task in or near real-time. Moreover, technology to assist in real-time data visualization and situational awareness can have a significant impact on stakeholders' successful and safe completion of construction projects. This research addresses the need for real-time data collection and visualization technology in construction applications. It reviews state-of-the-art technology in this field and presents a new framework that implements real-time remote sensing and data visualization technology in two significant construction applications: (1) Real-time pro-active construction safety assessment and training, and (2) Real-time construction productivity and performance monitoring. Preliminary results to each of these scenarios are presented and discussed.