Using Telepresence for Real-Time Monitoring of Construction Operations

Abstract

This paper discusses a novel approach related to monitoring construction projects in the field, allowing for site-based personnel to be reduced and expert opinions to be obtained without a physical site presence. The idea involves bonded streaming capability for live video and audio from mobile cameras anywhere on a construction site to team members located off site. True bonded wireless air card technology provides sufficient bandwidth to transmit high-quality video and audio transmissions. Remotely located team members can visually instruct and guide the operator of the portable video camera equipment around the site to accomplish their duties in a telepresent or virtual fashion (e.g., performing remote site safety inspections, progress updates, or quality inspections), thereby saving the time and cost of physical site visits. Numerous case studies using this approach were conducted on a variety of project types, including residential, commercial, and transportation. Results from user feedback indicate that this approach has promise as an effective management tool. This paper describes the equipment and its application for remote monitoring and management of construction operations, case study projects, participant feedback, implementation costs, and benefits and limitations.