The construction industry has historically been considered a laggard in technology adoption, with many firms still using manual processes and resisting change. Today, however, the industry needs to analyze massive amounts of data from IoT devices on remote, poorly connected job sites. By moving compute power close to these data sources, construction firms can increase efficiency and reduce risk.
Edge computing is used to manage sensors attached to heavy machinery, enabling predictive maintenance that detects potential problems before breakdowns occur. Construction firms also use edge devices to run AI locally and access building information modeling (BIM) systems and digital twins. These tools enable firms to track materials and optimize logistics in real time and achieve sustainability objectives by reducing waste and energy consumption and optimizing resource use.
A robust, high-performance network is essential to support edge computing. It acts as the backbone, enabling decentralized processing to operate seamlessly without losing data connectivity or experiencing critical performance lags. The construction industry also uses ruggedized access points (APs) to provide reliable Wi-Fi in harsh environments.
Moving Data To and From the Edge
Although edge computing processes data locally, a stable network is required to sync data with the cloud or central data centers. Edge deployments often use a mix of technologies such as 5G, fiber and SD-WAN to ensure continuous operation, even in remote environments.
As edge devices and sensors produce vast amounts of data from construction sites, a high-bandwidth network handles the increased traffic without bottlenecks. A robust network also facilitates drone inspections and surveillance cameras to monitor job site safety and security. Increasingly, construction firms are using real-time applications that require a highly reliable, low-latency network.
High-speed connectivity is needed to support video conferencing and integrate disparate business applications and systems. This allows project teams, contractors and architects to share project information instantly from the field, reducing communication delays.
Data analytics tools track productivity, monitor materials and forecast completion dates for more proactive management. One study found that IoT-enabled applications reduced costs by up to 29 percent, saving tens of billions of dollars annually.
Rugged and Secure
Ruggedized APs help ensure connectivity for mobile and IoT devices on remote job sites. These durable APs are dust-resistant, weather-proof, and designed to withstand extreme temperatures, vibrations and physical impacts, ensuring consistent connectivity. They can be set up on temporary poles or within portable trailers to allow for rapid installation and relocation as projects move or grow. They often use solar-plus-storage systems that include high-efficiency panels and ruggedized batteries for off-grid deployment.
Ruggedized APs can be used in conjunction with mesh networking or private LTE to cover large sites lacking traditional infrastructure. These networks provide superior reliability, higher capacity and better security than public Wi-Fi.
Of course, increased connectivity brings increased security threats. Unsecured IoT devices provide entry points for hackers, and networks interconnected with subcontractors and vendors create weak links. Construction industry networks require robust firewalls and encryption to protect project sites from cyberattacks and data exposure. Segmenting the network ensures that a breach does not spread to the corporate office if a remote site is compromised.
Overcoming Skills Gaps
Construction firms generally lack in-house expertise in networking and advanced applications, which hinders their ability to leverage the vast amounts of data they generate. A 2024 study by Deloitte Access Economics found that more than 80 percent of construction companies have room for improvement in data usage and analytics.
Cerium Networks can help firms fill this gap. Our networking team has extensive experience in the design and implementation of robust, ruggedized networks in the most challenging environments. They work closely with our collaboration and AI specialists to deliver a complete solution. Of course, security is baked into everything we do. Let us help you get the robust network you need to gain greater efficiency and competitive advantages.
