Wireless technology makes it possible to transmit signals from one smart
handheld device to another by means of the internet. Communication is
accomplished by transmitting data and information gathered on a portable
handheld device to a satellite-based communication center and then
transmitting this same information to the home-base computer by use of
the internet.
Portable handheld devices such as Personal Digital Assistance (PDA’s) or
Mobile Personal Computers (PC’s) are just a few of the devices available
to the construction industry which have the ability to wirelessly
communicate and provide precise immediate information from a
construction project back to the home-base or office computer.
The objective is to remotely collect high-resolution digital data in a
logical, consistent manner and then organize that data into an
informational database. That information can then be automatically
downloaded onto the home-base computer when needed in order to generate
accurate reports and documents which would include maps, spreadsheets,
photos etc. depending on the application.
Portable Notepad computers are another type of smart handheld devices
that uses wireless technology which allow architects, engineers and
project managers within the construction industry the ability to acquire
data and information in a timely responsive manner in order to make
accurate decisions and modifications.
This device provides the user the ability to take handwritten notes,
sketch pictures, and even edit existing documents directly on the
screen. Like the PDA’s and Mobile PC’s, data gathered can be wirelessly
transmitted back to the office in real-time applications. Meaning
documents and spreadsheets can be created instantly at the construction
site eliminating the need to copy or recreated had sketches and
pictures.
Since information gathered on smart handheld devices are captured
digitally and generated on demand, reports and other pertinent
information that would have taken days, weeks or months to obtain can
now be generated the same day.
Fig.1 Wireless communication used in
handheld devices transmit information from one project site to another
project site and even from the project site to the computer home- base
by means of the internet.
QuikRuler requires no special training or computer experience... it only
takes minutes to start measuring. For example, to measure an area,
simply select AREA from the menu then trace or touch points along the
perimeter of the area with the pointing device. The resulting
measurement will appear (in English or metric units) on the LCD display.
QuikRuler can also be connected to a PC through the USB port to
automatically input numerical data into any software program.
QuikRuler is proven to deliver faster, more accurate takeoffs and
measurements, boosting performance up to 3 times! It includes all
functions necessary to measure lengths, as well as irregular areas in
any scale or unit of measurement. In addition, QuikRuler performs
standard calculator functions and can count items on blueprints or
drawings with ease. More bids means more jobs... Greater accuracy means
bigger profits!
QuikRuler III can be used with either a GTCO Calcomp Roll-up III or
Super LIV digitizer and it comes with everything you need to get
started-measuring menu, LCD display with a sophisticated, yet easy to
use built in measuring program and integrated USB connector for easy
plug-in play use.
QuikRuler III includes all functions necessary to measure lengths, as
well as irregular areas in any scale or unit of measurement. For
example, to measure an area, simply elect AREA from the menu then trace
or touch points along the perimeter of the area with the pointing
device. The resulting measurement will appear (in English or metric
units) on the LCD display. QuikRuler III also performs standard
calculator functions and can count items on blue prints or drawings with
ease.
Best of all, the QuikRuler III is compatible with all leading estimating
software, so your investment is protected when you choose to upgrade to
the even higher performance of a computerized estimating system.
The Estimator's Keypad"2 —is a productivity tool for
professional estimators that simplifies and positions the sometimes
overwhelming number of functions and features available with most
top-of-the-line computerized estimating systems at your fingertips for
easy and quick access.
A thin profile, pressure-sensitive keypad replaces the traditional
tablet menu, and works in unison with any GTCO digitizer.
Following are the key benefits of the Smart Menu Estimation keypad.
• Estimating system functions are presented in a clear, easy to
understand fashion, at your fingertips.
• Entire digitizing area is freed up for plan measurement.
• Need for a keyboard and mouse is eliminated or reduced when doing
takeoffs.
• Can be positioned anywhere on or off the digitizer.
Smart Menu gives the estimating professional the fastest method of
entering blueprint information into a computer. And, thanks to its slim
profile and small format (9.5" x 13"), Smart Menu can fit in a brief
case or laptop case, for use in the field or at home.
It helps to obtain accurate and precise measurements. Eliminating the
possibilities of errors attributed to erroneous calculation or lack of
experience and skill in estimation. It also provides considerable saving
in time and money increasing the profit margins of the construction
managers, estimators and other general contractors in the construction
industry.
