Construction Equipment Research Articles

Initial Results of APT evaluation of Roller-compacted Concrete Performance in South Africa

In conjunction with the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport and Cosal Consultants CC in South Africa, the CSIR Built Environment is evaluating the applicability of Roller-compacted Concrete (RCC) as an option for the upgrading and rehabilitation of low-volume residential and provincial roads. RCC is normally constructed with a relatively low labor component and with heavy mechanical equipment, the main aim of this investigation has been to evaluate the structural performance of RCC constructed with a relatively high labor component using hand-operated equipment. In order to determine the structural capacity of the RCC, full-scale Heavy Vehicle Simulator (HVS) tests were conducted in conjunction with Finite Element modeling of its behavior. This paper summarizes the provisional results from the first Accelerated Pavement Test (APT) carried out on the control section constructed in the regular fashion with normal, heavy construction equipment. Subsequent testing will include the evaluation of the labor-intensive constructed sections. With APT testing it has been proven that this type of pavement has performed exceptionally well in the dry state, even when constructed on a substandard support system. Initial indications are that the performance of this type of pavement has exceeded its predicted performance.

PROPOSED SPECIFICATION FOR CONSTRUCTION OF AIRFIELD CONCRETE PAVEMENT

The Standards for Specifying Construction of Airports, FAA Advisory Circular: AC 150/5370- 10B incorporates Item P-501 – Portland Cement Concrete Pavement. Airfield concrete pavement project funded under the Federal Airport Improvement Program (AIP) are typically developed in accordance with the requirements contained in Item P-501 and sometimes in conjunction with specific project requirements and local practices related to material availability and regional concerns, and as approved by the FAA. Item P-501 provides guidance on the following: 1. Concrete materials (including composition and materials requirements) 2. Construction methods (including equipment, concrete placement, finishing, jointing, curing, and sealing) 3. Method of acceptance (including sampling and testing) 4. Contractor quality control 5. Basis for payment As part of a recent study, a proposed specification for construction of concrete airfield pavements has been developed for possible adoption by the FAA. The proposed specification places emphasis on the need to produce a durable end product, vis-à-vis, a durable concrete pavement. The product requirements that are specified are a combination of prescriptive requirements for certain materials as well as end product requirements for the as-delivered concrete and for the as-placed concrete. There is less emphasis on the means and methods to produce the end product. This should allow the contractor reasonable flexibility to use innovative construction methods and equipment that will result in cost savings to owner agencies without sacrificing the quality of the product. Specifically, the proposed specification will allow constructors to identify sources of variability in the airfield concrete pavement construction process and to minimize the variability; thus delivering an end product that is consistent and durable. The proposed specification intent is to: 1. Inspire creativity and maintain a standard for the evaluation of the construction 2. Incorporate a system of measurement consistent with acceptance criteria that will validate the design parameters 3. Encourage innovation and be "results-oriented" 4. Result in a product of the highest quality and consistent with the available local materials. This paper presents highlights of the proposed specification.

Diffusion-based Deep Reinforcement Learning for Resource Management in Connected Construction Equipment Networks: A Hierarchical Framework

Diffusion-based Deep Reinforcement Learning for Resource Management in Connected Construction Equipment Networks: A Hierarchical Framework

Innovative virtual reality solutions for technical training in heavy construction equipment repair and maintenance

The construction industry is significantly impacted by heavy construction equipment, including bulldozers, excavators, and vehicles. This equipment speeds up building, moves supplies, and builds infrastructure. Using heavy construction equipment correctly can boost productivity and shorten project timelines. Due to their complexity and scale, this equipment must be maintained and repaired. Poor maintenance and repair of heavy construction equipment can reduce performance, damage, and even cause accidents. Due to these problems, this study focuses on the design and development of a simulation training application to enhance the technical skills of workers in maintaining and repairing heavy construction equipment using virtual reality (VR) technology, the development of this application will be carried out using Unreal Engine 5 and thereafter tested and implemented at PT Menara Indonesia or M-Knows Consulting, Indonesia. At the end of this study, the design and development of a VR training simulation application for heavy equipment repair has been successfully completed. After testing the VR application and conducting user acceptance tests, it was concluded that the created VR application greatly assists M-Knows Consulting in training workers to perform maintenance and repair on heavy equipment, with a user acceptance rate of 84%.

