Construction Equipment Research Articles

From red tape to red carpet: the Unidroit Cape Town Convention and MAC Protocol’s Adventure in Africa

Abstract This article examines the implementation of the Mining, Agricultural and Construction (MAC) Equipment Protocol under the Cape Town Convention in Africa, focusing on enhancing economic growth and sustainable development through improved access to financing for high-value mobile equipment. Africa’s economic development is significantly hindered by inadequate infrastructure, which escalates transaction costs and limits access to international markets. Investment in modern infrastructure, particularly in the mining, agricultural, and construction sectors, is typically expensive for many businesses in the African region. The MAC Protocol aims to address these challenges by providing a uniform legal framework that supports the financing of MAC equipment. The Convention and the MAC Protocol facilitate access to affordable capital and reduce risks for financiers who take international interests in MAC equipment, promoting economic activities in Africa. The article highlights the legal protections offered by the MAC Protocol, ensuring rights against third-party claims and enhancing the enforceability of international interests. The adoption of the MAC Protocol by African States could significantly impact their ability to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by making modern, cost-efficient equipment more accessible, thus boosting productivity and economic diversification. The article advocates for adopting the MAC Protocol, emphasizing its potential to enhance foreign investment in the mining, agriculture, and construction sectors, stimulating economic development in Africa. This strategic move will propel African countries towards greater economic resilience and integration into the global economy. The article also critically analyses and illustrates the several declaration mechanisms available to countries adopting the MAC Protocol, accompanied by a guidance note to sensitize lawmakers when signing and/or ratifying or acceding to the Cape Town Convention and the MAC Protocol.

ASSESSMENT OF THE INFLUENCE OF ROAD EQUIPMENT PERFORMANCE ON THE EFFICIENCY OF ITS USE

The paper assesses the impact of road machinery performance on the efficiency of its use. It is accepted that the main operational parameters of road equipment for analyzing the technical condition and degree of use of machines include productivity, efficiency index, time for the technological process and losses. The influence of productivity on the strategy of machine operation, as one of the main parameters of the roadway arrangement process, is considered provided that road machines have not only different productivity, but also different rates of its change during operation. The analysis of the given dependencies and the given conditions for changing productivity has shown the impact of increasing and decreasing the rate of productivity decline on the optimal service life of the equipment. These results confirm the extremely important importance of measures aimed at maintaining high machine performance during their operation. The components of machine operating time are analyzed. It was found that the useful or effective working time is an estimated value that is the required time for a given volume of production at reference performance, that is, without loss of productivity and quality. The methods of monitoring the technical condition and the degree of use of road equipment in road construction are analyzed.

Progress in the Study of Occurrence, Distribution, Material Flows, and Environmental Release of Substances of Very High Concern （SVHCs） in Plastics

Plastic additives provide plastics with excellent functions such as plasticizing, flame retardant, and antioxidant properties and are widely used in various plastics. Of these, 189 plastic additives have been included in the European Union's Candidate List of substances of very high concern （SVHCs） due to their potential environmental and health risks. These SVHCs are mainly used in PVC, PUR, and PE plastics and in the packaging, automotive, construction, electronic and electrical equipment, and textile sectors. Plasticizers and flame retardants are the most widely used and therefore the focus of SVHC risk assessment and risk management. Existing studies have carried out material flow analysis （MFA） for SVHCs in plastics, revealing the environmental and health risks of typical flame retardants and plasticizers throughout the product life cycle, such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers （PBDEs）, hexabromocyclododecane （HBCD）, and phthalic acid esters （PAEs）. A large amount of SVHCs enter waste streams at the end of the product life cycle, highlighting the importance of strengthening waste management for SVHCs risk management. In addition to the release of SVHCs from plastic products into the environment, plastic leakage is another important source of environmental release of SVHCs. Plastic debris that have been in the environment for a long time continue to release SVHCs and pose a long-term threat to the ecosystem and human health. In the future potentially hazardous chemicals must be crucially identified in different types of plastics and to assess their environmental release during their life cycle, in particular by establishing a database on hazardous chemicals in plastics and measuring emission factors, optimizing dynamic material flow analysis （d-MFA）, as well as studying the release mechanisms of hazardous chemicals from plastic leakage.