The CTG line of instruments3 are nondestructive,
battery-powered handheld systems for measuring the thickness and
integrity of concrete slabs, pavements, tunnel linings, walls and other
plate-like structures. These systems feature a handheld gauge that
records thickness information, a handheld test head for generating and
receiving sound waves and a telescoping pole for use on flatwork or
overhead. The CTG requires no special knowledge or training. It reliably
measures the thickness of any type of concrete using the Impact Echo
principle. Use it right out of the case with built-in default concrete
parameters, or for greater accuracy simply calibrate the CTG instrument
by testing at a point of known concrete thickness as a calibration
reference for the speed of sound in that concrete and start testing.
MVX4 is a fully digital thickness gauge with thickness,
A-Scan and B-Scan display and Data Logging Capability. The adjustable
square wave pulser provides the flexibility necessary for both high
resolution and penetration requirements. The MVX is equipped with
multiple viewing options to provide users with a complete set of
inspection tools: (RF waveform, +/- Rectified waveform, Time based
B-Scan, and Large Digits). The A-Scan rectified mode is commonly used
for detecting flaws/pits in pulse-echo mode and measuring though-paint
and coatings in echo-echo mode. The time-based B-Scan feature of the MVX
displays a cross section of the test material. It is commonly used to
display the profile of the bottom surface of the test material. Built-in
AGC gain control for though-paint measurements in multi-mode operation.
MVX is equipped with an alpha-numeric data logger to provide increased
versatility for those custom reporting needs. The built-in transducer
types offer increased linearity between transducers. The high speed scan
feature speeds up the inspection process by making 32 measurements per
second. Use the visual alarm to set hi and lo limits for applications
requiring specific tolerances. If the actual thickness value is above or
below the limits, a red light is illuminated. Use the find feature to
locate the detection point, while automatically adjusting the display to
bring the signal into view. It Comes with complete Windows® based
software and interface cable for transferring data to & from a PC.
Managing construction projects or performing skillful task within the
construction industry requires the right tool for the right job. Whether
that job consists of scheduling, estimating or acquiring informative
data, workers today require precise accurate means of obtaining
information. In order to assist the construction industry in meeting
these requirements many software companies have develop software that
will integrate with hand held devices or apparatus in order to assist
workers in performing their daily tasks and activities.
Such software developed to assist the construction worker is Mobile
Estimating5. Mobile Estimating Software is designed to
integrate with Personal Digital Assistants (PDA’s) devices in order to
equip estimators with all the tools needed to perform detailed takeoffs
remotely. Because the software lets one take a subset of the database
generated on the computer desktop to the field – giving one access to
insurmountable information – this allows estimators the ability to
create brand new estimates right on the spot in the palm of their hands.
Then when back at the office this same data can be transferred
electronically to the desktop computer in order to instantly generate
detailed reports or change orders. So now, estimators can be sure to log
all of a project’s information in one place, keeping the user better
organized and ready to make estimate additions as needed.
A new software developed for the needs of the construction industry is
Model Estimating6. Model Estimating Software is a highly
analytical tool which makes it great for value engineering and other
applications that require sophisticated parametric estimating. “What if”
scenarios can be performed in brainstorming sessions by project
managers, architects, and owners. If a building material changes from
brick to say, stucco or, if a room size and shape changes, the user can
easily know exactly what impact the changes will have on the project
before they add up to be a budget problem. The results are precise
detailed estimates which help respond in dollars and cents, to ongoing
design ideas and changes.
Accurate and timely identification, tracking and positioning of
construction components are critical for operating a well-managed and
cost efficient construction project. With the technology of integrated
field sensors, portable computers, wireless communication and real-time
kinematics (RTK) global positioning (GPS) equipment, smart handheld
tools can now be used in systems which enable the construction industry
the ability to develop standards for part identification, inventory
tracking of components and a means for real-time positioning of elements
in the field by gathering information that can be wirelessly transmitted
into a construction project database for future use.
With the first concept individual objects scheduled for arrival to the
construction site are previously labeled and tagged at the fabricators
using bar codes or radio-frequency transponders. Upon arrival at the
construction site the encoded information is scanned directly into a
portable computer by use of a smart hand tool and wirelessly relayed to
a remote project database.