Machine Learning based Material Demand Prediction of Construction Equipment for Maintenance

Machine Learning based Material Demand Prediction of Construction Equipment for Maintenance

Self-Position Estimation of Construction Equipment using a 360-Degree Camera and UAV Marker

Self-Position Estimation of Construction Equipment using a 360-Degree Camera and UAV Marker

Design and Implementation of a Rechargeable Active/Passive RFID Tag System with Integrated Software Interface for Construction Site Equipment Tracking

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has undergone continuous development since its origin in the 1940s, finding applications across various fields. This research aimed to design and implement a rechargeable active/passive RFID Tag system operating at 433MHz, with a specific focus on its application in construction site equipment tracking. The objectives were to develop an RFID Tag capable of switching between active and passive operation modes, wirelessly recharging the battery system, and demonstrating its effectiveness in managing construction equipment. The designed Tag operates in both active and passive modes, ensuring operation even after battery depletion. Data exchange uses backscattering modulation, allowing transmission without relying on an external power supply. The Tag was implemented using an ESP8266-01 encoder, envelope detection circuit for mode switching, signal amplification unit, impedance-matched antenna, and a rechargeable power supply unit. Testing evaluated data transmission, reception, signal reliability, and distance coverage in both modes. Results showed effective performance up to 50 meters in active mode and 30 meters in passive mode. The system's application in construction site equipment tracking demonstrated significant potential for improving asset utilization, enhancing security, and streamlining inventory management. Additionally, a software interface was developed and tested, showcasing the system's ability to present real-time tracking data in both tabular and graphical formats, further enhancing its practical applicability. This research contributes to advancing RFID technology by introducing a versatile, rechargeable Tag system with practical applications in challenging environments like construction sites, complemented by user-friendly software solutions for effective asset management

Time and Cost Analysis on Building Construction Project using Crashing Method

Crashing method is an effort to shorten the duration of a project by accelerating the work, Building Construction in Bogor can be built with the Crashing Method to save time and minimize costs. The purpose of this study was to determine the use of the Crashing method in building construction activities, and to determine the effect of duration on the addition of heavy construction equipment on the completion of faster 1st floor, 2nd floor, and 3rd floor work. The method used is field observation, this type of research is included in the type of comparative research. Based on the results of this study, the costs incurred have decreased compared to the previous cost of Rp. 1,477,760,967.01. It is known that the Normal Cost is Rp. 26,819,720,000.00 after doing the calculation, the Crashing Cost is Rp. 25,179,405,907.94. In the calculation of the amount of Normal Cost labor of Rp. 841,309,890.35 and Crashing labor of Rp. 633,974,914.30 for total normal materials of Rp. 3,212,062,893.19. Crashing materials totaled Rp. 2,361,951,475.67. In the calculation of the duration with the addition of Concrate Pump equipment on the K-300 concrete work of the 1st floor, 2nd floor, and 3rd floor, the duration of 14 days is accelerated, the normal duration is known to be 210 days after crashing the results of the duration of 196 days.

Cost estimation model for isolation and segregation of non‐genetically modified corn and soybeans at country grain elevators

AbstractBackground and ObjectiveCorn and soybean meal are important ingredients for livestock and poultry feed. Feed producers who wish to produce non‐genetically modified (non‐GM) feed must segregate ingredients, especially corn and soybeans, throughout the supply chain. All supply chain participants must apply segregation practices to minimize the allowable presence of GM material, termed adventitious presence (AP), in non‐GM product loads. All these actions and processes raise concerns about production costs. The approach of this study was to model the feed supply chain segregation costs at country grain elevators, focusing on non‐GM corn and soybeans. To estimate the costs of successfully reaching four specified tolerance levels (0.9%, 1.5%, 3.0%, and 5.0%), 24 scenarios were constructed and evaluated using the Monte Carlo simulation method. Input variables were drawn from previous literature findings on segregation within the grain elevator environment and the costs of segregation actions. These variables included costs for new or dedicated equipment construction, testing costs, segregation method, facility capacity, and cleaning approaches. Scenarios were categorized by segregation method and facility capacity.FindingsAccording to the model, the grain elevator was expected to spend an additional $0.03 to $0.04 per bushel to handle and segregate non‐GM soybeans as compared with GM soybeans and an additional $0.07 to $0.08 per bushel to successfully segregate non‐GM corn.ConclusionGrain elevators are expected to spend an additional $0.03 to $0.04 per bushel to successfully handle and segregate non‐GM soybeans as compared with GM soybeans. Costs to successfully handle and segregate non‐GM corn were an additional $0.07 to $0.08 per bushel.Significance and NoveltyThe study provides cost estimates for segregating non‐GM corn and soybeans in a grain elevator. When non‐GM corn and soybeans are used as part of feed ingredients, feed costs will increase.

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.