Development of a Virtual Telehandler Model Using a Bond Graph

Recent technological advancements and evolving regulatory frameworks are catalysing the integration of renewable energy sources in construction equipment, with the objective of significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The electrification of non-road mobile machinery (NRMM), particularly self-propelled Rough-Terrain Variable Reach Trucks (RTVRT) equipped with telescopic booms, presents notable stability challenges. The transition from diesel to electric propulsion systems alters, among other factors, the centre of gravity and the inertial matrix, necessitating precise load capacity determinations through detailed load charts to ensure operational safety. This paper introduces a virtual model constructed through multiphysics modelling utilising the bond graph methodology, incorporating both scalar and vector bonds to facilitate detailed interconnections between mechanical and hydraulic domains. The model encompasses critical components, including the chassis, rear axle, telescopic boom, attachment fork, and wheels, each requiring a comprehensive three-dimensional treatment to accurately resolve spatial dynamics. An illustrative case study, supported by empirical data, demonstrates the model’s capabilities, particularly in calculating ground wheel reaction forces and analysing the hydraulic self-levelling behaviour of the attachment fork. Notably, discrepancies within a 10% range are deemed acceptable, reflecting the inherent variability of field operating conditions. Experimental analyses validate the BG-3D simulation model of the telehandler implemented in 20-SIM establishing it as an effective tool for estimating stability limits with satisfactory precision and for predicting dynamic behaviour across diverse operating conditions. Additionally, the paper discusses prospective enhancements to the model, such as the integration of the virtual vehicle model with a variable inclination platform in future research phases, aimed at evaluating both longitudinal and lateral stability in accordance with ISO 22915 standards, promoting operator safety.

Research Progress on Intelligent Control Heading Machine

Background: With the development of society, the demand for underground works, such as to control road traffic and enhance the development of mineral resources, is increasing. Simple human and mechanical resources can no longer meet people's needs. Therefore, the development of the heading machine has advanced the construction of underground engineering and the development of mineral resources, leading to a significant change in tunneling efficiency. However, the increase in the scale of engineering facilities, changes in geological conditions, the reduction in human resources, and other factors, accompanied by the arrival of the era of big data, have prompted the heading machine to become more and more efficient, advanced, and intelligent. Objective: This article aimed to describe the classification, characteristics, and development of existing heading machines. It also takes into account the impact of changing engineering facilities, geological conditions, and limited human resources. The research and development direction of the equipment in intelligent perception, intelligent construction, and safety management is proposed. Methods: In this study, the working principle and related patents of the heading machine have been summarized. The structural characteristics, differences, and application characteristics of the heading machines in different fields are introduced, and the limitations of previous methods have been analyzed. Results: By analyzing and comparing the existing heading machines and summarizing their typical features, the main problems in the development of heading machines have been analyzed and the development trend of heading machines is predicted. Finally, the current research status and future development trends of heading machines and their patents are discussed. Conclusion: The heading machines are divided into two types based on the operation object: tunnel boring machine and ordinary heading machine. Among these, the full-face heading machine is the most widely used, and heading machines with different working faces are the most typical among ordinary heading machines. Currently, the application of intelligence in heading machines has gained widespread traction both domestically and internationally. The future development direction of heading machines must focus on intelligence, ensuring safety and efficiency, lightweight design, and environmental sustainability.

Towards Sustainable Road Construction: Literature Review on Addressing Environmental Impacts and Promoting Green Technologies

Abstract This study investigates the environmental impacts of road construction and explores strategies to promote green technologies in Indonesia. Traditional road construction methods, particularly those using asphalt and cement, have significant energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This study conducted a thorough literature review to investigate green technologies and best practices to reduce emissions during the construction process. The literature review included articles published from 2004 to 2024, drawn from various national and international academic sources, and adopted the PRISMA method. It was found that key strategies include recycled materials, warm mix asphalt technology, permeable pavement systems, green roofs, and energy-efficient equipment. To mitigate these impacts, the study recommends using recycled materials, adopting energy-efficient technologies, implementing sustainable design practices, and conducting life cycle assessments. Although Indonesia has made progress, challenges such as limited funding, technology, and coordination remain. Overcoming these challenges requires increased commitment and funding, capacity building, better coordination, and stricter regulations. Future studies should investigate the development and implementation of innovative green technologies, including advanced recycled materials, more efficient construction equipment, and innovative pavement design techniques.

