Communication in collaborating construction equipment

Abstract

Abstract Facilitating communication via standardized interfaces is key to increase construction site collaboration and productivity. This paper firstly outlines different Machine-to-Machine (M2M) messaging protocols and their suitability for communication on construction sites. Secondly, a unified construction site communication and interface solution that allows for the seamless transfer of data in M2M, Machine-to-Server (M2S), and Server-to-Server (S2S) scenarios, encompassing all layers of an Internet-of-Things (IoT) infrastructure, is proposed. The findings show that predominantly Message Queue Telemetry Transport (MQTT) is suited for M2M communication at construction sites. Underscoring the value of frequent communication and collaboration at construction sites, different exemplary use cases are presented. Additionally, interoperability at all levels of exchange as well as a unified user frontend are emphasized as key requirements to increase application rates of automated communication and collaboration within the construction industry.