IoT and edge computing in the construction site

Abstract

Technological advancements such as robotics, automation, sensors, as well as the advanced use of wireless laptops, tablets and smart phones, have provided the construction industry with new and improved techniques to increase productivity, quality, and safety on the construction site. Recently, the Internet of Things (IoT) has increased the value and benefits of these technologies by integrating the ability of even more devices to connect and share data over the Internet. In order to leverage such systems, it is important to understand the capabilities and constraints of these systems in the construction environment. Connectivity, bandwidth, cybersecurity, and quality of service (QoS) are a few of the many challenges that will be faced with the dynamic and chaotic nature of the construction environment. This chapter provides an overview of the IoT system architecture on the construction site, considering state-of-the-art technology and next generation IoT infrastructures, including software-defined networks (SDN), edge computing, cloud-based services, and machine learning techniques. Recent innovations and applications will be reviewed to identify the strengths and weaknesses of IoT-enabled construction sites, identify research gaps, and recommend best practices for the next generation of intelligent construction sites.