Kebijakan Pemerintah Dalam Mewujudkan Strategi Coastal Defense dengan pendekatan Anti-Access Area Denial (A2/AD) Sebagai Pertahanan Di Kawasan Indonesia

This study examines Indonesia’s coastal defense policy using an Anti-Access/Area Denial (A2/AD) strategy to protect its coastal regions. The A2/AD approach is adapted to the geographical characteristics of Indonesia as an archipelagic state, involving maritime radar surveillance, strengthening coastal patrol fleets, and developing access denial tactics in strategic areas like the Malacca Strait and the North Natuna Sea. Key threats, such as foreign vessel infiltration and illegal activities, drive the adoption of this strategy. A qualitative method is employed, analyzing policy documents, including the Indonesian Navy’s Strategic Plan, interviews with relevant officials, and case studies of the Nusantara Maritime Surveillance System (SPILN). The analysis reveals progress in infrastructure development, such as coastal base construction and defense equipment modernization. However, challenges remain, particularly in inter-agency coordination involving the Navy, Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla), and the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, as well as limited resource allocation. The Fast Patrol Boat program exemplifies these issues, with operational constraints due to inadequate integration with national surveillance systems. Recommendations include enhancing policy synergy through a unified command center, optimizing maritime defense budgets, and improving tactical training for coastal units. These findings aim to guide policymakers in formulating a more effective coastal defense strategy to safeguard Indonesia’s maritime sovereignty and security.

USE OF FLOATING (PONTOON) BRIDGES FOR THE ENGINEERING COVER OF TRANSPORT FACILITIES

Purpose. The purpose of this work is to investigate the topic of floating (pontoon) bridge systems as an option for overcoming water obstacles, a means of technical cover for national transport infrastructure facilities, and to analyze the current state of application of existing floating system property in order to determine the directions of further research in this area. Methodology. Research of existing floating (pontoon) bridge systems, their classification and technical characteristics, in the context of means of technical cover of important transport facilities and overcoming water obstacles in the conditions of modern warfare. Findings. Provision of temporary pontoon bridges is carried out during the creation of duplicate bridge crossings (ferry crossings) and the restoration of traffic in areas with destroyed transport facilities. Pontoons from sets of floating bridges can be used as platforms for installing special construction equipment during the construction (restoration) of transport facilities. A systemic analysis of floating (pontoon) bridges as an option for overcoming water obstacles for the technical cover of transport infrastructure facilities was conducted. All available floating (pontoon) means that can be used for their intended purpose were considered, and the need for modeling floating (pontoon) systems to expand their application possibilities was determined. Originality. The scientific interest lies in the fact that after conducting an analysis of the classification and technical characteristics of the available means of floating (pontoon) bridge systems, the main directions for further research and their simulations have been established, which will create conditions for their optimized application, taking into account the challenges of today in overcoming wide water obstacles, technical cover objects of the national transport infrastructure by laying duplicate temporary floating bridges (ferry crossings). Practical value. Pontoon systems for bridges are essential for providing technical cover for national transport infrastructure objects. Given the limited number of identical systems available for pontoon bridge systems, it is relevant to research the adaptation of different pontoon systems in one crossing, thereby expanding their application possibilities and providing all the necessary conditions for overcoming the widest water obstacles in Ukraine.

Review of artificial intelligence applications in construction management over the last five years