Determination of Battery Capacity and Type in Electric Wheel Loader Machines Considering Variable Operating Conditions

In recent years, the development and production of fully electric battery vehicles have become increasingly common in the construction equipment sector. Conventional construction machines with diesel internal combustion engines are losing popularity in city centers with high human density due to the harmful gases and high noise levels emitted into the environment. In some developed countries, the use of conventional machines has already been prohibited in some areas, and it is reflected in the media that other administrations have been concentrating on similar activities. In addition to easy access to charging stations in city centers, charging systems that can provide high power, especially in construction sites where machines operate, and charging the machines within a particular area makes charging more practical than passenger vehicles. The machines have multiple consumers, such as the powertrain and hydraulic systems, and have various operating conditions. Therefore, the power demand and energy consumption should be definite correctly. The requirement analysis for the battery package of the fully electric wheel loader has been made according to various operating scenarios, and the capacity of the battery package is investigated. Different battery types are compared, and their pros and cons are explained. Several field tests, measurements, and engineering calculations have provided data. The overall schematic plan of the fully electric machine has been created, and technical details have been explained.

Construction of Pt─O Sites on Pt Nanoclusters in Silicalite-1 Zeolite for Efficient Catalytic Oxidation of Hydrogen Isotope Gases.

The construction, use, and maintenance of tritium-related equipment will inevitably produce tritium-containing radioactive waste gas, and the production of efficient catalysts for tritium removal remains a difficult problem. Herein, silicalite-1 zeolite with entrapped Pt nanoclusters is skillfully post-oxidized at an appropriate temperature, building highly active Pt─O sites on the nanoclusters to achieve efficient oxidation of hydrogen isotopes at low temperatures. The designed Pt─O sites can directly participate in the oxidation reaction of hydrogen isotopes. Compared to the case without Pt─O sites, the presence of these sites significantly reduces the reaction energy barrier to 0.55eV, enabling the catalyst to achieve a hydrogen conversion rate of 99% at a low temperature of 40°C. Specifically, the O atoms consumed by the Pt─O sites in the reaction are replaced by O2 gas and this cycle repeats, which is consistent with the Mars-van Krevelen (M-K) theory. This ensures efficient catalytic oxidation of hydrogen isotopes, and provides an astonishingly high conversion rate of 99% in the nearly 34 days restart performance test. The results of this study provide insights into the strategic design of efficient catalysts for hydrogen isotope oxidation.

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.

On the generation of submarine landslide models for Material Point Method simulations through bathymetric data

Submarine landslides are natural phenomena that can cause economic problems and environmental disasters, as the force of the sliding mass can break pipes, interrupting production and destroying whole ecosystems. By simulating these landslides using bathymetric data, one can optimize the design and construction of subsea equipment to minimize its risks. This work aims to create a wizard that, using bathymetric data, guides the engineer through the process of creation of the simulation input for the submarine landslide study. The simulator used was developed in-house and uses the material point method to solve continuum mechanics momentum conservation equations for a vast library of constitutive models. The wizard objective is to streamline numerical parameters by automating and optimizing model choices inherent to the computational method, allowing the engineer to focus on the physical problem rather than the numerical details. Furthermore, it will be possible to configure a vast range of physical parameters, such as the definition of the sliding mass, the constitutive model and its parameters.

Noise intensity analysis of building construction projects: a case study

Abstract Construction projects come with a variety of equipment that produce a variety of noise levels, this equipment has the potential to produce high noise levels that can impact people’s health in various ways. These effects include damage to the sense of hearing both temporarily and permanently, communication disorders, and physiological impacts. This study aims to analyze construction project noise involving construction equipment. This study identifies and classifies construction equipment that produces noise with a total of 16 pieces of construction equipment; 2 with high noise intensity; 5 with medium noise intensity; 9 with low noise intensity. The analysis used the calculation of the average noise intensity level normalized to 8 hours (Lex) so that finally a uniform classification can be made. In addition, this study also develops a plan for noise mitigation and control methods of noise that exceed the threshold value.

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.

US aid for Thai Civil Aviation, 1947–1959

Thailand's aerial geostrategic importance led the United States to offer a generous air aid programme in the 1950s. The US funded the refurbishment of airfields across the country: the extension and hardening of airstrips, and the construction of new tarmacs, terminal buildings and navigation equipment. They also provided technical training to Thai nationals. The leading US international airline Pan American Airways helped modernize Thai Airways. In this paper, I explore the broad outlines of this programme and focus in particular on Pan American's assistance. I argue that although the airport and navigation assistance portions of the programme were largely successful, the Pan American assistance side of the project largely failed to meet expectations.

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.