When a field operator or project manger performs a database query of the
scanned objects, information and a graphical representations of that
component is presented either in the form of computer aided design (CAD)
or in the form of virtual reality mark-up language (VRML).
Another concept that utilizes smart handheld tools involves real-time
positioning technology which locates and positions elements in the
construction field for real-time applications.
This system consists of two primary components: transmitters and the
receiver. The transmitters are set up facing the object or element
requiring positioning. Once in place infra-red lights or signals are
transmitted and detected only by the system’s receivers.
The receiver is comprised of a hand held computer with screen and two
optical lenses. The position of the receiver lenses along with the
transmitters form a reference point which allows that point position
definition to be projected to the computer. Therefore, the position of
any point that the user touches with the handheld receiver tool is
accurately and instantly capture. This system can be directly linked to
CAD and the receiver then becomes a three dimensional cursor within the
CAD environment providing a real-time link between the physical and
virtual design worlds.
The
position of the lenses and the known geometry of the receiver allow the
point position definition to be projected to the handheld computer
One of the biggest issues facing the construction industry today is
acquiring data and effectively integrating that data into operations and
decision making. This is true whether one is a project manager,
architect or field operator; accurate information is required in order
to compete in this fast growing industry.
The solution to this issue is a handheld device called 7OMNI™.
OMNI the Observational Mapping and Noting Instrument has the ability to
collect high-resolution digital data in a logical, consistent manner,
and then organized that data into a relational database. Users can then
conduct pre-programmed querries and automatically generate standardized
reports with geo-referenced maps and photos embedded within the text.
Omni consist of (1) A hand-held computer with integrated sensors for
collecting and synchronizing a rich array of high-resolution, digital
data. (2) A normalized, relational database for storing, sharing, and
querying the data. (3) A Geographic Information Systems (GIS) - enabled
computer system for analyzing, interpreting, and automatically reporting
data.
Equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless communication, OMNI transmit
and store data for remote uploading and downloading from field units to
the office computer. In the field the unit becomes a robust desk/laptop
PC to consolidate data from the field, house the relational database,
and then generate GIS-embedded reports.
The principal behind OMNI is that the operator aims the unit at a target
and presses the record button, which captures a digital image: obtains
GPS positioning, distance, elevation, inclination and other metric
attributes; and then stores the data in a database with a time/date
stamp and unique project identifier attached. The user can capture their
position as well as the calculated GPS coordinates for the target
location, simultaneously. This is ideal for rapid mapping, plotting, and
reporting unexploded ordinance from a safe distance.
Constructware8 uses the technology that provides
collaboration solutions to construction-related companies that helps
them to achieve business success by increasing productivity, improving
risk management and reducing costs. Constructware is a web-based
application created using Microsoft’s Active Server Pages (ASP)
technology. ASP suite is a scalable, secure Internet-based solution that
simplifies design and project management, while facilitating
communication and collaboration among general contractors, owners,
architects, engineers, construction and project managers and
subcontractors.
Constructware reduces the inherent risks associated with complex
projects by merging the most project essential elements into a single
solution that helps organizations manage the entire life cycle of
construction projects, from pre-bid to completion. The centralized
database would serve as a single source for project and business
information which would in return improve the communication and
collaboration among all the project participants. The project database
is continuously updated to help the owners, architects, engineers, and
subcontractors can gain immediate access to the most current information
to track project progress and support real-time decision making and
analysis. With improved communication and accountability among project
teams, jobs are completed on time and on budget, driving profitability.
In addition to its ASP offering, Constructware also offers a
client-server-based project management solution designed specifically
for trade and specialty contractors. This helps the companies to
electronically create, store and track RFIs, transmittals, change
orders, purchase orders, pay applications, correspondence and contact
information from a single, centralized corporate database.
Constructware is a web-based application created using Microsoft’s
Active Server Pages (ASP) technology. Constructware is a hosted
communication and collaboration solution that streamlines design and
project management among team members throughout the design,
construction and facility lifecycle. The centralized toolset enables all
parties to communicate and collaborate anytime, anywhere, offering the
flexibility to optimize, standardize and automate their entire business
processes.