PurposeThis paper provides a thorough examination of the advancements and impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) on construction management (CM) over the past five years, particularly focusing on its role in mitigating prevalent challenges such as inefficiency and ensuring quality. By methodically reviewing and synthesizing the body of research conducted in this period, it underscores key contributions and breakthroughs in the application of AI within construction management (AICM). Additionally, the study aims to shed light on emerging trends and forecast future directions for technological innovation in the construction management sector.Design/methodology/approachGuided by the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) framework, this research conducts a bibliometric analysis of 176 relevant publications from the past five years. The analysis focuses on the adoption of AICM across three critical areas: construction equipment management, improvement of construction safety and construction cost optimization. Additionally, the study systematically identifies and examines 14 emerging themes within this domain, ensuring a comprehensive exploration aligned with PRISMA guidelines.FindingsThis manuscript summarizes recent research from the past five years in three key areas: construction equipment management, construction safety management and construction cost management within the realm of AICM. It identifies key gaps and outlines future research directions, including enhancing AI-driven equipment integration, developing sophisticated AI-based safety systems and optimizing cost management with advanced data analytics. These findings and directions are essential for steering the field toward greater digital innovation and sustainability.Originality/valueThis research provides a detailed analysis of the literature within the AICM domain, thoughtfully compiling significant findings and highlighting the importance of addressing user needs. The insights and recommendations shared aim to be beneficial for both academic researchers and industry professionals, contributing to the ongoing development of AICM as it moves toward a future characterized by digital innovation and sustainability.

Automated physics-based modeling of construction equipment through data fusion

Physics-based simulations are essential for designing autonomous construction equipment, but preparing models is time-consuming, requiring the integration of mechanical and geometric data. Current automatic modeling methods for modular robots are inadequate for construction equipment. This paper explores automating the modeling process by integrating mechanical data into 3D computer-aided design (CAD) models. A template library is developed with hierarchy and joint templates specific for equipment. During model generation, appropriate templates are selected based on the equipment type. Unspecified joint template data is extracted from technical specifications using a large language model (LLM). The 3D CAD model is then converted into a Universal Scene Description (USD) model. Users can adjust the part names and hierarchy within the USD model to align with the hierarchy template, and joint data is automatically integrated, resulting in a simulation-ready model. This method reduces modeling time by over 87 % compared to manual methods, while maintaining accuracy.

STRENGHENING OF RC BEAMS BY FRC AND FRP SYSTEMS – A REVIEW

The article examines studies on the reinforcement of reinforced concrete elements of cement -based fibro -based fibro systems (FRC) and polymers reinforcement fibro (FRP). Nowadays, the world economy, and with it, the construction industry is developing at a rapid pace. New materials, mechanization, construction equipment are emerging on the market. Due to this, modern structures impress with their shapes, scale and complexity of structures. The state of construction production in the country can be judged on the state of the economy of this country as a whole. Now the urgent issue in the world is the use of new composite materials in the strengthening of building structures. Such materials include non -metallic fittings, laminates, nets and canvases based on high -strength fibers. In this case, the own weight of fiber materials is slightly small. Only units of the above researchers performed enhancement of experimental samples under load, so the influence of the initial stress-deformed state on the work of the structure after amplification was practically not studied.

Design and Testing of a Small-Scale Composting Facility for Sheep Manure Utilizing Aeration and Thermal Treatment

Inner Mongolia has the largest sheep population among China’s provinces, resulting in the production of a substantial amount of sheep manure. If left untreated, this manure can contribute to environmental pollution. However, sheep manure serves a dual purpose: it can be both a pollutant and a valuable source of organic fertilizer. Consequently, there is an urgent need to address the environmental issues arising from manure accumulation and its unused status. In this paper, a viable solution is proposed: the conversion of manure into fertilizer through a composting unit incorporating high-temperature aerobic fermentation technology. This unit, tailored for small farms and individual farmers, integrates critical functions such as ventilation, heating, and turning. Additionally, it boasts excellent thermal insulation, enhancing composting efficiency and enabling precise control over fermentation conditions. This design mitigates heat loss and accelerates maturation, addressing common challenges in traditional composting. The design process encompassed both equipment construction and control systems, with a primary focus on compost fermentation and aeration heating. The components were carefully designed or selected based on theoretical analysis and subsequently validated using simulation software, including EDEM and Fluent. The control system seamlessly integrates a touch screen interface, PLC programming, and control circuits to manage air pumps and electric heaters in response to changes in temperature and oxygen concentration. Furthermore, it controls the motors during the recovery phase. A comprehensive performance evaluation was conducted, revealing notable improvements. Under artificially heated conditions, the maximum temperature of the compost increased by approximately 20 °C, the composting cycle was reduced by roughly 4 days, and the seed germination index (GI) rose by about 9% when compared to natural fermentation. Thus, this device significantly accelerates composting and improves fertilizer quality by increasing the decomposition rate.

Application of Machine Learning in Construction Productivity at Activity Level: A Critical Review

There are two crucial resources (i.e., labor and equipment) of productivity in the construction industry. Productivity modeling of these resources would aid stakeholders in project management and improve construction scheduling and monitoring. Hence, this research aims to review machine learning (ML) applications in the process of construction productivity modeling (CPM) for construction labor productivity (CLP) and construction equipment productivity (CEP) from dataset acquisition to data analysis and evaluation, which includes their trends and applicability. An extensive analysis of 131 journals focused on the application of machine learning in construction productivity (ML-CP) from 1990 to 2024 via a mixed review methodology (bibliometric analysis and systematic review) was conducted. It can be concluded that despite the rise in automated dataset collection, the traditional method has its advantages. The review further found that the selection of ML models relies on each particular application, available data, and computational resources. Noticeably, artificial neural networks, convolutional neural networks, support vector machines, and even deep learning demonstrating have been adopted due to their effectiveness in different functionalities and processes in CPM. This study will supplement the insights gained in the review with a comprehensive understanding of how ML applications operate at each stage of CPM, enabling researchers to make future improvements.

Design and development of bridge erecting machine with small curve radius and bottom feeding beam

As a key equipment in highway and railway construction, bridge erecting machines directly affect the feasibility, progress, and quality of project implementation. In order to solve the problem that traditional bridge building machines are only suitable for application scenarios with large turning radii and large lifting sites, and have low lifting efficiency, which cannot meet the requirements of urban elevated bridge construction, a small radius bottom feeding beam bridge building machine suitable for urban highway and railway construction is proposed. The feasibility and reliability were verified through force analysis and finite element analysis; Design a secondary turning structure and bridge construction process for the front leg, adjusting the turning angle to around 7°, significantly reducing the turning radius of the bridge building machine; Propose a technology for feeding and lifting beams at the bottom of dual-use bridge decks for highways and railways. By vertically lifting beams and slabs, the lifting space is significantly reduced and the lifting efficiency is improved. Finally, a small radius bottom feeding beam bridge erecting machine was developed and tested and applied. The results show that the small radius bottom feeding beam bridge erecting machine designed in this article reduces the turning radius of traditional bridge erecting machines from over 300 m to about 80 m, making it possible to carry out projects that were originally impossible, and solving the problem of elevated bridge construction in limited urban spaces.

Design, dynamic modeling and testing of a novel MR damper for cable-stayed climbing robots under wind loads

To increase the adaptability of bridge construction equipment in high-altitude settings, this study examines a magnetorheological (MR) damper designed for cable-stayed climbing robots. Initially, a novel damper incorporating a spring-MR fluid combination and three magnetic circuit units is developed. A robot-cable-wind coupling dynamic model is subsequently formulated via Hamilton’s principle, based on force analysis. The simulation results indicate that the damper’s maximum output force is 204.60 N, with optimal working currents of 0.2 A (Force 4) and 0.4 A (Force 7). To verify the analysis, testing is conducted using an MR damper. The results reveal an average relative error of 4.60% for the actual output damping force. When mounted on the robot, the climbing speed range, average relative error, and maximum relative error are controlled within 0.66 mm/s, 0.78% and 2.5%, respectively. This approach allows for the rapid selection of suitable working currents and markedly enhances the climbing stability of the robot.

A Case Study on the Risk Assessment for O&M of a 1 MW Tidal Current Energy Converter

Tidal power is a technology that generates electricity by utilizing tidal current energy, and in recent years, with the advancement of technology, it has reached the stage of real sea performance test. However, in the case of Korea, there is a lack of construction experience and equipment, and work in fast flows such as the Uldolmok region involves various risk factors. In order to establish measures to reduce these risk factors, Korea’s Occupational Safety and Health Act recommends performing a risk assessment to identify and manage risk factors that may occur during work in advance. Risk assessment is a process aimed at identifying and evaluating potential risk factors that may arise during work, with the goal of minimizing losses caused by accidents. Therefore, in this study, a risk assessment was conducted to identify risk factors that may occur during offshore O&M work of the 1 MW tidal current energy converter and to ensure the safety of workers and the environment. A total of 60 risk factors were identified, including marine and weather conditions, equipment and personnel, and work environments, and a qualitative risk assessment was conducted three times based on the judgment of several field experts.

Method for Detecting Roadbed Compaction Degree Based on Machine Learning and Vibration Acceleration

Roadbed construction occupies a core position in highway construction, but its quality is easily constrained by multiple factors such as changing environmental factors, the performance of construction equipment, and the professional abilities of construction personnel, leading to potential quality risks. Traditional quality inspection methods are mostly carried out after construction is completed, making it difficult to achieve continuous and real-time monitoring of roadbed compaction quality, which to some extent limits the real-time feedback and adjustment of construction quality. Vibration compaction technology has been widely used in the field of highway engineering due to its high efficiency and speed. The compaction degree is directly related to the durability and service life of the highway; therefore, accurate and efficient detection of compaction degree is crucial. This article proposes a method for detecting roadbed compaction degree by integrating machine learning (ML) and vibration acceleration signals. This method aims to achieve accurate evaluation of roadbed compaction by real-time monitoring and analysis of vibration acceleration data, combined with the powerful prediction and classification capabilities of ML algorithms. The experimental results show that this method not only improves the detection efficiency, but also significantly enhances the accuracy of compaction degree detection.

An Analytical Review for Search of Optimal Selection & Utilization of Earthwork Equipment in Construction

Different types of equipment with various levels/times application times are the characteristic features of all construction projects. Almost every construction project/industry has the most common problem of slow progress and cost overruns due to increasing downtime and decreasing operational efficiency of construction equipment. Construction equipment is involved in construction to such an extent that without it no construction activity can be performed. In recent years, with the continuous advancement in technology and improvement of urbanization, there have been more and more construction project/equipment requirements resulting in either the project delay or cost enhancement As the most critical element earthwork is responsible for not only successful completion of project within schedule but also for the starting of the project, selection of right equipment for earthwork is necessary. Earthwork complexity further increases due to various soil types and equipment, and adverse environmental conditions The present study is concentrated or focused on soil and various costs based practices adopted for the selection of construction equipment and an attempt has been made to find the optimal solution for the most problematic or responsible activities for the delay in project/cost overrun especially in context to excavation, compression, and earth / material movement equipment utilization.

Current State of the Capital Investment Account in Enterprises and Directions for Its Improvement

The article examines the situation of capital investments in businesses today, pointing out problems with capital investment accounting and offering solutions by implementing global standards in the face of the expanding digital economy. The inefficiency of describing capital investment records for various asset kinds, which restricts openness and decision-making usefulness, is one of the major information gaps that has been found. The study's methodology includes a comparative analysis, economic analysis, and data from "Saturn Metalworking LLC" to examine capital investment methods. Results indicate that consistent accounting practices obfuscate precise information about investments in certain assets. One suggestion is to improve accounting procedures to make it easier to track spending in modernization, construction, and various equipment categories. By optimizing capital investment records, these changes hope to enhance stakeholder knowledge and strategic resource allocation in a digital economy.

Drone System Remotely Controlled by Human Eyes: A Consideration of its Effectiveness When Remotely Controlling a Robot

In recent years, Japan has experienced numerous natural disasters, such as typhoons and earthquakes. Teleoperated ground robots (including construction equipment) are effective tools for restoration work at disaster sites and other locations that are dangerous and inaccessible to humans. Using visual information obtained from various viewpoints by a drone can allow for more effective remote control of a teleoperated ground robot, making it easier for the robot to perform a task. We previously proposed and developed a remote-controlled drone system using only human eyes. However, the effectiveness of using this drone system during the remote control of a robot has never been verified. In this paper, as the first step in verifying the effectiveness of the remote-controlled drone system using only the eyes when remote-controlling a robot, we consider its effectiveness in a simple task based on the task times, subjects’ eye fatigue, and subjective evaluations of subjects. First, the previously proposed drone system is briefly described. Next, we describe an experiment in which a drone was controlled by the eyes using the drone system while a robot was controlled by hand, and an experiment in which both the drone and robot were controlled by hand without using the drone system. Based on the experimental results, we evaluate the effectiveness of the remote-controlled drone system using only the eyes when remote-controlling a robot.